Chapter 1 1 - Qualities of his ideal wife

Isaac adjusted Tony's bow tie for the last time, his mind heavy from the memories they shared, his heart braced with complicated emotions. "At long last, you are getting married. Now I'm going to be the only Bachelor in M city." Tony was rather neutral. Marriage to him wasn't a big deal. It was just two lovers announcing to the world their intent to live the rest of their lives together, nothing special. "Don't get emotional. We are still best friends.""But now, Ashley is going to have all your time," Isaac expressed his fear. He understood the essence of marriage that ones' partner came first but Tony the groom, had a rather weird notion. "Most of it but not all," he stared at himself proudly in the mirror and said. He had the looks and the playboy vibe all over him, even on this special day. "There can't be any more strip clubs," Isaac reminded him but Tony thought otherwise. He shook his head. "I don't think that can be erased. You of all people should understand that no woman has everything it takes to make a man wholly hers," he said indifferently. Isaac was lost for words. If marriage couldn't change Tony, then nothing else would. "It's your wedding day, Tony. You are going to be bound by vows.""Those vows are only meant for show and never to be taken seriously. Look here, a woman must have five things to keep a man. One, she must have the beauty to keep his eyes off other maidens but that isn't enough to keep the maidens away. Two, she must have skilful fingers that can cook the best delicacies to make a man bite his finger. Three, she must have the bedroom skills that would make a man forget every other woman he's ever been with. Four, she must have decency and character that is patient and yet controlling, in a most fragile way. Five, a woman should be able to deduce when her man has been with another. Do you know why? Because she handpicked his clothes, ironed them herself and took in every detail including his scent," he nodded proudly at his fantasy. Isaac felt helpless like never before. When he thought about Tony's expectation of an ideal wife, only one thing came to mind. "The woman you talk about should be a housewife who would be at your beck and call, twenty-four seven.""You are wrong. A working woman can still do all these and lest I forget, perhaps it's the sixth. An ideal woman should be industrious," Tony winked at his image in the mirror, which made no mistake in identifying him as the most attractive man in M city. His thick dirty blonde hair, green eyes and thick lashes was a die for. It wasn't unusual for women to flog around him but at least, he loved one more than the others, which was why he was getting married today. "So where does Ashley fall?" Isaac asked. Ashley was Tony's bride to be. They had dated for six months and were the envy of both bachelors and spinsters of M city. "She is beautiful, she passed that one. She's industrious and sexy but she lacks skilful fingers and character. As I said, no woman has it all which is why a man needs a balance. Keep the one you love at home, and hunt the other things in the jungle called strip club," he let out a prideful smile while checking his Rolex wristwatch. It was time for him to meet his bride at the altar. "But.." There was a knock on the door, suspending what Isaac wanted to explain.  "I'll get it," he said instead while walking to the door. He discerned it must be one of the groomsmen informing them that it was time to walk the aisle. Surprisingly taken by the dazzling beauty that met him, he exclaimed, "Ashley!" Ashley didn't look as exciting as befitting a bride, which didn't sit well with Isaac. He stepped out and shut the door behind him. Seeing her in front of Tonys' hotel room a few minutes before the wedding, he sensed trouble. Behind her was her maid of honour, beaten by anxiety. Isaac pulled Ashley to the side and couldn't stop himself from getting past her sad countenance. Her beauty was still distinct. "You look like an angel descended from heaven in that lovely baby blue gown," Isaac complimented Ashley and turned to her best friend, who was her maid of honour. "And you too, Dora. That..""I need to see Tony," Ashley didn't waste her precious time on his intent to delay gimmicks, feeling he was trying to wile the time away. Isaac's instinct strongly convinced him that this wasn't going to go down well, making him put up a resistance, "can't it wait till after? It's tradition for the bride and groom to not see each other before the wedding," he let out a small smile and said. "I've tried my best to stop her but she kept insisting,'' Dora expressed her helplessness, stepping closer and tagging on Ashley to come with her. Ashley shook her hand off her arm. "Isaac, I need to see him now!" She was adamant and Isaac was determined to not let it happen. "But," Ashley took him unawares, pushing right beside him into the room and closing the door before he spat out whatever it was he wanted to say. Tony was taken aback when he saw Ashley, concern lining his face. She was already beautiful but in her baby blue luxury gown, she looked spectacular. Whereas, it didn't take away the fact that it was inappropriate to see the bride before the wedding. "Is everything alright Ashley?" He held her by the wrist and led her to the bed where they sat apprehensively. The wedding wasn't so much of a big deal to Tony so he didn't read any negative meaning. He only thought that perhaps, Ashley was apprehensive and needed to calm down. This marriage might mean a lot to her than he thought. "If it's too much for you, we can," Ashley lifted her hand gently to stop him from speaking. She needed to think carefully about how to break the news. Her tongue felt heavy, uneasiness bound her, but she had to say it anyway. "I'm sorry Tony, I can't do this," she lowered her head, unable to meet his gaze. It took a little while for her words to sink in, making Tony feel like a part of his heart was sliced but he didn't believe it one bit. If anyone would break off the relationship, it had to be him. Ashley loved him too much to do this. "What did you say?" It felt like a bad dream and he just wanted to wake up from it. A pool of tears washed Ashley's face in an instant arousing a marathon of anxieties inside Tony. She had fallen in love with someone else for some time now. Breaking the news was too heavy for her because Tony was too good to her. Besides, their relationship was greatly envied because every lady wanted to be in her shoes. "I can't get married to you." Tony felt like the roof had raptured from the room and hot instead of cold rain was pouring on him. No, he couldn't accept rejection. Not at this time. If this was a joke, then it was too expensive. "Ashley, I need to be at the altar in fifteen minutes and you in twenty. Cut out the joke and let's get married," he said firmly. It seemed like a wedding prank. No girl ever dumped him before. He runs the show. "I'm not joking, Tony. I'm in love with someone else," she wiped her tears and said. Tony felt his heart stop. He moved closer, lifted her chin with his hand, their gaze bored into each other. "Ashley.." He was about to speak when she cut in, "I'm sorry, Tony," she pulled away and stood up, heading to the door. "Ash..." Ashley had already shut the door close before Tony could mention her complete name. He felt too hot, taking off his blazer and bow-tie, throwing them on the floor. His emotions were unstable, he saw the world closing up on him. The dresser bore his anger, being lifted and thrown on the floor, the mirrors breaking in thousand pieces yet, his anger couldn't be satiated. The presidential suite was in shambles within seconds. This couldn't be happening. If he lost Ashley, he also lost his family's fortune and everything went to the rival family. In M City, the Wrights family had controlled the family treasure for decades against the Woods family, making them the most powerful. As a family tradition, the heir of the empire was to be married before their thirtieth birthday or forfeit their rightful position as president. Tony had never considered that because he already had someone he loved. Tomorrow, he would be thirty which meant being sworn in as the President of the Wrights empire. Now, the Woods family's eldest son was going to assume the role of the President if Tony doesn't get married today. In a time like this, he had no hope but since his mother never liked Ashley, he feared hearing the words 'I told you so.' Just three days ago, his mother cautioned him to pick another bride because of her instinct but Tony wanted to marry for love and the only woman he loved was Ashley. Isaac had entered at the sound of items smashing. His eyes were horrified with shock at how messed up the grand luxurious presidential suite had become. Before he could ask about the matter since Ashley left crying, Tony boomed, "Ike, get my mum!" Ivy, Tony's mum, got there in less than five minutes. Seeing her son all hagged, and the state of the room, she could instantly guess the reason, the corner of her lips curling. She never trusted Ashley from the onset and had betted upon her perfidiousness countless times, but didn't get a chance to snap a photo as proof. Ashley was always a step ahead and Tony never believed his mother because he felt she just wanted him to leave Ashley. After all, she didn't like her. "She left you, didn't she?" She was genuinely concerned, not the I told you tone Tony expected. Tony didn't realise when tears fell from the corner of his eyes. "How could you be so sure, mum? How did you know that she didn't love me?" His voice was husky due to the tears he forced to hold back. "I saw it in her eyes the day you introduced her that her heart belonged to someone else. I told you about the number of times I saw her in questionable positions with Richard Wood but you never believed me," she explained comfortingly. That wasn't the whole story but Ivy meant to leave the details for later. Her son was already hurting and she didn't want to worsen it. "So we lose everything?" Tony asked, sinking onto the floor of shattered items but Ivy quickly helped him to the bed before being wounded by the broken elements. "No, you get ready and be at the altar. This wedding will still hold no matter what," she assured him, giving him a warm hug. Tony stiffened. Now, he knew that his mother was insane. "Mum, I can't fall in love in two minutes. I mean, we can't even pay someone. You know the rules. No divorce. I can't spend the rest of my life with a woman I don't love." Ivy was a little selfish at a time like this. All she wanted was to save the family business. The rest could be sorted out later. "That is up to you. Now get to the altar." She encouraged her son. Tony was left with no choice. He knew that saving the family business was very important but how was he going to live the rest of his life with a complete nonnative? What if he loathed her? He was holding on to a thread at the moment, as he walked down the aisle, his eyes blood red. The most intimidating part was seeing the Wood family in good spirits as if they knew something had gone wrong. He couldn't admire any of the luxuries he had spent time and money to put in place. News turns to travel fast, especially when you have enemies who operate in daylight. Most maidens were excited that Ashley, the goddess fiance of Tony had refused to be his bride. At least they stood a chance now. Everyone including the media awaited the announcement for the wedding to be dissolved. Instantaneously, the auditorium went dead silent with shock when the bridal procession began to play. Everyone waited in anticipation of who Ashley's replacement was, which was totally unexpected. Not only did a maid of honour walk the aisle but also a bride. Tony had no idea who she was or what arrangement his mother made but this bride wasn't his taste and he couldn't even pretend to like her...

Chapter 2 2 - Her thirst for revenge

Three Hours Earlier Ivy arrived at the wedding venue earlier to put things together. Overindulgence and quintessence was the trademark of the Wrights family and all designers had assembled to give the event the explicit venue it deserved. Walking to and fro to ensure that everything was up to the Wrights standard, the corner of Ivy's eyes caught a familiar figure. From her model figure, poise and etiquette, it surpassed no other than Ashley, who was supposed to be with her bridesmaids. Instead, she was responding to the flirtatious advances of Richard Wood, the eldest son of the Woods family in the corridor of her hotel room. The wedding was being held in the auditorium of the Wrights luxury hotel in M City. At first, Ivy took no interest but when Richard Woods kissed her sharply on the lips, she couldn't hold it anymore. She had seen them a couple of times throughout the wedding preparations but now, she felt even more unsettled. Her curiosity and concern for her son didn't allow her the courtesy to ignore them when they entered the room assigned to Ashley together, thereby standing by the door with her ear glued to it, Richard: "Listen to me Ashley, just do as I've said. Break the news fifteen minutes to the wedding." Ashley: "What's the use? We love each other. Let's just elope." Richard: "As the heir of the Woods fortune, I can't do that. I love you and we will get married next week. Just don't break the news now. It would ruin everything." Ashley: "What do you have in mind?" Richard: "If you break the news now, he will find another bride. Every woman loves him so it won't be hard." Ashley: "Isn't it good? Whoever he marries shouldn't concern us right?" Richard: "Look, I will explain everything later but you just have to do as I say. Trust me right?" Ivy wasn't a fool. She knew what was going to happen. She left the venue in search of her old friend, whom she hadn't touched base with for quite some time now. She had a daughter who was homely and wise. Knowing the girl was worthy of her trust, she was willing to put in a bargain. The girl was the kind she needed for her son. She was different and could transform him because, she won't fall for his charm. Sadly, the girl she had eyes on wasn't her friend's biological daughter and had been subjected to so much ill-treatment. Even her friend wanted to give one of her daughters instead but Ivy's instincts were strong. She insisted on the girl she had eyes on. She had seen her briefly when she was sent to pick a cheque on behalf of the family some years back. She didn't have a flaunting beauty but was respectable and smart from how she asked and answered questions thrown at her. Since Ivy had refused her friend's daughters, her friend turned bitter and insisted that she didn't know the whereabouts of her step-daughter, Abigail. Ivy made a few enquiries with the help of her bodyguards and soon found out that Abigail loved gardening and went to the field that had the largest garden in search of her, met with shock. In the garden, Abigail sat in the grass with her hair unkempt, her clothes tattered. On her thighs laid the head of a man who was old enough to be her father. Indeed he was. He looked sick and could hardly move his limbs. Drops of tears fell on the man's face from Abigail's eyes, "you will be fine, daddy. I will become the best florist in M city. I will get enough money for your treatment and I will make sure that woman and her daughters pay for what they did to you," she kept repeating to her father. It was hard to tell whether or not he even heard her at all. His eyes were closed and there was no movement around him, just as he spoke no words. Abigail kept repeating the same thing over and over again like she was in a trance. She didn't even notice that she had company. Ivy could tell that her friend wasn't who she thought she was, judging by Abigail's appearance. The last time she saw her, she was neat and presentable but it didn't change her intention to give her an offer she couldn't resist. Startled from her trance by a gentle nudge on her shoulder, Abigail panicked upon seeing a sophisticated woman with two men, who were formally dressed. Such people were usually cruel like her stepmother but this woman carried a heartwarming smile, which made her comfortable but the words that came from her mouth, made her rather annoyed. "I can make all your dreams come to pass on one condition," Ivy voiced out, sitting in the grass beside Abigail without her permission. She didn't have a lot of time and didn't mince words. The wedding was to be in the next two hours. "Who are you and what are you talking about?" Abigail tried to sound courageous but hunger had made her voice timid. She had been in the garden with her father for three days, just so her stepmother wouldn't get the chance to finish him off. They were starving. "Who I am doesn't matter but I can ensure your father gets all the treatment he needs. I will fly him to Z country and give him a good life." Z country was known to possess the best medical facilities so if her father was going to be sent there, then Abigail had hope. Whereas, it was still hard for her to trust a stranger. Everyone her father trusted turned against him. How could she trust this woman? Somehow, she looked familiar but maybe, starvation had reduced the content of energy in her brain, preventing it from processing the information as fast as it should. "Thank you but I can't accept your offer. I don't want to be indebted to anyone," she casually responded in a raspy voice, her silent tears unstoppable. Not only did Abigail not trust her but she feared debt. Debt was what reduced her family to nothing. Her stepmother's incessant spending caused his father to borrow so much. When no one would lend to him anymore, she spiked his drinks and food so many times to make him sign documents that gave her the right to sell off his assets to continue with her lavish life. Abigail was tossed here and there. She tried to fight for her father but the only ones she could stand up to were her stepsisters. Her stepmother was too strong for her. She had swapped the spiked drinks a lot of times. If not, her father would have been dead by now. "You won't be indebted because I need a favour that only you can give. So, let's just say that taking care of your father will be your payment for the favour I'm going to ask you," she elaborated but Abigail wasn't dumb. The elite in M city were known to take advantage of the poor and Abigail wasn't going to fall for it. What favour could she give a woman as wealthy as the one before her? What did she have except ceaseless tears? "How?" She asked with tear-filled eyes, looking at the woman in the eyes for the first time, her appearance becoming more and more familiar. "Marry my son,'' the woman announced. Abigail froze stupefied. This woman must be crazy asking a girl like her to marry her son. But marriage wasn't in her plans at the moment. It wasn't even close. "Who is your son and who are you?" She asked, feeling her father's temperature that had begun rising again. She began rubbing some herbs on his forehead to reduce the heat emitted. The smell of the herb was nauseating but Ivy endured it. In M city, most people who couldn't afford the health facilities and didn't have insurance relied on herbs. "I'm Ivy Wrights, the mother of Tony Wrights," Ivy proclaimed. Abigail felt washed by snow. News about Tony Wright was always on the lips of the media as the sexiest playboy with powerful business ethics and the heir of the Wright family fortune. Not only that, he was getting married today. Her stepsisters fussed over it a week ago when she was in her father's mansion. It was the only thing her stepmother hadn't sold in addition to a few cars. "Ahhh, that isn't possible. He has a finance and equally every woman's man. A marriage to someone like him would mean hell for me. I'm sorry but I can't," She instantly rejected, just as Ivy expected. Girls in M City would fall for the opportunity but not Abigail. Not even when it would save her father's life. "What about your father? He needs immediate treatment. Where will you keep him while you work? It would take years to reach that wonderful dream of yours but he won't be able to see any of it," Ivy pressed a sour button. She didn't mean to but the only person dear to Abigail was her father and that was Ivy's only chance. Indeed, Abigail began to see things differently. What would be the essence of making it in future if her father wouldn't be able to see any of it? Aside from that, the herbs weren't improving his condition and he needed urgent medical attention. "What about your son's fiance? Where would she be?" A thirst for revenge gave Abigail the strength to swallow and digest what was thrown at her. She couldn't watch her father die for her stepmother and sisters to continue living all high and mighty. They had to pay for what they did to her father. If a contract marriage would allow her to get revenge, then she was going to take it. "Leave that to me and just do as I say," Ivy assured her. She wasn't sure if Ashley was really going to leave her son but she felt a need for a backup. If the wedding with Ashley went unhindered, she would still take care of Abigail's father and give her her needed freedom. "For how long am I going to marry your son?" Abigail asked. She needed to plan her life and she had to know for how long she was going to pretend to be married to Tony but Ivy's subtle response ripped her heart, she felt her breath cease. "Till death my dear." Abigail didn't want to spend the rest of her life in a loveless marriage, having her life, dreams and aspirations taken away. It wasn't desirable. But was she going to watch her father die, No? If Ivy needed her, then she must be smart enough to put up a comfortable bargain. "Then I can't," she said firmly, her heart rate increasing with the hope that Ivy would adjust the terms of the marriage. Unfortunately, she wasn't the only one playing smart. Ivy was doing so too. The wrights family had their generational marital terms, which could never be changed. Divorce was forbidden but seeing how adamant Abigail was, Ivy fibbed a bit. "Fine, I will make it easy for you. If you can transform him from a playboy into a more respectable man and still want to leave, I will let you walk away as a free woman. What I need is a woman who doesn't love him and that is you. The reason is, you won't be hurt but you will cause him so much trouble that he would have no choice but to change. Will you do it?" Abigail was slightly elated but she didn't accept Ivy's conditions immediately. She rather said, "I have my conditions too?" "Let me hear it," Ivy gave her full ears. "I want my father's health to be given immediate attention and I will need you to give him a substantial amount of money to pick his life back after his treatment. As for me, I want nothing after the divorce," she stated matter of factly. She was ready to work for her money and depend on no one. Ivy smiled reassuringly, "Consider your conditions met." That said, she rose to her feet extending her hand to Abigail. Abigail smiled and looked up at her. She seemed different from other sophisticated women in M City. She reached out and held her extended hand. "So when do I marry your son?" She asked Ivy, receiving a shocking revelation, "now." "What? I'm famished. I haven't eaten for days," she said truthfully. She didn't even have the strength to stand, only doing so with Ivy's help. Ivy was calm. It was the way of the elite. All she had to do was give orders and everything would be sorted with a snap of the finger. "Just leave everything to me but you will sign the marriage certificate now," Ivy's two hands rested on Abigail's shoulders, their eyes boring into each other as she said. One of the bodyguards brought out a document. A part was covered with only the signature portion revealed. With a shaky hand, Abigail appended her signature, a satisfied smile appearing on Ivy's face. She needed to secure everything before she took the next step, seeing Abigail's battle within herself. Abigail kissed her father for the last time on his forehead when a helicopter landed a few meters away. "They are here to transport your father," Ivy notified her. She smiled for the second time with hope. Her father was going to be fine, making it all worth it. It was the first time Abigail received VIP treatment in anything, making it all a fantasy. The wedding gown was purchased in haste, her cleaning up, makeup and all. Unfortunately, there was no time for a makeover and no matter how they worked on her look, it couldn't match that of Ashley at a short notice. Besides, Abigail was malnourished, her skin pale. She couldn't be as stunning as Ashley. ******* Current time When Abigail walked the aisle, everyone waited for the opportunity for her to be unveiled. It was so much pressure for someone who knew nothing about the life of the elite. Her stomach churned from the food she ate since she hadn't eaten in days and it was also different from the unwholesome food she was spared at home. Her stepmother and stepsisters envied her, same as the maidens, who thought they had the chance. Abigail couldn't even fake a smile but she wasn't the only one. Her legs felt heavy with each step she took, her heartbeat raked like it was going to fall. Tony's frown deepened when he unveiled his bride. The only thing stopping him from rejecting her was the fact that his position in the Wrights' company was at stake tomorrow. However, he doesn't see how he could even share a room with her. The media had begun clicking their cameras while the priest did his job, "Mr Tony Wright, do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love and to hold, to cherish and to comfort, in sickness and in health till death do you part?" The voice of the priest cut through his puzzled thoughts, he let out a long sigh.

Chapter 3 3 - When strength fails

"Tony, the priest is waiting," Isaac tapped him for the umpteenth time before he came out of his trance. He was deflated and lost the courage to do this. One moment, he was going to marry the love of his life and the next moment, he was getting married to a stranger. It wasn't how he imagined his life with his future wife. He tried to put up a good show but the pain was simply hard to miss. He was broken. The auditorium had blown up in murmurs and not only was Abigail's palms sweaty but her stockings felt wet from the nervous heat christening her. Her body seemed to not feel the low temperature of the air-conditioner anymore. She couldn't meet the mocking eyes around her, bowing her head slightly in embarrassment. She never wanted this but she couldn't watch her father die. A burst of mocking chuckle closed up on her, sucking the only strength she had left. Not having enough energy after being malnourished for a long time, she felt weak. How could she not have known that her stepmother and sisters would be there? Her stepsisters didn't stop giggling, attracting the attention of an elegant woman, appearing before them. Her lips were stretched in a thin smile but her eyes carried disgust. "The invite was for your mother. Your names weren't included." Instantly, tall scary bodyguards appeared, hauling them out of the top of the art decorated hall. Their mother could do nothing. Ivy, the current President of the Wrights empire was well known as the no-nonsense woman. She wasn't overly soft on her son either. The sweet angel turned into a confident, daring and sophisticated woman when she lost her husband after only five years of marriage, taking up the company on her shoulders. If she remarried, the company would have transferred to the Woods family, making her live without accepting the prominent men asking her hand in marriage. It was all a sacrifice she made for her son. For this reason, she exercised great authority. She walked to her son and whispered firmly, "I have done what any mother would and kept the family fortune for you. You can hand it over to the Woods family if you abhor her that much." She was indifferent, her tone biting. After that, she said no more, holding Abigail by the wrist and about to help her out of the hall. "Wait!" Alas, Tony spoke and the hall went dead silent. He walked up to Abigail, taking her hand from his mother and facing the priest, making him repeat the vow and this time, the response was instantaneous, "I do." It attracted both cheers and hateful murmurs. The Woods family were so confident that they were going to take over the Wrights empire this time but their expectations were wiping from their faces. The ball was now in Abigail's court. A while ago, she was concerned about the shame of being rejected at the altar. Now, she was nervous when their eyes met, her heart stood still. His lips held a small smile but his gaze was a hollow phase. The darkness, loathe and pain, was something only she saw but standing for so long had already drained her, making her uneasy and slightly dizzy. "I....I....I," Her voice shook before finally settling, "I do." A blanket of shame covered the haters, especially the Woods family members. The media began taking pictures instantly and when it was time to kiss the bride, Tony only leaned close but his lips never touched hers. Abigail was grateful. She didn't hate Tony but she felt lost in everything. He was different from the man she once saw on TV.  Then, he had a beautiful smile that made girls drool. She wasn't opportune to even watch tv and had seen him in passing when serving her stepmother her supper. She can't think of spending the rest of her life with him but how possibly could she change him? Well, thinking about it now, she never even had the image of an ideal man in mind. It wasn't in her plans, fearing she might die at childbirth like her mother and leave her child to suffer. At least, that's what her father told her. That her mother died during childbirth. With this notion in mind, she never dreamt of spending her life with any man. Her only passion was to see her father well, be a top-notch florist, then she could begin her revenge. Ivy had never had a female child, taking a keen interest in Abigail from the first time she saw her. That day at the office when Abigail picked the cheque, Tony was there but she didn't see him. She wasn't even interested in the first place like other girls. Since then, Ivy never got her out of her mind. She knew that Tony wouldn't like her but she also thought she would be the best woman for him. It was expected that someone who had a high taste in women would be more concerned with appearance but Abigail was just suffering from malnutrition. Luckily, he couldn't even see it due to the makeup and long lace sleeves.  She never saw her biological mother, suffering in the hands of her stepmother for eight years when her father felt that she needed a mother. Who knew that he was digging his grave when he remarried. Ivy was determined to ensure she was well taken care of, seeing how weak, fatigued, irritable and dizzy she was, she hastened the reception, making Abigail sit through it most times. It was easy because Abigail never had any friends, to begin with. Her best friend had left abroad two years ago to studymedicine. It was an open secret that Tony had just been heartbroken and wasn't in love with his bride. Therefore people wished for it to end. Their expectations had been soiled after hearing the rumour which was proven to be true. The name on the invitation wasn't the name mentioned at the point of exchanging vows. When it was time for the bride and groom's exit, no one raised the question about their honeymoon. Tomorrow was going to be Tony's inauguration day and they were planning towards it. As soon as they entered the limousine, Tony widened the gap between them. Abigail was just grateful that it was over and she didn't have to face that crowd but couldn't tell if her discomfort was a result of her shyness or dizziness. Also, Ivy's car was behind them, which gave her some form of aspiration. Enduring it and trying to be strong, she didn't expect her newly wedded husband to vent his displeasure instantly. "I won't mince words. I don't like you and I hope you stay out of my way," Tony spat out, disdain lacing his tone. Abigail quivered slightly. She opened her mouth and instantly shut it. The gap between them was too wide but right now, her stomach was churning and she couldn't tell if it was as a result of the champagne she tasted, the cake or the food. The lavish interior of the limousine couldn't appeal to her due to the discomfort she felt and she couldn't seem to give thought to Tony's mindless words. Tony felt somewhat irritable when he got no response. Before he could speak again, the limo had pulled over and so had Ivy's Bentley. They arrived in an exquisite villa and Abigail was relinquished. Tony got down and didn't wait for the driver to open the door for them. Before he moved further away, his eyes caught Ivy's ferocious glare. Naturally, the driver was going to open the door for the madam when he walked in long strides, reaching there timely. "Off you go, I'll take care of it." The driver nodded and stood aside while Tony opened the door. Abigail stepped out of the car but this time, she wasn't able to put it together as usual. Her feet wobbled, her eyes blackened, she felt light and passed out but before losing her balance, she was caught in a strong arm. Ivy was there in a blink. "Get her to the room and turn on the heater. The cold isn't good for her." She was exasperated, running after Tony while dialling the doctor's number. She intended to keep Abigails' condition secret and didn't want to take her to the hospital. Some media reps were still lurking around. Due to his mother's presence, Tony was reluctantly taking Abigail to his room when Ivy objected. "I've already prepared the room next to yours. It won't be good if she is disturbed." Tony was elated. He didn't want Abigail in his room but he couldn't help feeling a tinge that his mother was hiding something. He had never seen his mother so nervous to the point where she shook. Ivy always had control, no matter the situation yet, she was so nervous even after calling the doctor. The maids must have misread the situation, breaking into hideous chuckles at the sight of Abigail in Tonys' arms. It looked romantic but was far from that. As soon as Tony laid Abigail gently on the Queen size bed in the room next to his, Ivy shoved him out, "It's alright, I'll take care of her." Tony couldn't help being more suspicious. "Mum, tell me the truth, what is wrong with her?" He asked directly, his gaze questioning and leaving no room for lies.

Chapter 4 4 - Why are you so thin? Don't you eat?

Ivy spurt into a peal of nervous laughter. "What do you think is wrong with her? She's just twenty, never been under so much pressure. She's overwhelmed with everything. It's nothing serious," she assured him. Tony frowned. "Twenty? She looks like she's twelve. Too thin." Ivy was taken off guard, not expecting Tony to make those observations in a woman he didn't like but the fact was staring her in the face. Tony had had too much experience with women and didn't need a doctor to know that something was wrong with the woman his mother brought for him. Ivy couldn't tell Tony the truth. He would despise Abigail. "She is petite. Nothing serious. Everything happened so...ehm…I mean so fast, she's being nostalgic," she tactfully said but her actions spoke otherwise and Tony was too smart to not notice. "Then why are you nervous and stuttering? I never heard you stammer before. Besides, she is the lightest woman I have ever carried. Doesn't she eat? She seems to be underweight. She's too thin and I don't buy into that petite excuse of yours," he stated nonchalantly. Tony was heartbroken and he didn't want to get married to any woman yet. If time hadn't closed up on him, this would have never been an option. "Was I stuttering? I didn't realise it. You go and rest. The doctor will be here to take care of her," Ivy dismissed him. Tony didn't see the reason for arguing with her anymore. After tomorrow, he would do whatever he liked and no one would stop him. When Ivy saw Tony walking the other way, she asked neurologically, "where are you going?" Tony responded indifferently, "to my room. This door opens there, remember?" Ivy had forgotten the door connecting the master and madam's room without having to go through the main door on the corridor and heaved alleviated. As soon as Tony entered his room, Ivy heard things being smashed. Instantly, she was overrun with sorrow but she couldn't care to go check on her broken-hearted son. It wasn't her fault that he didn't listen to her. He laid his bed and so must he lie on it. Ivy had changed up Abigail and put light clothes on her before the doctor arrived. A deep frown disfigured his face when he examined her. Her skin was dry and slightly flaky, her brown hair was dry, lifeless, dull and appeared like straw. Her nails were brittle, breaking easily. Dr Dan shook his head. "Has she been starving herself?""Let's just say so. Aren't you the doctor?" Ivy was slightly sardonic. Dr Dan was the family doctor, always treading with caution. The elite families in M City were quite difficult to deal with. Wondering how Abigail got into the state she was, it was better to keep his suspicions to himself. He pursed his lips and proceeded with the treatment. "She needs a lot of rest," he said after almost an hour. Ivy wasn't hearing it. If Abigail failed to appear before the elders of the Wrights and Woods family during the inauguration, the whole marriage could be termed a sham. "After tomorrow, she will have all the needed rest but for now, "I need her at Tony's inauguration." Her voice sounded determined therefore the doctor couldn't say otherwise, choosing to remain silent. He couldn't afford to argue with anyone among the elite rank. "I have prescribed some appetite boosters and supplements for her. If she takes them well with healthy meals, she will start feeling better in fourteen days. But the treatment will have to continue for her to recover fully," he instructed. "Don't worry, I will take good care of her," Ivy assured him. After a few hours, the doctor left. Ivy went to her room to freshen up, returning to personally take care of Abigail. She didn't even want to leave her in the hands of the maids or housekeepers. Abigail woke up to the view of a magnificent chandelier above her head. Gosh, she's dreaming again. She squeezed her eyes shut for a few seconds and opened them again. The bed was soft and posh, and so was every piece of furniture in the room. The colour theme in the room was in shades of cream and gold but Abigail began having ideas. Wait a minute, where was she? Her thoughts went in a race, all rushing in when she saw the ring on her finger. Her heart thumped with the speed of a racing car. Yes. She vividly recalled getting married and fainting when she got home. Embarrassment washed her when she recalled everything, even though she didn't know how she got into this room. The last time she slept on a bed close to this softness was eight years ago. Her step-sisters moved into her room, forcing her to sleep on the floor. By then, her father thought they were just getting to know each other and told Abigail to be considerate when she complained. Somehow, she felt like a princess once again but was soon fried in regret when she realized how much shame she must have caused Ivy and she didn't know how to face her. Adding to her dismay, the door pushed open. "You are awake. I was beginning to get worried," Ivy said in relief. Abigail was conscience-stricken, facepalming, "I'm so sorry, I embarrassed you," she tried to apologize. Ivy shushed her warmly, "Hey, you did no such thing. Here, this porridge is good for your health. Have some before we prepare for the inauguration," she brought the bowl to the bed. Abigail had just recalled that they had to go somewhere. Being anywhere near Tony caused her to feel edgy. "What do I have to do when I get there?" "Nothing, except answering a few questions from the media. If you feel uncomfortable with them, just say no comments okay?" Ivy didn't care so much about the media. All she wanted was for the transition to be done smoothly. Abigail was grateful for Ivy's help. She didn't expect Ivy to treat her so well after taking care of her father's medical expenses. Still, she harboured a great concern. "Okay, but will Tony be fine with that?" Tony had always had women who complimented him, acting perfectly in front of the media and knowing the answers to give. Abigail was seen to have zero confidence, compared to those women but Ivy believed that with time and the right amount of training, Abigail would surpass them. "For now, I don't care what he thinks. My only concern is for you to be better," Ivy said and began to feed her the porridge.  Abigail teared up. Aside from her father, she has never experienced so much care from anyone. She wiped the tear quickly before it fell, just when Ivy had shifted her gaze to the porridge. After a few spoonfuls, she was full, "I think I've had enough," she said appreciatively but Ivy was confident to keep her promise and that was making sure that Abigail was well taken care of, including eating. "No way, the doctor said you have to eat well and take your supplements. Don't you want to get better? You have to eat more." Abigail didn't know how to refuse. She genuinely felt full because she was used to eating small portions but not wanting to upset Ivy, she swallowed a few more spoonfuls. Soon her tummy hurt slightly from eating too much but she kept it to herself. Ivy helped her to the bathroom and she felt uneasy. She never appeared naked in front of anyone before but Ivy had already started removing her clothes. "I can do it," she held Ivy's hand, staring pleadingly into her eyes. Ivy chuckled, "See, your hands are shaking. How could you do this yourself?" Ignoring Abigail's plea, she continued to undress her, got her into the jacuzzi and began to bathe her. Abigail was uncomfortable throughout the process but didn't complain. She wondered why Ivy was doing this herself. She could have just let the maids help her. "Mom, why not let the maids, you are very busy." Abigail found the word, mom, a bit awkward but she couldn't get a name better than that to call her. "First lesson you learn in life. Don't entrust everything to the maids, lest they know too much, and turn you over to your enemies for spindrift," Ivy educated her. Abigail understood quite well. How did secrets of the elites emerge in the open? She was grateful for this word of advice. "I will always remember that," she said genuinely. Ivy only smiled while selecting a dress for the occasion. She had randomly picked these clothes for Abigail when she was being prepared for the wedding. They were expensive but not the sexy or exposing kind. For today's occasion, she made sure to pick a dress that covered Abigail's skin entirely but was still lavish. She made her up and combed her hair. Accessorizing with a three-inch stiletto. She wasn't sure if it was safe for Abigail but it matched the dress perfectly. Tony had waited downstairs for close to an hour and was getting impatient. His eyes darkened at the sight of Abigails' outfit when she descended the stairs. She looked too decent and he couldn't believe he had waited this long for this. The wedding gown to him was a disaster but he could only accentuate it to the chase with time but this dress wasn't his zest. "Mum, couldn't you choose something sexier? This looks rather...." "Gorgeous?" Ivy responded explicitly. How could she explain that Abigail's skin was so pale, she couldn't bear exposing them? Whereas Tony wasn't going to let her off easily either. "That wasn't the word I was going to use," he said frankly. Ivy put on a cute smile while Abigail stood awkward and nervous in front of Tony. "I think you are already late. Don't let people think that you don't take your inauguration seriously," Ivy reminded him. If Tony then insisted on Abigail changing her dress, they were going to be late. Ivy had already planned everything. "Fine." Tony gave up and began walking to the car when his mother reminded him, "Charity begins at home. If you can't hold her hand, take her to the car and open the door for her, it won't come naturally when you get to the venue. Don't let people think that you are still in love with a woman who chose another man over you." Tony understood and walked back to take Abigail's hand. She was so frail he thought her hand was going to break. "Why are you so thin? Don't you eat?" He asked with a rather irritated groan. Abigail stole a glance at Ivy, who shook her head, telling her to ignore Tony's words. As usual, the distance between them was quite wide with each sitting at the far end of the window but when Ivy talked about the media, Abigail didn't know that she was going to be swarmed by them. She didn't know how she was going to face them and was aghast when the limo stopped right in front of them.

Chapter 5 5 - Let me set you free

The driver didn't opt to open the door when they arrived. They were in the public eye. Abigail nervously draped on her fur coat, which had been given her by Ivy to fight off the chilly autumn wind. Tony alighted and walked over to Abigails' side. A small smile lined his lips when he opened the door but his eyes were distant when he extended his hand towards her. Ivy's car had pulled over behind them but she couldn't offer any form of help at the moment. The couple had to solve their own problems. The camera flashes, brighter than the sparkling lights illuminating the luxurious hotel, blinded Abigail when her side of the door opened. She could feel a thousand gazes on her, making her stiff and cramp. As if given permission, the microphones and cameras were all around her, she felt hot from their closeness and the blinding camera flashes as soon as the sole of her stilettos touched the red carpet. "Tell us, Mrs Wright, how does it feel to be married to the soon to be President of the Wrights empire?" A reporter threw the question at her. Abigail's lips trembled, she bit it gently to calm herself. She couldn't depend on Tony to save her from the situation. He looked stunning, clad in his black tuxedo and bow tie. He was handsome, not perhaps in the conventional sense, but he had that appearance that could make him stand out in the crowd. He was fair, almost pale white. His unfathomable, green eyes contrasted exceptionally with his light-toned face. His eyes were as deep and expressive, where you could get lost if you stare long enough. His face had that faraway look in it, which couldn't be described in words. His smile was the only thing that didn't reach up to his eyes. Often, you could see a hint of pain in his sparkling eyes, which would disappear as suddenly as it emerged. He wasn't ready to make any speech, which perhaps revealed how much agony he concealed within himself. Above all were his frame and his stature, which had girls swooning over him. Abigail's eyes caught Ivys'. A fresh resolve meandered through her. She couldn't disappoint the woman who treated her like a real daughter. She forced a smile and said placidly, "yes, he is the soon to be president but to me, he will always be the Tony I got married to yesterday." If they understood the meaning of her words, then the title was of no value to her. A proud smile lined the corner of Ivy's lip when the reporter was thrown off the hook. Her next question seemed to have been stuck in her throat but then, another reporter who had been paid by the woods family to cause Tony embarrassment spoke. "Mrs Wright, you weren't the original bride and we know little or nothing about you. Can you tell us a bit about your family?" Abigail wasn't dumb to not understand the subtle scorn in the reporters' words. Among the elites, she was a nobody and would be despised if her family's origin was traced at the moment. She couldn't let that happen either. "I'm ready to answer any question about me but please leave my family alone. They didn't get married to Tony." Tony glanced at her swiftly, as fast as the wind with complex emotions which couldn't be explained. Abigail had an innocent smile on her face when she spoke and not only were gasps heard but even Tony was thrown in the dust. How could he have perceived the frail-looking girl to speak with such intellect? The smile on the reporter's face froze instantly. Tony was about to lead Abigail away when another reporter spoke from the crowd, "Mrs Wright, how does it feel to be in a loveless marriage? We all know that the only woman Tony loves is Ashley." Tony's face darkened, swiftly turning cold. He was about to respond but Abigail was faster. She had never experienced heartbreak but sympathized with Tony. "Love, if unwatered, will wither and be blown by the wind but an acquaintance, if nurtured, will bloom into everlasting love, good day," she said with a sweet smile, holding onto Tony's arm. The message was clear that she wasn't going to answer any more questions and they had to leave. Tony began to see her differently. Her wit and intelligence couldn't be overlooked. The Woods family members were watching the whole thing on TV in a private room at the luxury hotel. Displeasure chased away their comfort. "Where did he find her? Your plan didn't work Richard." Mr Grant Wood, the Senior of the Woods family and also Richards' father spoke with disappointment. Richard was balmy. When it came to looks, he had it too. He was also smart and had been able to drive most of Tony's smart women away, leaving him with the dumb likes of Ashley. The little woman who stood beside Tony as his wife couldn't be a match for him. "I know but I will take care of it," he assured his father, while he straightened his tie. "How? She is very canny as you can see," Mr Woods said in a worried tone. As a senior elite, he could tell when a woman was endowed with wisdom but Richard thought differently and said confidently, "every woman has a price. She just has to name it." A small smile crept onto his fathers' lips and afterwards, he said no more. Richard walked out of the room with his father to the large conference room, meeting the guests, the press, the elders of both families and of course, the outgoing President Ivy Wrights, together with the Incoming President, Tony Wright and his little wife Abigail Wright. With the swiftness of the wind, Richard had developed a keen interest in Abigail. He was curious to know the family in which she was brought up, her educational background and the mystery surrounding her marriage to Tony. Was she paid, was she sold, was she forced? They were lingering questions carried in the air around him. He hardly heard anything being said during the inauguration, searching for the opportunity to get acquainted with Abigail. Documents were being signed and Abigail was dazed by all the camera flashes, her dizziness soaring.  Ivy was a sensitive woman, getting to her on time. "Let me get you to somewhere quiet. The rest is for the men anyway," she whispered to her. She still had a lot to do but didn't want Abigail to refuse her help. Within a short time, she knew that Abigail was a sensible woman. Abigail couldn't be happier. For as long as she wasn't inconveniencing Ivy, she embraced the suggestion. Tony hadn't spared her a glance since they began the transitional process and she wasn't comfortable with the media either. "I appreciate it," she responded, stood up and followed Ivy. It wasn't unusual for women to excuse themselves during gatherings, even if their presence were of great importance. Perhaps, they were going to use the ladies room but richard gave them no breathing space, sending spies after them. At events like this, the enemies would never rest so the victim had to be on the edge. He was proud of his guess when Ivy returned after a few minutes, information reaching him that Abigail was all alone in the garden. Ivy knew the only place Abigail would feel comfortable alone was the garden since it was what she loved and left her there to complete the transition process.  Indeed, Abigail was happy. The garden was enormous but she thought it could be better. Instantly, new ideas began flooding into her mind, rudely interrupted by a subtle male voice, "do you mind if I sit beside you?" Abigail tore her eyes from the fountain in the middle of the garden, pinning them on a tall blonde man who looked quite attractive. He also looked very familiar but she couldn't put a finger on where she had seen him. Whereas, his accent and posture betrayed him as someone from one of the elite families. "I don't own the garden and neither do I own the bench," she retorted flatly. These elites were known to look down on commoners like her. Only Ivy was different and she couldn't let her guard down. Richard almost had a nervous breakdown. No woman among the elites had ever been this rude to him. Perhaps, she wasn't elite and she didn't know him. He had to refresh her mind. "Am Richard Wood, the eldest son of the Woods family and you must be Mrs Wright. Now, if my memory serves me right, then you don't know who you are. The Wrights own this hotel and so does Mrs Wright," he let out an enchanting smile but Abigails' gaze shifted to the Lotus flower artistry in the middle of the fountain, as she spoke absentmindedly, "thanks for reminding me." Richard saw it as a good sign and sat beside her. After a short while, he spoke, "you are too young to be entangled in this marriage. You don't love each other. Don't you have plans for your future?""Love grows," Abigail responded, still absentmindedly while Richard chuckled, "And you think Tony will love you one day?" His tone was disparaging. Abigail wasn't expecting Tony to love her. She didn't love him too but it wasn't wise to let out that small fact to a stranger. "I don't think so. I'm only hoping and there's no law preventing me from doing so is there?" Abigail returned her attention to him while she spoke, recalling she had seen him on TV as well. The rivalry between the Woods and Wrights was an open sepulture. Richard was bruised with anxiety. Abigail's heart and words conveyed different things but all Richard could make out of it was the notion that she was also in love with Tony like the other girls and in her situation, she saw herself as lucky because she was married to him. "Of course not. There is no law preventing you from hoping but I'm just afraid that you would take that hope to an early grave. Look, I'm ready to pay you any amount so that you divorce Tony, and do something meaningful with your life," he crossed his legs and said. Abigail smiled, she had no need for money and if she did, she was willing to work for it. Richard was spewing nonsense, trying to buy her conscience with money. "That sounds juicy, seeming we don't love each other but no. You see, there's more to life than money and fame. Since you have both, why do you seem so unsatisfied and unhappy?" Abigail asked keenly, while she wondered the reason why Richard was making her that offer. "What makes you think I'm unhappy? I have everything I need," Richard debunked her theory but she could tell that there was more to the whole thing. Riding on the wings of curiosity, she asked, "Then why do you want me to leave Tony? Do you want to marry him to your sister or marry him yourself?" Abigail didn't try to be polite. Tony might be a jerk but Ivy was an angel and she wasn't going to break her trust. "Hahahaha." Richard laughed. "You indeed have a sense of humour, Mrs Wright but neither of the above. It's an old grudge between us men," he confessed. Abigail couldn't care less. The thirst for power among the elites was always beyond the understanding of the commoners. "Then I beg of you, to keep me out of it," she pleaded, her attention returning to the fountain. Richard chuckled and shifted a little closer but Abigail shifted further away. He was displeased. He wanted it to look as if they were flirting but Abigail was so distant. Coming to terms with the fact that his plan wouldn't work, he said, "but you were already in it the moment you became his wife. Am only trying to set you free," he said in a warning tone. Abigail was irritated and was done being nice. "Do I look like am in prison?" The frown lining her pale face spoke volumes but Richard was nowhere near giving up. If he succeeded in separating Abigail from Tony, he would become the President of the Wrights Empire so why would he give up? Since Abigail rejected the financial offer, he tried to bite on her conscience. "No, but a loveless marriage is worse than a dungeon. Let me set you free." He had succeeded in upsetting Abigail and she would have left if she knew her way around. Before she opened her mouth to respond, a pally voice took her stead. "Set her free from what?" Tony's dominant voice roared beside them, feeding Richard with a concoction of panic and anger.