Chapter 25 Hilda recoiled from the force of the slap , her hand instinctively flying to her stinging cheek . She stared at her father in shock , her eyes wide with disbelief . She hadnt expected him to lash out with physicality . The room was filled with a suffocating silence as they both stared at each other , the weight of their unspoken emotions hanging heavily in the air. Dad , how could you … ? Hildas voice trailed off , her eyes shimmering with unshed tears . The pain on her face was not just physical , but emotional . It was as if the trust she had in her father had been shattered in that one , violent act . Alberts expression softened for a moment , a flicker of regret passing through his eyes . Hilda , Im sorry . I didnt mean to … Hilda cut him off with a bitter laugh . Sorry ? Youre sorry for hitting me ? Is that supposed to make it all better ? No , no , of course not , Albert stammered , his expression pained . I lost control for a moment , and I deeply regret it . I promise it will never happen again . Hildas voice trembled as she spoke . This isnt just about the slap , Dad . Its about everything . Im tired of living under the weight of your expectations and judgments . I cant keep pretending to be someone Im not just to fit into your idea of how the world should be . Alberts eyes softened with understanding . Hilda , I know things have been difficult , especially with your marriage and the constant public scrutiny . But Ive always wanted to protect you from all of that . I couldnt bear to see you hurt . Hilda rubbed her cheek , the stinging sensation slowly fading into a dull ache . Protect me ? By sheltering me from the truth ? By making decisions that didnt involve me , but rather your idea of whats best for me ? You never asked me what I wanted . You never considered my feelings in any of this . A tear rolled down Hildas cheek , and she wiped it away with frustration . You pushed me into a life that I never wanted , into a marriage that wasnt of my choosing , and now , when everythings falling apart , you expect me to simply fall in line with your plans all over again . Hildas frustration bubbled to the surface again . Why does our familys reputation always come first ? Why cant we prioritise our own happiness and well being ? Albert sighed heavily , his eyes searching Hildas face . I know it may seem that way , but maintaining our familys reputation is crucial for our business , for our employees , and for the legacy I want to leave behind . 14:26 False Name , False Bride 22.0 % Chapter 25 Thats all youve ever cared about . Your legacy- your company . Hilda- Have you for once cared about my feelings , Dad ? Of course honey . Really Dad ? I see now that Ive put too much pressure on you , but you must understand that I did this for the benefit of this family . If Alexander cuts his ties with you , then well lose everything . Of course , what did I expect from you ? You can never change , Dad . Hilda said , as she hurriedly went upstairs . Honey ! Wait , Im still here ! Dont walk out on me ! Hilda!! Albert yelled , but Hilda paid no attention to him . He left abruptly , inhibiting annoyance . That night … Hilda laid on her bed , asleep . Alexander arrived at the penthouse with so much rage . He barged into the premises and headed upstairs . Hilda ! Hilda !! He yelled . Hilda woke up , perturbed by his calls . He barged into her room , slamming the door behind him . Hilda ! Whats it this time ? Hilda asked , still sleepy eyed . Stand up ! For gods sake , why are you yelling !? Hilda retorted . She already had a long day , and just wanted to rest. Have you seen what youve done !? If you were such a responsible wife , you wouldnt have disobeyed me ! What do you mean ? 14:26 False Name , False Bride 22.2 % Chapter 25 Ive become an object of mockery in the media , all because of your irregularities . I didnt ask to be your wife , Alexander ! You were the one that chose me as your wife , remember ? All because of your fathers crumbling company . I only did this to save you and save your family from wretch ! Id rather be in wretch than love a man like you ! Alexander moved closer to her , he held her chin , making her eyes meet his . Alex , please , dont start . So youre no longer tough , eh ? Please- You are my wife ! The earlier you get that , the better . I own you . Youre my possession . Youre wrong . Im no ones possession . Im not a property , Alex ! Alexander tightened his hold on her . Youre mine ! Youre hurting me , Alex . I need to hear you say it ! Say- say what ? Hilda said , amidst teary eyes . I never want to see you around some other man ! Say youre mine ! Say it ! Im- please , youre hurting me- let go . Say it , woman ! Im yours . Damn right you are ! He released his grip abruptly , and Hilda coughed . He left afterwards , and headed to his room . Hilda sat on her bed , and sobbed silently . 14:26 False Name , False Bride 22.5 % Chapter 25 Maam , are you okay ? Kara asked , from behind her . Hilda didnt respond . She wiped a tear from her left eye , with the back of her palm . Im sorry I didnt knock maam . Dinner is ready . I brought your food here , maam . Im not hungry . But maam , you havent eaten anything for days . You should eat something , please maam . Im not eating , Kara . Please , go away . But maam even if its just a little- No , Kara . But- I said , no ! Im sorry maam . Kara said , and attempted to leave , but she stopped abruptly . Maam , I dont mean to pry , but I think you should divorce him . I cant do that . Im stuck here . In "CEO, That Intern is Actually Your Wife" by CrushReel, delve into a captivating romance where a billionaire CEO becomes contractually linked to an unexpected partner. When faced with the urgent need to fund her grandmother's critical surgery, our protagonist finds herself in a unique situation—entering a one-year contract marriage with a stranger. As the story unfolds, themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of modern relationships come to light. The novel offers a fresh take on the familiar billionaire romance genre by exploring the dynamics of office relationships and the intricacies of contract lovers. Discover this modern tale of unexpected connections and heartfelt emotions, available to read at CrushReel.