Ruthless Billionaire, Reluctant Bride

f her decision. She had hardly slept, tossing and turning as the reality of what lay ahead gnawed at her. She

he grabbed it without even looking, alrea

ontract will arrive at

t her marriage had been reduced to-legal paperwork, terms, and conditions. There wou

ons of getting ready, trying to ground herself in the familiar routine, but everything felt differ

as Dominic had promised, an email from his lawyer arrived with the contract attach

the marriage would last, the financial benefits for her family, and the conditions under which either party could exit the arrangement. The

't a marriage. It was a business deal. And yet, she had n

s trembling slightly as she pressed it to her ear. He answered

Harri

wavering just enough for him

nd

eep breath. "

her to say more, but when she didn't, he simply said, "Good.

o steady herself. "When do yo

on. "It needs to happen quickly. I've arranged ev

controlled every detail of his life with precision. There w

anything?" she ask

no room for debate. "But you'll be wel

mach hearing his voice any longer. She stared down at the contract on her screen, the cu

clicked the signature

Harri

te was

a few weeks. It felt surreal-planning someone else's perfect day while her own wedding would be anything but. She immersed herself in c

life be like with him? Would he keep his distance, or would he demand more from her th

startling her from her thoughts. She wasn't expecting anyone. When she opened

d, though it was clear he

es

said, handing her the bag. "He asked

ealing an exquisite white gown inside. The fabric was delicate, shimmering under the light, and the design

a costume. A symbol of the

sented everything she had ever wanted-a beautiful wedding, a chance to create a life with someo

refusing to break down. She had made her choice, and

g her with stories about the brides she was working with, but the looming wedding hung over everyt

lection. The gown fit her perfectly, the delicate fabric hugging her curves in all the right place

bride. But she did

veil and giving her a reassuring smile

er throat was tight w

ietly, her voice filled with concern. "We

ough it was tinged with sadnes

. remember that you're stronger t

er a weak smil

o escort her to the courthouse. The wedding would be a private affair, just the two

heavier than the last, each one bringing her closer to a future she couldn't fully grasp. When she final

eadable as his icy blue eyes locked onto her. For a brief moment, something flickered

e asked, his voice

eaty despite the cool air in the

al, the words of the vows feeling hollow as they were spoken. Lila's voice trembled as

legant yet understated. His touch was cool, and though he held her han

e," the officiant said

ht about this part. Would Dominic actually kiss her? Woul

The kiss was quick, barely a brush of lips, but it left her heart racing all the same. There was s

n it wa