Prologue

I never thought my life would take such a turn.

For 25 years, I lived believing I had control over my fate. That I could shape my own path, love on my own terms, and build an empire without anyone dictating my choices. But one moment, one promise, and everything I once believed in shattered.

I never thought I would end up here—with him.

His presence was the last thing I ever wanted in my life. Cold, arrogant, ruthless—Adam Black was a man I had sworn to avoid. Yet, fate had other plans.

I had made a promise.

And that promise changed everything.

Now, I stand as his wife, bound not by love, but by duty. Trapped in a life I never asked for. Every day is a battle—against him, against fate, against my own heart that threatens to betray me.

But what if this forced fate isn't my curse... but my second chance?

What if love was never meant to come easy?

And what if, in the end, this promise was the only thing that could save us both?

"She never expected to be his.....

He never wanted her to be a substitute."

"A life she never expected.....

The wife he always wanted"

" Unspoken love, unbearable pain."

How much pain can two hearts endure just because they never spoke?

They had love, they had time… so why did they only have regrets?

Read the story to know more

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Introduction

Samaira Nathan, a 24-year-old woman, was raised in India by her grandmother alongside her elder sister, Aisha. After their grandmother’s passing, the sisters moved to Italy when Samaira was just eight years old, while Aisha was ten. Years later, Samaira became one of the most successful entrepreneurs in Europe—a billionaire, an epitome of intelligence and beauty, a woman who could achieve anything she set her mind to. However, beneath the cold exterior and power, there was a story few knew.

Adam Black, a 27-year-old business tycoon, was one of the most successful and influential men in the industry. Known for his arrogance, striking looks, and unmatched business acumen, he was Europe’s most eligible bachelor. But behind the charm and control, there was more to him than met the eye.

Chapter One

A tense silence filled the expansive conference room of one of Europe’s fastest-growing companies, The Nature Corporation. Around twenty executives and department heads sat in anticipation, their attention focused on a man standing at the front. Mr. James, the head of the production team, confidently presented his proposal.

“These changes in the project will significantly—”

A sharp, authoritative voice sliced through the air, interrupting him mid-sentence.

“Your idea is not convincing, Mr. James.”

All eyes turned toward the head of the table. Sitting with an air of effortless dominance was a woman exuding power and intelligence. Dressed in an impeccable black pantsuit, her presence commanded the room.

She was Samaira Nathan, the youngest and most successful entrepreneur in Europe.

She turned toward her secretary. “Elena, I want all the progress reports by tomorrow morning.”

“Sure, ma’am,” Elena replied without hesitation.

“The meeting is over.” Samaira rose, picking up her iPhone from the table. As she turned to leave, Mr. James hesitated before speaking.

“But, Samaira—”

The room tensed. Every gaze flicked between Mr. James and their formidable leader. Samaira stopped but didn’t turn around.

“The meeting is over,” she reiterated, her voice like steel. Then, finally, she looked at him. “And it’s President.”

With that, she strode out, Elena following closely behind.

As they walked through the corridor, Samaira rubbed her temple. The sharp ache in her head was becoming more frequent these days.

“Elena, reschedule all my meetings.”

“Of course, President. Is everything alright?” Elena asked, surprised by the sudden change in schedule.

“Yes, just get it done. I’m leaving for the day.”

Elena watched her boss disappear down the hallway, her mind racing. President never leaves early. What happened today?

Back in the conference room, the remaining employees let out a collective sigh of relief. A few began murmuring amongst themselves.

“Does she ever smile?” one whispered.

“I’ve worked here for two years, and I’ve never seen her happy,” another added.

“She has everything. Why does she always seem so... distant?”

Their eyes turned to Mr. James. Someone asked, “You knew her family, right? What happened to her?”

Mr. James sighed, his face clouded with memories. “She wasn’t always like this... Sometimes, loss changes a person.”

The sudden sound of the door creaking open made their hearts skip a beat. Samaira stood there, her piercing gaze sweeping over them.

“I don’t pay you to gossip about me,” she said icily. “Get back to work.”

She grabbed a small pill bottle from the table and left again without another word.

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In the parking lot, Elena was waiting near Samaira’s sleek black car. As soon as Samaira approached, she handed her some documents.

“I’ve taken care of everything, President.”

“Good.”

She slipped into the backseat, instructing the driver to leave. As the car rolled forward, she exhaled slowly. The weight pressing down on her chest never seemed to lift. She popped open the pill bottle and swallowed a tablet with a sip of water. Resting her head against the seat, she closed her eyes, allowing exhaustion to take over.

Memories from the past flooded her mind like an old movie reel.

“Happy birthday to you… Happy birthday dear Aisha!”

A room filled with laughter. A table decorated with balloons and flowers. A little girl in a floral dress standing in front of a cake, her bright eyes full of excitement.

Samaira, a tiny version of herself, stood beside her sister, grinning as she fed her a piece of cake.

“Happy birthday, Aish.”

“Thank you, Sam!” Aisha beamed, squeezing her younger sister’s hand.

A playful voice interrupted. “Ahh, you little Joey!”

A boy in a crisp white shirt and trousers stole the last bite from Samaira’s hand, grinning mischievously. The room erupted in laughter.

“Our Aishu is ten years old now,” their mother said warmly.

“Yes, Mamma! I’m a big girl now!” Aisha declared proudly.

Their father stepped forward. “Now, who wants presents?”

“Me, Daddy!” Aisha jumped excitedly.

“Me too, Daddy!” their cousin Joey chimed in, just as eager.

The curtains were drawn back, revealing a mountain of toys. But Aisha’s expression faltered when she looked at Samaira.

“You didn’t bring anything for me?”

Her voice wavered, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Samaira lowered her head, feigning disappointment, before slowly bringing her hands forward.

Aisha gasped. “Candies!”

She clutched them to her chest, jumping up and down as if she had received the most precious gift in the world.

Their father chuckled. “Princess, you don’t like our gifts?” he asked in mock sadness.

Aisha giggled. “No, they’re nice… But these candies are my favorite. And Sammy is my favorite too!”

Joey pouted. “And me?”

Aisha sighed dramatically. “Fine, you too… but less than Sammy.”

Laughter filled the room once again.

Samaira smiled in her sleep—until a voice pulled her back to reality.

“Ma’am… Ma’am.”

Her driver’s voice was low and hesitant.

“We’ve arrived.”

She opened her eyes slowly, the warmth of the memory fading into the cold truth of the present.

It was just a dream. She’s not here. And she never will be again, Sam.

Pushing the pain aside, she stepped out of the car, her gaze lifting to the imposing white mansion before her.

A masterpiece of pure marble, its grandeur was undeniable. Towering columns, vast glass windows, and intricate carvings made it seem almost ethereal under the moonlight. It was a symbol of power and success, admired by many.

But to her, it was a hollow monument to a life she no longer had.

A prison of memories she could never escape.

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