CHAPTER FOUR: HONEYMOON

ANNIKA'S POV

We signed the papers, and in an instant, I officially became Mrs. Ferrer. I couldn't begin to explain how I felt at the moment. All I know is that it gives me a warm feeling. I feel excited and downright anticipating.

“Congratulations, girl! You're finally married!“ Jade mumbled.

“Thank you. It still feels like I'm dreaming though,” I replied.

My thoughts raced, and I didn't know what to expect after the wedding. I guess I was too focused on the benefits I would get from this, that I forgot about our conditions. I started sweating as soon as I realized that somehow, we're bound to consumate our marriage. Will that be today? Or do we have to wait until we're comfortable with each other?

Then, I remembered how he told me he needed to have an heir within a year. So, I guess we'll have to do 'it' sooner. I immediately blushed at the thought.

“Well, you're not. This is real. You're married, and my— you're married to one of the hottest bachelors in town,” she teased.

I blushed even more, realizing how true her words are. I still can't believe I married him. He's handsome, and insanely hot, but I never looked at him that way before. Or— at least, I tried so bad not to look at him that way before, afraid that I might screw up and lose my job. I didn't really have to time to date because I was busy trying to earn a living to provide for myself and my Mom. I'm not born with so much resources, and privilege.

“Oh, shut it, Jade. We both know this isn't likely a romantic marriage. We're in this situation because we need each other,” I whispered.

Although I already know it's the truth, I couldn't help but to somehow wish that he'd look at me as a woman, and not someone who works for him. I didn't know where it came from— the urge to be noticed by him. I glanced around and saw him sitting in the bar counter with his friend, Hunter. They were talking seriously, and he didn't even spare a glance on me. My heart sank, I shouldn't have expected that. After all, I'm well aware of the reasons why we are doing this in the first place.

I tore my glance away from him, and focused on Jade. Later today, we'll be leaving for our honeymoon. I didn't have my passport yet, so we'll be going to a local island resort for now. Although Caspian said he'd take me out of the country once my passport is released. It made me feel so excited.

“Jade… please take care of Mom while I'm away,” I told her.

I knew she'd do it anyway, but I just needed to say it. I felt guilty for feeling happy while my Mom is suffering in the hospital. My only consolation is knowing that I'm doing this so I can save her, so she can finally be healed.

Jade squeezed my hand and gave me a reassuring smile.

“You know you didn't have to ask for it, I'd willingly do it, dear. Aunt Amelia is more like a mother to me too. I'm not only doing this because we're friends. I'm actually doing this because I have grown to love her as well,” she replied.

I teared up. I always have a soft spot for Mom. And hearing this from Jade, my heart felt warm and light. My feelings skyrocketed, and I found myself hugging Jade so tight.

“Oh, what would I do without you?“ I said, smiling but with tears falling down my face.

I didn't care if I looked like a mess. Nothing can beat this unexplainable feeling of happiness that I feel inside me.

“Annika?“ I heard Caspian's voice from behind me.

I immediately tensed. Slowly, I turned my head and saw him standing a few steps behind me. His eyes drifted to Jade, giving her a curt nod before turning his eyes to me again. The moment our eyes locked gazes, I immediately felt my stomach turn. It was as if there were butterflies inside my tummy, I cannot explain it. My heart started to beat so fast as I watch him take a step towards me.

“Yes?“ I whispered. I couldn't recognize my own voice, it sounded hoarse. I cleared my throat.

“We should go,” he said.

Hearing it from him, I almost wanted to faint. Goodness! I'm not prepared.

“Jade… we'll be back, please call me if there's any update about Mom, will you?“ I asked.

“Of course, Annika. Don't worry about Aunt Amelia, I will take good care of her while you're away. For now, clear your mind of all your worries. Have fun, Annika,” she said and kissed me on the cheeks.

I hugged her tight once again.

“Hunter will take you home, Jade,” Caspian said.

Jade's eyebrows twitched, and she looked at Hunter who was all smiles.

“Alright, thank you, Mr. Ferrer!“ Jade replied.

Caspian and Hunter talked for a while before he pulled me with him into the parking lot where his car was parked. We waved goodbye to Hunter and Jade, and Caspian started the engine.

The drive was silent and awkward. I didn't say a word, instead, I looked outside the window and focused on the beautiful sceneries. The lush green surroundings took my mind away from the stress of my current situation.

“Annika…” Caspian called.

I looked at him and smiled.

“Sir Caspian—”

“Drop the 'Sir' please. We're already married, you should call me by name instead,” He spoke.

It took a few moments before I realized what he meant. I nodded at him and looked away again. I didn't know what to say again. We never really hang out, and we only talk about work. It was really awkward, however, I can feel a gush of excitement.

“Thank you for your help, Caspian,” I murmured.

He looked at me briefly and said, “It's nothing. Besides, you're doing me a favor too.“

We reached the airport in thirty minutes. We checked in and boarded Caspian's private plane. It was my first time riding a plane and my heart was pounding hard inside my chest. Caspian talked to the pilot while I settled myself inside. My eyes roamed around the small aircraft. It was small, but luxurious. Caspian then took the seat beside me. He brought a shot glass and a bottle of whiskey. He offered me one, but I declined. I don't really drink.

While drinking, I noticed how Caspian messed his hair and glanced at me. I was still wearing my dress, while has already removed his coat. He's now wearing his white long sleeved polo, but the sleeves were folded to his elbow while the first three buttons were unbuttoned. I can see a glimpse of his chest, and I gulped. I knew he's hot, but I didn't know he was this hot.

His eyes raked down my body, and up again until it stopped on my lips. I felt myself trembling from the sudden anticipation. I couldn't forget how soft his lips felt against my own.

To my surprise, he held my hand and looked at me intently. The plane landed in a local airport in Palawan. Caspian held my hand and we went outside the airport where a car was already waiting for us. My head is spinning from everything that happened. I learned that the car was owned by Caspian himself. We were directed to a resort hotel in Puerto Princessa, and I didn't have to guess the owner because as soon as we entered, the employees greeted Caspian.

He only nodded and guided me into the hotel room. We were alone inside the elevator, and the silence was deafening. My eyes widened when I saw how huge the suite was, it was larger than our own house!

Caspian started unbuttoning his polo without looking at me.

“I'll shower first. Your clothes are in the closet, Annika,” he said as he undressed himself in front of me.

My jaw dropped when I saw him removing his pants, I immediately looked away. I went to the closet and checked the clothes. Shock was an understatement to what I felt. These are all brand new clothes, and looked really expensive. I blushed when I saw some lingeries and bikinis, and I had to remind myself that it's okay. We're married anyway.

He took a shower, while I stood there trying to figure out what to wear. We were having dinner in the veranda for tonight. I chose a floral haltered dress, and paired it with a white flat sandals. My head snapped and saw Caspian getting out of the bathroom with only a small towel covering his manhood. Trickles of water flowed from his hair down to his muscled chest, making me blush.

I picked up the clothes and went inside the shower. I showered a little longer, making sure I smelled good and clean. When I was done, I immediately changed clothes and went out. He was already wearing a khaki shorts, and a plain gray T-Shirt. I fixed my hair and put on some liptint. He kept looking at me through the mirror, making me more conscious.

The door to the veranda was already open, and there was a table for two. Soon after, we heard a knock on the door. The bell boy went in and arranged the food on the table. It was a lovely night. And from where we were seated, we can hear the roaring waves as they clash into the seashore. The night sky was full of stars and the moon looked so bright.

We started eating, oblivious of each other's presence. Caspian poured wine on my glass. I drank it out of nervousness, and closed my eyes when I tasted it. It wasn't sweet, but not awful as well. As we started to converse and drink, I began loosening up. I laughed at his jokes, and looked at him without inhibitions. Caspian never took his eyes off me the whole time, and it sent a tingling sensation inside me. It made my heart feel warm, as if someone touched it.

He stood up and gathered me in his arms for a slow dance when I told him I haven't danced during prom back in High School. I rested my head on his chest, while my hands encircled on his neck. He pulled me closer to him and his arms snaked around my waist.

It felt surreal, like this moment is nothing but a dream. Caspian held my chin and tilted my head, capturing my gaze. My heart pounded when I realized what he wanted to do.

Maybe it was the alcohol, or the tension between us, but I closed my eyes as I waited for his kiss. And when it came, I felt like I was swept off my feet. His soft lips moved gently against mine, nibbling it until I let out a soft erotic moan and lost all my control.