From vows to betrayal

Layla wright pov 

standing in front of the mirror, adjusting my veil, feeling a mix of emotions as I prepared to marry Xavi Wright. Instead of feeling joyous, I felt a wave of sadness, confusion, and worry wash over me. Today was supposed to be a happy day, but I wasn't ready for marriage. I still had so much I wanted to achieve. I was in the middle of pursuing my master's degree and trying to land a job as a fashion designer at a top fashion house—dreams that might now be put on hold. 

Uncertainty clouded my thoughts, fueled by the mystery surrounding this rushed union. I had never even met Xavi before, and today was our wedding day. It was strange that he remained hidden, making me wonder if something was wrong with him. His absence at our introduction ceremony only added to my confusion. I couldn't help but question why such outdated practices still exist in the modern world. 

Growing up with a dad, stepmother, and sister, I was always told how I was going to live my life. At first, it felt normal to me; I took it as part of parental love. But it was always different with my twin brother and stepsister. I never got to date because of my father's strict instructions never to have a boyfriend, but they allowed my sister. I was always shouted at and always in the wrong for every single thing I did, so my home became a strange and cold place for me; it never felt safe as a home for me. I was already betrothed to some stranger as part of a deal, and I had no idea what the deal was about. 

My ex-boyfriend suddenly broke up with me in the most insensitive way. He sent me a picture of him and the girl he cheated on me with, who happened to be my best friend. Everyone I am close with always leaves me at the end of the day: first my mom, then my best friend who cheated with my boyfriend, and now my ex-boyfriend. My father is gradually slipping away from me, except for one person: my twin brother, he is far away, and I am so scared of losing him because he is the only one I have now. 

My dad takes my brother to the best schools and always reminds him that he has authority over women, teaching that girls and wives are only meant for the kitchen. All these years, he felt he was wasting his resources on me, knowing fully well that I would end up as a full-time housewife in someone else's house. I never expected it to be for a total stranger. He barely told me about the proposal a month ago, and now I'm getting married. 

I have always wanted to be a career woman, get married, and be with someone who loves me and whom I love, to have children together, who would be my partner and companion, not a dictator over me. I guess if wishes were horses, beggars would ride. 

Not only do I not know anything about him, but I am also trapped because my dad made it clear that there is no way out of this situation for me. 

Closing my eyes, I tried to calm my racing thoughts, desperately searching for a way out of this situation. I refused to become a traditional housewife, giving up my dreams and ambitions. The expectations within the Wright family were clear—daughters-in-law were not supposed to work. My dad's conversation with Mr. Richardson echoed in my mind, highlighting their disdain for independent working women, fearing they would become disrespectful and seek divorce once financially independent. 

I couldn't fathom living that kind of life, especially with a man I barely knew and was expected to spend the rest of my life with. As I opened my eyes, hoping for a miracle, my reflection stared back at me, mirroring my inner turmoil. 

"Layla, you look stunning," Kimberly remarked, but in my mind, I couldn't help but wonder, Do I? Despite my doubts, I murmured a modest thank you, hesitating slightly to avoid being rude. As she continued adjusting my dress, she reassured me, "My brother is not bad; you will learn to love him as you both navigate married life. And remember, your sister and I are friends." 

"Why me?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity any longer. Kimberly urged me to ask my dad if he hadn't already told me. Confused, I pressed, "Tell me what?" She evaded my question, saying, "I can't say much. I'm just here to make sure you're not up to anything funny." 

Feeling trapped, with the door locked and no window for escape and only the air conditioning "So now I'm the sacrificial lamb," I thought bitterly. 

As the time for the ceremony approached, Kimberly reminded me, "It's almost time. I'm going to call your dad to walk you down the aisle, as it is his duty." Just then, my dad walked into the room. 

Tears welled up in my eyes. I hugged him tightly, crying out, "Daddy, please do something. I don't want to get married yet." wishing for a way out of this unwanted situation. 

"Our reputations lie in this marriage, Layla. Unless you want my ruin," my dad's voice was firm and serious, leaving no room for further argument. His words hung heavily in the air. It was clear that there was no way out, and any further resistance would only lead to dire consequences. 

I wiped away my tears I couldn't let him down now and bring shame to my family. With a heavy heart, I prepared myself to fulfill this duty. 

As I walked down the aisle with my dad by my side, I felt the weight of everyone's eyes on me. I focused on putting one foot in front of the other, trying to ignore the nerves that threatened to overwhelm me. 

When I finally looked up and saw Xavi standing at the altar, I couldn't help but notice his striking appearance. But beneath his handsome exterior, there was a coldness in his eyes that sent a shiver down my spine. He seemed distant as if he were merely going through the motions. 

The priest began by addressing the congregation, preaching about the importance of marriage, and then it was time for us to take our vows. He started first. 

"I, Xavi Wright, take you, Layla Williams, to be my wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, to be your companion in all." 

"I, Layla Williams, take you, Xavi Wright, to be my husband from this day forward. I promise to be your companion and partner in all things. 

"We exchanged our wedding rings, and I heard the priest saying, "With the power in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride. 

As we exchanged vows, Xavi's demeanor remained aloof, his words lacking warmth. I couldn't help but wonder what kind of marriage awaited me with a man who seemed so indifferent. 

As we exchanged rings, I couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment when Xavi pulled me closer for the kiss. Instead of embracing me, he placed his hand on my lips, making it appear as though he was kissing me. It was a facade, a deceitful act for the congregation. 

Confusion and disappointment swirled inside me. Was I so unappealing to him that he couldn't even bring himself to kiss me? I hadn't expected this, and I found myself questioning whether I even wanted the kiss in the first place. I tried to push him away, but he held me firmly, ignoring my attempts to break free. 

"Could you act naturally? You are so stiff," Xavi remarked, his voice surprisingly deep and pleasant. It was the first time he had spoken to me, and although his words stung, I couldn't deny the attractiveness of his voice. At least I wasn't getting married to some oddball or unattractive person. 

sneak peek of the next chapter 

"what do you mean? What's twelve months for?" Melissa questioned, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Why are you getting married all of a sudden? This was not the plan." 

Melissa, I love you too much to put you in danger," he implored, his eyes filled with sincerity and love. 

"How am I supposed to trust you, Xavi? And why would you marry my stepsister of all people? What game are you playing?" she demanded, her voice laced with displeasure and anger.