Chapter 124

Words : 1163 Updated : May 20th, 2025

The grand wedding hall was a vision of elegance and opulence. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a sparkling glow over the marble floors. Intricate floral arrangements adorned every corner, filling the air with the sweet scent of roses and lilies. Guests sat in rows of plush chairs draped in white satin, their eyes fixed on the couple at the altar. A famous band from L.A. played soft, romantic music, adding a layer of magic to the atmosphere. As the ceremony unfolded, the media buzzed with excitement, narrating the event and snapping countless photos. The paparazzi were everywhere, capturing every detail of Claire's stunning wedding dress—a masterpiece of silk and lace that shimmered with each step she took. The train flowed gracefully behind her, and the delicate veil framed her face, enhancing her natural beauty. Adam looked dashing in his black tuxedo, perfectly complementing her radiant appearance. They looked perfect together as Adam held his bride close, gazing at her with love in his eyes. Meanwhile, high-profile celebrity guests, eager to be the first to share the moment, clicked photos with their high-end phones, racing to post the first picture of the couple on social media. Everyone was curious as to why Adam chose Paris for the wedding instead of his hometown of London or L.A., where most of their guests were coming from. During a pre-wedding media conference, Adam was asked about his choice. "I wanted to get married in Paris so Claire's grandmother could also attend. I would do anything to bring a smile to the beautiful face of my wife," he replied, deeply touching Claire with his words. Her eyes searched the crowd and found her grandmother sitting comfortably in the front row, mingling with Adam's family, while her uncle's family sat on the other side. Claire smiled warmly as her grandmother waved and sent a flying kiss toward her. "Dearly beloved," the officiant began, "we are gathered here today to witness the union of Adam Whitmore and Claire Simon in holy matrimony. Marriage is a profound and beautiful commitment, a bond that brings two people together in a union of love, respect, and mutual support." The officiant then glanced at Adam and Claire, observing their faces for any signs of emotion. Both appeared nervous and excited. "Adam Whitmore and Claire Simon," the officiant continued, "the vows you are about to take are a solemn promise to each other. A promise to stand together through good times and bad, to cherish and protect one another, and to nurture a love that will grow stronger with each passing day." Claire stole a glance at Adam behind the veil, noticing his sincere attention to the officiant. It almost seemed as if they were truly committing to each other for life, rather than just fulfilling a one-year contract. She felt his hand tightening around hers, a subtle reminder of his presence and the connection they shared. When she realized he had noticed her gaze, Claire quickly turned her attention back to the officiant, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. She tried to pull her hand away, but Adam only tightened his grip, refusing to let her go. "As you exchange these vows," the officiant began, "remember that this is a partnership built on trust and love." He turned to Adam. "Mr. Whitmore, do you take Claire Simon to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?" "I do." Adam looked deeply into Claire's eyes, his voice steady and sincere. Claire's heart fluttered with a mix of emotions as she listened to him. "Now, Ms. Simon," the officiant continued, turning to Claire, "do you take Adam Whitmore to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?" "Yes, I do." Claire's voice trembled slightly as she replied, but she held Adam's gaze, finding strength in his supportive smile. Then the wedding rings were presented to them on a silk-covered tray. Adam gently held Claire's hand and slid the ring onto her finger. He then extended his hand, and Claire slipped the ring onto his finger. "By the power vested in me," the officiant proclaimed, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Claire's heart raced; her nerves fluttered as she panicked. Was he actually going to kiss her? They hadn't discussed this part—this first kiss—but the contract required them to be intimate in public. This was just the beginning, and Claire found herself extremely nervous, as acting had never been her strong suit. However, she didn’t have to act hard as Adam took the initiative. He circled his strong arm around her waist and pulled her closer. Leaning in, he gently lifted Claire's veil. She swallowed hard as she saw Adam's smirk before he cupped her cheek and slightly lifted her face to meet his as he lowered his head. Their lips touched, and Claire forgot to breathe. It wasn’t a brief kiss but a lingering one, as Adam took his time caressing her lips with his tongue, coaxing her to open up and granting him access. "Breathe, my love!" he whispered against her lips, and Claire gasped involuntarily at his command, finally able to breathe again. Adam’s tongue slipped into Claire's mouth, savoring the sweet, intoxicating taste. He struggled to suppress a groan and resist the urge to pull her tightly against his hard body. He had been with many women in the past. Despite having had sex numerous times and even performing intimate scenes on screen, the intensity of this kiss was unlike anything he had ever experienced. All he could think about was picking her up and carrying her to the honeymoon suite, making love to her. Forget the contract. This thought scared him. This wasn't real, after all, and she was just part of the arrangement, not his real wife. This realization made him pull away and break the kiss instantly. Only then did Claire realize that the room had erupted in applause, the sound echoing through the grand hall. For a moment, everything felt perfect, but only Adam and Claire knew it was just for show. Adam took a step back, and Claire's head was still spinning from the intense kiss. She clung to Adam's arm to steady herself. Adam's eyes lingered on his contract wife's slightly swollen lips before he forced himself to look away and glance at the audience. He held Claire's hand as everyone began congratulating them, and it was now time to pose as a married couple for the world.

﻿Chapter 124

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Chapter 124