Rebecca Moreau

An Imposed Marriage I am the only son of Alexandre Delacroix, CEO of a respected industrial empire. All my life, I have followed a pre-determined path: prestigious schools, internships in the best companies, and an impeccable image to maintain. But I never would have believed that my own romantic future would be so dictated to me. Everything changed one evening, in my father's office. "You're getting married" His voice was calm, composed, as if it were obvious. "What?!" My blood boiled. I stood up abruptly, my hands clenched into fists. "You're joking, I hope?" He crossed his fingers on his desk, impassive. "Not at all. Our friends, the Moreaus, have a daughter your age, Rebecca. This marriage would strengthen our ties and guarantee the stability of our companies. I let out a bitter laugh. “So, it’s not a marriage, it’s a transaction?” He raised an eyebrow. “It’s an opportunity. You’ll understand in time.” But I didn’t want to understand anything. I was angry, furious at being treated like a mere piece on the family chessboard. I rejected the idea outright… Until I met her. --- The dinner was held in a private restaurant, an elegant but cold place, just like the evening I was dreading. I went there reluctantly, ready to make an appearance before disappearing. Then, she arrived. Rebecca Moreau. As soon as she entered the room, all my anger evaporated. She was nothing like the fixed image I had formed. Her long brown hair framed a soft face, but her eyes… Her eyes shone with a piercing intelligence. She wore a simple but elegant dress, far from the superficial extravagances of high society. And above all, she looked at me with a mixture of defiance and amusement.