Surprise Marriage to a Billionaire
Chapter 216: My Best Man

Chapter 216: My Best Man

"Am I really seeing this?" William grumbled as he approached the stable boy, waiting for his favorite horse, Bambi.

He had woken up early to get some riding practice in before the upcoming hunting event at the Cartier’s private island. But of all things, the sight of his usually stoic, cold brother showing open affection with his wife this early in the morning was something he hadn’t expected.

The stable boy chuckled lightly. "Sir, you’re definitely not dreaming. But isn’t it a good thing? Having someone you love and cherish is something to be proud of."

William sighed. "Of course it is, but why does it feel like an eyesore when it’s my brother?"

The boy, bolder than usual, smirked. "Maybe you’re just jealous. You could use a lifetime partner at this rate," he quipped, only to quickly clamp his mouth shut under William’s sharp glare. Pulling the reins, he handed over Bambi. "Sir, Bambi’s ready."

William mounted his horse and couldn’t resist riding over to Alexander and Rain, deliberately coughing to announce his presence. He grinned to himself when Rain quickly jumped off Alexander’s lap.

"Beautiful morning, isn’t it? Perfect weather for a ride," William commented, barely hiding his amusement.

Alexander raised an eyebrow. "I see you’ll practice hard this time... Is it because you’re afraid you’ll lose to Lavinia again?"

"Hah! Not this time," William grumbled.

"Wait, there’s a horse riding contest?" Rain asked, her curiosity piqued. "Who’s Lavinia?"

Alexander smiled. "Yes, there’s a race. William’s our fastest rider, but he always comes in second to Sebastian’s sister, Lavinia. She’s a skilled rider."

Rain nodded, understanding the rivalry. William turned to her. "Do you ride?"

Rain shook her head. "No, I never learned. My father arranged lessons for my sister, Dina, but I was never included."

Alexander squeezed her hand gently. "We can change that. I’ll teach you."

William smirked. "You might need more than just Alexander as your teacher. Beating Lavinia is no small feat. She’s practically unbeatable."

Rain chuckled. "I’ll start by not falling off the horse, then we’ll talk about racing."

Alexander laughed, pulling her close. "Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you don’t."

William rolled his eyes dramatically. "I need to ride before this sweetness becomes too much." He nudged Bambi and trotted away, leaving the couple in peace.

Alexander leaned in, whispering playfully, "Don’t mind him. He’s just jealous."

Rain laughed, resting her head on his shoulder. "Maybe."

Rain creased her forehead thoughtfully. "I wonder if I even have anything suitable for riding a horse," she murmured.

Alexander chuckled, pulling her closer. "Don’t worry, I’m sure you do. Father made sure to complete your wardrobe perfectly, remember?"

She smiled at that, feeling reassured, but then Alexander nudged his nose against her ear, making her shiver. "Come on, let’s head back for breakfast and get changed. I almost forgot about this hunting event. I’ll teach you everything you need to know beforehand so you can join and enjoy the games."

"That tickles," she mumbled, giggling as his breath brushed her skin. Suddenly, without warning, she darted off. "Wait for me!" Alexander called, laughing.

"Race me!" Rain shouted back over her shoulder, quickening her pace, wondering if he’d catch her. She could hear his footsteps closing in, and her competitive streak flared, pushing her to run faster.

Her heart raced, both from running and the excitement bubbling inside her. The morning air was crisp, and the soft glow of the rising sun cast a golden hue over the estate. She could hear Alexander’s footsteps behind her, his low chuckle echoing in the quiet morning.

"I’m catching up!" Alexander called out, his voice playful yet firm.

Rain pushed herself harder, her competitive side fully engaged as she zigzagged through the gardens. She glanced back, expecting to see some distance between them, but to her surprise, Alexander was right behind her, closing in quickly. So much for thinking she had a head start. He was catching up, and fast.

Within moments, Alexander’s arms wrapped around her waist, effortlessly lifting her off the ground. "Got you!" he declared, spinning her around before setting her back on her feet.

Rain panted, catching her breath, as she smiled up at him. "Fine, you win."

He grinned, leaning down to press a quick kiss on her forehead. "You put up a good fight, though," he teased, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Come on, let’s get ready for breakfast. I’m not letting you off the hook that easily. We have a full day ahead, horse riding, shooting, archery, and I’m sure there’ll be plenty more chances for me to claim victory."

Rain rolled her eyes playfully. "Don’t get too cocky. I’ll surprise you yet," she teased, a mischievous smile on her lips. Seemed like her husband had already forgotten that she was well-trained in combat and handling different weapons. She couldn’t wait to show him what she was truly capable of.

She suddenly pounced at him, and they both tumbled onto the grass in the garden. Laughter echoed through the quiet morning as they playfully rolled around, neither willing to let the other win easily. Rain’s carefree giggles mixed with Alexander’s deep chuckles, both enjoying the lighthearted moment together.

Unbeknownst to them, Rock stood on the balcony, watching Alexander and Rain with a broad smile. "Look at those two," he said with a chuckle. "I never thought I’d see my son so carefree and relaxed. Rain’s presence really brings out the best in him."

"At this rate, they’ll be giving you a grandchild soon, Sir!" Ben, standing beside him, teased with a grin.

"I’d love that," Rock replied, eyes still on the couple. "But honestly, just seeing Alexander like this is more than enough for me. I thought he’d end up like you, married to his work," he added with a playful nudge.

Ben pouted for a moment before proudly declaring, "Not for long! I’ll be married soon, just like you wanted. And you’ll be my best man!"

Rock turned to him, eyebrows raised in surprise. "You’ve proposed already?"

Ben scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Not yet. I’m planning to do it next week. Just getting everything ready."

Rock chuckled and gave Ben a hearty pat on the shoulder. "I’m really happy for you, Ben. It’ll all come together, you’ll see."

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