One year. No love. No escape. When broke and desperate Jasmine Reyes agrees to a one-year contract marriage with ruthless billionaire Lucas Vane, it's only for survival. He offers her everything she needs-money, security, and a way to save her dying mother. But there's one catch: he's the man she vowed to hate forever. Lucas wants a wife for show. Jasmine wants revenge for the family he destroyed. But in the world of power, lies, and betrayal, feelings are the most dangerous enemy of all. Will their cold contract ignite into something real-or will hidden truths tear them apart before the year ends?
Chapter 1: The Contract
Jasmine Reyes stood outside the hospital, clutching a folder of unpaid medical bills. Her mother's condition was worsening, and the doctors had made it clear-without surgery, she wouldn't last another month. The problem? Jasmine had already sold everything she owned, worked two jobs, and even dropped out of her master's program to stay afloat. But it wasn't enough.
She was about to call the loan office again when a sleek black car stopped in front of her.
The window rolled down.
Lucas Vane.
The name alone sent a chill down her spine. Billionaire. Ruthless CEO. The man who had bought out her father's company and left her family in ruins.
"You look like someone in need of a miracle," he said coolly.
Jasmine's jaw clenched. "What do you want?"
"I have a proposition. Get in."
She hesitated. Every cell in her body screamed no. But her phone buzzed again-another hospital reminder. She got in.
Inside, Lucas handed her a thick envelope. She opened it and froze. A contract. With her name on it.
Marriage Contract. One year.
"I'll cover your mother's medical expenses, pay off your student debt, and give you enough money to start over," he said, not even looking at her. "In return, you'll play the role of my wife."
"Why me?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
"Because I need a wife with no strings. No real attachment. And because you're the last person I'd ever fall for."
His voice was like ice. Cold. Precise. Dangerous.
Jasmine felt anger bubbling inside her-but behind that anger was desperation.
"One year?" she asked.
"One year. No love. No questions. No escape."
She swallowed hard. "Fine. I'll marry you, Lucas Vane. But only because I need the money."
He smirked. "Good. Because I need a wife who hates me."