Not my wish

Benedict Pov

It was an early morning when I received an unexpected phone call from my father. He asked me to come home immediately for an urgent meeting. I couldn't help but wonder what this was all about. My father had never been one to hand over his business responsibilities, and if he ever did, I was certain I wouldn't be his choice. After all, I had a lot of life left to enjoy, far more than sitting in an office, managing one business crisis after another without a moment's peace.

As the only child, I was admittedly spoiled. I mentioned the call to Charlie, my boyfriend, and he wasn't thrilled with the idea. His expression softened, though, when he noticed how worried I looked. "Why does your dad want you to come home? Is everything okay?" he asked.

"I'm not sure," I replied. "But I need to fly back to England to find out. You could come with me, you know-maybe it's time for you to be introduced as the son-in-law."

Charlie smiled but shook his head. "Not yet. When the time is right, I'll go with you."

I booked a flight and began packing for the trip. My favorite car, a Rolls-Royce Phantom, would be waiting for me when I landed. Upon arriving in England, my dad welcomed me warmly, his demeanor as loving as ever. But something felt off. His calm exterior only deepened my suspicion when I noticed a young man, composed and quiet, seated in a plush chair nearby.

"Dad, what's going on?" I asked.

"Benedict, we need to talk," he said, his tone unusually firm. I was taken aback; this wasn't like him. Traveling from London to England had been exhausting, and I really wanted to take a shower first.

"Dad, I need to freshen up. Can this wait?" I asked.

"I understand, daughter, but this is important," he insisted.

He had never spoken to me in such a commanding tone, not once in my entire life. I was puzzled and uneasy. "Dad, I need to shower. We can talk afterward," I said, hoping to delay the conversation.

I made my way to the lift, intending to go to my room, but before I could step inside, my father blocked my path. His expression had changed drastically-his brow was furrowed, his eyes burning with intensity.

"Daughter, sit down," he commanded, his voice leaving no room for argument. I felt a wave of fear wash over me, and for the first time, I was truly afraid of what he might say next.

My dad had never acted this way toward me before. As I reluctantly sat down, my mind raced, trying to figure out why he was behaving so strangely.

"Mr. Rogers is my childhood friend and has been my backbone in business," he began, his voice steady but firm. "He's been my partner for years, and to strengthen our bond, I want you to marry his son."