CHAPTER FIVE

CAMILLA 

Before the night is over, I leave my family's house. I will miss my brother so much. It's sad to remember that I couldn't even hug him goodbye before leaving.

It's a long ride, but eventually, Noah drives into Mr. Hamilton's compound, and the sight before me is nothing short of breath-taking. The exterior of the building is a testament to opulence. The mansion stands as a modern-day castle, with towering turrets and grand archways. The sprawling front lawn is meticulously landscaped, adorned with vibrant flowers and meticulously trimmed hedges. The driveway is lined with palm trees, creating a regal pathway to the

entrance.

Noah assists with taking the bags to the door, and without sparing me another glance, he gets into the car and zooms off. I guess it's just me from here on.

I use the doorbell, and in less than a minute, the door opens to reveal Mr. Hamilton in all of his glory. His white shirt buttons are half open, giving me a glimpse of his toned chest. He doesn't have trousers on, just briefs, and I quickly avert my eyes from that area.

I hear him chuckle. "What's wrong, Princess? Too innocent for briefs."

"Shut up," I tell him, more embarrassed.

He doesn't stop giggling, and I can't blame him for a minute, not when my reddened cheeks can't stop giving me out so cheaply.

"Or am I wrong?" He asks, and pauses to elicit a response from me.

"Very much so." I save my shitty face.

Damn! It suddenly feels hot and cold all at once. With goosebumps crawling on my bare flesh and me blowing hot from the inside, I should book myself an appointment with Dr. McDonald.

I tilt my head a little above and realize his gaze is still on me all these while. More embarrassed than ever, I duck my head downwards and try to contain my blazing desires about to turn me into a beast.

"How so?" He dares.

'It's nothing serious, Camilla, just abs spiced up with hairs... more like grasses in spring time.' I lie to myself, desperately praying to believe just a word.

"Is this the nicest welcome you can give?" I swallow hard, and hopes he doesn't stir the wheel back to my doom.

"I could give you a lot more." He tilts downward and locks his eyes on mine.

The most sexy and innocent pairs ever. And I dare not to break away, even though my cheeks are being consumed in the wild flames of lust.

"Come on inside." He finally stands erect and steps aside to usher me in.

But then again, was he expecting me? Does this one act make me look so cheap?

Skies! I had better be over thinking things.

I quirk my eyebrow at him. "What? No surprise at seeing me at your front door, unannounced and at such an hour. You must be generous, Mr. Hamilton." I voice my worries.

"I knew at the party that you couldn't get enough of me," he winks at me.

Cocky ass dick! His looks earns him that bragging right every damn time, and ladies helplessly woven in his web make it even worse... ladies like myself.

I sputter, defenseless.

"Now come in, Princess." He urges me in, sensing my hesitation.

As I step inside, the grandeur of the mansion continues to astonish me. The foyer is expansive, with a marble floor that gleams under the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. A grand, winding staircase graces the center of the room, leading to an upper level that holds the promise of even more splendor.

It's beyond exquisite, you could call this masterpiece a show room. And I hate him even more for making my knees wobblier.

Mr. Hamilton guides me through a maze of luxurious corridors until we reach a set of double doors. He pushes them open, revealing a room that takes my breath away.

The bedroom is a harmonious blend of simplicity and magnificence. Cream-colored walls create an ambiance of serenity, while large windows allow natural light to flood the room. A king-sized bed with pristine white sheets is the centerpiece, and it looks unbelievably inviting. The furniture is elegant and refined, with dark wood accents that contrast beautifully with the soft color palette.

"This, mi'lady, is where you will be sleeping for the time being. I can't have us staying together in the same room before the wedding. That would be plain torture, if you get what I mean," he says, giving me a pointed look.

"I don't. Now leave; this princess can't wait to get her sleep," I say, shooing him out of the room. It feels strange to wake up in another house for the first time in 21 years, except when the entire family is on vacation. I can't help but wonder if this is what married life with Mr. Hamilton will be like – a perfect facade masking the complexities within.

After my morning routine and having nothing to do, I go downstairs to be greeted with an extravagant breakfast spread that defies all reason. Mr. Hamilton seems to have a penchant for excess. There are platters of exotic fruits, a variety of freshly baked pastries, and an assortment of gourmet cheeses. The table is adorned with elegant china and crystal glassware.

Impeccable.

I take a seat at the head of the table, feeling like a guest in my own life. Mr. Hamilton joins me, pouring champagne into crystal flutes. He looks at me and sees me looking at him with a raised eyebrow.

"What is it, Princess?" He asks.

"Are we expecting guests? What is this extravagance?" I ask.

He chuckles and raises his glass for a toast. "To new beginnings, Camilla," he says, his voice smooth as silk.

My uncertain future is cast in a long shadow by the impending wedding preparations. Because of this, I find myself at the beginning of a new chapter, where reality and illusion are less distinct.