Isabella POV
Jean, my big sister, exhaled a breath as she curled my hair like an expert and I admired her through the vanity mirror.It was apparently the wedding day, the dress was beyond elegant and the ambiance of the wedding was perfectly arranged including my hairstyle.The food, the presence of the Priest, the cunning bridesmaids who were clearly hired for the day and the graceful music; absolutely dazzling.There's approximately five thousand people and counting inside the church's divine sanctuary while the paparazzi and reporters were casually strolling on the outside as if this wedding was breaking news for the media.As Jean finished curling my hair, I turned around in my chair, watching her silently apply a light coat of mascara to my face. Curiosity filled my gaze as I observed her and breaking the silence, I asked, "Do you think the guy will be a good husband for the next six months?""Well, I heard he's rich and I think he's an employee of the Martínez company, so it should be okay as long as he spends his cash on you, right?" She simply shrugged her shoulders with a chuckle, holding the tip of my chin.I rolled my eyes, "Is that all you think about, Jean?" I asked, gazing up at her and she scoffed, angrily closing the lipstick."What are you referring to, Bella?" She asked, seeming pissed off."Money, that's all you seem to think about." I spoke up for once, "As long as the guy is rich, it's totally fine, right?""What am I supposed to think about, Bella?" She asked, chuckling as she stepped away from my chair."I'm the one getting married to a complete stranger, because of Dad, not you, Jean." I told her with a straight face and she threw the lipstick onto the vanity table."Yeah, a rich stranger for six months and I am pretty sure he can afford to give you everything you desire, before you both get divorced!" She surprisingly raised her voice as she took up her purse from the vanity table."Are you hearing yourself, right now?" I asked, unbelievably, gesturing a hand towards her, "And where have you been for the past few days, huh, you had Mom worried sick.""I'm stressed, so I have been taking some personal time and I don't see anything wrong with that." She claimed, running a hand through her hair."You could have at least called her once, you know how she can be." I stood up from the chair, feeling the weight of my wedding gown cascading around me as I gazed at Jean. Her eyes glanced down at my gown as if it was a sight to behold."And I needed you, but you weren't there..." I reached out to touch her on the arm, "instead, you were out with some guy I never met, Jean." I softly chuckled, feeling a slight ache in my chest."You're so ungrateful, Bella." She recoiled and I watched as she quickly exited the room, leaving me completely confused.***********I was gracefully led into the sanctuary, my parents and Pearl, my best friend, by my side. As we made our way down the aisle, Mom shared the news that Jean wouldn't be able to attend my wedding due to a sudden interview.Holding my left hand, my Dad offered me solace as we walked towards the altar and each step I took seemed to stretch time.I wore a white veil, covering my face and the enticing wedding gown fits perfectly without even displaying my hourglass hips. The white flowing layers of delicate lace and intricate beading, exudes pure elegance.As I recalled the total number of individuals inside the church, I tightly held onto my bouquet and I exhaled a nervous breath, gazing at the altar.I caught sight of the Groom's majestic back, adorned in a pristine white royal tuxedo, while the Priest stood beside him in a resplendent golden holy suit, clutching a Bible.As I stood by the altar, my Dad gave me a reassuring pat on the back before joining my Mom and Pearl in the front row which was surrounded by joyful faces.When I turned to meet the Groom's gaze, my breath caught in my chest, rendering me speechless and immobile as my throat went completely dry.He slowly pulled the veil over my head and he didn't seem quite as surprised as I am, but he actually smirked...he smirked!"This can't be happening." I muttered to myself as if this entire setting was a prank.Justin Martínez...I'm getting married to this cocky rich bastard and that's why he was in charge of the wedding while proceeding this contract?!We stared at each other though he still didn't seem shocked as I and the priest began to speak. I remembered my Dad signing the marriage contract, so the wedding has to occur today.We recited the vows mechanically and by the end of our orchestrated film, the credits rolled featuring us as wife and husband...we were married..I was married to Justin Martínez, "And with the authority bestowed upon me, you may seal this union with a kiss." The Priest declared and I raised an eyebrow in response.Justin caught sight of my reaction and let out a soft chuckle. His captivating eyes remained fixed on me, filled with a hint of curiosity while I whispered to the Priest, "What?""Do I have to?" Justin chuckled as if he was mocking me and the Priest nodded with an awkward expression on his face.I observed as the Priest made the sign of the cross over his chest and raised his gaze towards the ceiling in a reverent manner. The Priest then turned his focus back to us and I glanced at Justin, who responded by rolling his eyes.Suddenly, he gave me a peck on the lips and my cheeks heated up from the warm sensation of his lips against mine, slowly shifting my attention to the Priest.I was a nerd in high school and in college, I only had interest in my courses though I grew out of my puny little body. Most guys started to find me attractive, afterwards, but I didn't have time for relationships; I only wanted to take care of my family, knowing they had to struggle to send me to college in the first place.I was brought back to reality as the guests applauded in congratulations to the wedding ceremony and we both began to walk down the altar, leisurely exiting the church's sanctuary.The diamond wedding ring was quite cunning on my finger, but I still couldn't believe that I have to spend the next six months with Justin Martínez.When I saw my Mother and was about to hug her, I was gracefully pulled aside by Justin. He rested a hand on my lower back, looking down at me with a devilish glimmer in his eyes.I suddenly spotted my Father, approaching us and I remembered seeing him completely astonished throughout the wedding, upon this moment."My dear, mother-in-law." Justin broke the silence as he turned his attention to my Mom, "We have to leave now, it's a long journey and don't worry, I'm going to take such good care of your precious daughter.""Long journey, I'm not going anywhere with you." I scoffed at Justin and he shifted his gaze to me."A wife is supposed to live with her husband, unless they both are having feuds and you should know this as a newlywed." Justin tapped me on the nose and I glared at him."Can't I at least see them off?" I asked, gesturing a hand towards my parents. Justin shook his head as he charmingly held me by his side while he led me towards the white limousine, parked before the church.The bodyguards cautiously tried to block the paparazzi and reporters, snapping photos of us as I glanced back at my parents.As we stood by the sleek limo, I saw Noah graciously opening the back door for us and once we all settled inside, the driver started the engine.We began the journey from the church, the ride filled with a comfortable silence, the windows tinted and the air conditioner providing a cool breeze.I took notice of the luxurious interior of the limousine, appreciating the plush seats and their soft texture. Meanwhile, Justin was constantly typing on his phone and Noah had his gaze pasted on his iPad."Where are we going?" I decided to question which led to me breaking the silence inside the limousine and Justin glanced at me."Just relax and let the driver do his job." Justin responded, loosening his tie with a pull of his thumb."But, I don't have any belongings with me." I reminded him, tossing the bouquet at him.The bouquet fell on his lap in the limo and he exhaled a deep breath, saying, "Isabella, you will receive those personal stuff soon." He leaned back in the seat, placing the bouquet beside him.I opened my mouth to respond, but he spoke, "So, can you just shut the hell up?" There was a slight change of tone in his voice as he locked gaze with me and I rolled my eyes."I literally spoke two sentences just now and you're getting upset about noise, while you're sitting over there, typing like a sassy ass teenager with the annoying tapping of your damn fingers against your stupid little phone." I blasted my frustration, gesturing my hands towards him.Noah slightly chuckled."I can't believe I'm actually married." Justin shook his head with a short laugh as if he just came to realization.I scoffed, "I can't believe you orchestrated to marry a complete stranger when there's so many other girls out there, dying to date you.""I know, but I was convinced to have you." He claimed, "At that moment, I told myself, if it wasn't you, Isabella, it should be no one else."I stared at him, "You literally ruined my future, so I at least deserve to know why you wanted to get married in the first place and to me, specifically?""That's my concern, not yours to worry about." He nonchalantly responded, pointing a finger at me."I was the classified offeror and benefactor of this marriage contract, so now you are supposed to do as I say or be what I want you to be, for the next six months, wife." An impish smile crawled up his alluring face and I raised a brow, saying, "Excuse me?""Well, you will be my property for the next six months and I will divorce you based on the regulations of the contract." He spoke coldly with a straightforward face.His property, so basically, he's just going to use me then dispose of me and that's what rich cocky dudes like you do, Justin Martínez!"Property?" I found the breath to respond."We will discuss this later." Justin decided to end the conversation with a fan of his hand. I watched as he returned his gaze to his phone then I looked at Noah, who gave me a weak smile, before looking at his device.I sat silently, looking through my window in the limo while reminiscing, I will be married to Mr. Arrogance for six months?How can I possibly live rather than survive this hostile bastard for so long?Isabella POV I woke up to the warm sunlight streaming through the window and as I tried to roll over, a slight groan escaped my lips. But then I realized I was nestled in a bed that felt incredibly cozy, with the scent of a charming cologne wafting from the soft sheets and plush pillows.As my vision sharpened, I noticed the presence of a woman standing in the room. Gradually, I sat up in bed and she greeted me with a gentle smile.I took in my surroundings, realizing I was sitting on a luxurious queen-sized bed in a beautifully furnished bedroom, adorned in a rich, dark royal brown color scheme. Confusion washed over me as I questioned whether I was still dreaming or..."Buenos días, Señora Martínez." The woman greeted me, capturing my attention. Clad in a formal black and white maid uniform with the subtle presence of a few gray strands amidst her black hair which was styled in a bun, she exuded an air of elegance. "English, please." I mustered the effort to speak, even though
Isabella POV Once the servants finished setting up, Justin dismissed them with a wave of his hand and they promptly left the room."Take a seat, wife and let me explain what I need you to do for me." Justin said, motioning towards a chair at the table. I hesitantly lowered myself into the chair, which was positioned beside him at the dining table. My gaze shifted towards the mouthwatering breakfast spread that adorned the center of the table. "Can you stop calling me wife, it's quite annoying." I admitted; I was still trying to accept our marriage. He slightly chuckled, "Says the wife." I looked the other way, grumbling, until I heard him exhaling a deep breath, saying, "However..." "We will be meeting my family this weekend and I need you to be prepared." He spoke with demand in his husky voice as he straightened his tie. I raised an eyebrow, inquiring, "What do you mean by prepare?" "I need you to get this clear..." He said as he narrowed his attention to me, declaring, "You
Isabella POVI was quite thrilled to find clothes that I liked and luckily there was a helpful female sales assistant who assisted me. I tried on the clothes in the changing room while Justin and the two bodyguards waited outside with the sales assistant. Most of the clothes fit perfectly, but for the ones that didn't, I returned them to the assistant. I stepped out from behind the curtains in yet another dress which felt like the millionth time. The bodyguards glanced at me and the sales assistant nodded with a smile, probably understanding my frustration. Justin, of course, was too busy on his phone to even look up. I rolled my eyes as I returned behind the curtains, removing the dress and adding it to the pile of others I had already tried on.I started trying on the undergarments, carefully examining myself in the mirror. After a few minutes, I finally tried on the last pair, a beautiful red lace bra and matching underwear. I couldn't help but smile as I held up my wavy hair
Isabella POV "You look absolutely stunning, señora Martínez." Lora, the head maid, gushed.It was time to attend the celebration party at Justin's company though the wedding was orchestrated, but it had to appear authentic to the media.I was merely playing a role in Justin's crafted illusions. As I gazed at my reflection in the mirrors, I admired the way the light makeup enhanced my light brown eyes.My dress for the party accentuated my figure with a perfect fit; the fabric was incredibly soft and luxurious with a gold subtle shimmer. The dress had a flattering fit with a cinched waist, a flowing A-line skirt and the neckline was adorned with delicate lace detailing.My delicate earrings added a touch of sparkle, while the matching heels completed my dress and my hair was styled in soft, wavy locks. I was filled with uncertainty as I asked, "You really think so?" "Of course, señora Martínez, I would never deceive you." She declared, giving me a firm nod. "Thanks for helping me
Isabella POV "Señor López and Señor Lucas, meet my lovely wife, Isabella." Justin introduced me to the two men, his hand gently resting on my lower back.They both appeared to be in their late 30s, exuding a vibrant Mexican aura.Although Justin's use of words caught me off guard, I chose to brush it aside and focus on the introductions."I'm López." I turned my attention to the man who spoke first. "It's an absolute pleasure to make your acquaintance, Señora Martínez." Señor López graciously greeted me, bowing slightly and extending his right hand. I cautiously placed my hand in his and feeling a gentle kiss on my knuckles, I smiled in return."The pleasure is mutual." I replied warmly as he released my hand.Señor Lucas stepped forward as well, letting me shift my attention to him while he spoke, "As the owner of the National Global Bank right here in the city, I extend my congratulations on your wedding.""It was a truly magnificent day." He said and I nodded."Enjoy the party."
Isabella POV I slowly woke up, lazily stretching my limbs, feeling the remnants of last night's party. As I sat up in bed, my laptop and smartphone caught my eye. I quickly reached for both devices, only to realize that my phone's lock screen still demanded a password.I entered my old password and my phone suddenly unlocked, revealing the familiar homepage. A smile spread across my face as I realized that all my beloved music, documents, contacts, pictures and apps were still intact. As I scrolled through my contacts, I decided to give my Mother a call, eager to share the news of my well-being and to hear her voice.After a few seconds, she answered, "Hello, Bella?" "Yes, Mom. Are you alright?" I asked, placing a pillow on my lap and I heard a sigh of relief on the other end. "Yes, I'm just glad to hear your voice. How are you holding up?" She inquired. "I'm doing fine, but how's everything back home?" I questioned."Your father is doing well and the shop is running smoothly,
Isabella POV"Mister and Mistress Martinez, please come in." A guy warmly greeted us at the entrance.I walked into the building, accompanied by Justin and my two personal bodyguards. The photography studio was located at a bustling Mall in the city. Looking around, I noticed the studio was humming with activity and workers were diligently focused on their tasks. My gaze swept across the scene, returning to the guy who beckoned us inside the studio."Yeah, let's make this quick. I've got an appointment in two hours." Justin said. The guy nodded and suggested, "Let's head over to Mr. Paul's section." Justin agreed with a nod and we followed the guy as he led the way. Walking alongside Justin, we quietly reached a different section of the building within seconds. The guy opened a wooden door and we stepped into the room, revealing the main studio. The space was filled with an array of professional equipment, from cameras and lighting setups to a variety of backdrops.There, I spo
Isabella POVFinally, the weekend has arrived and today I am scheduled to meet Justin's relatives, the Martínez family. Through various media and magazines that my father often brings home, I've seen the Martínez family featured in them quite often.They always look so perfect and flawless as if they have this picture perfect life that everyone dreams of. So, I'm keeping my hopes up that Justin's family will be different from him; perhaps less arrogant at least. I haven't actually spoken to Justin since the photoshoot though we live in the same house, but I have noticed that he tends to be cooped up in his study room and hardly ever around. As for me, I find myself engrossed in the enchanting world of books, spending most of my time in my bedroom and exploring the vast collections within the mansion.I casually made my way downstairs in my light blue waffle knit lounge set and comfy slippers, my attention fixated on a paperback cookbook. As I stood in the lobby, I caught snippets