CHAPTER 4B

"You've got to be joking!" he exclaimed, his frustration bubbling to the surface.

Xavier's head was spinning with a mix of shock and outrage.

"You just can't be serious, Dad!" he protested, his voice filled with disbelief. "Arranged marriages? That's something from another era, not something that happens in our world today."

"I am deadly serious, Xavier," William affirmed, his voice unyielding. "I made a promise to Aurora's late father, and it's time I fulfilled it by forging this alliance."

"Then you marry her. Why drag me into this mess!" Xavier all but shouted

"I understand your hesitation, Xavier," William replied calmly, his tone steady. "But I believe this alliance is for the best. As for me marrying her, I'm afraid that's not a possibility. However, I assure you that I have carefully considered this decision and have your best interests in mind."

Xavier's anger surged within him, fueling a rebellious fire that burned brightly. "Oh, so now you claim to know what's best for me?" he countered, his voice laced with defiance.

Xavier's frustration grew, his voice laced with a hint of bitterness. "If you truly cared about my happiness, you would understand that my best interest lies in remaining free and single, not being tied down to some stranger in an arranged marriage. Have you even taken a moment to consider what I truly want?"

William's gaze hardened, his words cutting through the air. "What you truly want, Xavier, is to indulge in fleeting pleasures, a life filled with temporary connections," he responded firmly.

"Enjoying your so-called freedom may seem exhilarating now, but how long can a man sustain such a lifestyle? There comes a time when one seeks deeper meaning, stability, and a love that endures beyond the fleeting moments."

Xavier's face contorted with defiance, his voice tinged with frustration. "And you think this arranged marriage is the solution? That it will magically provide me with the stability and love I supposedly seek?"

William's gaze softened, a flicker of paternal concern in his eyes. "I don't expect it to be magical, Xavier. But I believe that in the union of two souls, even amidst the circumstances, something beautiful can emerge. Love may not arrive instantly, but it has the potential to grow, to evolve into something profound and fulfilling."

Xavier leaned back in his chair, his skepticism apparent.

"So, you're asking me to give up my freedom, my ability to do what I want, and follow these boring rules just for this idea of love and stability?"

His father's voice took on a gentle tone, filled with wisdom and understanding. "It's not about conforming, Xavier. It's about recognizing that life has a way of surprising us. Sometimes, the greatest adventures lie beyond our comfort zones. It's about embracing the unknown, taking a leap of faith, and being open to the possibilities that lie ahead."

Xavier's tone dripped with sarcasm as he responded, "Well, that was certainly an enlightening speech, Dad. However, I'm afraid the answer is still a resounding no. I refuse to be tied down by anyone, especially a complete stranger thrust upon me in an arranged marriage."

William's gaze hardened. "This is not up for discussion, Xavier. You will marry Aurora, and that's the end of it."

Xavier's fists clenched at his sides, his temper flaring. "You can't force me into this, Dad! I won't be shackled to someone I have no connection with."

A flicker of disappointment flashed across William's face, his voice tinged with sorrow.

"Xavier, I know you have been living a life of indulgence, but it's time to face the reality. Our family's legacy, that girl's future, depends on this union. And who knows, perhaps in time, you might discover that love. There is more to life than what meets the eye."

Xavier scoffed, the bitterness evident in his voice. "Love? Don't be absurd, Dad. Love is nothing but an illusion, a weakness that makes people vulnerable. I won't subject myself to such foolish sentiments."

William's eyes softened, his tone gentle yet resolute. "One day, Xavier, you'll realize that love has the power to transform, to heal wounds you didn't even know existed. But until then, I implore you to at least give Aurora a chance. She deserves that much."

Xavier's defiance grew stronger, his eyes blazing with determination. "Dont I deserve a chance to live how I want? I won't be shackled to anyone, Dad. I refuse to live my life according to your plans and expectations. I want the freedom to pursue my own passions, to make my own choices."

William's face hardened, his disappointment evident.

"Xavier, you have a responsibility to our family and business. You can't just disregard everything we've built and throw it away for the sake of your own desires."

"I choose how I live my life. I have my own desires and preferences, and I'll adhere to them," Xavier stated with confidence. "My lifestyle is not a hindrance to our business.

You're aware, Dad, that I take my job very seriously. I've earned the reputation of the ruthless knight, and I'd never risk our business. However, it's essential to understand that I'm in control of my own future. I'll make decisions that align with my own beliefs and dreams. I'm sorry, but you don't have a say in it."

"I'm well aware of your dedication to the company, son, but Xavier, you need to understand that your actions have consequences," William cautioned. His voice carried a blend of concern and sternness.

"Living your life as a reckless playboy is nothing to be proud of. It's time to set aside the scandals and concentrate on showcasing your true abilities. This marriage isn't solely about you; it's about honoring a promise I made to my best friend long ago, and I'm committed to fulfilling it, regardless of the circumstances."

Xavier's eyes narrowed, his defiance unwavering. "Well, that's unfortunate because I refuse to compromise my happiness for the sake of a promise made years ago, Dad. I won't allow myself to be coerced into a loveless marriage just to preserve appearances. I believe I deserve more than that."

William's voice softened, a hint of sadness underlying his words. "I understand your frustrations, Xavier. But sometimes, life requires sacrifices. This is not about saving face; it's about honoring the promises we've made and protecting the legacy that generations before us have built."

"Well, I refuse to be a mere pawn in your game. If this promise carries such weight and responsibility, and you believe it's your duty to look after her, then adopt the damn girl!" Xavier declared firmly.

"She already holds a special place in my heart, much like a daughter, but formal adoption is not the solution here," William replied.

"In that case, I believe we've said all that needs to be said," Xavier replied, his tone determined.

William's expression grew more serious, his voice resolute. "Well I'm not done speaking yet. Aurora is a fine young woman who deserves the opportunity for a stable and secure future. By marrying her, you'll not only uphold our family's promise but also provide her with the security she deserves."

Xavier's arms crossed defiantly, his skepticism unyielding. "I've said it before, Dad, and I'll say it again: I refuse to be coerced into a loveless marriage. I have no interest in this Aurora or her well-being, and I certainly won't sacrifice my lifestyle just to fulfill some long-forgotten promise of yours."

William sighed, a mixture of disappointment and understanding in his expression. "I can't force you to see things my way, Xavier. But I hope you'll reconsider. This marriage is not just about fulfilling a promise; it's about finding strength in unity and building a future together."

Xavier's eyes blazed with a mixture of anger and disbelief. "No! I do not want to build a future with someone i don't even know. I will not Marry a complete stranger! You must be out of your mind, Dad! I won't be a part of some archaic arrangement. I refuse to be tied down to someone I barely know, just to appease your business interests."

William's expression hardened, his voice firm.

"This is not up for debate, Xavier. The decision has been made. You will marry Aurora, and that's final."

Xavier's fists clenched at his sides, his temper flaring. "You can't force me into this, Dad! I have my own life to live, my own dreams to chase. I won't be shackled to someone I have no connection with."

"Xavier, I'm not asking you. You will marry Aurora, or you can kiss your inheritance and your CEO position goodbye," William's voice boomed with authority, his eyes piercing into Xavier's.

The forcefulness of his father's words caused Xavier to falter for a moment. The weight of his inheritance and the implications of losing it were not lost on him. He had always been accustomed to a life of privilege and comfort, and the thought of jeopardizing that made him hesitate.

Xavier's hands tightened into fists, a surge of anger coursing through him. "You can't do that! I've worked hard to earn my position in the company," he exclaimed.

"I know Xavier, I acknowledge your hard work and achievements. However, you've left me with no alternative. It has come down to a decision: either you marry Aurora or I will have to remove you from your position as CEO."

"You can't do that!" Xavier shoited

"I can, and I will!" William replied calmly

The room crackled with tension as father and son locked eyes, their wills colliding in a battle of desires. Xavier's heart pounded with rebellion, his mind a whirlwind of resistance. Yet, deep down, a spark of curiosity flickered, igniting the ember of uncertainty. Little did he know that this forced union would unearth emotions and challenges he had never anticipated, ultimately reshaping the course of his life in ways he could never have foreseen.