Ties That Bind

schedule and handling his correspondence with ease. Despite their occasional interactions, Maxwell couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Emily than met the eye. One

erfect." Emily looked uncertain, but Maxwell could see the gears turning in her mind. He knew she wouldn't refuse him outright. "There's one more thing," Maxwell said, his voice taking on a slightly different tone. "I'm not just looking for a date. I need someone to marry me." Emily's eyes went wide, and she sat up straight, her face pale. "Marry you, Mr. Ryder?" Maxwell nodded. "Yes. A contract marriage, to be precise. We'll need to present a united front for the sake of our business and social reputations. In return, I'll offer you a substantial sum of money