As Andrew led Sarah to the dining room, she couldn't help but feel a bit nervous. The formal setting and fine dining seemed far removed from her simple life as a maid. Andrew, however, seemed at ease, chatting with her about everything from books to music.
As they sat down to eat, Sarah noticed the exquisite food presentation and aromas. "This looks amazing," she said, trying to sound sophisticated.
Andrew smiled. "My father's chef is one of the best in the city. I'm sure you'll enjoy it."
The dinner conversation flowed easily, and Sarah found herself laughing and sharing stories with Andrew. Maybe, just maybe, this arranged marriage wouldn't be so bad after all.
But as the evening drew to a close, Andrew's expression turned serious. "Sarah, I want to talk to you about our arrangement. I know this isn't conventional, but I promise to make it work."
Sarah's heart skipped a beat. What did he mean by "make it work"? Was he expecting a real marriage, or just a facade?
"I understand," she said cautiously. "But what exactly do you expect from me?"
Andrew's eyes locked onto hers. "I expect you to be my partner, in every sense of the word. We'll present a united front to the world, but beyond that...we'll figure it out together."
Sarah's mind whirled with questions and doubts. But for now, she just nodded. "Okay."
As the evening ended, Andrew walked her to her temporary quarters. "I'll see you tomorrow," he said, his voice low and smooth.
Sarah smiled, feeling a sense of uncertainty. What had she gotten herself into?
As Sarah lay in bed, she couldn't shake off the feeling that her life was about to change in ways she couldn't imagine. The luxurious room, the fine dining, and Andrew's charming smile all seemed like a dream. But she knew it was a reality she had to face.
The next few days passed in a blur as Sarah spent more time with Andrew, getting to know him better. They went on walks, had dinner together, and even attended a charity event. Sarah was surprised by how much she enjoyed Andrew's company, but she couldn't help feeling like she was living in a bubble.
One evening, as they were having dinner, Andrew mentioned the wedding plans. "My father wants to keep it small and intimate, but I think we should make it a bit more grand," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
Sarah raised an eyebrow. "You want a grand wedding? I thought your father wanted something low-key."
Andrew chuckled. "Oh, he does, but I think we can convince him otherwise. What do you say? Want to make a statement?"
Sarah laughed, feeling a sense of excitement. "I think I'd like that."
As they discussed the wedding details, Sarah realized that she was starting to look forward to this new chapter in her life. Maybe, just maybe, this arranged marriage wouldn't be so bad after all.
But as the days turned into weeks, Sarah couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to Andrew's family than met the eye. She noticed strange glances between the staff, and Andrew's father seemed to be hiding something.
One night, as she was walking back to her room, she overheard a hushed conversation between two staff members. "I don't know how she's going to take it," one of them whispered.
Sarah's heart skipped a beat. What were they talking about? And what did it have to do with her?
Sarah's curiosity was piqued, and she tried to listen more, but the staff members moved away, their conversation inaudible. She wondered what they could be discussing and how it might affect her.
The next day, Andrew took her to a dress fitting for the wedding. As they arrived at the boutique, Sarah felt a mix of emotions. The dresses were stunning, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that she was living a lie.
The designer, a flamboyant woman with a keen eye for detail, helped Sarah try on different gowns. Andrew sat on the sidelines, offering his opinions and making Sarah laugh.
As they finalized the dress, Andrew turned to Sarah and said, "I have a surprise for you. Meet me in the garden tonight, at midnight."
Sarah's heart skipped a beat. What could he be planning? She tried to brush it off, but the excitement lingered.
That night, Sarah made her way to the garden, her heart racing with anticipation. Andrew was waiting for her, a small box in his hand.
"I wanted to give you something," he said, his eyes sparkling in the moonlight. "A gift for our wedding."
Sarah opened the box, and her eyes widened as she saw a stunning diamond necklace. "It's beautiful," she breathed.
Andrew smiled and fastened the necklace around her neck. As his fingers touched her skin, Sarah felt a shiver run down her spine.
For a moment, they just stood there, the only sound the crickets chirping in the background. Then Andrew leaned in, his face inches from hers.
Sarah's heart pounded in her chest. Was he going to kiss her?
Just as Andrew's lips were about to touch hers, he hesitated, and instead, whispered, "I'm glad you're wearing this necklace. It suits you perfectly."
Sarah felt a mix of relief and disappointment. She wasn't sure what she wanted, but she knew she couldn't deny the chemistry between them.
As they stood there, Andrew's phone rang, breaking the moment. He apologized and answered the call, his expression turning serious.
"I have to go," he said, his voice low. "Family business. I'll see you tomorrow."
Sarah nodded, feeling a bit bewildered. What was going on with Andrew's family? She couldn't shake off the feeling that there were secrets lurking beneath the surface.
The next day, Sarah saw Andrew briefly at breakfast. He seemed distracted, and she didn't press him about the previous night.
As she went about her day, Sarah couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead. Would she find happiness with Andrew, or would their arranged marriage be a facade?
The wedding day loomed closer, and Sarah felt a mix of emotions. Excitement, uncertainty, and a hint of fear.
What would her life be like as Mrs. Harrison? Would she find love, or would it be a loveless partnership?
The questions swirled in her mind as she prepared for the wedding. One thing was certain - her life was about to change forever.