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Echoes of the Past: Ariana's Reunion with a Billionaire
NovelShort
Completed
Ariana's unexpected journey into matrimony with billionaire Sean sends her singing career on a surprising detour. Despite marriage not being on her immediate horizon, the favor of Sean's parents propels her into becoming the wife of a man whose troubled past was rescued by adoptive parents. As Ariana and Sean traverse their relationship, a hidden link emerges: Sean is actually a childhood friend Ariana once shielded from bullies. Sean's irresistible magnetism, a magnet for numerous admirers, irresistibly draws Ariana towards him, igniting a dormant, fiery aspect of her personality. In the initial stages, their marriage flourishes, but a twist arrives with the return of Sean's ex-girlfriend, hell-bent on reclaiming her place in his life. This triggers a cascade of obstacles, testing Ariana and Sean's bond in unexpected ways.
Chapters (8)
Chapter 1
As I walked out of the recording studio, hot air struck my face. I dashed over to my car, climbed inside, and switched on the cooler. As soon as the frigid air began to permeate the car and give me a chill that felt like being burnt, I sighed a sigh of relief.
My contract with the management expired today, after I finished recording for my third single. As I start my automobile, my phone rings.
"Yes, Ariana is here."
"WHERE ARE YOU??"
When I heard Caroline's shouts, I pushed the phone away slightly; my manager and cousin are more louder and chattier than my mother.
"I'm already on my way."
"Come on, Ana! else you'll be replaced by a different model!"
"All right, I'm on my way."
I stepped on the gas pedal harder to accelerate to the area where I was filming a commercial for one of Coca-Cola's most popular products.
When I arrived on set, I quickly raced towards the team who had gathered and were working on the ad shoot set.
“You tortoise! Come here quickly, you will take it!” nagged Caroline, I just let out my horse grin. She would look like the Goddess of Death when she was angry.
After shooting the commercial was over, it was getting late into the night. Caroline came home with her boyfriend Andrew, I had a chance to see their intimate scene near Andrew’s car before they disappeared before my eyes. Sighing heavily, I’ve never been in love and dated with any man.
Whenever a man approached me I would only consider him a friend, nothing more. About dating invitations, I often refuse for various reasons, I don’t know, I haven’t thought about having a special relationship with a man, I’m still busy thinking about my career. And again, I don’t want to fall in love yet.
Once I liked a guy, but he didn’t like me just thought of me like his little sister, my feelings were not reciprocated. I’m disappointed, of course, but what can I do??! Maybe love isn’t on my side. My phone rings again and interrupts my unimportant daydream.
“Mom??!”
“Where are you, honey? Hurry home, there’s something I want to talk to you about.”
“About what?”
“Go home first, I’ll tell you when you get home.”
I quickly got into my car and drove home. My mom seemed to want to talk seriously this time, suddenly my heart was pounding, a feeling of nervousness and curiosity came over to me.
When I got home and parked the car in the garage, I rushed downstairs. I saw a very expensive gray Mercedes Benz parked in my large yard, I just shrugged and assumed there must be guests.
“That’s Ariana, honey, come here,” Mom said which made me look at her as I was still in the doorway of the main entrance of my house. My gaze turned to my mom’s guest and those eyes seemed to hypnotize me, fading everything around me. A handsome face was looking at me who just stared at him in silence. That gaze seemed to nail my feet.
“Ariana,” my mother called, which jolted me back to reality, with a slight bow I walked over to my mother and sat beside her. There was a man, about half a century old sitting in front of him, beside him, a beautiful woman who looked graceful at her age. Both of them smiled at me, I smiled back and nodded respectfully before sitting down.
My gaze turned to the man with gold eyes sitting in front of me, the man looked at me with a sharp gaze that made my heart beat abnormally, I hastily lowered my face to hide the nervousness that seemed to squeeze all my nerves.
“Honey, this is Aunt Ramia and Uncle Abraham, they are here to propose to you.”
My mom’s words are like Thor’s thunderbolt which is very powerful in the Avenger movie, I was shocked, of course, my tongue went numb.
What? Propose Marriage of me?
My Inner Goddess was stunned on her red sofa, while my senses narrowed her eyes with her mouth open, surprised by this.
“And that’s Sean, your future husband,” said My mom again, I peeked at the man named Sean from behind my eyelashes while twisting my fingers between my thighs. I’m nervous, this handsome man is my future husband, whether this is a gift or a disaster but I can’t say anything and just choose to be silent, my mind is debating between wanting to deny and accept this fact.
“Auntie heard Ariana is a singer, is it true?” asked Aunt Ramia, I looked up at the charismatic beautiful woman who smiled shady, I smiled then nodded.
“Yes, auntie, I’m a singer,” I answered briefly with a feeling of shock that I was still trying to suppress.
“You know, Sean likes to hear your song, auntie caught him listening to it,” said Aunt Ramia with a witty glance in her eyes, instantly I turned to the handsome man in front of me and looked at him with a surprised look, the man chuckled and Aunt Ramia giggled as well as Uncle Valentino.
When Sean’s gaze met mine, I looked down again, it seemed I wouldn’t be able to stare at him for so long. Curse my blushing Inner Goddess, shit! This isn’t the time to be dazzled, well, though I admit in my head that he’s really handsome.
His gaze seemed to intimidate me, my whole body seemed to melt with his gaze, I was helpless with that gaze. Never before had I felt this way when I was stared at by a man, this man’s gaze was different and caused a spark of alien feeling within me.
“Your engagement will be held in a week, and Sean can use that time to get to know Ariana more,” said my mom while smiling happily, I swallowed my saliva with difficulty, my throat suddenly dry.
Just being in a position like this makes my heart feel like it’s about to explode, especially if I have to spend a lot of time alone with him, I could die young before getting engaged to him. When Uncle Valentino and Aunt Ramia were going home, the graceful woman gave me a warm hug, I hugged her back and gave them both a sincere smile before they left my terrace and headed for the car they were riding in.
“I’m sure Ariana will be able to make Sean the happiest man in the world,” said Aunt Ramia, I smiled awkwardly hearing her very convincing words.
“Tomorrow, Sean will pick up Ariana to come together to Rani’s birthday party,” added the elegant woman again, mom agreed and they looked happy, except for me who was busy struggling with my thoughts, which was still trying to digest this incident.
“Mom, are you serious about this?” I asked after an hour our guest left. We’re sitting on the living room couch right now, mom sipping her tea.
“Honey, Uncle Valentino’s family was your papa’s best friend when we lived in Thailand, maybe you’ve forgotten, when your father died, Uncle Valentino promised to be part of our family by being with us,” said My mom, I was stunned to hear that. Hell yeah! The arranged marriage since I wasn’t even born, isn’t fair isn’t it??!
“But, Mom, isn’t it too rushed? I just got my career.” I’m trying to negotiate here, but actually I want to refuse. In this day and age, who wants to be matched??!
“Mom is sure, this is the right time for you and Sean to get married. It would be better that way, mom will be calm if you marry Sean,” said my mom and I didn’t have the ammunition to argue with her, I lost badly.
“Where are they from, Ma?” I asked curiously.
“They’re from Dubai, honey. Uncle Valentino is the owner of one of the oil and gold mining companies, Valentino Enterprise Holding,” answered my mother, who was trying to be patient with my curiosity, and at that moment my mouth fell open.
“You mean, that was Valentino Al Abbas?” I asked again, making sure, My mom chuckled lightly, I know my current expression must be very silly, My mom nodded.
“And the man sitting across from me is Sean Valentino?!” I added, and My mom nodded once again, but I’m not familiar with the name, I try to remember, but nothing I only know them as one of the most famous businessmen with a series of successes in the business world.
“And Rani?” Still about the Valentino family, I heard that Aunt Ramia mentioned that name.
“Rani is Sean’s older sister, tomorrow is her birthday as well as celebrating her wedding anniversary.”
My mom put her empty cup on the table. I still can’t believe this, I’m getting engaged to a man who is in the top 10 most desirable single men in the world.
“You have a schedule tomorrow?”
I shook my head at my mom’s question.
“Be ready at 5 pm tomorrow, Sean will pick you up,” Mom said, I nodded weakly, then said goodbye to my room.
Again I thought about Sean’s figure, I pressed my chest which seemed to want to explode because of my beating heart.
What is wrong with me? Why is it that just remembering his gaze makes me feel like someone has a heart attack?
I exhaled regularly in an attempt to neutralize the strange feeling that came over me when I remembered Sean’s handsome face. I rolled over to change my lying position, then hugged my favorite bolster pillow, I still can’t believe what I experienced a moment ago, I haven’t even thought about marriage, it’s too soon.
As I kept thinking about what happened a few hours ago in the living room of my house, I fell asleep. And that night, my dreams were filled with Sean Valentino’s face.
Chapter 2
Staring at my reflection in the mirror once more, and feeling that everything was perfect. I was wearing a pink sleeveless dress that was slightly puffy at the bottom, with prominent floral embellishments.
In dress, I don’t really like sexy clothes and too many open parts here and there. My mom smiled with a gleam on her face, I looked at her with my cheerful smile but actually I was having an extremely nervous bout.
“Mama can’t wait to see you get married, put on a wedding dress and be the prettiest,” she said, and the melancholy started to come out, I took a deep breath and rolled my eyes seeing her teary eyes. I got up from my seat, then turned around to face him, I hugged him affectionately.
“Mama will surely see that day and be happy too,” I comforted, but my heart suddenly became restless. Marriage is not on my list right now. Unraveling my embrace, then we both went to the living room.
“Sean, sorry for taking so long, take good care of my daughter huh?!” Mama ordered with a smile, Sean smiled reverently, I, who had been standing next to Mama, was stunned by the beautiful scenery that was presented at this time. Mama nudged me in awe, then nervously walked over to Sean, as we were about to pass through the door her hand touched my waist.
I felt like I was electrocuted by that touch, so we headed to his Mercedes Benz. As I sat in the car, I pressed my chest as if it was about to explode from my pounding heart, then Sean appeared and sat in the driver’s seat.
Silence fell over us, but I didn’t want to start a conversation either, because I didn’t know what to say in this situation.
“Sorry to surprise you with this engagement.” He opened the conversation between us by apologizing, I looked down at my fingers that I was slowly twisting.
“I-I don’t want to rush things,” I stammered nervously.
“Me too,” he said, the silence taking over us again, until we reached our destination. Instantly, I stiffened in my current seat, a large number of press crowding in front of the entrance. I don’t want to bring up news that shocks everyone, I’m not ready for this.
“W-whaat!? There’s no other entrance??” I asked nervously mixed with panic. Oh, my God! Please save me, I bit my inner lip from nervousness mixed with worry. If the media manages to see me with Sean, nothing will be able to save me from the news that will spread, and I don’t want that to happen.
“We’ll go through the side door of this building,” he answered then turned towards the side of the very grand building, there was an entrance where there were no crowds at all, only a security guard. Sean parked the car, then got down first and opened the door for me. My body seemed to lose energy, stretched out his hand to me, I looked at his hand doubtfully then looked up at him, he gestured for me to return the helping.
Nervously, I put one of my hands in his, then he grabbed it and I got out of the car. His grip was warm, then he pulled my waist close to his body and entered through the door that was guarded by security. The two men guarding the door bowed respectfully to us, I bowed as we entered the building. This ballroom is very spacious, and many people of course, This atmosphere is increasing my nervousness closer to the highest level.
“Sean! Come here!”
Someone called Sean, I lifted my face to look at the caller. A beautiful Middle Eastern Indian woman was smiling, we approached the woman. When we almost arrived in front of the woman, she seemed to cover her mouth with both hands, with a look as if she saw an amazing thing.
“Oh, Sean, you’re so lucky,” she said loudly, she came over and hugged me hard as if he wanted to squeeze my body, I gasped and confused with this woman’s treatment, when she opened her arms she kissed one of my cheeks.
“Mama is right and you are not wrong, you have to mingle and show off your affection, I want the world to know that this handsome but stupid Sean will marry a beautiful girl with a golden voice.”
I held back my laughter at this woman’s comment. How dare she say a Sean is a stupid man, she must be someone very close to Sean.
“Ranila! Come here!” someone called, and the woman in front of me turned around. I also got an explanation out of my curiosity. So this is Sean’s brother, I didn’t expect his reaction to me like this, I was nervous because I knew what Sean’s family was like, rich and classy, while I wasn’t included in that list. I am a singer, but my fame is not comparable to Sean and his family. The woman called Ranila said goodbye before leaving us to approach a handsome man, they kissed for a moment before embracing each other. I’m guessing it must be her husband.
“Would you like something to drink?” I turned to look at Sean, then nodded smiling, I’m very thirsty now, it’s the result of my excessive nervousness. My Inner Goddess fanned her face with her hands, her nails were red, several people in this room were staring at us and it made me nervous.
“Follow me,” he said combined with an order, he bent one of his elbows, I looked at him confused, he motioned for me to take him, hesitatingly and shyly I took his arm and walked to the dining table.
“What do you want to drink?” He asked again, I looked at the stemware which was filled with red and clear liquid, there was also a dark blue color. I know it’s wine, but I don’t drink alcohol.
“I don’t drink alcohol,” I refused, I formed my lips in a straight line, do I have to die of thirst during this party?? That’s ridiculous, I don’t want to be in the news with the embarrassing topic ‘Our newcomer singer Ariana Alexandra was found dead of thirst at a party’. My Inner Goddess put on a look of disgust at what I had just thought of, while my senses spat forcefully to the side as a sign of humiliation and repulsion. I saw Sean take a glass filled with orange liquid, I think it was orange juice. He also handed me the drink, I immediately breathed a sigh of relief when I smelled the citrus aroma from the drink, thanks God, I’m not dying of thirst here. When I drank my juice, I looked at Sean who was also looking at me with his eyes that managed to make my heart skip a beat. Can this man not look at me like that?? There were many things in this room that he could gaze at and that were more interesting.
Chapter 3
“Excuse me, are you Ariana Alexandra?” asked someone who cut off our stares, I took the glass away from my lips and turned to look at the questioner, I nodded and smiled. A rather handsome man, a fan(?) I was a little proud of that, but turned disappointed after he said who he was.
“Hi, we’re in the same management now, my name is Ariel,” he explained then reached out to me and shook it for a few seconds.
“Hi, Ariel, nice to meet you,” I replied, trying to be friendly, Ariel turned to look at Sean and greeted him friendly, Sean smiled lightly, after talking for a while with Sean, the man left. The man seemed familiar, but I chose not to think about it any further.
“Want to dance?”
Sean turned my mind, I looked nervously at a group of people dancing with their partners near a group of musical instruments in the corner of the room, I nodded weakly then Sean grabbed my hand and held it, I followed him to dance. He put his hands around my waist while I wrapped my arms around his neck. My face must be blushing right now, my cheeks feel hot, we move slowly left and right.
“Have you ever danced before?” I know he’s trying to make small talk, I’m currently looking down at him. Oh, God! Really! He is very handsome.
“Never,” I whisper embarrassed but honest.
“Really? With a man not though??” Sean looked disbelieving, I smiled shyly and shook my head, how ignorant I was. We stared at each other in silence, I was like lost in his golden net and unexpectedly he kissed me oh no! He took my First Kiss, right here in the crowd.
At first I was surprised, when he teased my lower lip, I was lulled and returned the kiss with a movement that I know is very amateur. It was so sudden and also intoxicating, his hand pulled my waist so it pressed against his body, one of his hands pressed against the nape of my neck to deepen our kiss. I felt a strange sensation inside of me, flowing like water, vibrating me from within and reacting to my groin.
“Do you guys want to just get married without getting engaged? It seems, you guys are impatient.”
The voice stopped our kiss, I looked down in shame and awkwardness, Sean snorted in annoyance then sighed heavily.
“C’mon Mom, what’s wrong?” Sean asked with a little annoyance in his tone, I peeked at Aunt Ramia from behind my eyelashes. The elegant woman in the black dress sighed.
“Your wedding is next week.”
Suddenly I immediately raised my face to look at the woman, I was just about to protest but Sean preceded me.
“It’s up to you, Mom,” said Sean.
Wait. WHAT??
Has he gone mad?? Oh no! What should I do?? My tongue is dry, I can only swear in my mind.
“Okay then, Mama will talk to Aunt Alina again to cancel the engagement and replace it with marriage,” concluded Aunt Ramia seriously, I saw her smiling happily, when the woman passed from in front of us, I turned to look at Sean.
“Why don’t you refuse?” I asked with a bit of annoyance. Why am I just a little annoyed?? What is wrong with me??
“I want you, Ariana.”
I’m in shock, what did he say?? He wants me?? But I don’t know him?? It’s like bringing up a new puzzle for me.
“Why??” I asked again, he smiled.
“You’ll find out later,” he said and I felt there was something behind his smile and words.
Chapter 4
Since Sean’s confession that he wanted me at Ranila’s birthday party, I’ve been getting more and more restless, even more so I still vividly remember that intoxicating and passionate kiss. Three days since the party had passed, and yesterday Aunt Ramia and Uncle Valentino came to the house to turn the engagement plan into a wedding, my mother was very happy about it, and again I couldn’t move.
Meanwhile, Caroline was very surprised by the news about me and Sean Valentino. No matter how hard I tried, the media would find out in the end and what frustrated me even more, the photo of me kissing Sean at the party that time had gone viral in the media. Everyone out there is talking about it, and I don’t have the balls to show my face in public. My phone chimed indicating an incoming message.
From Sean
Get ready, I’ll be in five minutes until we’re out for lunch.
After reading the message, I immediately got up from my lying position and walked languidly to the wall in closet and chose clothes.
“Where are you going honey?” Mama asked as I passed the living room.
“Lunch with Sean,” I replied, my mother smiling teasingly. I chuckle when I see my mom teasing me like that. Sean’s car horn sounded from outside.
“I’ll go first, Mam,” I said goodbye, walked over to Mom, gave her a short kiss on the right cheek and then ran a little to the front yard. My heart beats again every time I want to meet that handsome but cold man. Sean waited while leaning next to his car opposite the entrance of my house. I give my cheerful smile, when does he look ugly?? Is he really human?? He is as perfect as the depiction of the Greek gods.
Sean just smiled a little then when I approached him, he kissed my forehead then opened the car door for me, I smiled shyly at his sweet treatment, my heart melted like ice cream because of his treatment.
Sean POV
She always looks sweet and beautiful in my eyes. Her innocence captivated me, I didn’t expect to see her again after so long, maybe he forgot about me but not me. I was so happy when mama decided to turn our engagement plans into a wedding, she would be mine. I know she needs time to adjust to me, and that’s understandable.
When she’s near me, I don’t know what to say but stare at her, I love to see her smile, the blush on his face when she’s embarrassed. And I wanted it even more when I felt her plump lips, it was the strongest kiss I’ve ever felt in my life, although I was surprised because she didn’t seem to be an expert in kissing, I thought of an assumption that it was her first kiss, but I don’t think it’s possible, it’s different when with Atika, my ex-lover, although until now I still think about it.
We arrived at a fancy restaurant, I saw her amazed face which was very cute and innocent, it made me want to smile.
“You like?” I asked interrupting her admiration, she awkwardly nodded, smiled shyly and her cheeks were flushed red, so beautiful. I grabbed her hand which was small enough for mine and held it, we entered the restaurant. When we entered we heard soft whispers from either side of us, I put Ariana’s body close to me when a waitress greeted us, then ushered us to the table I had ordered earlier.
I saw Ariana looked nervous, it could be seen from the way she held the menu book, she tightly gripped the edge of the book upside down.
“Honey, the book is upside down,” I whispered softly while holding back my smile so as not to laugh, this girl is very innocent and adorable. Ariana immediately corrected the position of her menu book. After ordering food, I looked back at Ariana who was downcast.
“You must be uncomfortable with the news that spreads about us,” I guess, she looks up at me and nods, I take a deep breath. I am one of the easy targets of the media because of my undeniable reputation, plus Ariana’s currently rising reputation as a rising female singer.
“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of everything so it won’t be a problem in the future,” I promised, then our order arrived a few minutes later.
When we were about to leave the restaurant, there were a lot of men’s eyes that seemed to openly strip Ariana, it made me want to give a raw punch to their faces one by one, plus several people greeted her, maybe they were fans so Ariana smiled kindly and that smile was able to melt my bones. We were forced to stop to serve his fans’ requests to take pictures, hug and even kiss him. I held back all the emotional turmoil seeing my girl being treated like a doll.
Wait, did I just call Ariana my girl?? Am I wrong?? She is my future wife.
Instead of decreasing, there were more and more people taking pictures with Ariana, finally me and the restaurant security team stepped in, relief filled me as we stepped out of the crowd and the restaurant.
“After we get married, I want you to quit the world of Entertainment,” I said, not wanting to be denied, I glanced at Ariana who looked at me in surprise.
“What??? But....”
“I don’t like being denied, Ariana,” I hissed sharply.
“But I-“
“Stop it, or I’ll destroy your career myself,” I threatened, gripping the steering wheel of the car to hold back the waves of emotion that were swirling inside of me. I can’t imagine if we got married later, those damn fans just treated my wife, who do they think they are?! I just want to kiss and hug her, only I have the right to do that.
The whole way, we just sat in silence with each other, until finally Ariana broke the silence.
“Where are we going?” she asked a little panicked.
“To the villa, our wedding party will be held at my villa,” I replied. Ariana rolled down the car window as we passed the ocean view, she looked beautiful with her hair blowing in the wind, don’t forget the smile on her seductive luscious lips, I could have stopped for a moment to kiss her but I had to endure that wild attitude.
Arriving at the villa, the guard greeted us in a friendly and courteous manner. Ariana is constantly amazed by the state of this villa.
“All of this is yours?” She asked in disbelief, I nodded proudly showing off mine, and we headed to the backyard where our wedding will be held.
“Why do you want me to quit from world of Entertainment?” Her eyes looked at me questioningly, I pulled his waist so his body pressed against mine.
“Soon, you’ll be mine I don’t like it when someone else touches mine like your damn fan did,” I said then kissed her like at Rani’s birthday party, when my kiss moved to her smooth white neck, one of my hands traveled to her body. Her front wrapped in a bra, Ariana gripped my arm tightly. I seemed to lose my mind when I inhaled her scent that smelled of Jasmine, there was a sexy sigh in my ear, so that my desire quickly shot up.
“Young Master, Madam wants you to meet her at Mrs Rani’s boutique soon.”
I chuckled when the villa guard interrupted our activities. I looked at Ariana who was looking down with her cheeks as red as a tomato, I smiled then took her out of the villa to the car.
Chapter 5
Ariana POV
I looked at my reflection in the mirror which showed my whole posture wearing a beautiful white dress. My mind is still thinking about Sean’s sensational kiss at the villa, for some reason I enjoyed it and didn’t refuse it, so far I have never let my body be touched by any man, but when I was with Sean I couldn’t move, and his charm made me sink deeper. Who wouldn’t be attracted to a man like him? I exhaled through my nose a little loudly.
When I arrived at Ranila’s bridal boutique, my mother and aunt Ramia were already there, they all looked at me in amazement with my current appearance. Ramia’s mother and aunt left the fitting room after we decided which dress I would wear on my wedding day, Ranila also helped me take off the wedding dress I’m currently wearing after Aunt Ramia and my mother left us alone.
“I don’t want to see red marks like this again when you wear this dress on your wedding day,” she snapped which made me confused, Ranila rolled her eyes then she let me look in the mirror, I was surprised when I saw the red marks on my neck that were so obvious because of my white skin , I don’t know what color my face is now which is clear at this time I’m very embarrassed, Sean cursed with swearing in my mind. He casually kissed me and tagged me.
“I’ll warn Sean not to pounce on you before he becomes your husband, that child does need to be tamed.” Ranila looked annoyed, I smiled awkwardly in response to her annoyance.
When Ranila and I came out of the fitting room to meet Mama, Aunt Ramia and Sean, Ranila quickly approached Sean and asked him to talk privately in the dressing room. Me, mom and aunt Ramia were immediately busy choosing wedding accessories.
**
Sean POV
“YOU! WHAT DID YOU DO TO ARIANA??!!” Rani snapped which made me confused with her current attitude.
“Me?? Doing what???” I asked confused and didn’t understand at all, Rani chuckled and showed me her annoyed expression.
“You dare mark her while she’s not yet your wife!” Rani’s todong which made me look at her without any guilt at all. Rani knows my habits very well, since breaking up with Atika, I have often been seen dating different women, not infrequently I do One Night Stand with the women I date.
“She does not-“
“I don’t care if he refuses or not, but just watch out if you hurt her you’re not only dealing with me but Mama and Dad too, do you understand, Mr. Arrogant??” Rani looked at me with her horrible look, I nodded with a frightful expression that I made up, apparently Ariana managed to captivate my whole family, just look now everyone is defending her.
I sighed when Rani left me in the dressing room, I remembered my fondling of Ariana, I touched my lips again and then tried to remember her intoxicating scent and her chewy mound that seduced me, she was very seductive, even just thinking about it made me excited. I rushed out of the dressing room before Rani caught me daydreaming, she was like a psychic. He can guess what I’m thinking and it’s really annoying, you seem to have no privacy even in your own thoughts.
When I came out of the dressing room, my eyes fell on Ariana who was currently laughing with Rani, the girl had her own charm in my eyes. She always showed her natural face and her appearance as it was, except for his nervous attitude that she always showed me like I was his first man, but I don’t think it’s possible, considering she’s a famous singer there must be a series of men who have been her boyfriend. Imagining that makes me not willing, just seeing her fans hug and kiss her makes me feel like I want to turn into the Hulk let alone have to see her with another man.
While I was daydreaming, our eyes met and he gave me a beautiful smile before turning his attention back to the magazine that Rani had shown her. I want that smile to be mine forever.
Chapter 6
Ariana POV
Caroline looked at me with a serious face. Right now, we were in one of the cafeterias which was quite quiet. The woman urged me to talk privately and seriously about my relationship with Sean.
“Ana, marriage is not an experiment, don’t be reckless, you don’t know her let alone love her.” Caroline started, I could tell she was holding back her emotions right now, I could feel the aura of real annoyance she was emitting. I can only stare.
“I don’t have the balls to argue, everything was what my parents wanted and this seems to have been planned since I was little, well, before I was even born,” I said honestly and resignedly, Caroline chuckling in disapproval.
“Where’s your assertiveness?? Where’s the independent Ariana?? Do you guys love each other??” Caroline bombarded me with questions, I shook my head.
“I don’t know, but I didn’t hate him the first time I found out, if he’s my future husband, it’s not like most people would immediately refuse.”
We were silent for a while, then Caroline broke the silence between us. My mind is full.
“If one day you start to love him be honest with your own feelings, don’t hurt yourself.” Caroline took my hand, I nodded.
“And I hope you don’t experience unrequited love again.”
I also remembered Phillip, you could say he was the first person to make me feeling have boyfriend, but my feelings were not reciprocated. Phillip only thinks of me as his younger brother and he likes another girl. Since then, I became traumatized to start new feelings for other men, I was afraid of being rejected. I put my chin on my palm, I’m still confused about my decision to have a relationship with Sean who will soon enter the stage of marriage.
My cell phone rang, Sean’s name was on the screen, I just stared at my cellphone lying on the table without wanting to answer it, I needed time to think about all of this, finally the phone went silent again.
“Why wasn’t it picked up?” asked Caroline, I took a deep breath.
“I need time to think.” That’s all I can say, and it’s true, I need some time to think, I don’t know how much time is left for me before I let everything go according to fate(?) that has been determined for me, I’m not sure.
My phone rang again with the same caller, I decided to turn it into silent mode.
“What if he doesn’t love me?” The question just came out, because right now I was thinking the worst.
“You guys are just getting started, why do you always think of the worst first?”
Shrugging my shoulders. Sometimes it becomes a habit of mine, thinking the worst so I can be prepared if it happens but Caroline always raves about it and defies me to always think that way, she says it dampens my optimism, I’m just getting ready instead of wanting to give up.
“Live this to the best of your ability, if he is toying with you, I will kill him myself.”
I smiled as I looked at Caroline, she is my cousin who is very understanding and is like my own sister.
“He wants me to quit Entertainment,” I tell him, and Caroline looks at me in disbelief, she almost jumps out of her chair. I know this news must have shaken him too.
“What??? And you accept it???”
I nodded, Caroline plodding languidly into the back of her chair.
“Are you okay if I stop?” I asked worriedly, Caroline smiling lightly as she waved one of her hands.
“I’m not a nameless manager, Ana, even without looking for artists those artists come to me,” he concluded arrogantly, I pressed my lower lip to mock his arrogance, but what Caroline said was true. He is one of the experienced artist managers and the most sought after by artists out there.
“I’d better take you home, I also want to meet Aunt Alina,” said Caroline, we left our seats. Just as we were about to pass the cafe door, Sean’s figure blocked our path and I could clearly see that the man was holding back his emotions.
“I want to talk to you, Ariana,” he said with a slight hiss, I’m like a rabbit that will be eaten by an anaconda now.
“I’ll wait at home.” Caroline left without trying to help me. When Caroline’s figure was out of sight, Sean grabbed my wrist and then slightly dragged me to his car. Luckily I didn’t bring my Audi here, I went with Caroline after the launching of my second single.
Chapter 7
Today, Sean came to my house to ask for my guest list. After yesterday we measured the ring and ordered the invitation, today he and I had to take it to the printer to complete the printing request. We sat on the couch in the living room looking at the list of names we were going to invite to the wedding.
I handed him my list of names, he frowned.
“Why only a little?” he asked to which I shrugged nonchalantly.
“I don’t really have many friends,” I mumbled, Sean narrowing his eyes suspiciously.
“Are you ashamed of this marriage?”
I was surprised and a little offended by the question. What does she mean by saying ‘I’m ashamed of this marriage?’ Instead, I feel like the luckiest woman to be married to a billionaire.
“No, I don’t really have many friends, they’re all just acquaintances, unlike you.” I glanced at the guest list he made.
“Why most men?” he asked again. Oh, God! What’s wrong with this guy??
“Isn’t that right? Isn’t that great? They can tell I’m yours now,” I commented, looking at him, trying not to upset him. Sean put my guest list on top of his guest list, then unexpectedly he kissed me a little harshly and passionately.
I was getting used to his treatment, I wrapped my arms around his sturdy neck, one of his hands squeezed my breasts, my passion sped up and my groin throbbed. Sean’s kiss moved to my neck and continued down to my chewy mound that was wrapped in a bra, I shamelessly sighed his name, this was so delicious, my stomach was tickled by millions of flying butterflies. Sean unhook my bra which was in front of me without realizing it when my shirt button was fully open. My position is now lying on the sofa and Sean is fondling my chewy mound, I squeeze his hair while enjoying the caress, my groin is throbbing and my body wants more, then I hear the sound of a car entering the garage, my eyes open in surprise.
“Sean, aaahh.” I tried to fight this pleasure, Sean’s kiss went down to my stomach.
“Sean, Mooom.” I stifled a sigh, Sean’s kiss stopped in front of my groin which was still covered in hotpants, I heard the sound of a car door closing, and we hurried to fix our appearance, Sean kissed the top of my breasts before he hooked my bra back on.
“Mine,” he whispered sensually in front of my twin mountains, I held my breath for a moment then exhaled again when Sean re-attached my bra and helped button my shirt, mama came after a few seconds we finished cleaning.
“Wooooww, who’s being intimate, Mama’s jealous...,” Mama mocked, I took a deep breath and then chuckled, I glanced at Sean who was smiling holding back his laughter.
“How was the invitation? Is it done?” asked mom.
“Today will be, Mom.” I answered.
“Yes, Mama, go to the room first, I want to rest for a while,” said Mama, then left in front of us, I breathed a sigh of relief.
“Can I continue with that?”
One hit landed on Sean’s arm, the man groaned in pain.
“Feel it! Who told you to be perverted,” I snapped, squinting my eyes in disgust.
“But you want?!” Sean giggled, I pouted my lips, he’s annoying when he’s in his annoying mode like this. He tucked my hair that was hanging down from my face behind my ear. He grabbed my chin and made me look at him for a moment then kissed me again like a few moments ago. I tried to push his body but it had no effect at all, I was afraid mama would see us. When the kiss returned to my neck I tried to make Sean stop.
“I’ll see you later, Sean!” I said trying to hold back my sigh.
“I want you now, Ariana,” Sean pleads against my neck.
“Not now,” I said, and Sean pulled his face away from my neck and looked at me.
“Why??”
I bit my lip nervously, I’m not ready to do it anyway, he will be my first man if he will do it later after we get married.
“I’m… not ready yet,” I admitted embarrassed, I looked at Sean nervously mixed with embarrassment, I knew for sure he had often had sex with women.
“Have you ever had sex with a man before?”
I don’t know what color my face is now, hearing that vulgar question, I’m definitely embarrassed. Shaking my head while looking down, Sean lifted my chin, he looked at me with a look that I couldn’t understand.
“Is that true??” he asked as if he didn’t believe me. I turned my head and tried to shift my thoughts and attention to our guest list. I’m feeling embarrassed right now, this is the first time a man has asked so openly about my sex life. Sean grabbed one of my hands which was currently holding the paper, he put the paper I was holding on the table, he kissed my fingers which were in his grip.
“I want to be the first for you,” Sean said while looking at me with his sincere gaze, I was stunned. I suddenly hesitated to make a decision.
“Not now, I’m not ready.” That’s all I can say, and it’s a fact. Giving up one’s virginity is not like giving up a packet of candy, but it’s about the dignity and honor of a woman.
Chapter 8
On our way to the printing press, Sean was still curious about my sex life and about my relationship. I started to open up to him, it’s better than hiding something from him, but can I make him open up to me like I did?
“Sorry if I’m not what you imagined.” Suddenly I was nervous because I was worried that Sean didn’t like women like me, I was clumsy and not like women in today’s world who have a wide and free relationship. Sean smiled and that made me ask.
“Maybe that’s why you became my family’s ideal son-in-law candidate,” said Sean, there was a little pride in me, but why only the prospective son-in-law? Why not a future wife?
“I once had a serious relationship with a woman but failed, maybe we weren’t meant to be,” he said, I just listened quietly, not wanting to interrupt.
We arrived at our destination, after our business was finished, Sean took me to his office. All eyes seemed to judge me from head to toe as Sean and I entered the elegant skyscraper. As if understanding my nervousness, Sean pulled me closer to him.
“It’s a good thing you don’t have fans in this office, so I can breathe a sigh of relief,” he said as we were alone in the elevator.
“You don’t like my fans, do you?” I asked, Sean put his hands in his pants pockets.
“I have a problem with people being mean to other people,” he excused, I felt he was jealous but I still had my doubts about this assumption.
“I’m just trying to appreciate people who want to support me while I’m in my profession, for me fans are an important part for someone who has a job in Entertainment.”
I don’t mean to defend anyone, it’s just that I want to appreciate the people who have supported me all this time.
“After we get married, you don’t need your fans anymore,” he concluded in a tone that didn’t want to be disputed, the look on his face changed the atmosphere around me into an uncomfortable one, how serious is the impact the fans have on him? My Inner Goddess folded her lips into her mouth.
Sean held my hand as we walked out of the elevator. I love the warm grip of his hand and it protects my little hand. Sean introduced me to his secretary, and I felt disapproving of him having a female secretary.
“Could you change your secretary?” I asked as we entered his cozy study. Sean looked at me questioningly.
“Why? she is a competent person in doing his job.” Sean sat in his work chair while I sat on the sofa. I feel embarrassed, stupid and nervous at the same time, but I also have to put a rule here, after he wanted me to quit my profession and hate my fans, I felt I also had the right to neutralize my jealousy.
Wait a minute, am I jealous??
This is so embarrassing! My Inner Goddess blushed as she fanned her face gracefully.
“I think I have a problem with a female secretary led by a male boss like you,” I said as I folded my arms in front of my chest, I turned my face to look at one of my shoulders.
“Problems?? What problems can arise between the boss and the secretary?”
I feel stupid voicing my opinion, does he really not understand or is he trying to embarrass me by forcing me to admit that I’m really jealous?? My mood suddenly changed drastically, handsome master mood changer, this is very annoying.
“I’ve heard that the boss has an affair with his secretary,” I guessed.
“That’s ridiculous, Ariana.”
“That’s not ridiculous, I don’t want to have that problem in the future, what is the worst thing in a relationship besides betrayal?”
“You’re beautiful when you’re angry and jealous at the same time.”
Look, he teases me when I’m angry. How annoying is this, are men really like this?
“I’m not changing my secretary,” he concluded, and I was disappointed. I woke up feeling angry mixed with disappointment.
“Then don’t forbid me to meet my fans and leave my profession,” I said, then stepped out of the room that was no longer comfortable for me.
When the elevator door was about to close, I saw Sean trying to chase after me but in vain, the elevator had brought me down to the lobby. I don’t like it when I’m the only one who has to follow the rules. My feet took me to the bus stop not far from Sean’s office, my cell phone rang and I knew it was from him.
Why am I jealous?? Is it because he is also jealous of my fans?? But that’s just my assumption, but the signs are like jealous people.
I visited a cafe owned by a close friend, countless visits to this place, when I wanted to be alone and think about something, this place became my main choice. The cafe owner who is a tall man with a pleasant smile greets me, Eden always greets me with that smile when I come here.
“Wouw! Look, who’s coming, our dazzling future millionaire,” Eden exclaimed which made me roll my eyes, I knew he was mocking me.
“Where’s your future husband? Why don’t you bring him here?” Eden acted like she was looking for someone.
“He’s busy,” I lied, I immediately distracted him with my order.
Eden also accompanied me to talk, I always like to spill my thoughts on him.
“Women are very possessive of the man they love.”
I think he’s going too far to jump to conclusions.
“Me? Love him? Ed, we even just met a few days ago at that very sudden matchmaking event.”
Eden looks at me with his patient attitude, this is what I like about him he can be patient for me when I argue with him.
“You’re getting married, Ana, you must know that it’s no joke and you’re trying to take defensive steps because he’s the same way about you, you’re trying to make your relationship work later.”
I sighed and asked in my mind, why didn’t Eden become a psychiatrist and open a consultation service? I envy Carmen—his wife—who has a husband like Eden. The man’s cell phone rang, he begged to say goodbye to answer his cell phone call. Thinking back to Eden’s words, I totally agree, it’s true I tried to make our relationship work without any problems in the beginning, I tried to give a warning just like he did.
Eden returned, and we continued this serious conversation. I’m like consulting a psychiatrist right now, about how to understand a relationship and the behavior it causes.
“I know you feel you are not getting justice here, but try to understand, maybe his judgment is right, he knows better about the people he works with.”
“I’m trying to minimize the reproach for strangers trying to ruin my household, that’s all, I admit his decision for me to quit the world that raises my name is a solid assumption but isn’t it worth my request???!” I don’t know why I’m still trying to defend my actions.
“I think you have to look at it from all angles, you have to talk to him, you have to talk.”
Talk to him??! I’m prestige. A couple entered the cafe and several other diners, it gave me a long pause to think, while Eden was busy preparing food accompanied by a female and male employee. I stared out the glass wall, my first time in a relationship, a huge leap for me to not have to waste so much time dating, but I also felt this was a little rash. Without realizing it, Sean was sitting where Eden sat before, I was surprised when he looked at me with his gaze that always gave deep reactions to my soul.
“Are you still mad at me?” he asked, I nodded, maybe Eden was right, we should talk.
“I’m just trying to keep our relationship going with a little risk going forward,” I said voicing my thoughts.
“Me too,” he whispered, which surprised me. He has the same desire as me, my Inner Goddess is like a teenager who has just been given romantic words by a young man.
“I’ll try to consider your proposal, but you know, changing employees isn’t as easy as changing underwear, if he’s competent it’s going to be very difficult.”
Sean took my hand then held it, there was a seriousness in his eyes, and like a magic that made me want to do anything for this man.
“I want you, Ariana, more than you know, you’re like a new hope to me.”
I was taken aback, and the bubble of hope inside me slowly grew. I stared at his beautiful golden eyes, trying to find something to argue with, but something inside of me seemed to melt away, and a warm feeling slowly filled me.
“Marry me, Ariana.”
And I was like being showered by thousands of rose petals with a heavenly fragrance, a man I never even imagined his presence proposed and asked me to marry him, this is more than just listening to your lottery number being mentioned then getting the grand prize, all the debates that I had prepared just disappeared , and the offer became the solution to this problem.
