I Divorced the President’s Secret Heiress (Kael’s POV)

KAEL’S POV

I straightened my tie in the mirror, satisfied with the reflection staring back at me. Tonight wasn't just any end-of-year party; it was the beginning of a new chapter in the Veridan legacy. My legacy.

"Mr. Kael," a maid appeared at my door, "your wife is asking about the flower arrangements."

"Tell her they need to match the governor's daughter's dress. Emerald green. " I replied dismissively. "She'll follow whatever I say."

Truthfully, I doubted Zorina would understand anything beyond the mundane responsibilities my late mother had once shouldered. She was competent enough at maintaining the household, I'd give her that much. A dutiful wife from a nobody family that my father had inexplicably chosen for me years ago.

I made my way downstairs, pausing briefly in the kitchen where Zorina was directing the staff with practiced efficiency.

"The flowers need to be flawless," I told her without preamble.

"They will be," she assured me, her voice carrying that familiar note of eagerness to please.

As I turned to leave, she called after me, "Mr. Kael, is there something special about tonight?"

I paused, measuring my response. "It's the end of the year. It's always special." No need to divulge more. Everyone would know soon enough.

The grand foyer was already filling with Veridania City's elite when I took my position by the entrance. Politicians, industry magnates, old money families—connections that had served the Veridan family for generations. Connections I was about to strengthen significantly.

And then she arrived. My special guest. My big surprise.

Liora Hestrel entered the room like a force of nature, her emerald gown shimmering under the chandelier light. The governor's daughter, intelligent, well-connected, and impossibly beautiful. Everything I needed in a partner to propel the Veridan name to unprecedented heights.

"Kael!" she exclaimed, her voice like music.

"Liora," I responded warmly, taking her hand. "You look stunning."

Her eyes sparkled with anticipation. We'd planned this moment meticulously over the past months, and now the time had come.

I glanced around the room, spotting Zorina standing awkwardly near the refreshment table. For a moment, something akin to guilt flashed through me, but I pushed it aside. Business was business, and marriage, at least in our circles—

I raised my glass, calling for attention. "Everyone, please gather around. I have an important announcement to make."

The room quieted, all eyes shifting to me. I noted with satisfaction the governor's approving nod from across the room.

"Today, I want to share some joyous news," I began, my tone deliberately warm. "Liora and I will be married in a month. This union not only strengthens our family's ties with the governor's but is something I've personally looked forward to for a long time."

Applause erupted around us. Liora beamed at my side, her hand slipping into mine with practiced ease. It was only when I heard my name spoken in a strained voice that I noticed Zorina had approached.

"Kael, may I speak with you?"

I frowned at the interruption but nodded, leading her to a quieter corner.

"What is the meaning of this?" she demanded, her voice trembling. "You're marrying someone else?"

I maintained my composure. "Yes. Polygamy is legal here, Zorina. I don't see why this is an issue."

Her eyes widened. "You don't see why it's an issue? I'm your wife, Kael. Have you even considered how I feel?"

"Feelings have nothing to do with this," I replied coldly. "It's a strategic decision. Our family gains influence, and I—" I allowed myself a small smile, "—I gain happiness."

"Happiness?" Her voice cracked. "What about the sacrifices I've made?"

I scoffed at her dramatics. "Sacrifice? Zorina, you're the daughter of a nobody. If it weren't for my father, you wouldn't even be standing here."

The hurt in her eyes was immediate, but I felt nothing. Years of managing business deals had hardened me against such emotional displays.

"I see," she whispered. "So, this is how you've always seen me."

I sighed, impatient to return to my guests. "I don't have time for this drama. The decision is final. You'll remain in the household, and I expect you to behave accordingly."

The party continued without further incident, though I noticed Zorina had retreated to overseeing the staff rather than participating as my wife. It mattered little. Liora commanded the room with effortless grace, charming every guest with her wit and beauty.

"Zorina!" Liora called out at one point, her voice carrying across the room. I watched with mild amusement as my first wife approached, her face a careful mask.

"Could you be a dear and let the staff know the dessert service is taking too long?" Liora asked sweetly. "It's terribly embarrassing for such a grand event, don't you think?"

I said nothing, sipping my champagne as Zorina agreed meekly and turned to leave.

"Oh, and Zorina?" Liora added, her smile never faltering. "You might want to take notes on how to host an event like this. I'd hate for you to feel overshadowed in your own home."