Chapter 168 The Decree: Miss Kensington Becomes Mrs. Harrington
"Come the dawn, I shall instruct my secretary to disseminate an email to the entire company, revealing our marital union, a jubilant truth concealed for the past two years," he declared.
Victoria Kensington, caught in a battle to retain her poise, fought the urge to meet the gaze of the formidable man standing so close to her. His potent, masculine aroma was almost palpable, blending with her own under the glaring sun and the watchful eyes of the hotel's public, shamelessly permeating the air.
She recoiled slightly as his towering figure loomed over her, radiating an irresistible charm, while she remained frozen in place.
In his commanding presence, she felt a sense of inferiority, even if grudgingly. After all, he towered over her petite frame, standing at an impressive six-foot-two to her five-foot-seven.
"Are we in agreement?" he queried, his deep voice echoing another inquiry.
"I refuse," she retorted defiantly.
"You will," he countered with determination.
Suddenly, he grasped her wrist and began to stride purposefully towards the heart of the building.
"Good day, sir. Miss Kensington," an employee greeted them.
"From this day forth, you are to address Miss Kensington as Mrs. Harrington," he commanded.
"Understood, sir."
The staff members froze in the lobby as Alexander Harrington led Victoria towards the elevator.
It was as though he had the entire world at his feet, and the only person worthy of standing beside him was the woman he was guiding by the hand.
Upon entering the elevator, Victoria was left utterly dumbfounded, struggling to comprehend the reality of the situation.
However...
As mealtime approached, even the waiter addressed her as...
"Sir, madam, this dish is named 'Perfect Union,' a symbol of fertility and a life abundant with offspring, a pledge as eternal as a match made in heaven," the waiter explained as he served each dish.
Victoria Kensington bit her lip in silence, unable to resist a glance at the dish as he announced the final item on the menu, and she murmured, "Isn't this merely garlic-steamed lobster?"
"Indeed, but the head chef chose to use a wedding banquet name to honor the announcement of the boss's wife's good news today, hence he instructed us to present it in such a manner," the waiter clarified.
Victoria Kensington quietly withdrew her hand, offering only a polite smile in response.
"You may leave now; I shall pour the wine," Alexander Harrington announced, clearly in high spirits. After issuing the command, he took the decanter and poured a glass of wine for Victoria Kensington himself.
Victoria found herself watching him. Even his act of pouring wine had an aura of authority that demanded respect. His demeanor seemed to caution her against speaking out of turn, or he would not hesitate to pour the entire bottle down her throat. Of course, he was simply exuding an overwhelming assertiveness.
"Thank you," Victoria whispered softly after he poured the wine for her.
"There's no need," he responded curtly.
Alexander quickly filled his own glass and then turned to look at her, "Our first time alone," he said, bringing his glass closer to hers.
Victoria understood his intention to toast, so she didn't give it much thought. But as the red wine slid down her throat, she suddenly felt a wave of confusion.
'Our first time alone?'
What could he possibly mean by that? Surely he wasn't treating this as... their first official date?
"Not bad," he remarked after tasting the wine.
Victoria quickly regained her composure and refocused her attention on him.
"What's your opinion?" he asked her.
Victoria savored the red wine on her lips, contemplating its taste. This bottle had to be worth at least tens of thousands; naturally, it was exquisite.
"I was referring to the date," he clarified.
A rush of heat flooded Victoria's cheeks as she looked at him, her eyes unintentionally revealing a whirlwind of emotions. Alexander was pleased with her reaction; he disliked her attempts to maintain her composure.
He began peeling shrimp for her, asking, "So, will you be staying here tonight or returning to the Regal Retreat?"
"I have my own place," Victoria replied instantly.
Alexander paused in his task with the shrimp, looking at her with curiosity. "Is there something wrong with the shrimp I peeled for you?"