Chapter 47

On their wedding day, Elsie didn’t smile once in her stunning gown. They exchanged rings, and when the officiant asked for the kiss, William took her hand—the one with the ring—and leaned in slowly. Under her white veil, her lashes fluttered nonstop, like they couldn’t settle down. He felt a tug in his chest, wanted to kiss her so badly, but held back. After all, she married him under a three-year contract—eventually, she’d leave. At the evening banquet, William got plied with alcohol non-stop, stumbling around pretending to be drunk. Someone called out, "Elsie, come help your groom out." He looked over and saw her pause, looking torn for a second, then finally walked over and hooked his arm like she was steadying an old man. Back at the villa that was now their wedding house, she was already waiting on the bed when he walked into the room that night. She hadn't changed, still in that red evening dress from the toasts. It was off-shoulder, showing her delicate shoulders; the silky mate