Chapter 2

Alana’s POV. Alec entered my life nearly eleven years ago, courtesy of my private high school's decision to grant three full-ride scholarships to less privileged students. Alec happened to be one of the recipients. Little did I know that he would become a constant thorn in my side, consistently outshining me academically. From high school all the way through university, this boy from a humble village managed to relegate me to second place, and I couldn't help but nurse a simmering resentment. While I despised the ongoing rivalry, Alec seemed to relish it, thriving on the competition. I ensured he didn't have it easy, always trying to one-up him. After graduating from university, I assumed our paths would never cross again. Yet, here I stood, faced with a pivotal decision. "Alana? Any moment now." My father's voice urged me to make my choice. *** The steady click of cameras blended with the bright flashes, temporarily blinding me as I walked down the aisle, escorted by my father. The audience was a mix of entertainment industry figures, friends from college, and coworkers, all drawn here by Daniel's invitation. They gazed intently at me, my father, and, of course, my groom. As the realization dawned on their faces about the identity of the person escorting me, a collective shock swept through the crowd. My father, beaming with pride, gave my hand a reassuring squeeze and leaned in to speak to me. The atmosphere was charged with intrigue and curiosity as I made my way to the altar, leaving everyone wondering about the unexpected turn of events. I barely had the time to admire my perfect wedding, the one I had planned so meticulously– now I couldn’t even enjoy it as it was meant to be. "You're not smiling, dear," Dad whispered a gentle reminder, his own smile still firmly in place. "Sorry, Dad," I whispered back, offering a quick smile for the clicking cameras. I leaned closer to my father, grateful that the aisle to Alec was long enough for us to hold a conversation. "Where did you even find this guy?" "I overheard him talking to someone else. He mentioned you both went to school together, and after a quick background check, I figured something is better than nothing," Dad replied, and a puzzled frown crept onto my face. How did Alec end up here? I didn't recall sending him an invitation, and I had painstakingly memorized everyone Daniel had invited. Was this merely a coincidental twist of fate, or did Alec have some ulterior motive? He might not have known my father was Richard Jordan, but he did know about my wealth. Could he be after more money? "And you're sure this won't backfire on us?" I voiced my concerns, worried that Alec might have a hidden agenda to humiliate me. "Of course not. I made him sign a legal contract. Whatever happens, he can never reveal to the world that he was a substitute for Daniel. And, of course, I got him to sign your prenup," Dad whispered rapidly as we reached the front. He leaned over, planted a kiss on my cheek, and then spoke loudly and clearly for the benefit of the crowd. "I'm so proud of you, my child, my Alana." "I promise to take good care of her, Mr. Jordan," Alec chimed in, extending his hand to my father. "You'll be my son-in-law, so it's Richard now," my dad smiled warmly and shook Alec's hand. The assembled guests lapped up this unexpected turn of events, their jaws nearly grazing the floor. Even the few of Daniel's friends present found it difficult to believe. Alec smiled and took my hands in his as the priest began his part. Our vows were simple and concise, and Alec delivered them with such finesse that if I were in the crowd, I'd easily believe in our love. Though we had already signed our marriage certificate, it felt as though I were sealing my fate when my trembling hand slipped the ring onto Alec's finger. The shiny band matched mine perfectly. I glanced down at my left hand, where Daniel's ring had once resided. Alec had insisted I remove it before agreeing to marry me. Now I wore the white-gold wedding band with small diamond studs on the inside and Alec's initials engraved on it instead of Daniel's. Everything about this situation was surreal, but I had no time to process it all. The priest's voice rang out, breaking the momentary silence, "You may now kiss your bride, Da- Alec." Alec's lips curled into a confident smirk, his hand gently sliding from my arm to my waist as he drew me closer. His other hand brushed a stray curl away from my eyes, and then his knuckles grazed over my cheek, his fingertips tenderly caressing my jaw. I peered up into his eyes, taking in his imposing height. He had to be at least 6'3", and even in my heels, I found myself slightly shorter than him. My fingers carefully rested on his impeccably tailored suit, and a brief frown crossed my face. Where had he acquired the funds for such custom-tailored attire? This suit rivaled the quality of my father's, and I couldn't help but wonder how Alec could afford it, even with any changes in his financial situation. As I held him, I felt the flex of his biceps beneath my touch, and his eyes remained locked onto mine. It struck me that Alec had gained something he'd seemed to lack before — an undeniable confidence. I'd never witnessed him exude such assurance, especially not in my presence. Alec drew closer, his cologne enveloping me in its heady, masculine scent. It was a captivating blend of amber, musk, and vanilla — simply said: fucking irresistible. His eyes closed briefly, and I followed suit, my heart racing in anticipation. Our lips met, fitting together with flawless precision, and he moved in rhythm, humming softly as he finally pulled away. I looked up at him, momentarily dazed, while he maintained that self-assured smirk. "I win," he whispered, breaking the romantic spell that had momentarily enveloped us. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of annoyance, blaming the wedding atmosphere for allowing me to momentarily succumb to these unexpected feelings. In the midst of the celebratory cheers and the fluttering petals, I quietly made a solemn vow to myself. I promised that I would ensure Alec regretted his role in this complicated situation, with Daniel not escaping my determination either. However, Alec would bear the brunt of my fury; I was convinced he must have struck some sort of deal with my father. How else could he have tricked his way into my wedding and now be my husband? I had little doubt that he had approached my father for financial support in orchestrating this bizarre turn of events, but my dad would never openly admit to such dealings. My mom wouldn't allow it. This right now was all about keeping an image and being distressed on my wedding isn’t exactly the image they were going for. As we strolled down the aisle, our fingers intertwined, Alec wore an enormous grin that mirrored mine. Yet, the difference between our smiles was glaringly evident – mine was a facade. To add another layer to this dramatic charade, my parents and I, had intentionally invited a reporter from DevineMargot, a prestigious magazine with a knack for delving into people's lives. I had extended the invitation not only because I had been eager to see my marriage to Daniel featured but also because I wanted the world to acknowledge my true identity as a Jordan. Who better to break the news than DevineMargot? They made news spread like wildfire and sure had their way with words as well as the interviews they do from time to time. Alec leaned in, his voice hushed as he continued to play the part of the contented newlywed. "Have you crafted a suitable lie to feed the public? Have you made up the perfect love story that explains why Daniel isn't the one standing beside you?" he whispered. His question hung in the air, and I couldn't help but admire Alec's ability to maintain this charade, seamlessly transitioning from rival to fake husband. My mind raced as I considered the narrative we would need to spin to keep the curious masses at bay. The woman from Devine Margot was right there, waiting for me along with many others who no doubt had many questions for me.