Chapter 1

The sun shone brightly through the large French window emanating a rich golden glow in the expensive hotel room.

I sat on the soft velvet bed as Kimberly sat infront of the mirror, her makeup artists working on her. Her face was a work of art, although she had said that I was a more beautiful, I thought I couldn't compete with her looks.

The main door opened revealing Mrs Dior dressed in an expensive tailor made dress. Her rich elegant style attracted my gaze as she walked up to Kim.

Like any mother she smiled at Kim before planting a quick peck on Kim's temple.

Kim forced a smile before her mother turned walking out of the room. Kim gazed back to the mirror before turning her gaze to me through the mirror.

I could sense her nervousness, I knew she was happy about this wedding heck! We didn't even know the groom. Kim was just doing this for her family, all her life she's been nothing but good to them.

She muttered something to herself as the artist continued. She held her gaze with me before turning away.

I stood up a sigh leaving my parted lips as I walked to the main door. I opened the door before glancing over at Kim then walked out.

...

Minutes later I found myself walking in the hotel garden bathing in the beautiful autumn sunshine.

I could see the Dior family commanding every servant around. I mean who could blame them, it was their little darling's wedding and heck she was to be wedded to the heir of the richest family in Country Z and Heavenly City, the mysterious Alessandro De Luca.

The Dior's called it the wedding of the century, a perfect match of status and wealth.

The Dior's saw this wedding as an opportunity of a lifetime, becoming the relatives of the De Luca family meant more power, status and wealth.

I could not understand why Kim was depressed, I knew she wanted her own freedom but marrying into the De Luca family meant a secure future.

I sighed as the delicate scent of roses filled my nostrils, I glanced over at the guests approaching, they were of elegance. From their glimmering expensive outfits I could tell they were from the richer class. Well-known celebrities entered, their fans crowding the front of the hotel. I knew from the way they dressed they were attending the wedding from the De Luca side.

I could see the De Luca had great importance in this wedding. I could tell that this place's decor costed hundreds of millions and dollars.

Some of the guests who had already settled in or arrived earlier were conversing enjoying the free expensive delicacies as they walked to the ceremony.

I glanced at my wristwatch and sure enough, I had twenty minutes to get ready.

I immediately rushed to Kim's room where I had left my clothes.

As I entered I met with Kim's family panic written on their faces.

"Find her!" Mr Dior yelled at his guards before they hurriedly ran out of the door

I stared at the face of my best friend's father as if smoke was coming out of his ears while horns grew on his head. I knew that Kim wasn't happy about this marriage but for her to run away without informing me that is just low even for her. I stared at Kim's entire family as we stood inside the hotel room.

"Father, if sister doesn't appear we'll have to suffer the wrath of the De Luca family" I heard Kevin's voice carried all hint of panic.

Mr Dior frowned as he remembered how many losses he'll have to face if this wedding should not go through.

After a while Mr Dior's men came back with worried expressions.

"Sir…Ms Kim is nowhere to be found" The head man replied nervously

"What are we to do husband?" Mrs Kim asked as she leaned onto the wall

Mr Dior smiled as he walked towards me and I felt my heart beating rapidly in my ribcage. Although I had known Mr Dior for ten years now I knew his true form was dangerous. All his gentle and kind personality was just a mask, all he was, was a brutal man.

He stopped in front of me taking my hands into his as the smile on his face simply made a shiver run down my spine.

"Claire my dear…" he began his voice gentle

"Uncle…" I replied as I stared into his dark face

"Do me the favor of marrying Kim's groom" I heard gasps from across the room

"Wh… at…?" I stuttered as I glanced around the room

"I beg you my dear" he caressed my hands

"Richard are you crazy, how can you switch brides?" Mrs Dior yelled as she stomped towards us

"Do I have a choice? Your stupid daughter has ran away and now if the wedding doesn't occur, you know the De Luca family won't spare us" Mr Dior's face turned pale

"Uncle why does it have to be me though?" I asked as I stared at the entire Dior family

"Because you were the only one who was close to Kim" He tried to reason out but his reason wasn't good enough

"What if Kim should return after the wedding?" I raised a brow as I glanced at everyone

"She'll not disturb you, and I promise you this my dear your future will be secured as long as you pretend to be Kim" He explained and I thought of the benefits I'd have as Mrs De Luca

"And my parents? " I again asked and I saw the faces of Dior's tired with my question

"We'll talk to them" this time Kevin replied, I hated his perfect face.

"Okay I agree but…"

"Child enough with the questions and just do us this favor" I heard Old Dior yell as I flinched a little

"Old Dior the problem is Kim and I are different people " I heard Kevin scoff as he walked to me

"Don't worry about that and just get dressed, we'll take care of it. The De Luca haven't even seen Kim's face" He patted my head before he opened the door entering the wedding venue leaving me alone with Mr Dior

"Just get dressed dear" I heard him say before he walked out along with the rest of the family leaving me with a few maids

I sighed before glancing around, my heart rapidly beating. I remembered how this deal with the De Luca was important for the Dior's and I knew that Kim was stupid for running away.

The De Luca was a half Korean and Italian family who nobody knew about how they became rich. But we all knew that they were the most famous and wealthy family in Country Z. Everybody feared them and wouldn't dare of crossing them. Other wealthy families tried to pin a marriage with them and I guess the Dior got lucky.

Here I was standing in my best friend's room staring at my reflection in the mirror as I wore my best friend's expensive pure white custom-made dress decorated with gold and diamonds. One of the maids pulled me to sit down where Kim had been sitted before, they began applying exquisite makeup on my face, enhancing my beauty.

I glanced over at a picture of me and Kim days before the wedding. Her smile was so radiant and sweet.

'Where could you have gone Kim?' I thought

"Madam we are done, please let us know if we should redo it" The maids stepped back as I glanced at the mirror

"It's quite nice" I kindly smiled but guilt was eating me up

The door opened revealing Mrs Dior with my mom who immediately rushed to me.

"Claire I couldn't imagine my ears when the Diors told me you were getting married to Kim's groom" My mother cupped my face tears twinkling in her eyes

"Don't worry mom, I'm securing our future" I sadly said asked Mrs Dior asked the maid's of leave

"Jasmine… we will compensate…"Mrs Dior began but my mother cut her off

" If my daughter gets into trouble I'll forget our years of friendship "My mother's gaze was deadly

" Come on Claire let's get you to the alter"Mrs Dior said

I stood up nervousness filling my entire being, I wore the veil before grabbing the bouquet.

Walking downstairs to the garden entrance, I stood by Mr Dior who had a grateful smile. He reached out to me and brought down the veil covering my face.

Countless thoughts ran through my head. I was freshly graduated from college and was now looking for a job but here I was getting married to her best friend's groom.

Chapter 2

I heard the wedding tune begin to play. Everywhere was very quiet and people's gaze were focused on us. I held onto Mr Dior's nervously, we walked towards where the groom stood.

I couldn't help but raise my gaze to get a glance at the mysterious Alessandro De Luca.

He wore an elegant black tuxedo, his devilishly handsome face held a cold expression. His body stood tall and straight. I knew women were envious of this marriage.

The music paused as I stood in front of Alessandro. I was really nervous, the man's aura was really powerful, his dark grey had a layer of frost.

I heard the priest begin the ceremony which went on smoothly.

After space out for a while before I heard the priest say, you may now kiss the bride. I froze in place, he was to raise the veil and see I'm not Kim. I raised my gaze and turned to the Dior's who had horror painted on their faces.

Suddenly the veil lifted and my gaze nervously turned to Alessandro who immediately crushed his lips into mine.

After a while he moved away letting me catch my breath, his eyes carried a hint of mischief. He seemed to have a knowing look.

I silently sat down in the limousine alone as it drove through the busy streets of Heavenly City, as I stared out of the window as I thought about my life.

My life was going to change from now on,my now supposed husband was left behind to discuss the business deal with the Dior's . And here I was changing my identity from Claire Montague to Kimberley Dior no to Kim De Luca the eldest mistress of the De Luca .

I felt the car's speed slowly decrease and I turned my head to see it driving through huge metal gates. I stared at the magnificent mansion before I felt the car stop and the driver got down opening the door for me.

I got off as I held my wedding gown gawking at the castle like mansion with luxurious gardens with green bushes and colourful flowers. The mansion was made of ivory walls and several tall square towers. The towers connected by large bridges and small windows covered its walls along with gaps for archery and artillery. A big fountain in the middle of the garden surrounded by grass and bushes af all kinds of shapes, different ranges of flowers were scattered symmetrical across the garden.

"Evening" I immediately bowed as she stood in front of me

"What is your name?" She asked

"Cl… Kim" I immediately realized the mistake I could have committed.

"That's a nice name it suits your new last name" she remarked as she introduced herself as June, the head maid.

She smiled before walking me to the stairs, climbing as she narrated about the De Luca family , I mean my husband's house. Heck I didn't even know him that well.

"First young master should be back soon" I heard June say as she opened a door at the end of the corridor

Oh that must be his title in the De Luca family, but I shouldn't let her know that I don't even know my stupid friend's groom.

"And the family?" I asked as we entered the room

"On their way"

Wow!!

The bedroom is shrouded in mystery and sophistication, with walls painted a deep, rich grey that seems to absorb the light around it. The furniture is sleek and modern, with a black wooden bedframe and dresser that add to the room's dramatic ambiance. Dark purple accents and bedding add a pop of color, while floor-to-ceiling curtains in a heavy, black fabric keep the outside world at bay. The room is illuminated only by table lamps with black shades, casting a warm, golden glow over the space. The overall effect is one of luxurious intimacy, a cozy retreat from the world outside.

"Freshen up, the bathroom is there and the closet there" She pointed before leaving.

I stared around before walking towards the bathroom and opening the glass door to see its walls covered with black marbles

Was this man obsessed with the colour black or was he a mafia or something.

I saw male and feminine toiletries and walked over to them picking up the feminine one's. I took off the wedding gown before jumping into the shower and took a quick bath.

I came out wearing a towel walking towards the closet which was filled with both male and female clothes. I walked to my side and found rows of expensive clothes, shoes, handbags, a table for sunglasses and hats. I chose penny c summer pajamas and morning slippers.

I walked out of the closet to the dressing table to find different perfumes and make up. I gasped before hearing a knock on the door.

"Ms Kim, dinner is ready and everyone is waiting for you" I heard June say before she walked away

I headed out to find the dining room filled with the Moore family and all the sits were taken except the two near my groom's sister and brother . I slowly walked to it before I sat beside her.

"Kim darling, I never knew you were adopted" I heard Mrs De Luca say as the maids served the food

"Uh… yes" I awkwardly smiled

"So… how are you liking it?" Mr De Luca asked as he prepared to eat

"It's nice" I reply before we all began to eat

I was served steak along with a potato salad beside it was a wine glass , how was I supposed to drink some I've never drank. As the maid was about to pour the wine I stopped her.

"Juice will be fine" I replied as everyone stared at me

"Why stare at her if she doesn't want wine" I heard a cold voice and everyone immediately continued with their food

I turned to see him, my groom. He was still in his wedding suit but without the jacket and tie, his shirt sleeves were rolled up. I could sense his aura as a dangerous one and that people feared him along with his family.

He sat beside me as he served himself silently.

"Master let me…" a maid nervously said as she tried to serve him

"Mhmm…" He responded as he placed down the utensils

I gazed at everyone and they seemed to be shocked that he allowed the maid serve him.

I resumed eating before I stole a glance at him, I admit he was more stunning up close and his fragrance was intoxicating.

After dinner everyone left and as I got up a maid approached me saying Alessandro called for me in his study. I followed her to the other side of the mansion and stopped by a door as she opened it for me.

Alessandro De Luca , my so-called husband , stood by the window in his dimly lit office, surrounded by the trappings of wealth and power. His office was a testament to his status, with dark wood paneling, leather-bound books, and a massive mahogany desk. A crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the room. Alessandro's sharp jawline and piercing dark eyes seemed chiseled from granite, his dark hair slicked back to reveal a prominent forehead. He wore a tailored black suit, his broad shoulders and athletic build commanding attention.

"Atleast you're not arrogant nor spoilt" I heard his hoarse cold voice say before he turned his gaze to me

"Sign that" He pointed towards the mahogany desk were a document layed

I slowly walked over to the mahogany desk and stared down at the document before picking up the pen beside the document and stared at the document written marriage certificate in bold letters. I nervously held the pen as I tried my best to sign with Kim's signature.

"I'm done" I suddenly heard his footsteps as he walked towards me picking up the document before saying

"Now sign that marriage certificate next, but this time with your real signature" came his dark tone as my face went pale as I nervously raised my head to stare at him

"You heard me and make sure to read the names" He mocked as my fingertips nervously held the other document's cover before turning it

Another marriage certificate??! My heart was thudding uncontrollably as I slowly read through its content.

I felt a gasp leave my mouth as my eyes with those names written in bold letters Claire Rivera Montague. I slowly raised my head as my hazel eyes met with his cold daring dark eyes his lips just smirking

How??

TBC

I woke up to the morning sun ray shining on my face, I lazily sat up as I rubbed my drowsy eyes. Yawned as I stretched my arms before getting up from the bed.

Walking into the bathroom I made my way to the toilet and did my business before taking off my pajamas and hopping into the shower.

As the little warm droplets fell onto my delicate skin I closed my eyes humming in pleasure as my mind drifted to last night.

"Tell me Ms Montague…" he walked towards the drawer opening it

"How much did the Dior's promise you?" He brought out a lighter before setting the first marriage certificate in flames

"I don't understand" I nervously replied as I stared at the man in front of me

"Are you stupid that you can't understand the fact that you're not Kim Dior" He growled as he threw the burning document into the metal trashcan

"Mr De Luca , what you are accusing me of is a crime" I confidently say as I regain my posture as I hear him scoff

"I'm aware of the fraud you're committing Ms Montague" he replied as he rolled his eyes

"I am not committing anything Mr De Luca " I replied as I stared into his dark eyes

"And how are you sure?" He leaned towards me as he rested his arms on the desk

"Pretty sure" I angrily stomped my foot

"Hmm…" He stepped back opening a drawer on his desk bringing out a document

"Read" He threw the document on the desktop and I picked it up

I gasped as I went through its pages, it was filled with my pictures with my parents. Information about me, all copy of my birth certificate along with a photo of my ID. What shocked me the most was pictures of me days before Kim's wedding proposal.

"Claire, let's be honest with each other. Why are you pretending to be your best friend?" I raised my head as he stared at me

"Ho… how?" I stuttered as I gently placed the document on the desk top

"I appreciate that you aren't putting up an act" He smirked as he walked towards me

"You may not be Kim but I can definitely say you're worth being my wife" He stood behind me slowly taking my right hand which was clenching on the pen

"Now be a good wife and sign that document" He placed my hand on the document

I first hesitated, I was not sure if he wanted to take advantage of me but on the other hand I was scared that he would pin me as a fraud and I would bring shame to my family. And so I reluctantly signed before he told me to leave.

I wrapped myself in a towel after I was done showering as my hair dripped while I walked into the room.

"Why are you making my floors wet?" I raised my head to only see Alessandro sitted by the bed

I was shocked because he didn't spend the night here last night. It's hard to sleep alone in this huge luxurious room and comfy bed.

"There was no spare towel" I replied as I placed a hand on my head

He walked into the closet before coming back holding the towel before he threw it to me and I immediately caught it.

"After you're done, clean my floor" He coldly said as he entered the bathroom

I sighed as I stared at the towel in my hands before I began wiping my hair with it as I walked towards the vanity table staring at my reflection.

Minutes later I annoyingly placed the towel on the table as my hair still remained wet. I heard the bathroom door and I turned to see Alessandro wearing a towel wrapped around his torso as he held another wiping his hair.

The feeling of embarrassed painted my cheeks red as I quickly turned back to the mirror.

'Kim Dior why?'

I silently thought as I closed my eyes, I felt him walk past me. I opened my eyes and saw him enter the walk in closet. He finally came out after a while wearing a tailor made black suit, his cologne was strong and seemed to intoxicate me.

"Get dressed before you catch a cold" His cold voice said as he adjusted his watch

"Mmm…" I got up rushing inside the walk in closet, I was stuck in place because I wasn't used to wearing such expensive clothes before.

"What's taking you so long?" I heard him ask and before I could reply he entered making me flinch

"Why are you just standing there ?" he asked as he walked towards me

"Why did you enter?" I asked out of anger and embarrassment while he just stared in front of me

"What if I was naked?" I asked and a smirk appeared on his lips

"We're now a married couple, so it's not a problem to see you naked" he gave me a devilish smirk

"Now let's get you some clothes" He walked past me and took out a sundress before handing it over to me

"Beautiful for meeting your parents after your wedding" I froze, how did he know I planned to meet them

"And here" I returned my gaze to him as he held a pair of black lace panties and bra

"Give me those" I snatched them away from him as embarrassment filled my face

He smirked before he walked out. I quickly got dressed and walked out to find the bedroom empty

I grabbed my phone and walked downstairs, a maid approached me and told me Alessandro had arranged a driver for me.

When arrived outside, I found a black Rolls Royce parked at the entrance. A young man who looked asian stood beside it with a professional smile.

"Mrs De Luca enter please" I glanced around until I realised he was talking to me.

I gave an awkward smile before I approached the car as he opened the door for me, I entered only to find Alessandro inside with a tablet.

"Don't be late and come back early" he said before he got off the car

I stared down as the car drove out of the huge manor. I stared out of the window before we arrived an hour later in front of the Montague villa.

I wasn't ready to face my family yet especially my half siblings and my stepmother and father. I knew my mother knew the truth of what had happened at the wedding but they may have been bad mouthing me and my mother.

I walked to the door before I breathed in and managed to knock on the door. It took a while before I saw my father's face on the other side, he was staring daggers at me.

"You stupid girl, do you know what you've done?" He asked

"Father I know this looks bad but please listen" I clasped my hands together

"Dad can't you see this little princess of yours is a slut, she dares steal her best friend's husband just like that" I heard Megan, one of my half sister say

"Dad I was forced to take Kim's place…" I started to narrate the entire story to my father with my entire family listening

"So what you're saying is the Dior girl ran away and the Dior's forced you to take her place?" He asked and I nodded

"Without my consent? Richard has the nerve" I could hear my dad's voice changing in an instant

"Don't tell me you believe her dad?" Megan asked

"Charles are you gonna buy her story, darling don't be stupid. The De Luca would have known that she isn't Kim" Charlotte, my stepmother said glaring at me

"Claire… if you're indeed telling me lies you're good as dead" I met my dad's cold gaze