Bound by Lust

The day of the engagement party arrived quicker than Esme expected. The grand estate was decorated with elegance, golden chandeliers casting warm light over the large hall, where high-status guests sipped expensive wine and exchanged whispers.

Esme stood in front of the vanity mirror in her room, staring at her reflection. She was dressed in a stunning off-shoulder gown, soft silk hugging her body perfectly. Maria had styled her hair in loose waves, with delicate pearls woven through. She looked like the perfect bride-to-be.

Yet, her chest felt tight with unease.

A knock sounded at the door. Before she could respond, Maria peeked inside. "Miss Esme, it's time."

Esme inhaled deeply, forcing a smile. "Let's go."

As she walked down the grand staircase, all eyes turned to her. She could feel the weight of their gazes, some curious, others judgmental. But none were as sharp as the ones belonging to Charlotte and Nana.

Charlotte stood near the entrance, her arms folded across her chest, eyes filled with open distaste. Nana, on the other hand, sat beside Grandpa, looking calm but firm, her expression unreadable.

And then there was Kael.

Dressed in an all-black tailored suit, he stood at the bottom of the staircase, waiting for her. His gaze never left her as she descended, his expression unreadable yet intense.

When she reached him, he extended his hand. "You're late."

Esme placed her hand in his, her fingers trembling slightly. Kael's grip was firm, grounding, as if reminding her that there was no turning back.

"You look... acceptable," he murmured, his eyes scanning her from head to toe.

Esme bit back a sharp remark, knowing all eyes were on them. Instead, she forced a small smile, lifting her chin. "And you look exactly as expected."

Kael smirked at her response, but before he could say anything, the sound of glasses clinking filled the room, signaling the start of the announcement.

Grandpa White rose from his seat, his presence commanding the attention of the entire hall. The murmurs died down, and all focus shifted to him.

"As you all know, the White family values strength, legacy, and commitment," he began, his voice firm yet warm. "Today, we are gathered here to celebrate a new beginning—one that marks the union of my grandson, Kael White, and his bride-to-be, Esme Luna."

A polite round of applause echoed through the hall, though Esme could feel the insincerity behind some of the claps.

Nana remained expressionless, but Charlotte scoffed audibly, making no attempt to hide her disapproval. Esme felt her stomach twist under Charlotte's piercing glare.

Kael, unaffected by the tension, tightened his grip on Esme's hand and led her toward the center of the room, where the engagement ceremony would take place.

Lucan stood near the bar, his jaw clenched as he watched the scene unfold. Esme knew he still had doubts about her reason for agreeing to this engagement. But there was nothing she could say that would change anything now.

Kael reached into his pocket and pulled out a velvet box. He opened it, revealing a breathtaking diamond ring. The room fell silent as Kael took Esme's left hand, his fingers cool against her skin.

"You ready?" he asked, his voice low, meant only for her to hear.

Esme swallowed hard, her heart hammering in her chest. She didn't trust herself to speak, so she simply nodded.

Kael slid the ring onto her finger. The moment it settled, applause broke out again—this time louder, though still carrying a mix of emotions.

Grandpa White nodded approvingly, while Nana pressed her lips into a thin line. Charlotte, on the other hand, stormed out of the hall without a word.

Kael barely spared her a glance before leaning in close to Esme's ear. "Smile, sweetheart. You're the future Mrs. White now."

Esme forced a smile, but inside, she felt like she had just sealed a deal with the devil.

****. ****. ****.