Sweet Revenge for my Arranged Husband

Chapter 4: Let the Game Begin

My father-in-law's plan, although elaborate, had its challenges. I had to be extremely careful to ensure that Fernando didn't find out about the contract.

I enjoyed the idea of stirring things up between Fernando and Paola.

At the age of eighteen, my nanny had been somewhat lenient in raising me as a society lady. But ever since the incident with Fernando, she became stricter in guiding me on how I should behave.

I shouldn't show my true emotions. I shouldn't appear weak. I always had to wear a smile that no one could read through my face.

Mr. Thompson and I searched for the right opportunity for my return. Fernando shouldn't easily be able to get away.

So it had to be a public event with many journalists present. We would catch him off guard and from there, indirectly pressure him to acknowledge my rightful place, which would undoubtedly infuriate Paola.

The day finally came. It was an award event attended by numerous celebrities, high society figures, and journalists.

So, I prepared myself. I chose an elegant red silk dress with a sweetheart neckline and draped sleeves, tailored to flatter my curves without being overly revealing. My hair was styled up, and my makeup was done to accentuate my eyes.

Everything was planned. I was hiding among the crowd, waiting for his car to arrive. When he finally arrived, I approached him, taking him by the arm as the camera flashes went off, providing the perfect opportunity for me to get closer without him realizing it. He looked at me with surprise, and I smiled.

"Honey, you missed me," I said.

"Isabella, what are you doing here?" he asked.

"It's like you've seen a ghost. Take off that expression, you have cameras in front of you. And in response to your question, I just wanted to accompany my husband here. The invitation you received said Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, and as far as I understand, that's me. So why not come?"

"Just walk," he said, while pretending to adjust his suit and tie.

I tugged him slightly, urging him to start walking down the red carpet.

Because of the cameras watching us, Fernando was forced to smile at me. But I could clearly see the anger and hatred in his eyes.

We reached where the interviewers were, and they were surprised to see me.

"Mrs. Thompson, it seems that for the first time, you've decided to accompany your husband instead of staying at home."

"Well, you see, I never attended these events, not because I stayed at home. There's actually a more complex explanation for that."

I felt Fernando squeeze my hand, as if he didn't want me to ruin his image as a loving and understanding husband.

"Really, could you tell us about that?" the journalist asked.

"Actually, it's a rather mundane story. I have quite a privileged mind. When I got married at 18 years old, I was already close to finishing medical school. In order for me to study properly as a regular student, my husband kept my whereabouts a secret. I was able to focus on my studies without the pressure of a media-exposed life. He sacrificed for both of us while I was a surgical resident. And because of that, I was able to complete my education without having to worry about events like these."

"Really? It's quite surprising that someone so young and beautiful is a doctor," said the journalist.

"I'm slightly offended by that," I replied with a playful tone.

"Well, you will understand that this is not normal for women of your social status. Not everyone becomes a doctor, let alone a surgeon."

"Well, you see, my husband didn't just choose someone to marry. He chose an intelligent woman. Right, honey?" I turned to my husband.

Fernando looked at me and forced his best smile before answering, "Of course, I wasn't going to marry just anyone."

"I see. But will we now see you accompanying your husband more often to events like these?" the journalist further inquired.

"Of course! I can't leave my handsome husband alone for too long now. So, if you'll excuse us, I think that's enough questions for now."

As soon as we finished walking the red carpet, the hostess approached us and guided us to our seats. I assumed that the seat I was occupying at that moment was meant for Paola, as Fernando seemed nervous, looking around.

"Looking for someone, darling?" I asked.

"I don't know what you're planning, Isabella. But I assure you, your little game won't work!" Fernando retorted.

"First of all, relax your face and show a smile, dear. We're in a public place. People might think we're having an argument. Secondly, I don't have any ulterior motives. I simply came to attend an event that my husband and I were invited to."

"Where did you come up with that ridiculous story about being a doctor?" he asked.

"Well, Fernando, let me introduce myself properly. I am Dr. Isabella Castrioti, a neurosurgeon at the university hospital."

"You think I'm going to swallow the story that a spoiled brat like you actually did something like studying? I'm sure all you did was travel and go shopping."

"Honey, you don't need to believe me. I don't care whether you believe it or not. But I think you're mistaking me for your lover. By the way, here she comes. Tell her not to cause a scene in public, will you?" I said to him.

"Fernando, can you explain to me what this means and why this brat is sitting in my chair? The organizers said there were no more seats available for me! So get rid of that woman!" Paola began to say hysterically.

I watched her with a smile on my face before responding, "Paola, dear, it's been a while since we last saw each other. It's a shame that this place is reserved for Mrs. Thompsons. And as far as I remember, I am Mrs. Thompson, not you. The invitation was also addressed to me. I don't think you're needed here. Enough with the delusions. I let you have fun with my husband for a long time. And Fernando, you've seen why you shouldn't go out with women without class. Remove her if you don't want me to call security and have her escorted out! Especially since you know she'll only be embarrassed by what I have to say."

Paola's eyes widened as she looked at me.

"Yes! Do you think I didn't know that you've been using my name for years? It embarrasses me a little, people probably think I'm just ordinary because of you."

"Fernando, can you hear what this brat is saying?!" Paola exclaimed.

"Isabella, stop it!"

"I didn't say anything that wasn't true, Fernando! If you like, you can leave with her. I give you permission. Just think about how many reporters are out there. If they see me leaving without my loving husband, they will ask me questions and I won't have the option to apologize. You went with your lover while I was working hard on my studies. My husband was having s*x with a dirty woman. Now, think about that."

Fernando glared at me with anger in his eyes. I knew that I had him now, and he had no choice but to follow me.

Paola told me that this was the first and last time she would allow this. She only agreed because there were so many reporters outside, and I had threatened to expose them, which would be detrimental to her company.

She also glared at me with anger. She had no choice but to leave. I bid her goodbye.

"Goodbye, Paola. See you at home, dear."

For the rest of the evening, I acted as a loving wife, and Fernando had no choice but to play along.