Emily understood her father's concerns, but marriage wasn't on her radar. Her past relationships had ended in heartbreak, and her father's words echoed: "Men only want you for your money and fame."
"You must get married within six months. Otherwise, our shares will go to charity," Mr. Wilson stated firmly, his eyes boring into hers.
Emily felt trapped, like a bird in a gilded cage. She thought about her past loves – Alex, the charming entrepreneur who turned out to be a gold-digger, and Jack, the handsome model who cheated on her.
"But, Dad, what about love? Happiness?" Emily asked, her voice trembling.
"Love will come later. First, secure our family's future," Mr. Wilson replied, his expression unyielding.
Emily's thoughts swirled. How could she find someone to love and trust within six months? The pressure was suffocating.
"Dad, can't we discuss this? Find another solution?" Emily pleaded.
Mr. Wilson's face softened, but his voice remained firm. "I've made up my mind, Emily."
Emily nodded, her heart heavy. She left the office, feeling lost and trapped.
In her room, Emily replayed her past relationships. She realized she had two options: comply with her father's wishes or risk losing everything.
But what about her happiness?
Emily's thoughts swirled with questions and doubts.
Would she find someone who truly loved her?
Or be stuck in a loveless marriage?
The uncertainty was suffocating.
Emily's tears flowed, mourning her lost freedom. She felt like her life was no longer hers.
As she cried, Emily vowed to take control of her destiny.
But as she stood up, a nagging voice whispered in her ear: "What if you fail?
..
Emily reflected on her past relationships. Each one ended in heartbreak.
The last one, Alex, was the worst. He lied, cheated, and disrespected her.
Emily shuddered at the memories.
She thought about her father's words: "Men only want you for your money and fame."
Emily realized she needed to change her approach.
She started attending high-society events, searching for potential husbands.
But each man seemed more interested in her wealth than her.
Frustrated, Emily considered hiring a matchmaker.
Emily attended more events, searching for the perfect man.
That's when she met Ryan.
Tall, handsome, and charming, Ryan caught Emily's attention.
A month later.....
Emily and Ryan's relationship was blossoming, but they still had their differences. One evening, as they prepared dinner together, Emily realized they had distinct cooking styles.
"You're doing it all wrong," Emily teased, watching Ryan chop vegetables.
Ryan chuckled. "Hey, I've cooked for myself just fine for years."
Emily smiled. "I'm sure you have, but I'm a chef's daughter. I know a thing or two about cooking."
Ryan handed Emily a knife. "Teach me, then."
As they cooked together, Emily discovered Ryan's playful side. They laughed, their hands touching, and Emily felt a spark.
Over dinner, they discussed their passions – Emily's love for art and Ryan's enthusiasm for entrepreneurship.
"I've always wanted to start my own business," Ryan said.
"That's amazing!" Emily exclaimed. "What kind of business?"
"A sustainable energy company," Ryan replied.
Emily's eyes widened. "That's incredible. I'd love to help."
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and Emily realized they shared more common ground than she thought.
As the night drew to a close, Ryan walked Emily to her room.
"Thanks for tonight," Ryan said, his voice low and gentle.
Emily smiled. "Anytime."
Ryan leaned in, his lips brushing against hers.
Emily's heart skipped a beat. She felt alive.
Their kiss deepened, and Emily knew she was falling deeply in love with Ryan.