Episode 4

Enzo…

As night falls, I take a shower, get ready, and drive my car to our favorite bar.

As soon as I enter, I spot my friend at the counter.

With a wide smile, I approach, and as soon as we see each other, he stands up, and we greet each other with a tight hug.

Our friendship is like that of brothers; it's a long-standing friendship.

"What's up, little brother?" I say, smiling.

We settle at a table, and Liam begins to tell me that he's just passing through town, wanting to open a new branch, to expand his family's business. He came earlier than planned when he saw the news that I had been arrested.

"You could find me a job, right, man?"

"I thought you were working with your father! Are you going to tell me he fired you?"

"Almost!"

So I tell him everything that happened; he didn't seem surprised.

"In our circles, this type of contract between families is quite common! What surprises me is such a proposal coming from your family, which has always put love above everything else!"

"They know I'll never marry, after what that bitch did to me!"

"Sorry, Enzo! But do you think this woman deserves all this? For you to waste away day after day in nights out that do you no good, that only bring problems to you, your family, and affect the company… that is, your assets?"

My gaze wanders around the room, observing the people around us, and I allow myself a moment of reflection on my friend's words. The soft music in the background creates a perfect soundtrack for my introspection.

I take a sip of whiskey and smile at my friend, recognizing the image I project of myself.

"I am a successful man! Human Resources Director of my father's company, people respect me for my work and my determination! I am proud of what I have achieved!"

However, this is soon overshadowed by a feeling of emptiness upon hearing Liam's words.

"Do they respect you or fear you because you're an heir? Who are you trying to fool, Enzo? We know that people stopped respecting you after you started being completely irresponsible in your private life! A spoiled brat, daddy's boy who thinks he has the world in his hands…"

"I know I'm spoiled!" I admit, remembering the nights I indulge in excess. "I can't resist a whim. Women… ah, women! Each one brings something new, something exciting. It's like I'm always searching for the next adventure," I say and smile, knowing that this incessant search is both a source of pleasure and loneliness.

I observe a group of women laughing in the distance and can't help but feel a familiar emotion: the thrill of conquest.

"Every night, a new face to charm!" I murmur.

"But deep down, maybe you're just running away from something!"

My expression changes for a brief moment, revealing a vulnerability hidden beneath the confident layer.

"Maybe I'm trying to fill a void I can't understand! I'm focused on my career, but the nights are just fleeting; the next day, everything goes back to normal. I want to cover up the pain, but the next day, there I am…"

I take another sip of whiskey, feeling the warmth of the drink spread through my body.

My answers to Liam made no sense, but I wanted to change the subject.

"I am strong and ambitious, my friend! And yet, I am just a man in search of something more… recognition or simply the next thrill of the night!"

"Or maybe you need love!" he scoffs, after taking a sip of his drink.

I burst out laughing, because Liam is a man who gets involved with many women; he's the type who pays for a luxury escort to satisfy him and has never had any intention of dating, marrying, or even having children.

"Tell me, Enzo, what will your position be on this? Maybe you should accept this marriage and try to rebuild your image!"

"Do you really think that would be the best option?"

"Maybe! If I could, I'd help you, but right now the company still has my aunt as a partner!"

"I understand!"

I also mentioned Suzana's proposal.

"At least with her, I wouldn't have to get married and..."

"Man, be careful with Suzana! That woman has always liked you and she could be a problem, especially after a betrayal! I believe there's nothing more dangerous than the resentment of a betrayed woman!"

His words sent an unpleasant shiver down my entire spine.

"Do you know who the woman your parents chose is?"

"No!"

"If I were in your place and knowing your parents, I would opt for whoever they chose! They are your parents and they want what's best for you!"

"It doesn't seem like it!"

"Don't talk nonsense, Enzo! Your parents are the best I've ever known, be grateful to have them! And you asked for this!"

Thoughtful of his words, we remained there talking about random subjects and, after a few drinks, I went home.

When I arrived, Joice was in the living room, reading a book.

"Still awake, sis?"

"Yeah! I can't sleep… how was your meeting with Liam?"

"Very helpful! Has Dad gone to bed already?"

"No, he's in the office with Mom!"

I leave a kiss on my sister's forehead and go to the office.

I knock on the door and, as soon as I enter, they both look at me curiously. My mother was sitting on my father's lap.

"If I have no other alternative, I accept this marriage!"

The two looked at each other, astonished, and stood up.

"Are you sure, son?" Mom asks sweetly.

"Yes, but since I'm being forced into this, I make it clear that I will never touch this woman, we will never be a real couple!"

"While you are married, you both will, indeed, have to respect each other! I will draw up a contract specifying everything; if you have any demands, send them to me and I'll add them to the contract!"

I just nodded and went up to my room, full of hatred.

I punched the wall; I can't believe they're doing this to me.

I will make this woman's life a living hell! Since she wants to marry for money, she will pay a very high price.

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