MARRIED

Prologue

Pharrell’s POV

"Welcome Mr. Smith, you are early." I was greeted warmly by the secretary, whose name I had come to learn was Franca.

"Yes, indeed. My flight came in earlier than expected, so I thought it best to proceed immediately. When it comes to business matters, especially those involving money, I prefer not to delay."

"Excellent. I'll inform Ms. Brown of your arrival."

I watched her sway her hips as she made her way to Caroline's office. I had worked very closely with Caroline since I started my firm. She had been of great help both at work and in bed. Too bad she didn't accept to marry me with reasons best known to her.

"Hey, quit playing dumb. You know exactly why she rejected you," my mind chided me.

"Mr. Smith, she's prepared to meet..."

"Franca! I've got your orders. This one's for Ms. Brown, this for Mr. Ashorne, and this one's for you," someone blurted out. The sudden interruption came from a young woman who appeared to be in her twenties, her voice drawing our attention towards her.

"Ahhhh! Lia, you startled me. How many times do I have to tell you to approach quietly before speaking? We need peace and quiet here."

Franca reacted with a startled gesture, placing her hands over her chest in surprise.

"I'm sorry, Franca. You know I'm always thrilled to step into this stunning building,"

I watched in awe as this remarkably beautiful young woman expressed excitement over simply entering a building she deemed beautiful. Her beauty was unparalleled, unlike anything I had ever seen before. Her untamed blond hair seemed perfectly made for her, and her figure had a captivating allure that could make every man weak at the knees, just like it's doing to me right now.Looking at her, it was clear that she was made to be admired, and her presence stirred desires within me that I couldn't ignore.

"Whatever. Now, hand them over," Franca replied impatiently, acting rather harsh.

Her annoyed tone snapped me out of my daydream, reminding me that I was supposed to be heading to Caroline's office.

Ignoring Franca's sour reply, I watched as the girl excitedly turned and hummed on her way out. I was left staring at the empty space of the direction she headed.

"Is something wrong, Mr. Smith?" Franca asked with a grin, bringing my attention back on her.

"Who is that girl?" I inquired, still captivated by the young woman's presence.

"That's Liana. She works in the cafeteria."

Armed with this information, I smirked, leaving Franca in confusion, and strolled past her desk towards Caroline's office.

"What took you so long out there? I've been waiting for you for the past few minutes," Caroline greeted as I entered.

"Is that any way to greet a long-time friend you haven't seen in almost six months?" I teased, planting a kiss on her lips.

"I've missed you, Pharrell, and I've been eagerly awaiting this moment," she admitted.

"I've missed you too. But remember, we could have been together forever if you hadn't refused to marry me."

I saw a fast flash of pain or maybe regret on her face and as quickly as it appeared, it disappeared.

"I know, and I regret that now."

"Why wouldn't you, especially when I'm getting richer every day," I intentionally remarked, knowing my words would hit her hard.

"Since you're here, let's get started," she said, brushing off my statement.