The Billionaire's Bride.

When I heard my butler say, "Your grace, someone is calling you from the Philippines," I looked up from my papers, took off my glasses, and leaned back in my chair. It took a moment for the words to sink in.

Someone calling me from the Philippines?

A smile tugged at my lips as I glanced at Aria. "What did he say?" I asked.

It's a miracle he called me. Knowing that old hag, he wouldn't call without a reason. What could he want after ten years of silence since I cut ties with his clan? I’ve made my mark in the European business world, standing on my own. I never asked for their help, not even a single peso.

"He wants you to go back to the Philippines, your grace," Aria reported calmly.

I raised an eyebrow. Why? Why now? They don't know my life here in Europe. They think I'm just surviving, underestimating me without knowing I've become more powerful than them. I don’t plan to tell them about my success; they’d only try to undermine me.

"Did he give a reason?" I asked, turning away to look out at the city.

"No reason, your grace," she replied.

I dismissed her and grinned. Maybe I should visit without announcing my arrival. They want me back home? Fine.

HOME. That place is not my home. They treated me like a slave.

"Let's see why he needs my presence," I whispered.

***

"Keep me updated on everything, Aria," I instructed as I prepared to leave for the Philippines.

Today, I'm returning to a place I left behind, a place of struggle and pain. Almost ten years of freedom, learning to stand alone, and discovering who I truly am. I now understand my worth and why I had to survive.

I surveyed my mansion, the fountains, the gardens, and my loyal staff. I felt a sense of pride in what I’ve built. This is my kingdom, and I rule it with an iron will.

Boarding the private jet, apprehension gripped me. What could be so important now? The flight was long, filled with memories of my journey from powerlessness to strength. I’m a force in high society and the business world. No one would underestimate me again.

Landing in the Philippines, a mix of dread and nostalgia washed over me. I’ve come so far, and I won't let anyone diminish my achievements.

Stepping off the plane, ready for the unknown, I never imagined this reckless and unpredictable journey.

Because I, Katharina Esmeralda Grimaldi, Duchess of Monaco and part of Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), found myself in an arranged marriage with the dangerously beautiful and cold-hearted billionaire, Rome Benjamin Azcárraga, CEO of Azcárraga Oceanic Shipping Lines Inc., one of Asia's largest shipping companies.