The soft glow of candles and dim lighting set the tone for an intimate evening at Jones, Alexander's upscale restaurant. He stood at the bar, sipping his scotch as he chatted with his friend Liam.
"Still unsure about this plan, Alex," Liam said, his brow furrowed.
"I've got this under control," Alexander replied confidently. "Amber's the perfect candidate. Beautiful, intelligent, and... available."
Liam raised an eyebrow. "You're not exactly looking for love, are you?"
Alexander snorted. "Love's overrated. Father's rule stipulates I must be married to retain my CEO position and inherit his shares. Amber fits the bill."
As they spoke, the door swung open and two women walked in – Amber and her friend Lily.
Amber's striking features and effortless elegance caught Alexander's attention. He smiled to himself, satisfied with his choice.
Liam nodded discreetly toward the women. "Showtime, Alex."
Alexander straightened his tie and made his way to the table, Liam following closely.
"Good evening, ladies. Welcome to Jones. I'm Alexander, the owner, and this is my friend Liam."
Amber's eyes sparkled as she shook his hand. "The pleasure's ours. Your restaurant's lovely."
As they ordered and dinner was served, conversation flowed easily. Alexander charmed Amber with stories of his travels, while Liam engaged Lily in a lively discussion about art.
As the main course arrived, Alexander skillfully steered the conversation toward his proposal.
Amber and Lily enjoyed their dinner at Jones, oblivious to the surprise awaiting them. Alexander, the restaurant's owner, and his friend Liam had arrived earlier, sipping scotch at the bar.
"Still unsure about this plan, Alex," Liam said, brow furrowed.
"I've got this under control," Alexander replied confidently. "Amber's the perfect candidate. Beautiful, intelligent... and willing to compensate for the damaged portrait."
Liam raised an eyebrow. "You're not exactly looking for love, are you?"
Alexander snorted. "Love's overrated. Father's rule stipulates I must be married to retain my CEO position and inherit his shares. Amber fits the bill."
As the women finished their main course, Alexander joined them.
"Good evening, ladies. I hope you're enjoying your dinner?"
Amber smiled. "It's exquisite, thank you."
Alexander's gaze locked onto hers. "Amber, may I have a word with you privately?"
Lily nodded and excused herself.
Alexander led Amber to his office, where a damaged portrait hung on the wall.
"Recognize this?" he asked.
Amber's eyes widened. "The Monet! I accidentally damaged it at the art gallery."
Alexander's expression turned serious. "It's worth millions. But I'm willing to forgive the debt... under one condition."
Amber's heart sank.
"Marry me," Alexander said bluntly. "My father's rule requires me to be married to retain my CEO position. In return, I'll waive the debt and provide a generous settlement."
Amber's eyes narrowed. "You're using me to secure your business interests."
Alexander shrugged. "Call it mutually beneficial. We can divorce once I've secured my position."
Lily's concerned gaze met Amber's as they left the restaurant.
"What did he want?" Lily asked.
Amber's voice barely above a whisper, "He wants me to marry him... to save his CEO position and clear my debt."
Lily's eyes widened. "What will you do?"
Amber's determination grew. "I'll consider his proposal... but on my terms."
Amber spent the next few days weighing her options. Marrying Alexander would solve her financial woes, but at what cost? She'd be tied to a man who saw her as a business transaction, not a partner.
One evening, Lily joined Amber for a walk in the park.
"Have you decided?" Lily asked, concern etching her face.
"I'm leaning toward yes," Amber admitted. "But I want guarantees."
"What kind?"
"Assurance that our agreement will be temporary, and I'll receive fair compensation."
Lily nodded. "You're playing this smart."
The next day, Amber met Alexander at his office.
"I accept your proposal," Amber said, her voice firm. "But I have conditions."
Alexander raised an eyebrow. "I'm listening."
"First, our marriage will be temporary – one year, max."
Alexander nodded. "Agreed."
"Second, I want a guaranteed settlement of 25 percent of your company."
Alexander's expression turned calculating. "Done. Wait what? 25 percent."
"Yes. Or would there be an issue with you fulfilling it?" She asked with a straight face.
"Fine 25 percent it is." He said with a sigh.
"Third, I want a clause ensuring my freedom after the divorce."
Alexander smiled. "You drive a hard bargain, Amber."
The contract was drafted, and Amber signed, sealing her fate.