The sun slowly rose over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city. It was 7:00 AM, and Isabella stirred in her bed, stretching her arms and yawning. She swung her legs over the side of the bed and planted her feet firmly on the ground.
After a refreshing bath and brushing her teeth, Isabella felt revitalized. She made her way downstairs to greet her family, who were already gathered in the living room.
"Good morning, dear," her mother said, giving her a warm smile.
"Morning," Isabella replied, hugging her mother tightly.
Her grandmother, always eager to know her plans, asked, "What's on your agenda today, Isabella?"
Isabella hesitated for a moment before responding, "I have to meet someone at 9:00 AM."
Her grandmother's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Oh, is it your blind date?"
Isabella nodded, playing along to avoid raising suspicion. "Yes, one of my blind dates. I want to make a good impression."
Her grandmother beamed, thrilled at the prospect of Isabella settling down. "That's wonderful, dear! We'll be praying for you."
Isabella smiled, relieved that her grandmother bought the story.
"I'll join you all in the dining room shortly," Isabella said, glancing at the clock. It was 7:30 AM.
She joined her family for breakfast at 7:30 AM, enjoying their lively chatter and laughter. By 8:00 AM, she had finished eating and excused herself.
"I'll get ready and head out," Isabella announced, leaving the table.
Her family bid her farewell, and Isabella retreated to her room to dress up for her mysterious meeting with Ethan.
With her outfit chosen and her hair styled, Isabella grabbed her bag and left the house, heading to the cafe where Ethan said to meet.
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Ethan sat in his wheelchair in front of the mirror, adjusting his tie. His reflection showed a handsome face, but his eyes hinted at a deeper story.
"Good morning, Ethan," James said, entering the room.
"Good morning, James," Ethan replied, turning around. "Don't forget, I'm meeting Isabella by 9:00 AM. Tell my aunt, Miss Kim, that I have a blind date today. Just say she's one of my blind dates." James nodded. "I'll let her know, sir." James headed downstairs to the living room, where Miss Kim was sipping tea. "Good morning, Miss Kim," James greeted. "Ethan said I should tell you he's meeting one of his blind dates today." Miss Kim's face lit up. "Oh, that's very good! Advise him to behave well and make a good impression."
James bowed. "I'll pass on your message, Miss Kim." Miss Kim finished her tea and stood up. "Tell Ethan I've gone to work. I expect good news soon."
James returned upstairs to Ethan's room. "Sir, your aunt sends her best wishes."
Ethan smiled wryly. "Let's go."
James helped Ethan into his jacket and wheeled him out of the room. They descended to the ground floor, where the car awaited. With James's assistance, Ethan settled into the car. James took the driver's seat. As they drove, Ethan thought about his plan to propose a contract to Isabella – a temporary marriage to satisfy their families. They arrived at the cafe. James opened the door, and Ethan wheeled out.
Isabella was already seated at a table, looking elegant in a yellow sundress. Her eyes narrowed as Ethan approached.
Ethan wheeled up to the table, James assisting him before departing to wait nearby.
Isabella's expression remained icy.
"Right on time," Ethan said, glancing at his watch. "Miss Isabella, I know we're both here because our families want us to get married. I have a proposal."
Ethan signaled James, who promptly brought over a file and handed it to Isabella.
Isabella opened the file, scanning the contents. The contract outlined a six-month marriage between her and Ethan, followed by a divorce.
Isabella's expression didn't waver, but a hint of amusement danced in her eyes. She laughed coldly and mirthlessly.
"That's a very good idea, Mister Ethan. But I need to consider my own interests. I'll review the contract and send a message to the number that contacted me yesterday."
Ethan nodded curtly. "Okay, fine."
"Thank you, Mister Ethan," Isabella said, standing up. "I think I'll leave now."
Isabella gathered her bag and walked away.
As she departed, Ethan muttered, "So rude."
He signaled James, who returned to the table.
"We didn't have anything to drink this morning," Ethan said. "Get us something."
James nodded and ordered drinks from the cafe.
As they waited, Ethan's thoughts turned to the contract.
James returned with their drinks, and they sipped in silence.
"Let's head back home," Ethan said, finishing his drink.
James assisted Ethan back into the car, and they drove away.