Play the Role of The Millionaire's Bride

Layla finally got home and sighed, still thinking about yesterday. Could she ever get away from the supervisor?, He wouldn't stop till he achieved his goal!. She can't succumb to his request, not at all!, But she's scared of what he could do, he could force himself on her!. " Hey, are you okay? " Mira asked and she nodded. " How about we go out?, to have fun? " She asked and Layla had a quick thought about it, before finally agreeing, and with that, they both left the apartment. *** These two were finally back from their outing when Layla's phone beeped * Her father had been admitted in the hospital * These two rushed out again as they found their way to the hospital. * A hospital in the Nothern part of the Town * " Sir, that's a lot of money " Mirah complained , they're currently in the doctor's office, and after diagnosing Layla's father, they found out that his illness had gotten worse and he would need lots of money for his treatment. " I mean, that's twice our life time savings, Is there a thing we could do?, Please sire, we can't afford that, it's much " Mira pleaded. " It's your fault!, I administered certain drugs to get for him, but you didn't heed to this, and now it's gradually becoming worse, I hope it doesn't get to the final stage when it wouldn't be curable! " He said and Mirah gasped before turning to Layla, who was staring blankly at nothing. She has lots of things going on in her head right now, first, it's her being bothered about her university tuition fees, now it's her dad's treatment fees, could her life get worser than this?. She knew her mom wouldn't had bought all those drugs administered to them then, as she kept saying it was okay and they didn't want to bother her, and now it's almost getting to the last stage!, She hoped his dad would be fine. * At Mr Lawrence Ward * " Mom, everything will be fine, I'll get enough money to pay for his treatment, I'll find a way " Layla finally said to her mom while Mirah consoled her. " WE'll,, find a way " Mira corrected Layla as she glared at her. " Am just worried, I know everything will be fine, I don't want you two to worry too much, you should be worried about getting money to pay for your university fees instead, I have some money that could be enough, all you need to do is add little to it, and everyone will be fine " Ella said and Layla scoffed. " No, I have enough money to take care of it, you shouldn't worry at all " Layla said and signalled to Mirah to stand. " Mom we'd leave now " Mirah said and bowed lightly and followed Layla who had walked out. * * * * The girl's apartment * " You think he's gon' give you? " Mirah asked and Layla sighed. " I don't know, I don't have any other option now " She replied sighing deeply. She was planning on meeting the supervisor for advanced payment, and he had asked her to meet him in at an exact location he had sent to her. " I'll be fine " Layla assured as she pecked Mirah's cheek before walking out of the apartment. She took a cab to the location he had sent her and was shocked at where she was. She was standing in front of an hotel, it was one of the biggest hotels in town. Why did he invite her here?. She thought about leaving but then decided against it, all she has to do is collect the money and then leave. He wouldn't try doing anything, right?. She sighs deeply before making her way into the building, she met with the receptionist at her office, who directed her to the room the supervisor was. She got to the room and read the label on the door, * Room 50 *. She knocked gently at the door and after some seconds, the door switched open by itself. She entered slowly and the loud bang of the door closing by itself had her shrink. She gasped silently and turned swiftly as she heard some movements behind her. And there was the supervisor, clothed in robes only with this playful smirk and flirty smile on his lips. He was finally going to get down with her, whether she wants it or not. " Take off your clothes " He commanded and her heart almost flew off. " Sir?... " She asked to ensure if she had heard the right thing. " You want me to help you? " He asked, moving closer while she moved back a bit. " Sir... I'm here for the money.. not for this.. " She stuttered and he smiled lightly. " Ofcourse, you would get what you want, only after I get what I want " He said, staring all over her lustfully while she shivered in fear. She knew something like this might happen, but she can't give in, right?. She can't lose her virginity now, she's still a young lady. " Sir, I'm.. sorry.. am not here for this... I.. " She was cut off as he suddenly held her hand forcefully and pushed her roughly on the bed while she yelled in fear.. " Help! " She screamed, hoping someone could hear her but he scoffed and began loosing his robe with his other hand while the other one pinned her hands above her head while she struggled to break free and he was finally naked in front of her. She shivered at the sight and tried to break free, Was she going to lose her virginity in a cruel way?. He got on top of her, pinning her tightly while she struggled to break free, yelling continuously but that was fruitless, the room was soundproof. He tried yanking her top off but she bit his hands so hard and he released her immediately as he groaned in pain, she kicked his d*ck that was dangling in front of him and he fell to the floor in pain. She grabbed her bags and rushed out of the room. " Guards! " He called and they rushed in immediately. " Get her! " He yelled and some of the guards ran after her while some waited to attend to him. Layla ran with all her strength with numerous guards behind her. She was lucky to escape from the security standing by the gate before they could noticed she was escaping. As she rushed out, she was suddenly stopped by a car, it was a luxurious car. Out of zeal to escape, she didn't think twice before entering the car and the car sped off while the guards retired and watched as they drove her off. T. B. C

" Gosh " Layla muttered, trying to catch her breath as the driver drove her off. She wasn't in her right mind as she kept thinking about what could have happened if she hadn't escaped, he could have raped her. The thoughts of her losing her virginity as a result of rape sent shivers down her spine. Then, it striked her, where was she?.. whose car is she in?, Where are they headed to?, Is she being kidnapped?. She turned swiftly and her eyes trailed up as the figure beside her was so tall. He had this cold and blank expression on and that made her heart race in fear. Are they kidnappers?, She noticed they were two, and there was another driver driving them to an unknown destination. " Sir... " She called in a broken voice, she had lost her voice. The huge and hefty man turned to her and she swallowed nothing down her throat. " I'm sorry, but I don't know you.. I'm sorry for entering your car, Could you please drop me here? " She asked, trying not to show how scared and nervous she was. " It's fine ma'am, we meant no harm.. out boss ordered us to bring you to him " He replied, politely. " Boss? " She thought inwardly. She wanted to say a thing but it got stuck in her throat as she was scared, things could go wrong. Throughout the rest of the drive, she kept hoping, she was save and not in some kind of danger. ___ " Please, get down ma'am " The guard said again, after informing her about their arrival to the destination, but she sat still. She was scared, where were they taking her to?. " It's fine ma'am, I promise " The guard said again with an assuring smile and she nodded gently before sluggishly alighting from the car. Words got stucked in her mouth as she stared unbelievably at the building. Where was she, she kept on staring at the magnificent and gigantic mansion in front if her as they guided her inside the mansion. " Please wait here ma'am, he will be here soon " The guard said and she nodded slowly, tho all that was in her head at that moment was her safety. She was about sitting when she heard footsteps of someone descending the stairs and she raised her head immediately. She watched as he descended down the stairs egoistically, carrying his shoulders up perfectly, his thick black hair shone brightly beneath the light of the chandelier, his flawless skin seem to be the most graceful thing in his body, but when she beheld his face, she was forced to rebuke herself for thinking that in the first place. Seeing his small heart-shaped lips, the sudden urge to explore it rushed through her, but that is going to be the biggest mistake of her life, her eyes traveled to his pointed nose, and she couldn't help the goosebumps that popped up on her skin. She watched every step he took, the ground he walks on, praising him gracefully for touching them, and as he finally got to her front, that was when she got a better view of his deep blue eyes, and she froze on her spot, until realization hit her!. He was the beggar!. Wait, How's he the beggar, he doesn't look like one, had she mistaken him for someone else?. He was finally closer to her and he smiled lightly. " Please sit down " He offered, it was then she realized he was someone familiar. The Millionaire!, Shane Kent,The man whose wedding would be taking place that week at their restaurant. What was she doing in his house?, Why did he bring her here?. " Here sir " She hears another manly voice and turned to the direction the voice came from. It was a man neatly dressed in suit, with a document on hs hands, she watched as he handed it over to Shane Kent. The man noticed her and bowed lightly while she did the same. " Hi, am Claus " He introduced himself and Layla smiled lightly. " Layla... " " Layla Brown " He completed for her and she raised her brow, how the hell did he know her full name?. " Ahem " Shane cleared his throat and they both turned to him. " Let's move straight to the point " He stated, his attention focused on Layla. He had studied her appearance while she had chatted with Claus, she looked like a gentle and nice lady. She wasn't dress to kill as she looked simple, she wasn't wearing any makeup except from the light blush on her cheeks. She looked nervous, ofcourse he noticed, who wouldn't. " You must be aware about who I am? " Shane asked and she nodded slowly. " Shane Kent " She replied and he nodded in approval that she was right. " You must be wondering why you're here? " He asked and she nodded with a light smile. He motioned to Claus to take over. " Miss.., as you must be aware that he's to get married this week, which the event will be taking place at the restaurant where you work " He began and Layla was a bit suprised, how they knew all this " Well... " He trailed off and glanced at Shane, as if looking for approval before talking. " My fiancee left " Shane blurted out instead and her eyeball almost left her socket. " What!? " She blurted out before she could say a word and covered her mouth immediately, Shane chuckled at her reaction and she felt lowered her head in embarrassment. Why did she react that way when it isn't even her business?. Maybe 'cause she was just suprised, how could she leave when it's just some few days to their wedding. " So.. Why are you telling me this?... " She found herself asking. " Cause... " " Cause I want you to be my bride " Shane cut Claus off. T. B. C

Chapter 04 " Sir?.. " She asked, like she had heard something strange. " Yeah, just for the wedding, and after then we can go on our separate ways " He said, hoping he could convince her. She looked like someone that could help and that was why they had thought about asking her for help, hoping she would accept. " Please " Claus pleaded, when she hadn't said a thing. " I... " She sighed softly. " I'm sorry, but I don't think I want to do this, in as much as I would have loved to help, but I can't... I mean, people could find out about this... I.. " " No one will, trust me " Shane said in a pleading tone, and she wondered why he was acting soft towards her. The Shane Kent she had knew always wore a cold look on whenever he was being interviewed, but here he was, acting like the sweetest man ever. Honestly, Shane doesn't really know why he's acting leniet towards her, for some weird reasons, he kinda trusts her, even though they met once, he could read her, she was kind and nice, and that made her have a soft spot in his heart unconsiously. " But, you could get anyone to do this for you, why me? " She asked slowly. " We just.. " " Cause I trust you... " Shane blurted out and Layla stared at him in suprise. " I trust you to be a trustworthy lady and a nice one at that, you would help us 'cause you have a soft heart, without anyone hearing about this " He said, staring at her and she was doing the same. " You don't even know me " She tried to defend. " But I can read you " He replied, and she looked away, breaking the stare. " I'm sorry, but I would have to reject this, this isn't right, people could find out " She said and made to stand. " It's just for a day.. no one is going to find out, trust us, we have our ways " Claus interrupted. " You don't get this?, I have my dignity to protect, I don't want it bashed 'cause of a silly act, this isn't right... " " How much do you want? " Shane asked, interrupting her. She turned to him with a raised brow. " 10 million dollars?, 20 million?, Any amount.. name it... I'll pay " He said and that seems to get her slightly angry as she turned to him, with a hard glare. " Really?!, That's it!, You think everything I about money!., Huh?!... " She asked, rasing her voice slightly and Shane was stunned. He didn't expect her to flare up, he was only trying to negotiate a deal. Who flares up at the sight of money?, But this lady right here doesn't seem like the type to do things she doesn't want even when she needs the money, this seemed to get him attracted to her as he wouldn't stop staring at her. " Miss, you should calm down " Claus said and she sighed. " I'm sorry, but I would like to leave, sorry for declining your offer " She said and bowed respectfully before walking away. He was older than her, she had to show respect. All these caught Shane's attention and he stood up while Claus stared at him worriedly " Sir, what do we do now? " He asked. " We wait " He replied and with that walked away. " Wait? " Claus thought in confusion. Layla was finally out of the big mansion and then realized, she has no idea where she was. " Should I go ask him? " She mumbled under her breath and made to turn but was stopped by the driver who had brought her there, he bowed and led her into the car and she heaved a sigh of relief. _______ " Oh my gawd! " Mirah exclaimed as she saw Layla alight from a luxurious car. She's been worried and had been waiting for so long and now Layla is here, but alighting from a luxurious car. What happened?, How?. Ignoring all these, she rushed to her friend and pulled her into a hug. " Layla!! ... " " It's fine, I'll explain everything when we get inside " Layla muttered as they unlocked from the hug and Mirah nodded. " I'll leave now miss " The driver said behind them and Layla turned. She bowed thankfully and he did the same thing before entering the car and he drove off while the two girls walked into the apartment. " So?... You rejected it? " Mirah asked to be sure of what she had just heard and Layla nodded trying to study her expression. " Alright " Mirah replied but Layla noticed she doesn't seem okay with it. " Hey, are you okay? " Layla asked, pulling her back and Mirah sighed. " I just don't think you should have rejected it, I mean we need money!, Your dad is there, he needs money and we have no hope of getting any right now!, We're hopeless.. I mean, that money could sponsor our tution fees throughout our university... Layla... I know you had always tried to protect your dignity, but this.. you have to, we don't wanna lose this opportunity " She said and Layla sighed. " I know, I mean, we need the money.. I just think it's not right, we could get caught " She said and Mirah scoffed. " No, we won't, Shane Kent is a millionaire, he has lots of great connections, he's well known, come on.. he has everything under control.. and since he assured you everything will be fine, then it will be fine.. and, this is also you helping him out, I mean he might die of depression or shame if the media found his fiancee left him some days to their wedding, am sure he's devasted right now and he's just trying to keep it in, let's help him if this is the only way we can " Mirah said and she nodded lightly. " You will? " She asked and Layla nodded again. Mirah jumped on her happily, smiles beaming on her face. Their dream was finally coming true " But, how do we contact him? " Mirah suddenly asked and Layla's eyes widened. " Card! " She suddenly spranged up. " What? " Mirah asked as she also stood. " He left me a card with his phone number the other day I helped him, but.... I didn't take it " Layla said and Mirah sighed. " We should check the restaurant! " Mirah said and Layla nodded. T B C

Chapter 05 They grabbed their phones before walking out of the apartment. got to the restaurant some minutes later, and opened the gate. Since they're workers there, they have access to the exterior area in the restaurant, but not the interior as the supervisor only has the key. They walked into the mini room where Shane had stayed the other night and began their search. " I found it! " Layla suddenly excaimed after some minutes, after they both began searching. " Let's dial it " Mirah said and Layla brought out her cellphone. She dialed the number and almost immediately he picked. " Hello " Layla said slowly. " My driver would be at your apartment to pick you up " He said and with that hanged up while the girls looked at each other in confusion. Is he aware she was going to agree They both walked out of the restaurant but were suddenly grabbed by two hefty hands and they screamed in fear. " This way " The cop said to the two other officers grabbing them and they bundled them to the car while they struggled to break free. They successful carried them into the car and the cop's car drove off. **** The girls were thrown into the cell, and they fell, hurting their knees in the process. " Hey!! " Layla yelled and tried to stand but fell back to the floor as a result of her hurting kneel. " Aish " Mirah groaned in pain as she touched her bleeding knee and it stings so bad. " Are you okay? " Layla asked, as the cell was locked and the cop had left. " Yeah, why do you think we're here? " Mirah asked. " I think Allen ( the supervisor ) did this. " She replied with a sigh as she struggled to the bench available in the cell. " Are we going to jail? " Mirah asked again and Layla groaned out loud. " I don't know, okay? " She replied and Mirah shut up. * * * " No... This isn't true! " " Then what is this? " " You don't have any right to release them " " We have no choice sir" The girls kept hearing distant voices approaching them and the stood up and walked to the cell's entrance, trying to get a glimpse of the scene. They saw two figures approaching them until they were completely in view, and there was Allen and a cop. The cop opened the cell and ushered the girls out in which they rushed out immediately. " What happened? " Mirah asked the cop. " Someone ordered for your release " The cop replied. " Why were we captured in the first instance? " Layla snapped. " We're sorry miss, it was a misunderstanding " The cop said politely. " Misunderstanding, my foot!.. this girl here assaulted me! " Allen snapped. " Excuse me mister, you tried to rape me! " She yelled and he scoffed. " Do you have a prove? " He asked, smiling mischievously. The cop had left them. " You had the footage deleted? " Layla asked, her anger arising. " Ofcourse, nothing is impossible when there's money.. and there's nothing you could do to it, the same way I'm gonna fvck your cunt whether you want or not and no thing would be done to this " He said with a smirk before walking away. " That wrench " Mira mumbled. " I hate him " Layla muttered hatefully and they finally left the police station after they had signed for their release. They took a cab home and on getting home, they met with a driver resting by the car, waiting for them. They gasped before rushing to him. " Oh my, we made you wait! " Layla gasped and they both bowed apologetically and he only smiled at them. " It's fine, this way miss " He said They smiled lightly at him before entering into the car and he drove them off. Who had bailed them out was the only thing playing on Laya's head. " Do you think he did it? " Mirah whispered into Layla's ear, seems she had the same thing on her head too. They finally arrived at the mansion and Mirah couldn't hide her shock as she stared endlessly at the enormous and magnificent mansion before them. " Is this even real? " She asked herself while some guards led them into the mansion, and she kept staring at the interior view of the mansion. They got to the living room and almost immediately, he appeared before them. He was putting on a shirt with the buttons left open revealing his abs, biceps and strongly packed muscles, making him look so manly, and the girls had to stopped themselves from staring. " You're here again? " He finally said and Layla nodded. " Yeah, I'm in!, I'll do it! " She said confidently. " Why? " He asked and she raised her brow. " Huh? " " Why did you change your mind? " He asked with a blank expression on, but she kept mute. " Was it cause I had bail you out and saved you from going to jail? " He asked and she raised her brow and scoffed. " Excuse me?, I ain't even aware you did that and I don't know why you did that, but I planned to come here way before you helped us " She snapped and Mirah held her hand behind to calm her down. She was losing her anger slightly. How could he have said that?, What does he think of her?. " You know what, Thanks, Thanks for bailing us out... I would find a way to repay your favor, but I decide against this.. I'm not interested anymore " She said and grabbed Mirah's hand and made to pull her along when Shane's voice stopped them. " Wait!.. " He called and they stopped abruptly. " Sorry " He mumbled and the girls turned swiftly, unsure of what they had just heard. T.B.C

Chapter 06 " Huh? " Layla asked in disbelief. " Am sorry, I shouldn't have said that " He apologized and Layla smiled lightly, she wasn't expecting that, tho she had planned to leave but she never expected he would call her back. " It's fine sire, I guess I overreacted too " She replied slowly, fondly with her fingers. " You should just call me Shane, so you would get used to it before the day " Shane said trying his best to be nice and she nodded. " A part of the contract says you aren't allowed to inform anyone else, but... " He paused glancing at Mirah who bent her head immediately. " Ah, it's fine, she's my best friend, she wouldn't tell anyone " Layla defended and Mirah nodded in support. " Alright then, you girls should please wait, my Pa would be here soon, you have to sign some papers " He said and Layla muttered an * oh * " I'll excuse you two then " He said and with that walked away while Layla watched as he ascended the stairs. Mirah grabbed Layla immediately to herself while Layla raised her brow. " Was that really Shane Kent? " She asked with widened eyes and Layla nodded. " Wow, he's really handsome " She said and Layla nodded again in agreement. " But why was he acting nice, I thought he's cold with the way he always has this cold look on during interviews,, he even called us back and apologized " Mirah said unbelievably and Layla nodded. " You sure this is the third time you're meeting him? " Mirah asked suspiciously. " What're you thinking about? " Layla asked, freeing herself from Mirah's grip. " I'm just saying, it looks like he didn't want to lose you or something, I mean he could give the contract to someone else and they would gladly accept that huge offer " Mirah said and Layla scoffed. " He's only acting like that cause he thinks I wouldn't reveal his secret to no one, which I wouldn't, cause it's none of my business.. I just wanna help him, make money to take care of dad and our fees and that's all, we're never meeting again " She explained and Mirah nodded. " I hope his Pa arrives soon, I'm kinda hungry " Mirah said and Layla chuckled before her eyes did the feasting around the living room. It's so cozy and everything in it looks expensive, even the luxurious furnitures. Layla kept pondering about what Mirah had just discussed with her. She's right, why does he care?. He's probably stressed out 'cause of the emotional trauma his fiancee had caused him and doesn't want any form of argument. She isn't sure if that's accurate, but she believes it is. Not like they knew each other or something. *** " Sir, I'm here " Claus announced as he walked into Shane's large suite which looked like a mansion on its own. " Give those documents to her to sign and ensure you explain the rules to her " Shane said, coming out of the inner room and Claus nodded. " Inform the chef to prepare a meal for them, they must be hungry " He added and Claus nodded and with that silence followed. Shane, wondering why Claus hadn't gone turned to him with his brows slightly raised and when Claus noticed he had gained his attention, he cleared his throat before proceeding to speak. " Sire, don't you think you're being a bit lenient with Miss Layla " He said more like a question and Shane turned to face him completely. He raised his brow and Claus itched his hair nervously before proceeding anyways. " I mean, you don't have this usual cold look on whenever you're talking to her, you act nice to her and it's strange 'cause that's not you " Claus said and Shane kept on staring at him for a while before looking away and walking away to one of the couches which he landed his butt on. " Go on " He gave him a go ahead. " I mean, it looks like you've known her for a while now, and it seems weird " He completed and Shane nodded thoughtfully for a while before stopping and retaining his normal expressionless look back on. " Yeah, it should be " Was all he said as he stared into space. His fist suddenly clenched and his expression changed. " Brielle " He mumbled with gritted teeth before turning to Claus who was confused. " All I need is a way to get out of this mess, and I need her.. I have to play along to her desires, and after then we can go our separate ways,, did I clear your doubts now? " He asked, bringing back his gaze to Claus who nodded immediately. " I'll leave then " He said with a short bow and with that exited the lounge while Shane released a deep sigh thinking about what life has left for him, now that his fiancee suddenly left without a word, not even a word without from her parents or relatives. How could they do that to him?, That could totally ruin his reputation!. All that matters right now is that the wedding must happen, he doesn't care about what comes next, he could still live with that. *** " Thanks so much for this " The two friends thanked Claus after a very delightful meal and he smiled in return. " It's fine, I'm only acting on orders " He replied and they nodded. " So? " Layla asked with her brows slightly raised, referring to the contract. " Yeah, sure " Claus said almost immediately as he handed over a document to her while she went through it alongside with Mirah. " And that's all?, I wouldn't have any cause to be here again? " Layla asked as she read the part where the two wouldn't be in contact with each other anymore and Claus nodded. " Yeah, but before then, you have to do anything we say " He added. " I hope nothing else will be included after signing this contract? " Layla asked. " You should trust us " Claus said assuringly and Layla nodded. " So we're staying here till then? " Mirah asked and Claus nodded. " You shouldn't worry about your stuffs, Boss sent some maids to get them already " Claus added. " And yeah, you two have a conference in two days now, you have to get ready and you should learn how to act like Brielle, and there will be... " " Please hold on a sec " Layla cut him off and he raised his brow. " Why do I have to go through all this? " She asked, she isn't used to all this, they're completely new and odd to her. " You have to, 'cause you're to act as Brielle, Boss's fiancee, you don't want people finding out you look strange, so there will be a woman here tomorrow, she's gon' teach you everything you need to know, dress you up and learn some few things about Brielle so all this would be as perfect as planned, and yes, prepare you ahead of the conference " Claus explained and Layla sighed. They never told her all this, now she has to go through all this stress when all she has in mind was to act as the so-called bride for a day and then after getting her pay, leave, not all these!. She sighed for the umpteenth time before glancing at Mirah who had a worried look on, wondering if her friend could do all these . " But, why's there a need for a conference meeting? " Mirah suddenly asked. " Shane and Brielle hadn't been to any conference or interview after they had announced their wedding, people have to be aware how they got to know each other " He explained and Mirah nodded. " I should show you two to your rooms later, it's being arranged by the maids "He added and they nodded. He bowed a little before making his way out of the room. " Can you do all these? " Mirah asked worriedly, turning to Layla after Claus had walked out of sight. " I guess " She replied with a mutter. *** Layla descended the stairs steathily trying not to make a sound so as to not interrupt the duo who seemed engrossed in their conversation. " She's here " The strange lady announced on seeing her and Shane twisted his head to the direction the lady's gaze was focused on and his eyes met with Layla who approached them without saying a word. " Morning " She muttered as she stood by the couch the duo were seated. " You should have your seat " Shane said without looking at her and she sat anyways. " Am Jennifer Aniston, I'ld be helping you in preparing for the wedding and help you get ready for the conference tomorrow " She said, offering an handshake. " Layla Brown " She replied, welcoming the handshake before Jennifer shook her head. " First mistake " She said and Layla raised her brow slightly. " It's Brielle Caddel, your name... do not forget that " She said more like an order and Layla nodded in approval, trying to stick to that in her head. " Now let's move to the proposal " She said and Layla raised her brow, then turned slightly to Shane who had no expression on. " Sorry? " She asked for more clarification. " You have to put a proposal ring on, so let's do it now, he has to put a ring on your finger right now, that's the first step " She said and her she twisted her brows slightly confused about what she had just heard. T B C

Chapter 07 " Is that really necessary? " Shane suddenly asked, referring to Jennifer. " Ofcourse, you're going to do it anyways on the wedding day, so you have to learn now " She said and he looked away, staring into space. " He just have to insert the ring into your finger and that's all, no word at all, no kneeling " Jennifer added and Layla breathe out silently. " Don't we have other important things to do? " Shane asked instead. " This is the first important step " Jennifer insisted and he sighed silently. " Claus, the box " He called and it was then Layla noticed Claus was with them all through, she didn't notice. Claus moved forward and gave the box to him revealing a shiny diamond ring which caused Layla to gasp loudly and they all turned to her and she hurriedly covered her mouth with her palm. " Is there a problem? " Claus asked. She noticed they were all staring at her and she cleared her throat. " I'm sorry, but can you get another random ring?, That's too extravagant, and moreover it's just a show, you don't have to buy such an expensive diamond ring " She complained more like a request. " So, you don't want that? "Claus asked and Layla nodded. " Why? " Shane asked, turning his complete face to her. " Huh? " " Why don't you want this?, Isn't that what girls want?, luxurious things? " He asked, his expression suddenly changing and she shook her head. " I don't want it " She replied. " Just get me normal rings normal people gets for proposal " She added and Shane raised his brow. " So this?... this is abnormal? " He asked. " Well technically it is, I mean, this costs a fortune, it's just a proposal.. who am I kidding?, All these is just a show, you don't have to make it look real! " She said with a scoff. " Well, it's supposed to look real " He said, raising his voice. " But, it's not, I'm not Brielle!, I'm Layla, I don't know if this is what your fiancee likes, but I don't, I'm different, I don't want all these " She said sternly. " You.. " " It's fine, I think we should skip the proposal part then " Jennifer butts in and Shane let out a sigh before looking away from Layla. " What's next? " He asked. " We should get her ready for tomorrow " Jennifer answered. " Can't you handle that? " He asked with his brows slightly raised. " No, I have to ensure they all suit your preference, before then.. here, I got the suggested venues already, you can choose your preference " Jennifer said, handing over her tab to him which he collected and his eyes roamed down on the tab. " So,, " Jennifer began, turning to Layla who looked calm a bit. " I have to teach you some answers to reply to any questions you get asked tomorrow " She said and Layla nodded. " The wedding has been shifted to a week from now, tell her that and give her what reasons she is to answer tomorrow when asked " Shane said without looking up from the tab and Layla creased her brow. " And why's that? " She asked and he raised his brow. " Sorry?.. " " That wasn't a part of the agreement! " She snapped and they were suprised at her outburst. " You only told me I have to remain here for some few days, you didn't tell me about this!! " She added. " And I don't think that should be a problem, I mean you have everything you need here, and isn't this a benefit for you, you get to live in a big mansion like this without.. " " Do I look like I care about that? " She snapped, cutting him off. Shane sighed silently before proceeding,, " It's just a week, and nothing else " He said as soft as he could and Layla huffed before turning to Jennifer. " Are we doing it now? " She asked. " Um yeah, let's get started " Jennifer said with a short smile as she finally looked away from Shane who looked frustrated. " So.. " She began as they ascended the stairs, leading them to the other part of the mansion. *** It's been four hours now and Layla looked stressed out and tired as she yawned at several intervals. Jennifer had been teaching her things she should take note and do tomorrow at the conference meeting. She had to learn some simple things about Brielle too, since she was also a popular business woman, people might find her weird if she acted differently. " And we're done " the four words Layla was dying to hear finally came out of Jennifer's mouth and she heaved a sigh of relief. " So.. I can leave now? " She asked but Jennifer shook her head. " No, we have to check on Sire in the other living room " She said and Layla groaned inwardly. " Why? " " You have to check if everything he had picked for you suit your taste " She responded. " Pick? " " Yeah, he had requested for some other fancy venues the wedding could take place and I gave him lots of 'em to choose, so I have to ensure if you're okay with them " She explained and Layla nodded. But then, why would he change the wedding venue?. Oh, her colleagues at work could identify her, but she's supposed to get a new look just like Brielle, they might not really notice. But anyways, she should check them out, and she's damn sure she's going to reject anyone he had chosen as long as it's any fancy venue. She doesn't want that. " Alright then " She finally responded and Jennifer led the way while she followed behind. The sound of foots descending the stairs got the duo's attention, they had been busy for so long and Claus seemed stressed out while Shane has this unreadable look on as usual. " We're done " Jennifer announced as they finally got to them and he hummed in response before turning his gaze back to the laptop in front of him. " So, you chose a venue already? " Jennifer asked and he nodded, still not taking his eyes off the laptop sitting in front of him. " Can I see it? " She asked more like an order but Shane handed it over to her anyways. She glanced through his choice and hummed in approval, seems she liked it. He really has a good taste for things. " Alright, I think I love this " She said. " What'd you think? " She asked, turning to Layla who had been standing without saying a word. Layla glanced through the content and nodded. " It's nice " She replied and Jennifer smiled lightly, glad she liked it. " How much does its rentage cost? " Shane asked without looking up. " A million dollars " Jennifer replied, her eyes focused on the screen while Layla's eyes widened in shock. The heck!, Just for a venue!, Just for a day!, How can she just blurt that out?, Doesn't it feel too heavy for her!, That's a lot of money!. That alone could take care of her dad's treatment and her college tuition fees. And here they are, wasting it just for a f**king venue. " Alright then, I'll send the money to you soon " Shane said, snapping her out of her thoughts and she shook her head immediately. " No! " She blurted out and Shane f looked up to her this time around and their eyes were all on her. " Huh? " Shane asked, unsure of what she had just said. " You can't!, I don't like the venue " She said. " I thought you liked it just now? " Jennifer asked, raising her brows slightly. " I did but anymore. I mean that's a lot of money!, 1 million dollars just for a venue, I don't want it " She said. " Then what do you want?, I'm trying my best to satisfy you but you're never okay with any of it, what exactly do you want then? " Shane said, getting annoyed. " I'm sorry if it looks like I'm troubling you, but I just don't want all these fancy things, I dislike them " She said and Shane sighed trying to calm himself down and he finally stood. Layla shifted back a little as he moved closer to her. He stared at her for a while before finally walking out. Layla unconsciously breathe out some air she had been holding in. She turned to Claus who had an unbelievable look on and it's the same with Jennifer. They seem to be wondering why she acts so different, every other girl would jump at Shane at any slight opportunity they get. And any girl would die to have this great opportunity Layla has right now, but she doesn't seem interested in all these. She,, she's different. T B C

Chapter 08 " You said all that!? " Mirah asked in suprise and Layla nodded as she left her previous location and walked over to the bed and sat beside Mirah. They had both decided to share a room and declined Claus's offer after he offered two rooms for each of them. " Yeah, I mean he's doing too much, it's just a fake wedding anyways " She mumbled and Mirah turned to her. " But don't you think you're being rude?, when he's just trying his best to meet your demands " Mirah asked and Layla shook her head. " That's exactly where the problem lies, he doesn't seem to understand me, I don't want all the fancy things he's trying to offer, I don't like them, Now I see why I can never date a rich guy " She muttered as she laid properly on the bed and dragged the duvet to cover her body properly and she closed her eyes. " Are you ready for tomorrow's conference meeting? " Mirah asked as she also laid behind her and she hummed in response. " So, what did Allen say at the meeting? " Layla asked as she turned her face to Mirah's view. She had gone to the restaurant in the morning, Allen had requested for the worker's attention for an announcement. " Seems Shane had informed him that the restaurant's service is no longer needed, so he urged us to return back to work by next week " She said and Layla nodded before closing her eyes while Mirah did the same. Mirah swiftly opened her eyes. " Don't you think you should talk to Shane about the wedding's venue, since you rejected the one he had chosen... Talk to him about using the restaurant instead, I mean it wouldn't be a problem since no one would recognize you " She suggested and Layla opened her eyes before slightly raising her brows. " Do you think he would listen? " She asked. " Ofcourse he should, that way you could apologize " She replied and Layla nodded. " I should do that tomorrow, after the conference meeting " She said and Mirah nodded before they both fell to sleep. * Next Morning * The two were finally ready for the conference meeting. Both of them were putting on blazers instead of suits and Layla looked uncomfortable, she looked like a Business woman and she's not used with everything she's putting on. Even the excess makeup which dolled her up to look like Brielle and truthfully, the makeup artist did a lot of work as she looked exactly like Brielle. " Are you done staring into space? " Shane suddenly cut off with a snap and she raised her head. " Huh? " She asked but he ignored her and walked away while the guards trooped behind him. Layla bit her lips before walking after him with some guards behind her too. She was nearly overwhelmed at the sight of the car in front of her, is she going to ride with him in this car?. It was a Rolls Royce in which if her calculations are right, it should cost up to 15million dollars or below that, she doesn't really know much about cars but still, this is a luxurious car for rich people. " Ma'am " She heard the guards distant voice and she was revived out of her thoughts and she smiled lightly before rushing into the car. She sat down and turned slightly to Shane whose expression was unreadable, he's really good in hiding his emotions. ** After The Conference * They were finally done with the conference meeting and Layla really did a great job in answering the questions perfectly that even Shane was wowed at her act. She played the role perfectly. Layla was seated in the car awaiting Shane's arrival, he was cut up in an interview with some reporters while Layla had been safely resorted to the car by her assigned guards. She was planning on apologizing and also talking him into booking the restaurant again for the wedding venue. She was still in thoughts when Shane was guided in by his guards and he looked stressed out and tired while Layla shifted nervously on her seat. An heavy silence erupted between them before Layla finally gathered courage to talk. " Sire.. " She calls gently and he turned to her abruptly, she gulped down nothing into her throat cause of his intense stare on her, it looked like he was staring deeply at her or she was probably just hallucinating. " Um.. I.. " She paused, drawing in a sharp breath. " I'm sorry for everything, for, annoying you,, if I did and for rejecting your kind gestures, it's just that I don't really want them, I dislike fancy things, they're not my thing, and in one way or the other if I made you feel bad for trying to care while I rejected them, I'm sorry " She stated and he nodded for a while before looking away. " It's fine " He replied, still maintaining the no-expression look plastered on his face. " Um.. sire.. " She called again and he inhaled softly before turning to her again and she quickly plaster this pleading look on. " Call me Shane instead "He said. " Oh " She said sharply before nodding. " What's it again? " He asked calmly. " Um.. can you please change the venue back to the restaurant?, I really don't want any other fancy place, I think the restaurant is fancy and expensive enough to suit your taste, and I can also manage " She pleaded and he inhaled softly and looked away. " Alright " He said after hesitating for a while and her eyes widened. She was suprised, she didn't expect him to give in just like that. " Thanks Sire.. I mean Shane " She corrected and that earned a chuckle from him before his face returned back to his expressionless look but she was quick to catch a glimpse of his smile and she couldn't help but notice how handsome he looked with a smile on. If only he could smile frequently, she didn't know she had been staring all along until he looked at her and she looked away abruptly taking her upper lip in and her face flushed in embarrassment while Shane kept on staring at her. " Um.. your fiancee, Brielle.. " Layla tried to kick-start a conversation but zipped her mouth immediately she saw Shane's expression change. " I'm sorry " She muttered. " Go on " Shane replied and she raised her brows slightly, he turned to her with an approval look. " Um, it's nothing, I was just wondering if she's aware of all this " She said more like a question. " No " He replied casually and her brows rose in suprise. " She's not? " She asked again and he nodded. " Are you scared? " He suddenly asked and she turned to him. He had this anticipating look on and she nodded slowly, biting her bottom lips. " What if she finds out and decided to sue me? " She asked and he huffed before looking away, focusing his gaze outside as he stared at the buildings. " She wouldn't " He replied and she nodded with a short smile trying her best to believe that. What if she does?. Would she be in trouble?. Brielle seems like a cool and gentle lady, she had always watched her interviews, she doesn't seem like someone wicked. There might be a reason why she had left without saying a word. Has he tried calling her or finding out where she is or why she had suddenly left?. She tried to ask but then decided against it, she might annoy him again. But why's he so hard to read?, He looks like he's hurting on the inside but isn't showing any trait related to that. Man's emotions are hard to read and it's the same with Shane, his blank and expressionless face could confuse one. It's none of her business anyways, all she's awaiting is the wedding day, do her part and then leave. She's getting tired of all these already, they're not her thing. Even the excess makeup on her face right now is irritating her, she could have said it did make her pretty but no, all it did was make her look exactly like Brielle. The makeup was perfectly done as the press didn't notice. Shane also did a great job in hiding his emotions as he did very good in acknowledging her as Brielle. When he was asked about how they met, the look on his face when he explained, it hid so much pain as he tried his very best to fake smiles at several intervals. She felt it, the smiles were fake, I mean who would be happy his fiancee left him without a word when it's just some days to their wedding?. She glanced at him one more time before closing her eyes, expectant of when they were going to get to their destination. She couldn't wait to get the cover makeup off her face. T B C

Chapter 09 They were finally home and Layla had rushed to her room just to get the makeup off her face. She heaved a sigh of relief when she realized she was back to her real face. She applied some cream given to her by the make-up artist, to help massage the face to prevent wrinkles as a result of too much make-up. " You really did a great job " Mira said beaming with smiles as she walked into the room with a tray on he hands. " You cooked me food? " Layla asked in suprise. " Yeah, you did a great job " She said and Layla's lips crept into a smile. " Aww, thanks.. I'm damn hungry " She said and rushed to her as she dished out the food in a plate and handed it over to her. She swiftly took it from her and dig in immediately while Mira chuckled at how fast she was devouring the food. " You know you could have asked Shane to get you some road-side food or order something at any restaurant " She said and Layla and scoffed as she raised her head up to Mirah. " Nah, I don't think he's going to want that, I didn't wanna annoy him again since I've been doing that lately, who knows if he might hate road-side food 'cause they're not from fancy places, and he might reject ordering food from a restaurant, I think he prefers his chefs cooking " Layla explained at once and Mirah's brow raised slightly. " Hmm, and how do you know all these? " She teased and that earned another scoff from Layla's lips. " Well, after much reasoning and studying, I found out he likes fancy things, everything about him is fancy and luxurious " She replied. " And you're okay with that? " " Huh? " " I mean, you're going to accept anything he offers even if it's expensive 'cause you don't wanna annoy him? " Mirah asked again and she suddenly went mute. " I don't know " She muttered and looked away while Mirah chuckled. " I sense a foul play against the contract " She said with a sly smile while Layla raised her brow in confusion. " It's nothing, enjoy your meal " She replied as she walked out of the room while Layla stood still in confusion. A part of the contract says *Falling in love isn't allowed*, tho Layla felt it wasn't necessary it was added there as she wasn't interested in Shane one way or the other. *** * At A fancy Bridal shop * Shane's attention was on Layla whose eyes kept roaming around like she was searching for a thing. It seems Jennifer also noticed this as she was also staring at her. " Is everything okay? " Jennifer finally decided to break the yoke, it was then Layla noticed she had been acting strange. She faked a smile and nodded shortly. " Yeah, I'm fine.. I'm just wondering why we're the only people here " She said with a raised brow. " Oh, Sire booked this place only for us " Jennifer replied and Layla turned to Shane who was only staring at her without saying a word. " Oh.. okay then " She said nervously and looked away from Shane's gaze. " So, why am I not trying any of these dresses on? " She asked pointing at the ready-made bridal dress on the racks. The bridal gown are really pretty that she couldn't help but think they might be really expensive, but she didn't want to complain again before Shane flares up. " We're not getting ready-made dress for you " Jennifer finally said and she turned to her. " Why? " She asked. " I want us to get customized dress for the wedding " Shane chipped in. " You could just buy any of this, I mean, they look fancy and expensive since that's what you've always wanted, buying luxurious things when they're really not essential " She blurted out the last part without thinking and Shane raised his brow. " Excuse me?.. " " Anyways I think I'm right, I don't see why you'ld go extra miles buying all these fancy and expensive things, I don't want them!, This marriage is fake anyways, I don't know why you're making a fuss about it! " She snapped. Jennifer had walked away without them noticing, she was getting tired of them arguing every single time. " I think you don't seem to understand my plights... " " I do!, You're just one rich dude who thinks everything is about luxury, who thinks money can solve every problem!!, no they can't!, they're millions of people out there who needs this money you spend anyhow!, try to be economical for once!, Your fiancee might like all these but I don't!!, I want any of these ready-made dress or nothing else, or you could just find someone else for the contract " She spat while Shane stared at her for a while and then starts to walk away from her without saying a word and that seemed to anger Layla. " Did you just look down on me!?, Wait, you think my opinion doesn't count 'cause you're the rich one! " She shouted in annoyance after him. " I'm done! " She said and with that walked out of the bridal shop and that made Shane stop dead on his tracks. He sighed deeply before moving on and walked over to Jennifer who was busy discussing with the attendant. " Sire, what'd you think about this? " Jennifer asked showing a digital sample made on an avatar. It was customized and was worn on Layla's image and it seemed to fit perfectly. It does bring out her shapes and curves. " It fits her perfectly " He said and Jennifer hummed in response. " I'ld take that " He finally said and the attendant smiled. " 1million dollars " The attendant priced and Shane nodded in approval. " I'll take it " He said and Jennifer smiled hugely. Layla is really lucky if only she could see clearly that this guy here is only trying to satisfy her, I mean every lady wants a perfect and expensive wedding tho it's fake but still,, he's a millionaire, he can't have a low key wedding when different celebrities would be there. Shane did the transfer and sent the money to the shop's account. They promised to deliver the dress some days from now and the duo left after collecting the receipt. Jennifer and Shane were seated in the car when she decided to start a conversation. " Sir,, is everything okay? " She asked, from the front seat while Shane was seated alone at the back seat. " Girls.. " He suddenly said and then paused sharply while Jennifer turned her head with a slight brow on her face, anxiously waiting for what he was about to say. " What do they want? " He asked taking her by suprise. That was a weird question, why was he asking her?. He finally raised his head up to her, meeting her confused look. " Layla,, what do you think she wants? " He asked again and Jennifer got the hint. " Oh, Um.. I think she's different... " " She's from a low-class family, and people like that aren't used to fancy things, and they think rich people are not economical, they think they're wasteful.. and some of them develop this hatred for rich people, I think she's not used to expensive things, she doesn't like them.. I think that's just it " She explained and he nodded thoughtfully. " Thanks " He mumbled and she nodded with a smile, tho she's shocked and wondering why he's trying to understand her. It's probably his first time encountering a low-class lady like her. *** Shane walked into the mansion with his numerous guards behind him. He met with Claus who stood up and rushed to him immediately with a confused look on and he stopped abruptly. " What's wrong? " Shane asked as he studied Claus's expression. " Layla... she wants to terminate the contract " Claus rushed and he sighed deeply. He gestured to him to wait there while he made his way up the stairs. He got to the girls room and could hear arguments erupting in the room. *** " Layla, what's wrong with you? " Mirah questioned but Layla ignored her and kept packing her stuffs. " Don't tell me you're really bent on terminating the contract!? " She questioned again but got no answer. " Hey! " She yelled and grabbed her by her arm and that made her stop. Layla turned to her with a tiring look. " What?? " " What's wrong with you?, why're you stressing yourself over something that isn't worth all this?." " The truth is I'm tired of all this, I'm trying my best to keep with all this huge responsibility he's putting on me, but he keeps stressing me, he doesn't listen to my opinion, anything I say doesn't count, why?. 'Cause he's the rich one and I'm the poor one?. " She questioned angrily and Mira sighed. " You should calm down... " She was cut off when the door suddenly pushed open and Shane walked in. T B C