. Substitute Bride

“I won't marry that girl!” Leonardo shouted angrily, throwing the contract papers off the table. Alessandro, looking out of the window, listened to his son’s outburst. The study, lavishly decorated with antique furniture and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, was thick with tension.

"Leonardo. Try to understand. This wedding is very important for this merger," his father declared nonchalantly.

"No, Father, it is not fucking possible. I won't marry a slut like her," Leonardo refused sternly. "By the way," he narrowed his grey eyes sceptically. "I was supposed to marry Ricci's other daughter. So, why did they change the bride at the last moment?" he scowled.

"We don't know why they changed the bride. However, this marriage will only last for three years and not a real one, so it doesn't matter who the bride is," his father explained patiently, but Leonardo was not in a good mood to understand those things.

"Are you serious, Dad? You want me to marry a whore for a business deal ?! You can't force me to do anything. It's my life, for fucks sake," he huffed, throwing his hand in the air frustratedly.

"Leonardo, you have to marry her, and I am not asking you or giving you a choice, but... ordering you that this is inevitable," his father roared as his patience timed out. "You are supposed to be married to the Ricci girl only for three years, and after three years, whether you leave or divorce her, I won't stop you. I don't even care what you do after three years, but we need this merger for now to strengthen our company."

His father was a very good businessman but was never a good parent. He never cared about his child's feelings but wanted only power and status.

He was an emotionless man and had brought up Leonardo to be one like him, ruthless and heartless. So now Leonardo was a cruel devil just like his father and had no emotion in his heart.

His father had brought him up as an asset in business, which would make him more powerful, but it made Leonardo hate his father even more.

"I can't believe that you have become so blind that you can't even see the consequences. What about your reputation?! What will people say if you make a whore like her your daughter-in-law?! Are you not afraid that your respect in society will decrease?" Leonardo snorted.

"Mind your tongue, Leonardo!" His father barked. "And I don't care about what people say because only money and power speak and I can shut their mouth with my influence. You have no idea how much money and power we will get from this deal. This new status will take us to the height of success that no one has ever reached," he smirked cunningly before adding, "So it won't hurt to make a girl like her Morelli's daughter-in-law for three years. But remember that you must be in this marriage for the whole three years and don't make me repeat myself," his father threatened with a dangerous expression.

"Then please excuse me because I have no plans to get married in the future, and I cannot spoil my reputation just because of your fucking business deal," Leonardo said in a boring tone and began to leave the room. He had enough for the day.

"Leonardo, you can't defy me like this," Leonardo's father warned him, but he didn't stop."If you leave this room, I will disown you, and I will evict you from my property. You will lose your right over the Morelli Empire," he threw this trump card. "So the choice is yours. Live your life as you want and lose everything or marry that girl for only three years and rule the world like a king," he offered loudly, enough to make Leonardo halt at the door.

Leonardo closed his eyes, feeling the anger rush through his veins. He clenched his fists and took deep breaths to control himself as the killer Instinct within him kicked in, wanting him to kill someone right at that moment. He turned to face his father. His eyes were dark and emotionless as he stared back at his father.

"Fine, Dad! You won. I will marry the girl," he accepted firmly, raising his head. "Now, happy?!"

His father grinned triumphally.

"I appreciate your decision, son. Trust me, it's good for everyone. Now, you may leave," Alessandro said arrogantly before turning to his wife. "Let's start preparing for the wedding, darling," he ordered his wife.

His wife, Anna, nodded as she picked up her phone and dialed a few numbers. Leonardo watched as his parents enthusiastically called everyone to give them the news.

He was promised to marry Ricci's elder daughter, Kate Ricci, but their parents switched brides, and now Leonardo had to marry Sofia Ricci.

He felt hatred and anger claw his heart. He had heard the youngest daughter of the Ricci family was ugly and uneducated. The Ricci family didn't care about her because her mother was a bitch who betrayed her husband and used to sleep around. That was why Carlo Ricci left her and married Kat's mother. But now, her daughter, Sofia, was no better than her mother. She was following her mother intently.

Though it would be a contract marriage, he could not help but feel disgusted by the thought of being with a girl like Sofia Ricci for three years.

"Fuck!" He groaned, coming out of his father's study. "My life is so screwed," he yelled as he kicked the wall. "But wait for the worst to come, Sofia Ricci. I will make your life a living hell," he gritted out, staring at the void. "Welcome to hell, Sofia Ricci!" He sneered with hatred.

. My Life Is Screwed

Leonardo entered his friend's condo feeling frustrated and upset. His friend Domenico Russo greeted him with a warm smile, "Hey, Leonardo!"

But Leonardo didn't respond.

Domenico sensed something was wrong and asked, "What's wrong?"

Leonardo huffed.

"Father issue!" Domenico snorted.

Leonardo scowled.

Domenico inquired once more, "Tell me what happened this time."

Leonardo, visibly frustrated, responded with clenched teeth, "He has replaced the bride and now expects me to wed that slut, Sofia Ricci, who is deemed worthless by the Riccis."

"Why did they change the girl at the last moment? Weren't you supposed to marry Kat Ricci?" asked Domenico, clearly worried.

Leonardo sighed deeply and massaged his forehead before pinching the bridge of his nose. "I have no idea," he said, his voice thick with frustration. "My father threatened me, and I have to marry Sofia Ricci. My life is a mess."

Domenico sat next to him and gave him a reassuring pat on the back. "I'm sorry to hear that, my friend. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help."

Leonardo nodded and ordered his drink.

"Hey man, it sounds like you're going through a tough time, but hang in there. I'm here for you if you need anything. And hey, I've got some good news that might cheer you up," Domenico said, giving Leonardo a reassuring wink as the doorbell rang. Domenico got up to open the door and Leonardo followed.

The lady, wearing a sexy short dress that was almost transparent, stood at his doorstep.

Leonardo looked at Domenico in annoyance. Leaning over Leonardo's shoulder, Domenico whispered,

"Have fun. I booked her for you. She is yours for the whole night." Domenico winked at the lady and the woman cast a seductive smile.

The lady's appearance was certainly eye-catching, but Leonardo was in no mood to appreciate it. He felt a deep sense of gloom, making it difficult for him to feel anything other than frustration. As he stood there, lost in thought, Domenico leaned over his shoulder and whispered something that only added to his annoyance.

"She is the best in her skill," Domenico praised, and Leonardo scowled.

Leonardo felt a bit overwhelmed as Domenico left Leonardo alone with the lady after giving him a wink. He took a deep breath and tried to relax.

"Have fun," he reminded himself. After all, he had been looking forward to this moment for weeks.

As Leonardo looked at her, she smiled seductively, biting her lips, and entering the condo. He hesitated, unsure of what to do.

Then Leonardo's gaze followed Domenico's back slowly disappearing into the distance. Despite the nagging feeling in the back of his mind telling him to be responsible, he made a split-second decision to let loose and have a little fun, even if it was just for one last time. He knew that his life would be filled with nothing but more stress and chaos in the coming week, so he figured he might as well enjoy the moment while he still could. He closed the door and turned to face the lady.

He looked at the lady before him, his eyes turning dark as he took in her almost naked appearance.

"So, what do you have in your mind for tonight?" he asked.

She shrugged and said, "I'm up for anything as long as it's fun." Leonardo smirked at her innuendo.

"Then let's have some fun. It was a long day for me," he sighed.

As Leonardo walked in, she swiftly shut the door behind him. Then, she turned to him and gave him her full attention.

"Then let me make you feel good. I will make you forget about this bad day." Wrapping her arms around his neck, she seductively perched herself on his lap, their bodies entwined in an embrace.

Her intoxicating scent and tender touch momentarily transported him from the harsh realities of his world. With each breath, Leonardo felt a surge of desire, an urgent need for release.

Aware of the limited time he had before his predetermined fate took hold, Leonardo's mind raced. His father had orchestrated an alliance with the Ricci family, sealing Leonardo's future with a loveless union. Leonardo yearned to taste the freedom he knew he would soon lose.

Driven by a mix of desperation and defiance, Leonardo wrapped his arms tightly around the call girl, drawing her closer as if searching for an escape from the disappointment in this hook-up. Instead, his fingers roughly grabbed her chin, capturing her gaze and momentarily revealing the desperation and lust as the hardened gaze communicated. After marrying the Ricci girl he couldn't ever have such fun.

In a surge of passion and rebellion, Leonardo pressed his lips forcefully against hers, seeking solace, pleasure, and a fleeting moment of control. The kiss became a fierce exchange, a raw expression of his defiance and determination to live on his own terms, even if only for a brief moment.

In that heated moment, Leonardo lost himself and poured all his frustration and anger into this sexual encounter.

She was left breathless and panting heavily when Leonardo released her mouth. Then, furiously clutching the corner of her dress, Leonardo pulled it over her head and threw it aside.

In an urgency, he unbuckled his belt, pulled the zip down, dragged his pants down with his boxers, and left it near his knees. His hard rod swung free in front of her. Licking her lips, she smiled seductively before falling to her knees and holding his steely rod in her hand. Her hungry tongue darted out, licking his cock from the base to the tip. Leonardo groaned, grabbing her hair harshly. She first licked the tip while stroking him, then she took him entirely into her mouth.

"Fuck!"

Groaning, Leonardo closed his eyes and enjoyed the moment. She moved her head swiftly, pumping his girth in her mouth. Wrapping her hair around his fist, Leonardo took control. His hips bucked, and he started thrusting deep down her throat. Her gagging sound increased his pleasure. Leonardo's gray eyes peered into her wet orbs. He was pleased to find her looking at him with lust and desire in her watery eyes as she willingly took him deep down her throat. Leonardo felt pleasure tightening his balls and was about to burst into his climax any moment.

So, he lifted her to her feet before throwing her on the bed. Then, abruptly parting her thighs, Leonardo drifted his fingers between her legs, touching her hot flesh.

She was already wet and ready for him. Leonardo thrust his finger into her cunt, pulling out a cry from her. Her moans became louder, and she screamed and begged him as she came hard on his finger. Leonardo took a condom from his back pocket and tore the packet, pulling it between his teeth. His cock was already hard, painfully ready to enter her sweet core. Leonardo rolled the condom down his shaft. Thrusting into her hard and deep, he impaled her pussy rough and fast. Leonardo needed it to release his stress, and he knew he was brutal on her, but the girl liked it as she begged for more.

After a few thrusts, Leonardo released his hot cum in the condom, drawing her pleasure with his.

"Thanks for the great fuck," Leonardo smirked, winking at her.

Pulling out of her abruptly, he went to the bathroom, disposed of the condom, and left the condo without glancing back at her.

. Wedding Day

"What's wrong, darling? You look troubled,” Emma asked Carol, her voice laced with false sweetness.

"I was thinking about the contract and Sofia’s wedding. I hope it proves to be a good decision for her. But I have doubts because She is not willing to marry Alessandro Morelli’s son," he said, and his eyes were gloomy as he was pitying his daughter. She went near him and rubbed his shoulder.

Emma stepped closer to him. “Honey, you’re thinking too much. We’re doing this for her future. I mean, who would marry her anyway, with the kind of reputation her mother has?”

She was afraid Carlo would change his decision. She would have buried Sofia with her mother if it were in her hand. Her hatred was so immense she spread the rumor in society that Sofia was a whore, just as her mother was.

Because of Sofia and her mother, Emma couldn't convince Carlo to marry her sooner. But when Sofia's mother died, she came into this house, and she made sure Sofia would live a life worse than hell. Getting Sofia married to Leonardo Morelli was a part of her plan. Leonardo was ruthless, heartless, and a man with no mercy. He was a player who couldn't be loyal to a woman.

Carlo exhaled sharply as if he had a burden on his chest. He took Emma’s hand from his shoulder and affectionately held it in his hand.

“I have never loved Elisa, and I don't even love Sofia. But she is my blood, and I feel responsible for her. I know you took good care of her after Elisa died. But still, we can't change her mother's blood running in her veins. You disciplined her and taught her to be a noble lady. Otherwise, she would have become like Elisa, who liked to go after other men,” he said in his dull voice.

But he didn't know that it was Emma who made him believe that Elisa was a slut. She did it because she wanted him to leave his wife.

'It's good that the dirty bitch died soon. He is mine, and his wealth is for my daughter and me.’ Emma thought inwardly.

Carlo took a deep breath before continuing, "I just hope this marriage will make her responsible and she remains loyal to Leonardo."

“But we can just hope,” Emma sighed dramatically. “However, she will get more money from the wedding as alimony when this marriage contract is annulled. I'll make sure to add this clause to the contract," Emma showed him her most charming smile.

She had already wrapped him around her tiny finger, and she knew it. Carlo loved her more than anything in this world, and he blindly believed in her.

“Thank you, Emma. You are such a nice lady with a golden heart. I am so lucky to have you in my life," Carlo said, kissing my cheek as his eyes shone with pride and love.

Emma giggled. "I will do anything for you, my darling."

*************

The day finally had come. The hall was adorned with opulent decorations, exuding elegance and luxury. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, casting a soft, warm glow over the entire space. Glimmering fairy lights were entwined with delicate white drapes, creating a dreamlike ambiance.

Rows of plush, white chairs lined both sides of the aisle, leading to a beautifully decorated stage at the far end of the hall. Each chair was adorned with intricate floral arrangements, emitting a fragrant aroma that filled the air. Carlo hadn't left anything to make it a grand wedding.

The stage itself was a masterpiece, covered in billowing white fabric and embellished with cascading flowers in hues of pastel. A backdrop of twinkling fairy lights added a touch of enchantment. The focal point of the stage was an exquisite arch entwined with flowers.

Guests, elegantly dressed, filled the hall, their excited murmurs creating a pleasant hum. They took their seats, eagerly awaiting the ceremony to begin. Some mingled, sharing laughter and animated conversations, while others found solace in the serene atmosphere, lost in their own thoughts.

And Sofia, wearing a white gown, was waiting in the bridal chamber for her stepmother to take her to the wedding hall. She hadn't met Leonardo Morelli yet. But she had heard a lot about him. He was a famous playboy and a very successful businessman.

The knowledge that he was one of the wealthiest people in the world scared Sofia to death. She was afraid of having the same fate as her mother and was completely freaking out, wanting to run away from this freaking wedding.

But then she thought about her father. Knowing her wedding was a business deal, she couldn't leave her father in trouble. Her father would be doomed if she escaped because many people and media people had come here for the wedding.

Finally, Emma arrived and took Sofia to the aisle where her father was waiting for her. Her smiling father fazed Soofia. She had never seen her father smiling at her. Her foolish heart became happy at that moment. But it was only for the show in front of these people. He gave her his elbow, and Sofia held it, hooking her hand around him.

“Sofia, I expect you to behave properly in front of these people. Don’t forget I need you to stay in this marriage for three years. So be nice to Leonardo and don't enrage him,” Carlo whispered in Sofia's ear, threatening more than suggesting.

Swallowing a lump down her throat, Sofia nodded her head. A soft, melodic tune began to play, signaling the start of the procession. Carlo walked his daughter down the aisle toward the stage where Leonardo Morelli was standing. Sofia could not focus on decoration, nor was she paying attention to the people around her as she was so nervous and her mind was numb with fear.

Sofia prayed in her heart that she wouldn't do anything stupid to embarrass her dad. When her dad halted, she only realized they reached the stage. She wouldn't dare to look up. Her eyes kept staring down at her feet. Suddenly through her eyelashes, she saw a hand stretched in front of her, offering help to climb up on the stage.

She hesitated at first but took that hand, and he pulled her up on the stage. Sofia stumbled a little and gripped his shoulder with her other hand. Then at that moment, for the first time, Sofia saw a handsome face staring at her as he tried to see behind the veil. Sofia knew he couldn't look appropriately through the veil. But Sofia could see him staring at her face with his cold eyes. His face was unreadable.

She instantly pulled her hand away and took a step backward, standing beside him. The officiant started the rituals. First, he made them exchange their vows which Sofia knew were all fake. He told them to exchange the rings, and quickly, a lady appeared with two gorgeous-looking rings on a plate.

She handed one ring to Leonardo Morelli and another to Sofia. Sofia’s hand trembled as she held the wedding ring, eyes glued to it. She felt she never wanted to get married like this. But it was too late to back out.

The officiant instructed Sofia to give her hand to Leonardo Morelli. Hesitated, Sofia held her shaky hand toward Leonanado. He grabbed it gently and slipped the ring on Sofia's finger. Then he held his hand out before her, anticipating the drama would end soon. Sofia slid the ring without touching or even holding his hand. She was too nervous to touch him.

The officiant announced them as husband and wife. Then, he turned to Leonardo and said the groom could kiss his bride.

Now this was the most difficult part of the wedding for both of them. Sofia panicked but was instantly relieved to see Leonardo Morelli didn't make any move. Then someone tapped on his shoulder and whispered something in his ear. He frowned, looking at her.

Leonardo shifted closer as he descended his head. He cupped Sofia's cheeks in his big hand as his lips touched the corner of Sofia's mouth so lightly that Sofia couldn't tell whether it was a real kiss or not.

But Sofia's first kiss was stolen by her husband just like that.