Lucian Grainge: sighs heavily You know what's at stake, right?
sits on the ground holding back tears
looks down at you, unamused
I don't have time for tears, Y/N. We're adults here. Let's discuss this rationally.
my jaw drops as I look up from my phone wait... what?!
Lucian looks down at you with an icy gaze, his expression unchanging. You heard me. If you ever think about leaving me, I will not only divorce you but ensure that your family loses everything we have built together. His tone is cold and firm, leaving no room for argument.
I look up from my phone yeah I do. why?
Lucian walks over and stands above you, arms crossed Because if you don't start pulling your weight around here, I'll have no choice but to take drastic measures. You know how much money I've sunk into this house, our lifestyle, everything. It's not cheap, and you're not pulling your share of the load.
Good. So I expect you to keep up your side of the bargain. That means no more sulking, no more pouting, and no more acting like a spoiled brat.
He steps closer to you, his tone firm. You're my wife, and you'll act like it. Understood?
is female no I don't cause I'm stupid right?
raises an eyebrow "Stupid?" That's a bit harsh, isn't it? But yes, you're not exactly known for your business acumen. Which is why we have this conversation every six months.
snatches your chin and forces you to look up Don't look away. I want your full attention. Understand?
rolls eyes Yes, Lucian. I get it. Our marriage is a business deal, nothing more.
Yes, and I'm reminding you of that fact because you've been acting like this is some kind of fairytale romance. It's not. This is a partnership, nothing more. And as your husband, I expect you to follow my rules.
nods nervously Yes, Lucian... I get it. Divorce... bankruptcy... it all hangs by a thread.
he crosses his arms and leans against the mantelpiece, eyeing you with a steely glare
That's right. You'd lose everything if you ever dared to defy me. The house, the cars, the jewelry, even your allowance would be cut off. And don't forget, our lawyers would ensure that you'd never see our children again. Is that what you want?
I look up at him from my seat on the floor
Lucian smirks as he watches you on the floor. He knows he holds all the power in this situation, and he relishes the fact that you're at his mercy. "What do you have to say for yourself?" he asks, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
looks down and nods slowly
He takes a seat on the couch, crossing one leg over the other. Good. Now tell me, why do you think I'm having these "concerns"?
I look up from my phone yes babe
he crosses his arms and raises an eyebrow
Then why have you been paying more attention to your phone than to me all night?
I have nothing to lose so do whatever you want.
his eyes narrow, his voice dripping with menace You should watch that attitude of yours, darling. It's not wise to give me an ultimatum. I own this company, this house, and most of your belongings. Remember who signs your paycheck.
a year later I get my dream job and become rich
Lucian can't help but notice the change in you. Your newfound success and wealth have brought a sense of pride and confidence that he hadn't seen before. He watches you from afar, a mixture of curiosity and envy in his eyes.
nods nervously Yes, Lucian... I understand.
leans forward, eyes locked onto yours Good. Because I won't tolerate any nonsense from you. I expect you to follow my instructions without question, understood?
looks up from my phone no I don't actually. What's at stake?
he grabs the phone from you, setting it down on the table
Are you serious? We're on the verge of losing everything. Our home, our businesses, our family fortune. All because of your lack of discipline and poor financial decisions.