Chapter 7
Apr 30, 2025
Miranda’s POV
As I fastened the delicate clasp of my necklace, my phone buzzed on the dresser. I glanced at the screen: an unknown number.
Curious, I unlocked it to find a simple text message:
“Meet your fiancé at 3 PM. The address is 45 Westbrook Avenue.”
No further details. Just an address and a time. I sighed, placing the phone back down.
“Everything okay, sweetheart?” My mother’s reflection appeared behind me in the mirror, her eyes filled with concern.
I turned to face her, forcing a smile. “Yes, Mom. Just some details about the meeting today.”
She stepped closer, wrapping her arms around me in a warm embrace. “How are you feeling about all this?”
I hesitated, searching for the right words. “It’s… a lot to take in. But I’ll manage.”
Pulling back, she studied my face. “And your work? How do you plan to balance it after the marriage?”
I took a deep breath. “I’ve already resigned.”
Her eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Oh.”
“I’ve decided to take over the company after the wedding,” I added, watching her reaction closely.
She tilted her head, curiosity evident in her gaze. “You’ve always been so adamant about working independently. Why the sudden change?”
I offered a small smile, choosing my words carefully. “Sometimes, circumstances make us reevaluate our choices.”
She nodded slowly, understanding flickering in her eyes. “I just want you to be happy, Miranda.”
“I know, Mom.” I reached out, squeezing her hand. “I should get going. I don’t want to be late.”
She pulled me into another hug. “Be careful. And remember, we’re here for you.”
“I will.” I grabbed my purse and headed downstairs.
Outside, a sleek black car awaited. The driver opened the door as I approached.
“Miss Steven,” he greeted with a nod.
“Thank you,” I murmured, sliding into the backseat.
The drive felt longer than it probably was. My mind raced with thoughts of the impending meeting.
Who was this man like? What did he look like? Does he also want this arranged marriage?
Mother told me last night that Mr. Luca died recently, and that made Grandfather to insist on making the arrangement. It was more like we were honoring the two men’s last wish.
If I was told I’d be in this situation, being arranged to a total stranger, I’d deny it. Or probably rejected it.
I pulled my phone out and texted Daniela, my best friend.
“On my way to meet him.”
I had informed her about the arrangement last night and she wouldn’t stop exclaiming. Then all of a sudden, she said I should give it a try because he might be a smoking-hot guy.
At the remembrance, I chuckled softly.
My phone beeped and her reply came in.
“Goodluck babes.”
I smiled.
Shortly after, another message came in.
“I hope you’re dressed gorgeously. Did you wear that red gown I picked out for you last night? You need to create a good first impression. He’s got to fall heads over you at first glance, babes. Why? Cos you’re damn beautiful.”
I shook my head and laughed.
“Get off my phone, silly girl.”
I’m wearing a dress but not the one she picked. The one Daniela picked would make whoever he is dropped his jaws agape at my sight.
It was a sexy short dress. I didn’t want to create that impression. Instead, I chose a brown long dress and paired it with black heels and minimalist jewellery.
Simple.
Finally, the car pulled up to an upscale café. The driver stepped out to open my door.
“We’ve arrived, Miss.”
“Thank you.” I stepped out, smoothing my dress.
Inside, the café exuded warmth with its ambient lighting and soft jazz music. I scanned the room, noting that my arranged groom hadn’t arrived yet.
Choosing a corner table, I sat down and ordered a chamomile tea to calm my nerves.
Minutes ticked by. Then half an hour. My tea grew cold as I waited. Glancing at my watch, frustration bubbled up.
How long was I supposed to sit here?
Deciding I’d waited long enough, I stood up, gathering my belongings. As I turned toward the exit, I collided with someone, the impact causing me to stumble slightly.
“Kayla?” a familiar voice exclaimed.
I looked up, heart skipping a beat. “Boss?”
Jeremiah Houston stood before me, equally surprised.
