Chapter 1 Unknown suitor

Past midnight, Henry found himself repeatedly glancing at his phone, the memories of Charlotte still haunting him even after two long years. Her absence lingered, a gaping wound in his heart. He couldn't help but follow her on social media, a bittersweet torment that kept their connection alive, albeit one-sided.

Their engagement had crumbled into dust when Charlotte abruptly called off their wedding just three days before the scheduled date. The pain he'd felt was indescribable, rendering even the simplest tasks impossible. He withdrew from work, becoming a recluse for four agonizing months. The news of Charlotte jet-setting across the globe with another man had stung like salt in his wounds.

Eventually, Henry managed to piece his life back together, though he had given up on love, throwing himself entirely into his work. He became a mere shadow of his former self, causing deep concern among his family.

Nearly two weeks ago, his father had proposed a shocking idea: marrying Sofia Blanco. Henry was initially repulsed by the notion, but as he contemplated it further, he saw a glimmer of potential. Perhaps this was his chance to heal, to move on from Charlotte, and maybe even make her realize what she had lost.

The wedding was set to take place in Spain, a place that held significance for both Henry and Sofia. It was a risky gamble, but as he sat in his study he decided to do a little research on his bride-to-be. He tried searching for her social media platforms and he found nothing. Maybe she's one of those local girls he thought to himself.

Henry decided to call his father "Dad, I've decided to accept your proposition," said the son, nervously. "Can I see a picture of her at least to know the person I'm getting married to?"

"Sure, son," his father replied, relieved that his son had agreed to the arranged marriage. He sent him a picture of the young woman, and the son smiled, feeling a mixture of curiosity and hope.

It was the happiest news Mr. Smith had received all day. He couldn't contain his joy and immediately called his best friend to share the exciting news. "The wedding is on!" he exclaimed with overflowing excitement, grateful that his son had accepted the marriage.

In the blink of an eye, the grand symphony of wedding preparations had begun. Their eagerly awaited day was poised to dawn in just seven short days. With the cream of Spain's event planners and the most melodious band in tow, the stage was set for a wedding like no other.

As the Smiths, a whirlwind of excitement and love, touched down in the heart of Spain to lend their support, it was as if the stars themselves had descended to celebrate. Sofia, the radiant bride-to-be, had effortlessly won their hearts, and their joy knew no bounds.

Yet, amidst the whirlwind of festivities, Henry, the groom, remained a phantom figure until the eve of the wedding, choosing to reside in a hotel, separate from the bustling family home. His brother who was the best man was the only one who knew the location of his hotel. He texted Henry the location of the church since Henry decided he would come alone.

On the day of the wedding, Sofia radiated sheer beauty in her mother's cherished wedding dress. The gown, meticulously hand-beaded, hugged her figure perfectly, carrying with it the weight of family history and tradition. As her father guided her down the aisle, tears welled up in his eyes, emotions overflowing in this unforgettable moment for both families.

Henry, standing at the altar in his impeccably tailored suit, exchanged her vows and rings with Sofia. It was the first time Sofia saw her husband, and Sofia couldn't wait to embark on this new chapter of her life.

As evening descended upon the wedding, the newlyweds graciously mingled with their guests. Ruby, Sofia's dear friend, couldn't help but gush, "Sofia, your husband is an absolute gem. You're so fortunate!" The compliments flowed, and the joy in the room was palpable.

However, later that evening, a surprising turn of events unfolded. Henry, for reasons known only to him, left Sofia alone and decided to stay at a hotel. The next day, he dropped the bombshell on his parents and Sofia's father they were headed to the United States for their honeymoon. It left everyone bewildered, and Sofia wondered what was going on with her husband.