Page 124 of My Ruthless Husband

“I’m really glad you’re here,” he says, his eyes meeting mine with a smile. “I’ve been looking forward to this all week.”

All week?Dad had only texted me about this last night. How long had they been planning this? Guilt starts to gnaw at me. It wouldn’t be right to continue deceiving him as well. I should tell him about Dad’s match making. I don’t want to lead Edward on and give him any wrong signals.

I manage a smile. “I didn’t expect to see you here tonight.”

Edward’s smile doesn’t falter. Instead, it seems to grow more assured. “Yeah, I know. Uncle Christopher thought it would be nice to surprise you.”

As he speaks, it dawns on me that Edward knew I was unaware of the setup and chose not to inform me. Why didn’t he say something? I don’t know what to make of this.

I jump when I feel his lips against my knuckles. “I can’t deny that I was in on the surprise,” he admits. “But I don’t feel guilty about it. In fact, I’m glad your dad suggested this. I’ve been wanting to spend more time with you, and I hope this isn’t too forward, but I really like you.” His eyes hold mine.

My face reddens, caught off guard by his boldness. I shift uncomfortably in my seat.

In a subtle, clumsy motion, I gently withdraw my hand from his and reach for the sparkling water. “I... I appreciate your honesty, Edward,” I manage to say before taking healthy swigs. Then, “I just... wasn’t expecting this.” I avoid his gaze, focusing on the plate of food in front of me.

Edward’s expression remains composed. “I understand,” he says smoothly. “This might be unexpected for you, but our fathers have always envisioned a union between us.”

My eyes fly up, meeting his. “What do you mean by that?”

Edward leans back. “You know exactly what I mean. Marriage. Our families already work as one unit in the business world. But there’s more to gain. A union between us would strengthen the bond, ensuring our empire’s legacy. It will solidify our families’ alliance and would set a foundation for the future.”

For a moment, I just sit there like a statue. I can’t believe it. I simply cannot. I don’t know how long I stayed frozen but when I snap out of the shock, I ask, “Are you for real, or is this some kind of sick joke? Does my father even know about this?”

His sleek brows arch at that question. “Of course he does. Our fathers have discussed this at length.”

I suck in a breath. How could my father do this without even talking to me? The man I’ve always trusted and looked up to, the one I thought was closest to me, has orchestrated this entiresetup behind my back. I feel betrayed. How could he think I would be okay with this? I thought we had a great relationship, one built on unconditional love, mutual respect and open communication. But now, I’m questioning everything.

And marriage? Edward is talking about marriage as if it’s just another business deal, another merger to strengthen our empire. My stomach churns at the thought. I can’t believe this is happening. I’m already with Damian. And now, Dad is forcing me to consider an arranged marriage for the sake of business?

“He never mentioned anything about this to me,” I say numbly.

“I understand it might be surprising, but your dad thought it would be best to approach this naturally. He didn’t want to pressure you.”

He didn’t want to pressure me? My eyes sting. He didn’t want to pressure me but he did end up cornering me. I begin shaking my head. “But Edward, I’m only twenty. This seems like a lot to consider at my age, don’t you think?”

I desperately want to set him straight. I want to tell him about Damian. But how do I do that without revealing too much?

How do I explain that I am in love with my father’s business rival? How would Edward or my father understand when they are forcing me to consider an arranged marriage for the said business.

How do I explain that I’m in love with the man they all conspired to invite and humiliate, especially my dad? How do I tell him that the man who had the courage to defend me against the cruel remarks—when even Edward and my father didn’t—is the one I want to share my life with? How?

Edward’s smile remains steady. “You’re going to turn twenty-one in a few months. You’re more mature than most people I know, and you’ve grown up in the same world I have. You understand the responsibilities.”

His casual dismissal of my age makes my face flush with a mix of embarrassment and fury. “That’s not the point, Edward. Just because I’m almost twenty-one doesn’t mean I’m ready for this kind of commitment.”

Edward leans forward slightly, his tone smooth and persuasive. “I get it, really. It’s a lot to take in. But think about it—we’re in a unique position. Our union isn’t just about us. It’s about ensuring the future of everything our families have worked for. You’re not alone in this, and I’ll be there to support you every step of the way.”

“Edward,” I attempt to control the panic that’s building inside me. I take a deep breath, summoning my courage. “I never really thought of you in that way,” I say, my voice wobbling. “And right now, I want to focus on school and other priorities.”

“I appreciate your honesty. I’m willing to be patient, to give you the time you need.”

But I don’t need time!

I stop my leg that was bouncing under the table uncontrollably, and subtly wipe sweat from my forehead. “What about Melissa?”

After all, Dad has two partners. And Melissa fits in the criteria he mentioned perfectly. In fact, Melissa would welcome this arrangement with glee.

“Melissa is already engaged.”

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