Sophia Bennett's fingers trembled as she stared at the pristine white contract on the mahogany table before her. The bold letters at the top mocked her: "Marriage Agreement." The weight of the pen in her hand felt heavier than ever, a symbol of the life-altering decision she was being forced to make. Across the table, the man she was supposed to marry lounged in his chair, exuding an air of indifference.
Liam Carter.
Arrogant, wealthy, and infuriatingly handsome, he was everything she despised in a person. His sharp jawline and piercing blue eyes could have been sculpted by the gods, but his cold demeanor left no room for admiration. He hadn't said a word since they'd entered the room, only glancing at her with an expression that bordered on boredom.
"Let's get this over with," Liam finally drawled, his deep voice cutting through the tense silence. "The sooner we sign, the sooner we can stop pretending this is anything but a business deal."
Sophia's jaw tightened. "You think I *want* this? Trust me, Mr. Carter, you're not my idea of a dream husband."
He smirked, a flicker of amusement in his otherwise cold eyes. "Good. Then we're on the same page."
She wanted to hurl the pen at his smug face, but the reminder of her family's financial ruin held her back. This wasn't about her pride—it was about survival.
With a deep breath, she signed her name in elegant strokes, the finality of the act making her stomach churn. Liam followed suit without hesitation, his movements smooth and precise.
As they exchanged a cold, wordless glance, Sophia realized one thing: this marriage would be a war. And she had no intention of losing.