Chapter 1: The Ultimatum
Emily Wilson, 28, entered her father's opulent office, sensing a serious conversation. His solemn expression confirmed her fears.
"Emily, I need you to get married," Mr. Wilson said, his eyes pleading.
Emily's heart sank. "Dad, I-" she began, but he cut her off.
"I want a grandchild and to ensure our family's legacy," Mr. Wilson explained, his voice laced with desperation.
Emily understood her father's concerns, but marriage wasn't on her radar. Her past relationships had ended in heartbreak, and her father's words echoed: "Men only want you for your money and fame."
"You must get married within six months. Otherwise, our shares will go to charity," Mr. Wilson stated firmly, his eyes boring into hers.
Emily felt trapped, like a bird in a gilded cage. She thought about her past loves – Alex, the charming entrepreneur who turned out to be a gold-digger, and Jack, the handsome model who cheated on her.
"But, Dad, what about love? Happiness?" Emily asked, her voice trembling.
"Love will come later. First, secure our family's future," Mr. Wilson replied, his expression unyielding.
Emily's thoughts swirled. How could she find someone to love and trust within six months? The pressure was suffocating.
"Dad, can't we discuss this? Find another solution?" Emily pleaded.
Mr. Wilson's face softened, but his voice remained firm. "I've made up my mind, Emily."
Emily nodded, her heart heavy. She left the office, feeling lost and trapped.
In her room, Emily replayed her past relationships. She realized she had two options: comply with her father's wishes or risk losing everything.
But what about her happiness?
Emily's thoughts swirled with questions and doubts.
Would she find someone who truly loved her?
Or be stuck in a loveless marriage?
The uncertainty was suffocating.
Emily's tears flowed, mourning her lost freedom. She felt like her life was no longer hers.
As she cried, Emily vowed to take control of her destiny.
But as she stood up, a nagging voice whispered in her ear: "What if you fail?
..
Emily reflected on her past relationships. Each one ended in heartbreak.
The last one, Alex, was the worst. He lied, cheated, and disrespected her.
Emily shuddered at the memories.
She thought about her father's words: "Men only want you for your money and fame."