In a twist of fate, a wealthy heir believed he was bound to wed an unattractive stranger in an arranged marriage, only to be stunned when she unveiled her face…

David started to notice Anna’s subtle kindness in her interactions with the household staff and her thoughtfulness in the little things she did for him, like leaving a cup of tea on his desk during late night work sessions or suggesting books she thought he might enjoy. In return, David began to show his appreciation in small but meaningful ways. He made an effort to ask about her day, to include her in decisions, and to show her that her presence mattered.

One evening, as they sat together in the garden, David turned to Anna. I’ve been meaning to ask, he said, his tone tentative. Why did you agree to marry me? You didn’t have to.

Anna was quiet for a moment, her gaze fixed on the flowers swaying in the breeze. Because I saw potential in you, she said finally. I saw someone who could be more than they realized.

David felt a lump rise in his throat. And have I lived up to that? Anna’s eyes met his, a hint of warmth in her expression. You’re getting there.

Despite their progress, the veil remained a silent reminder of the distance that still existed between them. One night, as they sat by the fireplace, David decided to broach the subject again. Anna, he began carefully, I don’t want to push you, but do you think you’ll ever take the veil off? Anna didn’t look away, her voice steady.

When the time is right. David nodded, though a flicker of disappointment stirred in his chest. I understand.

I just, I want you to know that I’m here whenever you’re ready. For the first time, Anna reached out and placed a hand on his. Thank you, she said softly.

In that moment, David realized that the veil was no longer the barrier he had once believed it to be. It was simply a part of her story, a story she would share when she was ready. And until that day came, he would wait, trusting that their growing bond was worth the patience it required.

The grand ballroom of the Whitman estate was alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and clinking glasses. Chandeliers cast warm light over the crowd of elegantly dressed guests, and the evening buzzed with anticipation. David had spared no expense in organizing the gala, a celebration of the success of the Whitman merger and the future of his growing empire.

David stood near the stage, engaging in polite conversation with a group of investors, though his thoughts were elsewhere. He glanced at the grand staircase every few minutes, wondering when, or if, Anna would make her entrance. She had been uncharacteristically quiet about her plans for the evening, and her absence was beginning to draw murmurs among the guests.

Your wife isn’t joining us tonight? one of the investors asked, his tone curious but polite. She’ll be here, David replied, though even he wasn’t entirely sure. At that moment, the soft hum of conversation began to fade as all eyes turned to the staircase.

David followed their gazes, his breath catching as Anna appeared at the top of the steps. She was dressed in a flowing emerald gown that shimmered in the light, perfectly tailored to her slender frame. But it wasn’t her gown that drew the collective gasp from the crowd, it was the fact that for the first time her face was uncovered.

Anna descended the staircase with the grace of someone who had commanded attention her entire life. Her face, now fully visible, revealed striking features, high cheekbones, luminous skin, and a pair of gray eyes that seemed to hold the wisdom of someone far beyond her years. David stood frozen, his heart pounding as she approached.

He barely registered the murmurs that rippled through the crowd. She’s stunning. Why would she hide a face like that? Anna reached the bottom of the stairs and paused, her eyes scanning the room before settling on David.

She smiled faintly and began walking toward him, the crowd parting like the sea to let her through. When she finally reached him, David managed to find his voice, though it was softer than he intended. Anna, why now? Anna looked at him, her expression calm but resolute…