Thomas suddenly frowned, thinking about Matt. They are friends and have known each other since high school. When Thomas moved from a rural area, no one in his class wanted to make friends with him. Matt was the only one who talked to him. Matt comes from a rich family, so since childhood his personality is rebellious and what he mays find ways to get.
Thomas thought back to all the times Matt had asked him to attend these meetings to trick his parents. However, this time, an uneasy feeling lingered in Thomas's heart. He absentmindedly placed his hand on his forehead, his thoughts drifting into a half-awake slumber.
After returning home, Catherine was so absorbed in the new news in the magazine that she forgot that she had an appointment this afternoon.
Her complexion was pallid, dark circles forming under her eyes from countless sleepless nights. A hollow gaze stared back, like a faded rose petal dulled by the weight of her tears. Her face since seeing the long scandal, pain and sadness clearly appeared on her face. Her once vibrant chestnut hair had lost its luster, leaving behind dry strands that lacked the former shine and softness.
Catherine struggled to find her smartphone in her purse, then quickly took it out, but accidentally lost her grip on it.. "Dammit! What on earth is this bad luck?" she muttered under her breath, annoyance flashing in her eyes.
An onslaught of messages flooded her phone, both from her parents and an array of probing inquiries from the reporters these recent days.
On the phone screen immediately appeared text messages sent not long ago by her family, who were desperately trying to get in touch. They seemed to be the masterminds behind the rumors, orchestrating them to grab her attention.
"Catherine, if you don't help us, we might lose our lives. We're your parents, and you can't abandon us like this."
Or even more extreme were the threatening messages: "If you don't assist us in repaying our debts, we will continue to publish those articles, and you'll be barred from the entertainment industry."
Catherine lingers in a state of inner conflict as she contemplates the prospect of entering into a contractual marriage. The weight of her parents' expectations and the pressures they impose on her create a suffocating atmosphere, leaving Catherine feeling trapped and devoid of control over her own life.
Catherine's internal struggle intensifies as she weighs the potential consequences of either path she chooses. The weight of her decision hangs heavy upon her shoulders, knowing that her choice will have far-reaching implications for her future and the relationships she holds dear.
Despite the incessant messages from her family, Catherine, fatigued, searched through her contacts for Nicole's name. Her finger trailed, inadvertently wiping away teardrops that had found their way down to the phone's screen. The pain was indescribable, her finger growing heavy as if someone were pressing it down.
At this moment, a sound interrupted her train of thought. "Ring" The sound seemed to reverberate throughout the room as if it was pulling her back to reality.
On the other end of the line, a soothing voice broke through, "Catherine? Is everything good?"
"Not good at all Nicole, I don't know what should I do now"
"Oh, my God! This is the best option for you right now trust me."
Catherine found herself at a crossroads, feeling as though she had exhausted every avenue available. Driven by familial ties and the weight of her aspirations, she resolved to align herself with Nicole's plan.
"Nicole, I agree with this plan."
"Let's prepare for the meeting tonight Catherine"
"Hold on! You need to wipe away that tired, worn-out expression. Apply makeup to dazzle the other party and leave an unforgettable impression."
"I know. Now I need to get ready."
"Everything will be good. Don't worry you gonna be fine"
"Thanks for everything Nicole."
Thomas arrived early at the restaurant, feeling a mixture of nervousness and anticipation for his meeting with Catherine. The restaurant was adorned with opulent lights, creating a luminous space. Seated at a corner table, Thomas searched for Catherine's appearance. Strangely, he felt a sense of anticipation and excitement he couldn't explain.
As the clock approached 6 in the evening, Catherine arrived at the restaurant. Behind the ornate doors, a piano melody resonated softly. The restaurant was adorned with numerous windows that overlooked a street filled with maple leaves when autumn comes.
As the door swung open, Thomas couldn't tear his gaze away from the scene before him. Catherine entered wearing an elegant white dress, her long hair gleaming and resplendent. She shone like a star, radiating natural beauty and confidence that reflected in her face, leaving Thomas unable to look at anyone else.
Catherine approached Thomas's table with a sweet smile on her lips. Her eyes were like two sparkling stars, creating a space exclusively meant for the two of them. Thomas could feel the warmth and affection that Catherine exuded.
Thomas couldn't help but ask, "Hello, may I ask if you're the lady who has an appointment with Matt?"
"Yes, that's me. Hello, I'm Catherine. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Catherine, you're so beautiful that words can't adequately describe it. Meeting you outside is truly wonderful." Thomas exclaimed.
Catherine blushed and responded, "Thank you, Thomas. You're also quite elegant and charming. I'm glad to meet you."
They continued to enjoy their dinner, conversing about life and exploring each other's perspectives.
As the dinner neared its end, Thomas suggested, "This restaurant has a beautiful garden. Would you like to take a look with me?"
"Sure! Why not?"
Thomas and Emily strolled along the narrow path, the twinkling streetlights casting a luminous glow. Their tales unfurled, vibrant and intricate, akin to pages of a book unfurling before their eyes. Thomas's heart embarked on a wondrous journey, akin to an adventure of boundless possibilities, fully aware that this serendipitous encounter could forever alter the course of his life.
"You seem a bit down. Are you truly okay?"
"I'm fine, just a slight headache. I think it's because we were filming under the sun earlier today, and now I feel a bit dizzy."
"I'll take you home, then," Thomas offered, his concern evident in his voice.
Catherine looked into Thomas's eyes and asked seriously, "You know what the point of this date is, right? Between us, there will be a marriage contract, and it's all for our mutual benefit."