The Billionaire's Stuttering Bride

CHAPTER 4

Xavier was rudely awakened by the intrusive beep of his alarm, a cruel reminder of how little sleep he had received. With a groan, he reached out to silence the persistent noise.

Xavier's eyes fluttered open, squinting against the invading rays of morning sunlight that pierced through the bedroom curtains. As consciousness slowly seeped in, his gaze darted around the room, landing on the sight before him that sent a jolt of confusion through his hazy mind. Two women lay entangled beside him, their forms partially covered by the tangled sheets.

A whirlwind of fragmented memories tugged at the edges of Xavier's recollection, teasing him with glimpses of laughter and swirling drinks. There was a tantalizing sense of freedom lingering within the hazy recesses of his mind, yet the details remained frustratingly elusive, lost in the thick fog of intoxication. He groaned, a headache pounding in his temples, as he desperately attempted to piece together the puzzle of his blurred evening.

His heart pounded, not solely from the remnants of alcohol coursing through his veins, but also from the realization that his father's voice boomed beyond the threshold of his bedroom. Xavier's gaze flickered through the slightly open door, where his father sat, with a magazine clutched in his hand, his face a mask of disappointment and disapproval.

"Xavier, get up now!" His father's voice thundered through the penthouse again, jolting Xavier instantly from his lazy state. The sheer volume of the command reverberated painfully in his throbbing hangover head, acting as a cruel alarm clock he wished he could ignore.

This early visit from his dad was highly unusual, sparking Xavier's curiosity. It had to be something significant to drag his father out at such an hour.

Carefully disentangling himself from the embrace of the two women, Xavier stealthily slipped into his pajamas, ensuring to close the door on the way out

Rubbing his temples, Xavier stumbled into the living room, his eyes locked with his father, who sat on the couch with a look of anger etched across his face.

Xavier's voice dropped to a murmur, laced with a hint of unease.

"Hmm. Looks like I'm in trouble for something"

Xavier scrutinized his father, his silence mirroring his curiosity regarding the unexpected early visit. As he attempted to unravel the reason for his father's presence, William maintained a steady gaze on Xavier before finally standing up.

"Good morning, son," William greeted, his voice laced with a heavy undercurrent of disappointment. "Or perhaps I should say, your night was probably better than good," William remarked in a composed tone.

Xavier's forehead creased with confusion, perplexed by his father's cryptic remarks, yet he maintained an air of indifference.

"What-What are you doing here, Dad?" Xavier stammered, attempting to maintain a semblance of composure.

He looked back at his bedroom door, making sure it was shut.

"How long will this continue?" William inquired, locking eyes with his son, his tone laced with a hint of annoyance. "I need to know, so I can pencil it into my calendar," he added with a mocking tone.

Xavier's brow furrowed as his father continued with these cryptic comments.

"Is this some kind of trick question, Dad? What are you referring to? I'm a bit lost here."

"I don't expect you to understand, and you never will. Anyways, I must say, your behavior last night was far from admirable,"

William stated, his tone cutting through the air like a blade. "This incessant partying and womanizing is beneath a Knight." He all but shouted throwing the magazine onto the coffee table where Xavier graced the cover.

Xavier's heart sank as he watched his father's eyes narrow, fixated on the scandalous snapshots within the open magazine pages. It was evident that his father had discovered Xavier's reckless escapades from the previous night. Xavier sighed and ran a hand over his face, acknowledging the impending lecture.

"Do you care to explain this, Xavier?" William's voice resonated with disappointment as he pointed at the incriminating evidence.

Xavier's mind raced, desperately searching for an excuse, a justification that could salvage even a shred of dignity. But deep down, he knew that there was no hiding from the truth. The evidence spoke volumes, painting a vivid picture of his indulgent lifestyle.

A few moments of silence passed as Xavier looked at the pictures and shrugged

"I can't help but wish they captured my better side, you know, the right one," he chuckled.

"Xavier!"

"Oh come on Dad. It's not like I've never done anything like this before, " Xavier finally admitted arrogantly,

"However, I didn't intend for things to become so public. I must admit though, Dad, it wasn't my finest moment, was it?" he snickered.

William sighed, his gaze filled with a mixture of disappointment and genuine concern. The weight of their family's reputation rested heavily on his shoulders, and Xavier's reckless behavior had pushed it to the edge. He looked deeply into his son's eyes, hoping to ignite a spark of understanding within him.

"Xavier, do you even care about our reputation?" William asked, his voice tinged with a touch of sadness. "The choices you make reflect not only on yourself but also on our business. This kind of behavior is reckless, and it's time for you to start considering the consequences of your actions."

"Dad," Xavier retorted, his voice tinged with a hint of defiance. "I'm a vibrant, passionate individual. I work diligently during the day, never mixing business with pleasure. Sure, I enjoy letting loose at night. But the intricacies of my personal life are mine alone to navigate. So, please, just take a moment to relax, Dad. I'll make an effort to be more discreet next time." He winked, attempting to defuse the tense atmosphere.

William's brows furrowed in frustration as he stared at Xavier, his disappointment evident in his eyes. He sighed heavily before responding, his voice laced with a mixture of concern and sternness.

"Xavier, I understand that you're young and full of energy, but you need to realize that your actions have consequences. Our family's reputation is at stake, and your reckless behavior reflects poorly on all of us. It's time for you to start taking responsibility for your choices and considering the impact they have on our name."

"Dad, please spare me the lecture," Xavier replied warily.

A stern expression settled on William's face. "You misunderstand, Xavier. I haven't come here, to lecture you. I have made a decision that will shape your future."

Xavier arched an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "And what decision is that?"

"A decision regarding Aurora," William stated authority.

Xavier responded with a raised eyebrow. "Aurora, Aurora? Have we met before?" he quipped. "Oh, wait, does my dad have a girlfriend?" Xavier added, teasingly.

William let out a sigh, unamused by his son's jest. "Can you please be serious for a moment, Xavier? This is important."

"Fine. So....." he jestured for his dad to continue

"Xavier," William replied, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "Aurora is not my girlfriend. She's the daughter of Marco, my late best friend. I've recently reconnected with her, and I believe she could have a significant impact on your life."

Xavier, made himself comfortable on the couch and leaned back, his playful demeanor giving way to curiosity. " A significant impact on my life" he asked pointing to himself.

"Yes Xavier. Your life"

Xavier, replied with a hint of sarcasm in his voice. "Oh, pray tell, what is it about Aurora that makes her so exceptionally special? What extraordinary qualities does she possess that will supposedly have this grand significance in my oh-so-eventful life?"

Undeterred by his son's sarcasm, William pressed on, determined to make his point clear, his expression earnest.

"Aurora possesses a rare combination of qualities. She has a genuine sweetness, innocence, and kindness that are hard to find in this world. I believe her presence could influence you positively, help you become more grounded and committed."

Xavier's eyebrow arched mockingly as he entertained his father's proposition. "Oh, so you think she can magically tame the untamed beast within me, huh? Is she some kind of irresistible seductress? Oh wait! Is she sexy?" he asked, a hint of mocking humor lacing his words.

"Xavier, enough with the theatrics. I urge you to approach this with seriousness," William stated firmly, his voice tinged with a hint of exasperation. "This goes beyond mere appearances. It's about discovering a person who can truly complement you and bring out the best version of yourself."

"The best version of myself. What's wrong with the current version?" He asked with annoyance in his voice.

"Xavier..."

Xavier's voice turned slightly bitter as he interjected, "Oh, how could I forget? You're always concerned about my feelings, aren't you, Dad? Now I'm just dying to know, what version of myself am I now? The 'Badboy'? But hey, that's the coolest thing about me, right? You want me to shed that image and become a 'goodboy.' And let me guess, this girl, Aurora, is the One who will magically transform me into a charming prince?An epitome of greatness?

Well, color me intrigued, Father. Please, do go on."

He emphasized the last words with a hint of mocking sarcasm.

William's expression hardened, his patience wearing thin. "Enough with the sarcasm, Xavier," he said sternly. "This is not about some fairytale transformation. It's about growth, maturity, and making responsible choices. I understand your resistance, but I ask you to consider the bigger picture. Aurora represents an opportunity for you to build a meaningful connection and discover a different side of yourself. Don't dismiss it so lightly."

"Who the hell is this Aurora anyway, and why are we even discussing her?" Xavier asked exasperated.

"Like I said, she's my late best friend's daughter, and..." William paused for a moment, trying to find the right words to explain.

"And what, Dad?"

"When Marco was on his deathbed, his final words to me were about Aurora becoming my responsibility and me taking care of her. I had overlooked that promise until recently."

Xavier leaned back, mischief dancing in his eyes. "Oh thats what you meant by 'A meaningful connection, huh?' Well, Dad, since you've been carrying that stick in your back ever since Mom passed away, maybe it's time for a little romance intervention. How about I play matchmaker and set you up on a date with this Aurora? Who knows, sparks may fly, love may bloom, and before you know it, wedding bells might ring! It's the perfect solution: you fulfill your promise, and I get to relish in the satisfaction of witnessing you squirm. Trust me, it's a win-win situation, don't you think?" He flashed a sly grin, a delightful blend of cheekiness and defiance lacing his words.

William's gaze bore into Xavier, unyielding and resolute. "You know, it's quite amusing that you brought up wedding bells, Xavier. Because that's precisely why I'm here today. There's a purpose behind my visit, and it revolves around the idea of you marrying Aurora Johnson, an arranged marriage" he declared firmly, his voice leaving no room for argument.

Xavier stilled, momentarily stunned, and then a chuckle escaped his lips.

"Wait, hold on a second. Did you just say you've arranged a marriage for me?"

William simply nodded.

Xavier's eyes widened in disbelief, his pounding headache momentarily forgotten.

"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!"

"I can, and I will

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.

Xavier shakes his head in disbelief. "I can't believe you're doing this. What do you even know about this Aurora girl? She's probably just some gold digger trying to trap us," he accuses, his eyes blazing with anger.

William's expression darkens. "Aurora is not a gold digger, Xavier. She's a sweet girl who deserves a better life than the one she's living in now," he says, his voice cold.

Xavier scoffs. "Oh, please. You're just trying to expand an already thriving company, by marrying me off to some nobody," he retorts, his words dripping with disdain.

William's eyes narrow. "Watch your tone, Xavier. This is not up for negotiation. You will marry Aurora in three days, and that's final," he says, his voice laced with authority.

"THREE DAYS... "he all but shouted

Xavier's eyes blazed with anger as he listened to his father's words. He couldn't believe that William was asking him to marry some random girl he had never met. He had heard stories of gold-diggers who only cared about social status and money, and he wasn't about to fall victim to one of them.

"I will not marry that bitch!" he exclaimed, slamming his hand down on the desk. "She's probably just after social status and my hard earned money, and I will not be a part of any of it. AND. THAT. IS. FINAL."

Before he could continue his rant, the bedroom door opened and two scantily dressed women emerged

"Whoopsie, are we inturrpting" the blond girl uttered, smiling seductively

"Ah, looks like we stumbled upon a little party here," the redhead purred mischievously, her eyes sparkling with amusement, whilst the blonde blew a playful kiss towards William.

"Hey handsome" they said in unity

William's jaw dropped in disbelief as he stared at the women standing before him. They were the very same women he had seen in the scandalous magazine photos with his son, Xavier.

Xavier scratched his head nervously, his anger dissipating into a sheepish blush on his cheeks. He glanced at the women, then back at his dad, his voice filled with embarrassment. "I was totally drunk, Dad. And they were just about to leave, I swear!"

The blonde girl, full of excitement, bounded over to Xavier, when her eyes fixated on the magazine on the coffee table.

"OMG! OMG! OMG!" she shrieked, her voice filled with an infectious energy, as she picked it up

Leslie, the red-headed girl, sprinted towards her, curiosity written all over her face. "What's all the fuss about?" she exclaimed, snatching the magazine from her friend's hands.

"Holy shit! We're famous! Look at us!" Leslie's eyes widened, scanning the glossy pages with delight. The two girls exchanged ecstatic glances, their outfits, though a little worse for wear, suddenly transforming into symbols of newfound fame.

"We're famous! Can you believe we're in The Glam Magazine!" Both women jumped up and down in joy.

Xavier's face flushed with embarrassment as his father observed the commotion, his mouth agape. He tried to regain control of the situation, clearing his throat to get their attention.

"Ladies, it's been quite an experience, but it's time for you to leave now," Xavier said, attempting to sound firm while inwardly cringing at the thought of their escapades being witnessed by his father.

"But what about breakfast?" the blonde girl pleaded, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "We could continue the fun, and your old man here can join if he's up for it. We wouldn't mind, would we, Leslie?"

Leslie smirked, appraising William from head to toe. "Not at all," she chimed in, her tone filled with playful innuendo.

Xavier's face turned a shade redder, mortified by their audacity. He quickly interjected, trying to salvage the situation. "No, no, that won't be necessary. Thank you for the offer, but we have other plans." He motioned towards the exit, urging them to leave.

The girls exchanged disappointed glances but eventually agreed, understanding that their impromptu rendezvous had come to an end. With a final flirtatious wink,

The blonde added with a smirk, "We'll be on our way. But hey, Xavier, give us a call anytime you want some real fun again."

They turned and sauntered away, leaving Xavier to contend with his embarrassment and his father's bewildered gaze.

Xavier's face turned even redder as he muttered a quick goodbye. The two women sashayed out of the room, leaving behind an awkward silence.

William shook his head, trying to collect his thoughts. "Xavier, what were you thinking? These kinds of scandals can ruin your reputation, the company's reputation!"

Xavier simply rolled his eyes, as he made his way to the coffee machine.

Sighing, William followed behind, "Xavier, you are going to repair the damage to the Knight name. Your playboy image has gone too far. The only way is with your marriage with Aurora, otherwise bid bye bye to your position of CEO in the company"

Xavier let out a weary sigh, his back pressed against the cool kitchen counter. He understood the gravity of the situation and the stakes his father had laid out. His inheritance, as well as his cherished position as CEO, hung in the balance. Deep down, he knew he had to handle this delicate situation with utmost care. Thoughts of a cunning escape plan swirled in his mind as he pondered the absurdity of this proposed alliance. There had to be a way out, a solution that would appease his father's demands while allowing him to maintain his independence. Xavier resolved to strategize, to find a path that would lead him away from this impending union, and towards a future of his own design.

"Fine, Dad. I'll do it," Xavier muttered reluctantly, his voice tinged with resignation.

William nodded, a glimmer of respect shining in his eyes. "Thank you, son. You won't regret it, I promise. I can arrange a meeting with Aurora, if you're willing. But I urge you to keep an open mind. Sometimes, love can blossom in the most unexpected places."

"I'm not interested in meeting her, Dad!" Xavier snapped, his frustration evident. "Meeting her won't change the fact that I'll forever despise that girl for taking away everything I hold dear-my independence, my freedom."

"Xavier," William began, but Xavier raised his hand to silence him.

"You've got what you came for," Xavier declared, his tone final. "There's nothing more to be said."

With those words hanging heavy in the air, a palpable tension settled between father and son. Their differing perspectives and unresolved emotions stood as an impenetrable barrier, casting a shadow over any possibility of reconciliation. Xavier's heart hardened, his determination to keep Aurora at a distance solidifying with each passing moment.