"When Gina Thompson's family business teeters on the brink of collapse, her mother proposes an unexpected solution: an arranged marriage to Michael Caruso, CEO of Caruso Enterprises. As they navigate their newfound union, Gina and Michael must confront their own desires, family secrets, and the weight of their legacy. Will love blossom, or will their bond be reduced to a mere business transaction? Follow Gina and Michael's journey as they discover the true meaning of love, loyalty, and family in this heart-wrenching romance."
Michael Caruso
Standing at 6 feet tall, Michael exuded a commanding presence. His chiseled features, piercing crystal blue eyes, and dark hair framed his face, captivating attention. His rugged exterior hid a soft spot for those he loved. As CEO of Caruso Enterprises, Michael demanded respect, inspiring both awe and intimidation in his employees. Behind closed doors, Michael's playboy reputation whispered among Chicago's elite. However, he strictly separated business and pleasure, refusing to mix the two.
Michael entered his mother's elegant living room, where Vivian awaited.
"Michael, darling, it's time we discussed your future," Vivian said, her eyes locked on his.
"What future, Mother?" Michael asked, taking a seat.
"Marriage, family. You're 23; it's time to settle down," Vivian replied, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "Your father always wanted you to find someone special, start a family. He'd want you to secure our legacy."
Michael raised an eyebrow. "I'm not ready."
Vivian's gaze turned serious. "I've spoken with Elizabeth Thompson. Her daughter, Gina, is lovely. Their family business needs support. A union would benefit both our families and expand Caruso Enterprises."
Michael's expression hardened. "I won't marry someone I've never met."
Vivian's voice took on a persuasive tone. "Gina's kind, intelligent, and beautiful. You'll adore her. Think of the legacy you'll build together."
Michael shook his head. "No, Mother."
Vivian's eyes narrowed, her voice laced with emotion. "Your father's passing left a void. He wanted you to settle down, have children. You owe it to him to continue our family's legacy."
Michael's jaw clenched. "That's not fair, Mother."
Vivian's voice softened. "I want you happy, Michael. But consider this: marrying Gina would secure our family's future and help the Thompsons. Meet with Gina; that's all I ask."
Michael hesitated, his mother's words weighing on him.
"Fine," he said finally. "I'll meet her."
Vivian smiled, triumphant. "I'll arrange dinner. You'll see, Michael. Gina's perfect for you."
Michael stood, his mind racing with the prospect of meeting Gina Thompson.
---
Later that day
Vivian sat in her plush living room, phone in hand, dialing Elizabeth's number.
"Elizabeth, dear, it's Vivian," she said, her voice warm.
"Hi, Vivian! How did Michael react to the idea?" Elizabeth asked, anticipation lacing her voice.
"He's hesitant, but I think he'll come around," Vivian replied. "He agreed to meet Gina."
"That's wonderful!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "I'll prepare Gina. When should we schedule the dinner?"
"This weekend, at our house. I'll arrange everything."
"Perfect. Gina will be thrilled."
"Elizabeth, ensure Gina understands the importance of this union. It's crucial for both our families."
"I'll make sure she's aware. Thank you, Vivian."
"We'll talk soon."
Vivian hung up, confident her plan was unfolding.
---
The next afternoon
Gina Thompson, 18, sat in the Thompsons' elegant garden, immersed in her favorite novel, "Twilight". The warm sunlight filtered through the lush greenery as she turned pages. Her long, dark hair cascaded down her back, and her bright green eyes sparkled with excitement.
Elizabeth approached, clearing her throat to announce her presence.
Gina looked up, slightly startled.
"Oh, Mother."
Elizabeth smiled. "Sorry to interrupt. May I join you?"
Gina closed her book, marking the page. "Of course."
Elizabeth sat beside Gina. "Vivian Caruso and I have discussed our families' futures."
Gina's curiosity piqued. "What about our futures?"
Elizabeth hesitated before speaking. "A union between our families. A marriage, Gina."
Gina's eyes widened. "What? That's absurd!"
Elizabeth's expression turned serious. "Hear me out. Thompson Industries struggles financially. Caruso Enterprises can help."
Gina shook her head. "But what about love? Happiness?"
Elizabeth's voice softened. "Sometimes, sacrifices must be made for the greater good."
---
Later that evening
The Thompsons gathered in their luxurious living room.
James, Gina's father, entered, followed by Alex, her brother.
"Elizabeth, what's this about?" James asked.
Elizabeth explained Vivian's proposal, and James's expression turned thoughtful.
Alex scowled. "But Mother, Gina is only 18."
James nodded. "We'll consider this, Alex. Thompson Industries needs help."
Hi guys, I just started a new story
Please support me
And it's not edited ❤️
"I, Erika Blackwood, stand before you, Alexander Robertson, with a heavy heart. I hereby reject you as my mate. The bond we once shared has grown fragile, and my soul yearns for a different path. May you find solace in the love of another, and may we both find the happiness we seek." Alexander didn't say a word and looked at me. But he refused to accept. *********** Erika Blackwood is the next Alpha in line of the Ironclaw Pack. She hides her identity and gets mated to the Alpha of the Moonforest Pack, Alexander Robertson. Three years passed, but Alexander is still unwilling to let go of his childhood sweetheart. Erika is mistreated and eventually framed by the same childhood sweetheart. Now she leaves with that humiliation, and goes back to her pack, swearing vengeance on those who hurt her. They all waited for her to return and beg, but what happens when they realize that the famous Ironclaw Pack that was going to help in the rogue war, was ruled by a woman named, Erika Blackwood. Now her Ex mates want her back. Other Alphas want this woman.. But will she accept any of them? Or will she stay independent forever?...
COALESCENCE OF THE FIVE SERIES BOOK ONE: THE 5-TIME REJECTED GAMMA & THE LYCAN KING BOOK TWO: THE ROGUES WHO WENT ROGUE BOOK THREE: THE INDOMITABLE HUNTRESS & THE HARDENED DUKE *** BOOK ONE: After being rejected by 5 mates, Gamma Lucianne pleaded with the Moon Goddess to spare her from any further mate-bonds. To her dismay, she is being bonded for the sixth time. What’s worse is that her sixth-chance mate is the most powerful creature ruling over all werewolves and Lycans - the Lycan King himself. She is certain, dead certain, that a rejection would come sooner or later, though she hopes for it to be sooner. King Alexandar was ecstatic to meet his bonded mate, and couldn’t thank their Goddess enough for gifting him someone so perfect. However, he soon realizes that this gift is reluctant to accept him, and more than willing to sever their bond. He tries to connect with her but she seems so far away. He is desperate to get intimate with her but she seems reluctant to open up to him. He tries to tell her that he is willing to commit to her for the rest of his life but she doesn’t seem to believe him. He is pleading for a chance: a chance to get to know her; a chance to show her that he’s different; and a chance to love her. But when not-so-subtle crushes, jealous suitors, self-entitled Queen-wannabes, an old flame, a silent protector and a past wedding engagement threaten to jeopardize their relationship, will Lucianne and Xandar still choose to be together? Is their love strong enough to overcome everything and everyone? Or will Lucianne resort to enduring a sixth rejection from the one person she thought she could entrust her heart with?
Joelle thought she could change Adrian's heart after three years of marriage, but she realized too late that it already belonged to another woman. "Give me a baby, and I'll set you free." The day Joelle went into labor, Adrian was traveling with his mistress on his private jet. "I don't care whom you love. My debt is paid. From now on, we have nothing to do with each other." Not long after Joelle left, Adrian found himself begging on his knees. "Please come back to me."
In Lothlann Continent, talent in martial arts won cultivators respect. Darren Chu, a mediocre talent in martial arts, was deemed a loser by everyone. His status changed when a fireball fell from the sky and hit him on the head. He cheated death. Empowered with the ability to assimilate other creatures' talent, Darren sought to better himself and seek vengeance against those who had wronged his family, including his little sister. "You will kneel in front of me one day," swore the future lord of martial arts.
On the day of their wedding anniversary, Joshua's mistress drugged Alicia, and she ended up in a stranger's bed. In one night, Alicia lost her innocence, while Joshua's mistress carried his child in her womb. Heartbroken and humiliated, Alicia demanded a divorce, but Joshua saw it as yet another tantrum. When they finally parted ways, she went on to become a renowned artist, sought out and admired by everyone. Consumed by regret, Joshua darkened her doorstep in hopes of reconciliation, only to find her in the arms of a powerful tycoon. "Say hello to your sister-in-law."
“Do I want a taste?” his voice deeper than he had ever spoken. His eyes pinned on me like I was the only thing that fascinated him. “What do I do?” I thought to myself as he moved closer to me, I wanted to run away, to resist him but I was pinned to the wall by him. “Gosh I hate this man so much” his scent, his body, his beautiful green eyes, he was driving me crazy. I know this is wrong, he has a fiancee and all but that makes me want him even more. “Get on the bed and spread your legs” his cold voice woke me up and then I remembered I was just a maid to him. “Yes master”.