TIED BY FATE

ccess: floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the city (the skyline glimmering with the golden hues of the setting sun). The modern furnishings, with thei

eeling of unease that gnawed at him. He had spent the last few days deliberating over the most important decision of his life-one that would shape his future, not just in business, but in ways he never i

rm, under the leadership of a conservative CEO, maintained a stringent policy regarding family values. They would not endorse the agreement with a single, affluent entrepreneur, particularly not one like Julian, whose private life was perpetually scrutinized by the media. His phone vibrated on the desk, abruptly interrupting his contemplation. It was Marcus, his business partner and closest a

arriage had never factored into his plans. Yet, now, it appeared to be the sole method to ensure the future of his enterprise. The notion of becoming someone's husband, even if merely for business purposes, caused his stomach to twist uncomfortably. He had devoted his life to constructing his empire on his own terms-unencumbered by commitments, free from anyone attempting

priate social circle. He could almost hear her voice echoing in his mind, chastising him for his recklessness and lack of foresight. However, Catherine's criteria for a suitable wife seemed as distant from reality as could be. His life had revolved around calculated risks and rationality; emotions simply had no p

t would tether him when all he desired was freedom. He had constructed everything he possessed from the ground up; he didn't need anyone dictating his life. Neverth

gnized that the concept of marriage-even if it were merely a façade-would undoubtedly complicate matters, but his ambition to secure the deal eclipsed his apprehensions. He was determined to devise a solution, just as he had navigated every other obstacle in his life. Yet, one question persisted in his thoughts: What would this entail for him, beyond

, free from complications. Julian ran his fingers through his hair, feeling the weight of the decision cause his thoughts to spiral. As the evening progressed (and it felt interminable), Julian found himself fixated on the contract resting on his desk, the stark lines of the document seeming to mock him. He was at a loss regarding how

n the door bro

," he ca

odded absently, somewhat distracted by his own thoughts. "Yes, I'm ready. We just need to-" He paused abruptly, halting mid-sentence. The weight of the proposal felt suffocating and for the first time in a long while, a sense of uncertainty washed over him. This deal could elevate his career, but the cost was considerable. Was the price of success truly worth the personal sacrifices? Would he genuinely b