Chapter 51
Valerie’s POV
Paradise Found
As our limousine wound through the manicured driveway, I caught my first glimpse of our new home. Damian’s estate, Richardson Manor, sprawled before me like a fairytale castle. It was my first time, being in his house.
“Welcome home, Mrs. Richardson,” Damian whispered, his lips grazing my ear.
I smiled, still getting used to the title.
The mansion’s facade gleamed with limestone and glass, its modern design seamlessly blending into the rolling hills. We passed through imposing iron gates, adorned with the Richardson crest.
Inside, the foyer’s soaring ceiling and crystal chandelier left me breathless. A sweeping staircase curved like a ribbon, leading to the upper floors.
“Your new domain, my love,” Damian said, offering his arm.
As we strolled through the mansion, I met the staff: Mrs. Jenkins, the warm housekeeper; Thompson, the impeccably dressed butler; and Maria, the chef, who welcomed me with a warm smile.
We passed by the library, where floor-to-ceiling shelves held leather-bound tomes and rare manuscripts. The adjacent study boasted a stunning view of the gardens.
Damian’s private office, tucked away on the second floor, housed an impressive collection of art and a breathtaking cityscape view.
Next, we entered the opulent dining room, where a sparkling chandelier hung above a polished mahogany table.
“Seat for twenty,” Damian whispered, “for when we entertain.”
“Oh, Damian! This is lovely!”
The kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, shone like a culinary haven.
Outside, the grounds stunned me: lush gardens, a tennis court, an Olympic-sized pool, and a private lake.
In the garage, Damian’s fleet of cars gleamed: a sleek Aston Martin, a vintage Ferrari, and a custom Rolls-Royce.
“Your favourite, my love?” Damian asked, eyes twinkling.
I laughed. “You know I’m not a car Connoisseur. I can’t even drive.”
Damian chuckled. “No worries. You’ll learn.”
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting our new home in golden light, I felt like a princess in a fairytale.
“Damian, our new home is beautiful. The staff are warm and nice, I feel at home already. Soon enough, we’ll have kids that will make the house lively with baby noises.” I giggled. Damian didn’t say a word in response to what I had just said, which was weird. I expected him to be happy.
“Babe? Did you hear what I just said?” I asked, looking into his eyes.
“Yes, my love. Our babies will make the house lively.” He said and gave me a peck on my forehead as we drifted off to sleep.
**********
As I wandered through Richardson Manor’s opulent halls, I couldn’t shake the feeling of being an outsider. Damian’s world was overwhelming, a whirlwind of luxury and expectation.
Our honeymoon bliss still lingered, but reality had begun to set in. I was now Mrs. Richardson, wife of a billionaire.
Every morning, I woke to a gentle knock on my door, Mrs. Jenkins delivering a steaming cup of coffee and a warm smile.
“Good morning, ma’am. Shall I lay out your attire for the day?”
I’d nod, still adjusting to the formalities.
Damian’s staff was kind, but I felt like a fragile vase, handled with care, yet delicate.
In the afternoons, I explored the estate, discovering hidden gardens and serene water features. The solitude helped me clear my mind.
One day, while browsing the library, I stumbled upon a beautiful piano. My fingers instinctively found the keys, and music flowed.
As I played, Damian appeared, his eyes soft.
“I didn’t know you played,” he said, sitting beside me.
“I used to,” I replied, smiling. “It brings me peace.”
Damian wrapped his arms around me.
“You deserve peace, Valerie. You’re an incredible wife.”
In that moment, I felt a sense of belonging. Our lips met in a passionate kiss which transcended into a make out session in the library.
We were interrupted by a knock on the door as Mrs. Jenkins stepped into the room to announce that preparations for the ball are going perfectly.
We’d be hosting our first ball in our home tomorrow evening. Everything has been blissful so far, but I knew that it wouldn’t last forever. The thought kept tugging at the back of my mind and I wondered what lurks ahead.
********
As I stood in the grand ballroom of Richardson Manor, I couldn’t help but feel like a fairytale princess. The opulent chandeliers cast a golden glow, reflecting off the polished marble floor. Fresh flowers and greenery adorned the tables, while soft music drifted from the orchestra.
Tonight, we hosted our first ball, a celebration of our new marriage and honeymoon. The cream of society, members of the Ton, mingled with our closest friends and family.
I glanced at Damian, resplendent in his tailcoat, his eyes shining with pride.
“You look breathtaking, Valerie,” he whispered, offering his arm.
I smiled, feeling like a queen in my custom-made gown.
As we greeted guests, I spotted my parents, beaming with joy. Mother’s eyes sparkled with tears.
“Darling, you’re radiant,” she said, embracing me.
Father’s firm handshake and warm smile reassured me.
“We’re so proud of you, Valerie. You both have made an excellent match.”
Damian’s parents, Frederick and Vera approached, their faces aglow with pride.
“Welcome to the family, Valerie,” Vera said, kissing my cheek.
Frederick’s pat on Damian’s back was hearty.
“Son, you’ve done well. Valerie is a true gem. I have always known that she’d be the perfect match for you.
I glowed, feeling accepted and loved.
As the evening unfolded, the ballroom filled with laughter and music. The orchestra played a lively waltz, and Damian swept me onto the dance floor.
“I’m the happiest man alive,” he whispered, his eyes locked on mine.
I smiled, feeling the same.
As we twirled, I spotted familiar faces. They all congratulated us, their smiles genuine.
During dinner, Damian’s best man, Ethan, stood to toast us.
“To the happy couple! May their love continue to flourish.” The room erupted in cheers and applause.
After dinner, the music resumed, and the dancing intensified. I spun from Damian’s arms into my father’s, laughing.
“You’re a vision, Valerie,” Father said, his voice choked.
Mother and Damian’s mother joined us, their faces shining.
As the night wore on, Damian’s hand found mine, pulling me close.
“Shall we take a stroll?” he asked, his eyes sparkling.
We slipped onto the moonlit terrace, the gardens shimmering below.
“I’m overwhelmed with happiness,” I whispered.
Damian’s lips brushed mine.
“Me too, Valerie. Me too.”
In this magical moment, surrounded by loved ones and opulence, I knew our marriage would be a fairytale come true, or so I thought.
********
It’s been weeks after all formalities and bliss, we are back to our normal lives. Damian resumed work immediately and I continued with my work too. Until the day I began to feel some discomfort in my abdomen. Followed by nausea and dizziness, I knew I had to run a test.
I stood frozen, staring at the tiny plus sign on the pregnancy test. My heart raced, and tears welled up in my eyes. I was going to be a mother. We are going to have a baby!