Leonardo Albuquerque

Then came the years. Four years. During that time, they learned to live together. In public, they seemed like a perfect couple. At home, they were polite to each other, talked during meals, and handled family matters together.

She looked around the enormous room. Then on to the luxurious hallway. Then for him. He smiled. Because I like the life I'm going to have. Leonardo lowered his head. That was exactly the answer he was expecting. — At least you're honest. I always have been. She closed the door. Leonardo remained still for a few seconds. At that moment, he was certain of one thing. That woman would never be capable of loving him. And he would do anything to keep his distance from her. Little did he know that, as the years went by, he would be the one to fall in love first. The next day, the church was completely packed. Businessmen, politicians, journalists, and important guests attended what was considered the wedding of the year. Leonardo stood at the altar with a serious expression. Don't smile. He didn't seem happy. He was simply fulfilling the agreement his father had made. A few minutes later, the church doors opened. The guest entered wearing a stunning white dress, covered in delicate details. She walked calmly, observing all the luxurious decor. "All of this... is now part of my life," she thought. After the ceremony, the two exchanged rings. I now pronounce you husband and wife. The guests applauded. They only shared a quick, emotionless kiss. The cameras captured the moment as if it were a fairy tale. But only they knew that the marriage was a contract. That night... Upon arriving at the mansion where they would be living, Leonardo carried the suitcases to the master bedroom. The user entered right behind her. The two remained silent for a few moments. Leonardo was the first to speak. I think it's best if everyone has their own room. She agreed immediately.

• I also think. I'm not going to force you to do anything. Neither you nor I. He gave a small nod. Then we agree. From that night on, each of them started sleeping in a different room. There was no wedding night. There was no romance. Not even a hug. The two simply shared the same house. Months passed.

He answered through gritted teeth.

• I accept. The user smiled discreetly. "It was easier than I imagined." She had no idea that this man, forced to marry against his will, would end up falling deeply in love with her. And she also never imagined that one day she would be the one having difficulty leaving that marriage behind. The preparations began immediately. Since the two families had already reached an agreement, there was no reason to wait. While designers were taking measurements for the wedding dress, decorators were organizing the wedding, and journalists were commenting that the heir to the Albuquerque family was finally getting married, Leonardo spent his days irritated. Already a User... She seemed increasingly excited. She would go into designer stores, try on expensive dresses, admire jewelry, and imagine what her life would be like after marriage. "This dress is beautiful," commented the designer. — I'll take that other one too. But it's not the dress for the ceremony. — I know. I want to save it for another time. The designer smiled. Of course, ma'am. The word "ma'am" made the user smile. She was about to become the wife of the richest man in town. Days later... Leonardo entered the jewelry store where she was choosing wedding rings. She was looking at a shop window full of diamonds. Without even looking at him, he asked: What do you think of this? Leonardo replied coldly:
• Whatever. She shrugged. Then I'll take the most expensive one. The salesman smiled, unable to hide his happiness. Leonardo simply sighed. "She really only thinks about money." The night before the wedding... Leonardo knocked on the door of the room where Usuária was staying in the mansion to facilitate the preparations. She opened the door.
• What it was? He remained silent for a few seconds. There's still time to cancel this. She laughed. Cancel? Neither of them wants this marriage. She crossed her arms. Speak for yourself. Leonardo frowned. Do you really want to marry me? She answered without hesitation.
• I want.
• Why?

Rain was falling on the windows of the enormous Albuquerque mansion when two families gathered in the main room. On one side was Augusto Albuquerque, one of the richest businessmen in the country, alongside his only son, Leonardo, 26 years old. On the other side, Roberto, his wife, and their 22-year-old daughter, Usuária. Augusto and Roberto had been friends since their youth. Despite the enormous difference in wealth between them, they never let their friendship end. After a few minutes of conversation, Augusto got straight to the point. Roberto... the time has come for us to fulfill the agreement we made years ago. Roberto smiled. I've been waiting for this day. Leonardo frowned. What agreement? Augusto looked at his son. — You're going to marry Roberto's daughter. Silence filled the room. "What?" Leonardo asked, incredulous. Before he could say anything else, User calmly spoke:

• I accept. Everyone looked at her. Leonardo was even more surprised. — You... accepted? She smiled discreetly. Sure. His gaze swept over the enormous mansion, the luxurious furniture, the expensive paintings, and the crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling. "All of this could be mine someday...", she thought. She always wanted a life of luxury. Expensive clothes, trips, jewelry, imported cars... Love was never among his goals. Money, yes. A lot of money. Her parents exchanged a satisfied look. They knew their daughter thought exactly like them. But Leonardo got up from his chair. I'm not going to marry a woman I don't even know! "Yes, you will," Augusto replied firmly.
• I am not going! — You are my only son. One day all of this will be yours. But first, I want to see you married. That's absurd! It's my decision. Leonardo took a deep breath, annoyed. What if I simply say no? Augusto looked into his son's eyes. So you're giving up your inheritance. The room fell silent. Leonardo clenched his fists. He knew that his father never made threats without reason. After a few seconds... — ...
• He is well.