When a fake marriage becomes a real passion, The line between love and deception blurs. Meet Anne a free-spirited Analyst and Julian a ruthless CEO with stunning looks. Pretending to be a fantastic wife seems simple but there's someone who's jealous and would do anything to make their life a living hell.
Chapter 1 The contract
Contract marriage
Anne Kennedy exited the elevator and onto the gleaming marble floor of the Saint Clair Industries headquarters, her heart fluttering with anticipation. She had been waiting for this day forever, the opportunity to finally meet the mysterious billionaire, Julian Saint Clair.
As she walked by the modern, high-tech lobby, Anne was impressed by the scale of the operation. Saint Clair Industries was an international giant, with interests in everything from finance to real estate to technology.
Anne's gaze swept around the lobby, identifying the Saint Clair Industries logo on the rear wall behind the receptionist's desk. Her heart was pounding at the potential for being an employee at the company, and possibly even working alongside Julian Saint Clair himself.
Just as she was beginning to think that she was getting the hang of it, a voice sliced through the chaos of the lobby, making Anne's spine shiver.
"Anne Kennedy"? the voice said again, with a touch of irritation.
Anne turned around to meet the speaker, her gaze clashing with a pair of piercing blue eyes that appeared to pierce into her very soul. None other than Julian Saint Clair himself stood before her, an expectant expression on his face.
"Mr. Saint Clair," Anne stuttered, attempting to compose herself. "An honor to meet you Sir" Julian's eyes narrowed a bit as he looked Anne up and down. She momentarily felt as if she was being measured, assessed like a business prospect.
And then, in an instant, his expression changed. A charming smile spread across his face, and he extended a hand.
"Welcome to Saint Clair Industries, Anne," he spoke, his voice smooth and low. "I'm glad you could make it.", she received a shock of electricity throughout her whole body. It was as if she had been punched in the gut, winded, and left dazed.
What made Julian Saint Clair so special that he affected her this way? And what did he want from her, really? Anne's mind was reeling with questions as she followed Julian to the elevator, the doors closing behind them with a soft whoosh. She sensed that her life was about to be changed in ways she could not even start to conceive.
As the elevator doors shut, Anne felt a wave of apprehension wash over her. She had no idea what to anticipate from this encounter with Julian Saint Clair, but she was certain that her life was going to change in ways she could hardly even dream of, Working with the Saint Clair was no small thing.
Julian, however, appeared utterly relaxed. He leaned against the elevator wall, his eyes locked on Anne with an unsettling intensity.
"Alright, Anne," he answered, his voice smooth and low. "Let's cut to the chase. What is it that you believe qualifies you to work for Saint Clair Industries?"
Anne felt a rush of confidence at the question. She had prepared for this, researching the company and practicing responses to common interview questions.
"I have a business administration degree," she replied, her voice stern. "And I've worked in the industry for several years, gaining valuable experience and skills."
Julian's eye lifted in surprise, clearly impressed. "I see," he said. "And why do you want to work for Saint Clair Industries specifically?"
Anne took a moment to catch her breath, She wanted to be careful enough she said the right words. "I am drawn to the passion for excellence and innovation of the company," she responded. "And I look forward to collaborating with an exceptional team of professionals."
As the elevator doors opened, Julian stepped out, inviting Anne to follow him. "Welcome to my office," he said, leading her to a sleek, high-tech room with an incredible view of the city.
Dazzled by the opulent decor, Anne blinked, but Julian just smiled, inviting her to sit.
"Let's get down to business, The main reason why I invited you" he said, his eyes blazing with passion. "I have a proposal for you, Anne. One that will change your life in ways you can't even begin to think about."
Anne's heart faltered at the words, her mind spinning with possibilities. What in the world could Julian possibly offer apart from the job she wanted?
And then, just as she was about to even ask, Julian dropped a bombshell.
"I want you to marry me," he said, his voice low and husky.
Anne's mouth dropped open, her eyes wide with shock. "Marry you?" she breathed, her voice barely audible.
Julian nodded, his eyes burning with desire. "Yes, Anne. I want you to marry me."
Anne's mind was reeling with questions. "Why?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady. "What's the purpose of this marriage?"
Julian leaned back in his chair, lacing his fingers together. "I need a wife to facilitate a business transaction," he explained. "A merger with a conservative company that is interested in family and heritage. They want to know that I am settled and married before they will take the offer which I can't afford to loose. They're big clients"
Anne's forehead creased. "And you can't just marry someone else?" she asked, trying to understand.
Julian looked at her. "I need someone with a certain...image," he said. "Someone who is intelligent, beautiful, and respectable. And I think you are the perfect fit, considering the research I've made about you. You've been single since High-school and you hardly have any Families or friends, So not much people know you which is perfect." He said with a grin.
Anne's anger grew at his words, but she fought to be calm. "And what am I getting in return?" she asked, trying to be level headed.
Julian smiled, the humor dancing in his eyes. "You'll be well taken care of, Anne," he said. "You'll have all the comforts and perks that come with a Saint Clair title. And, of course, you'll get a handsome pay-out when our Three-years contract is up."
Anne's mind was reeling with options. She had never thought she would be considering a contract marriage, but the prospect of supporting herself was enticing, She wouldn't even need to work.
"So Anne Kennedy, what do you say"? Julian urged again, his eyes blazing with passion. "Will you marry me?"
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