The Billionaire's Stuttering Bride

Chapter 3

"Where the hell are my work clothes? They should have been washed, ironed, and hanging in my wardrobe by now. You know that," Thomas bellowed at Aurora, his anger palpable as he closed in on her personal space. Before she could explain that she had already completed the task he demanded, he lashed out and delivered a stinging slap across her face.

Aurora crumpled to the floor from the force of the blow, cradling her burning left cheek with her hand. She could already feel the telltale signs of the heat and tingling, warning her of the bruise that would inevitably follow.

"I d-did, Uncle T-Thomas. It is o-on the c-couch in y-your room," she stuttered out, trying to hold back tears.

"Are you calling me a liar?" he hissed, leaning down and invading her personal space. His breath reeked of strong coffee, making her flinch. Aurora looked up from the floor, her hand still pressed to her throbbing cheek, and saw his face twisted with anger. One raised eyebrow and crossed arms conveyed his disbelief that she would question him.

"N-no, Uncle T-Thomas, I will g-go find it f-for you n-now, sorry, sir," she mumbled as she struggled to get up, her face contorted in pain.

"You know how crucial this meeting is, right? Do you even understand how important William Knight is? He's coming to my home, and whatever he wants, it's monumental. I'm not even ready! You want to sabotage this by making me late!" he hissed, his frustration and anxiety simmering beneath his words.

"N-no...I-I "

In a fit of rage, he kicked her legs from under her, and she had no time to react. Before she could blink, her forehead collided with the wall opposite her, leaving her with a throbbing headache and an even worse bruise. Fortunately, it was on the other side of her face, sparing her left cheek from a double blow.

"N-no, Uncle T-Thomas, I-I......"

"Never question me again, or you'll get more than just a smack across the face," he sneered, his threats leaving a chilling effect in the room. Without another word, he turned and briskly walked toward the staircase. However, he paused for one last menacing look back at Aurora.

"If I'm not prepared before William arrives, and it reflects poorly on my hospitality and punctuality, you better find a place to hide, because the consequences won't be good." With that ominous warning, he jogged up the stairs, leaving Aurora to contemplate the impending dread of his return.

Aurora rushed to Thomas's bedroom, and the ironed clothes were exactly where she had left them. With trembling hands, she grabbed the suit and sprinted back down to the study. She knocked before entering.

"U-uncle T-Thomas, your s-suit," she stammered, holding it out.

He snatched the suit from her hands and scrutinized her. "For heaven's sake, cover that bruise. We don't want William to notice anything wrong, now, do we?"

Aurora nodded, her eyes filled with apprehension.

"Words! I want words."

"N-no, U-uncle T-Thomas. I'll c-cover it n-now," she replied and swiftly retreated to the kitchen. Her hands shook as she opened a small box with her belongings and retrieved an old foundation that Margo had given her for emergencies. She carefully applied the foundation over her bruise, wincing as pain radiated each time she touched her cheek. Wiping away her tears, she knew she had no time to dwell on her pain. She had a guest to prepare for.

****************

William's heart pounded in his chest as he stood outside Thomas's grand house, the memories of the past flooding back with intensity. It had been ten long years since he had last seen Aurora, his childhood friend who had left this world so abruptly. Today, he would finally come face to face with her again.

As the door swung open, William's eyes locked onto Aurora, who stood in the doorway with a mixture of surprise and uncertainty.

Aurora possessed a breathtaking beauty that seemed almost otherworldly. Her features were exquisite, with long, silky hair flowing down her back in golden waves. Her flawless, pale skin added to her enchanting allure, and her eyes, a deep, soulful blue, held a wisdom beyond her years. She was petite and delicate, exuding an air of innocence and grace.

As William looked at her, he couldn't help but be reminded of her mother's beauty. He saw the potential for a perfect match between Aurora and his son, Xavier. They both had a similar elegance and charm that would complement each other wonderfully.

However, the warmth in her eyes were missing, they seemed guarded and distant. Her demeanor timid and reserved. It was clear that time had taken its toll on her, but she still possessed a delicate beauty that tugged at William's heartstrings.

"Aurora," William whispered, his voice barely audible, filled with a mixture of longing and regret. "It feels like an eternity since we last met."

Aurora's lips twitched into a hesitant smile, her voice tinged with a hint of confusion. "I-I'm s-sorry, Sir. I d-didn't rec-recognize you," she replied timidly, her eyes downcast.

William's heart softened at her response. He understood that his absence had created a void in her memory, and he was determined to bridge that gap.

"It's your Uncle William," he gently reminded her, his voice carrying a touch of warmth. "I was your father Marco's best friend. We shared countless memories together."

Recognition flickered in Aurora's eyes, accompanied by a delicate blush that adorned her cheeks. "U-uncle W-William. Pl-please forgive m-me for not r-remembering," she stammered, her voice trembling with worry that she had disappointed him.

William reached out and gently took her hand, his touch reassuring and comforting. "There's nothing to forgive, my dear," he reassured her, his voice laced with sincerity. "Time has a way of playing tricks on our memories. What matters now is that we have this opportunity to reconnect."

Aurora's eyes sparkled with a mixture of relief and gratitude as she slowly nodded.

In that moment, William made a silent promise to himself to be a presence in Aurora's life, to fill the void that his absence had created. He would make up for lost time and become the uncle she deserved.

After a few moments of silence, William gently broke the ice, "Aren't you going to invite me in?"

"O-oh, I-I'm s-sorry. Please c-come in," Aurora stammered, flustered by the sudden request.

They entered a cozy sitting room, and William took a seat, patting the spot next to him, inviting Aurora to join him. She hesitated for a moment, looking around nervously.

"What's wrong? Come, sit with me," William reassured her.

Aurora managed a small smile and nodded, finally taking a seat beside him. Her anxiety began to ease as she settled into the comfortable atmosphere.

"These are for you," William said kindly, presenting the bouquet of flowers. "Your father always told me how much you loved flowers."

Aurora's eyes widened with astonishment as she gazed at the beautiful bouquet. "T-Thank you s-so much, M-Mr. Knight," she replied, a genuine smile spreading across her face.

"Mr. Knight, don't you think that's a bit formal? You used to call me Uncle Wilum because you couldn't say William," he chuckled, reminiscing about her nickname for him.

The sound of her giggles was like a sweet melody that filled the room, casting a lightness in the air. It was as if, for a brief moment, the weight of his guilt for the past years had been lifted, and the innocence and joy of their shared memories resurfaced.

William's eyes sparkled with delight as he watched Aurora's laughter. He couldn't help but be captivated by the enchanting sound, as it brought back a flood of cherished moments from their time together.

"Ah, Aurora," he said, a smile playing on his lips. "It's good to hear your laughter again. It brings back so many fond memories."

Aurora's laughter subsided, and she looked at William with a warmth.

Her voice held a tinge of vulnerability, as if she feared that this unexpected visit might be fleeting, just like the memories of their past.

"I-It b-been a l-long time. W-Why d-didn't y-you visit m-me?" she stuttered, her words laced with a mix of longing and vulnerability.

William's expression turned earnest as he reached out to hold Aurora's hands gently.

"My dear Aurora, I know I have been absent from your life for far too long. But please believe me when I say that you have always been present in my mind"

Aurora's eyes searched his face, searching for sincerity in his words. She wanted to believe him, to trust that he had truly cared for her, even in his absence.

"I have come here today because I believe that you deserve a better life, Aurora," William continued, his voice filled with determination. "I have a proposal, one that I believe will not only bring you happiness but also ensure a bright future for both our families."

Before he could share his decision regarding the alliance with Aurora, an abrupt sound cut through the air, causing William to pause in his tracks. Thomas, wearing a smug expression, looked between the two of them, his eyes filled with a mix of superiority and disdain. Aurora's heart skipped a beat as she stood up quickly, her palms becoming clammy at the sight of her uncle's disapproving gaze.

"Ah, William, when did you arrive?" Thomas said with a hint of malice, his words dripping with insincerity. He turned his attention to Aurora, his tone laced with condescension. "And why, my dear, did you fail to inform me of our guest's arrival?"

Aurora's voice caught in her throat as she tried to find an explanation, but Thomas raised his hand dismissively, cutting her off before she could speak.

"U-Un...."

"It doesn't matter now," he said curtly. "Run along and fetch some tea, Aurora. William and I have matters to discuss."

Aurora's heart sank at the dismissive tone, but she nodded silently, her eyes downcast, and quickly made her way out of the room to prepare the tea. The weight of Thomas's disapproval hung heavily in the air, and she couldn't help but wonder what awaited her upon her return.

William's gaze followed Aurora's retreating figure, a flicker of concern crossing his face. He knew Thomas's intentions all too well and understood the challenges that lay ahead. However, his determination to forge this alliance remained unwavering, and he braced himself for the difficult negotiation that awaited him.

With a deep breath, William turned his attention back to Thomas, his eyes meeting the piercing gaze of his old acquaintance. It was time to face the daunting task of convincing Thomas that the union between Xavier and Aurora was the only path forward, despite his greed and desire for personal gain.

"How are you, Thomas?" William inquired, his voice filled with a hint of formality.

Thomas settled himself in a chair, his gaze narrowed and fixed upon William.

"I know this visit isn't about my well-being. So, after all these years, why have you suddenly shown up? The last time we met was at my brother's funeral. So, tell me, what is it that you want?" Thomas asked, his eyes never wavering from William's face.

"I want to ask for Aurora's hand in marriage for my son Xavier" William said getting straight to the point.

Thomas's mouth fell open in a mixture of surprise and disdain. "Aurora? You want Aurora to marry Xavier?" he asked, his expression filled with contempt.

"Yes, Thomas," William replied firmly.

"But, William," Thomas questioned, his disbelief evident in his eyes. "Are you seriously suggesting that you want Aurora to marry your son, Xavier?"

William met Thomas's gaze, unwavering in his resolve. He wasted no time in coming straight to the point.

"Yes, Thomas, that is precisely what I am proposing. I believe that a union between Aurora and Xavier holds immense potential and benefits for both our families."

Thomas's eyebrows furrowed, his skepticism evident. He couldn't fathom why William would consider such a match.

"But, William, have you considered the stark differences between Aurora and Xavier? He is a brilliant, strong-willed businessman, opinionated, and known for his charisma with women. On the other hand, Aurora is rather introverted, lacks a sense of fashion, and often struggles to express herself confidently."

William acknowledged Thomas's concerns with a nod but remained steadfast in his conviction. "Yes, they may possess different qualities, but it is precisely those differences that make them complementary. Xavier's free-spirited nature and magnetism can be tempered by Aurora's grounded presence and gentle spirit. She has a way of bringing out the best in people, and I believe she can do the same for Xavier."

"Well, if you're seeking my opinion," Thomas sneered, "then my own daughter Sandra would be the perfect match for Xavier. She possesses elegance, social prominence, and a sharp intellect. If we're considering a marriage alliance, who better than my own flesh and blood?" Thomas made it clear that he had no intention of letting Aurora seize this opportunity.

William was well aware of Sandra Johnson's reputation. She was a wolf in sheep's clothing, a snobbish and self-centered individual who showed little regard for others. The thought of an alliance with her was out of the question. He remained resolute in his desire for Aurora to be the one to marry Xavier. However, he knew he had to navigate the situation with caution, ensuring not to offend Thomas in the process.

"Indeed, Sandra is undoubtedly a remarkable young woman," William acknowledged, careful with his words.

"However, Aurora holds a special place in my heart. She is the daughter of my dear friend, Marco, whom I considered a brother. His last words to me were a plea to take care of her. In the midst of building my business empire, I regretfully overlooked that promise. Now, I believe it is time to fulfill it, and what better way to care for her than to make her my daughter-in-law?"

Thomas grumbled, clearly defensive. "Are you implying that I have not been taking care of my own niece?"

William quickly clarified, "Not at all, Thomas. You have undoubtedly provided for Aurora in your own way. But after meeting her, I have seen something special in her. I believe she is the one who can bring out the best in my son, Xavier. If anyone can tame his wild spirit, it is Aurora."

Thomas remained visibly unimpressed, his mind preoccupied with his own agenda. He knew that his future plans hinged on having control over Aurora's inheritance, which had been entrusted to him as her guardian until she reached the age of 21. If Aurora were to become a part of the Knight family, his influence and control over her would diminish significantly, jeopardizing his carefully laid plans since the untimely demise of her parents.

William noticed the change in Thomas's demeanor and asked with concern, "What's wrong?"

Thomas stubbornly reiterated his stance, refusing to budge. "I maintain my belief that an alliance should be forged between Xavier and Sandra," he asserted firmly, determined to keep Aurora out of the equation.

Thomas's dismissive response didn't deter William. He understood that to sway Thomas's opinion, he needed to appeal to his greedy nature. Money had always been a powerful motivator for him, so William decided to make an offer that would be hard for Thomas to refuse.

"Thomas, I understand your perspective, but let's consider the financial benefits of this alliance," William began, a glint of cunning in his eyes. "If Aurora becomes part of our family, she will bring with her a substantial inheritance. As her guardian, you will still have a significant role in managing her assets. However, by joining forces, our families can unlock even greater wealth and influence."

He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "Think about it, Thomas. Together, we can create a powerful network of resources and opportunities that will benefit both our families for generations to come. The potential for financial prosperity is immense."

William leaned in closer, his tone filled with conviction. "By aligning our interests and joining our family fortunes, we can build a legacy that will surpass anything we could achieve separately. It's an opportunity for us to secure a prosperous future for our children and solidify our positions in society."

He knew that hitting Thomas's weak spot with the promise of wealth and influence would be difficult to resist. William waited, hoping that his proposition had struck a chord with Thomas's inner greed.

Thomas's eyebrows raised in intrigue, his greed momentarily piqued. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms, a smug smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Oh? And what exactly does this enticing deal entail?"

William leaned forward, his voice low yet persuasive. "If you agree to this alliance between Xavier and Aurora, I will not only ensure your neices's well-being and social standing but also provide you with the necessary resources and connections to further your business aspirations. Our families will enter into a partnership that benefits us both, not only financially but also in terms of social influence and growth."

Thomas had little concern for Aurora's well-being, but the potential benefits that could come from the arrangement were undeniably appealing to his greedy nature.

Thomas's eyes narrowed as he considered William's proposition. He knew that aligning their families could open doors to new opportunities and elevate their status in society. It was an offer that appealed to his ambitious nature, and yet, a flicker of doubt crept into his mind.

"What guarantees can you provide, William?" Thomas questioned, his tone laced with skepticism. "How can I trust that you will follow through on your promises?"

William's gaze remained steady, his voice filled with conviction. "Thomas, I give you my word that I will honor our agreement and ensure your neices's happiness and success. Moreover, I will provide you with written assurances and legal protections to safeguard your interests. This alliance is not just a fleeting arrangement; it is a partnership built on trust and mutual benefit."

Thomas pondered the offer, his mind wrestling with the potential gains and the risks involved. His greed warred with his instinct to protect his family's reputation and future.

The allure of the deal proved irresistible, as Thomas couldn't ignore the potential wealth and influence that connections with the Knights would bring. Moreover, he knew there were alternative methods to secure Aurora's inheritance, with her residing in the Knight household providing the perfect cover for his sinister intentions. A wicked smile materialized on his face as he meticulously weighed the advantages and disadvantages of his sinister plan.

"Very well, William. I agree to your proposal for the marriage between Aurora and Xavier," Thomas declared, his voice tinged with a hint of greed. "However, to ensure complete clarity and security, I would feel more at ease if we could formalize everything in writing. You understand, it's always wise to be cautious."

Suppressing a hint of amusement, William maintained a composed demeanor, recognizing that Thomas had fallen right into his trap.

"Indeed, Thomas, every prudent agreement deserves a well-crafted contract," William replied smoothly. "I anticipated your desire for assurance, which is why I have already prepared the necessary documents outlining the terms of our alliance. We can review and finalize them together to ensure that our interests are protected."

*****************

In the kitchen, Aurora poured steaming tea into the delicate cups, her hands trembling with nervousness.

She knew better than to upset her uncle, especially when he was in the presence of an important guest like uncle William. Carefully balancing the tray of tea cups, she made her way back to the living room.

With Thomas engrossed in his scrutiny of the paperwork, Aurora entered the room, her demeanor timid as she carefully held the tray in her hands. But, in a moment of unfortunate clumsiness, her foot caught on the edge of the rug, causing her to stumble. The contents of the tray, including the hot tea, splashed onto the table, leaving a small spatter on the paperwork.

Thomas's face twisted in anger as he stood up abruptly. "Look at what you've done, you clumsy girl!" he bellowed, his eyes blazing with fury.

Aurora flinched at his outburst, her hands shaking as she tried to clean up the mess. William was appalled by Thomas's behavior and the way he spoke to his own niece.

"Thomas, calm down. It's just a small spill," William said firmly, trying to diffuse the situation.

"How can I remain calm?" he seethed, his voice filled with frustration. "She just ruined the paperwork!"

"Take a deep breath," William said, rising from his seat. "I understand your frustration, but there's no need to panic. We can have a new contract drawn up to replace the damaged one." He spoke in a soothing tone, hoping to alleviate the tension in the room.

But Thomas was not easily placated. "I can't believe this! This girl is so clumsy! I don't know how she will ever manage to keep her husband's house in order," he sneered.

Aurora's head bowed in shame as she silently continued to clean the mess, her heart heavy with humiliation. William felt a surge of anger and pity for the young girl. He could not stand to see her being treated like this.

As Thomas continued to berate Aurora, William's mind raced with plans to get her out of this situation. He knew he had to protect her and give her a better life, away from this cruel man.

But for now, he had to focus on calming Thomas down. "It's not her fault, Thomas. Accidents happen. Let's move on from this," William said, his tone firm.

Thomas grudgingly sat back down, but William could see the greed in his eyes. He knew that Thomas was only interested in the marriage for the financial gain it would bring him. William made a mental note to keep a close eye on the wedding arrangements and ensure that Aurora was not taken advantage of.

As Aurora quietly left the room, William's heart went out to her. He knew that she deserved so much better than this life of servitude and abuse. He vowed to do everything in his power to help her.

Tomorrow morning would be the crucial moment when he needed to convince Xavier.