Vows of fortune

Of

folded piece of paper out of his coat pocket and placed it on the side table. "You need money and I need a wife." Sophia blinked severally in surprise. "I don't understand. What are you talking about?" "There is a contract," he declared. "Short-term marriage. Legal.Public. You play the role of a devoted wife. In exchange, I will fund your father's treatment. And I will ensure Bennett Enterprises continues to operate." Her jaw dropped. "Is this a joke?" "No. The solution is strategic." He moved a step nearer. "My grandfathers will contain a clause. I must get married by the time I turn thirty. Which is Forty days from now. If not, my cousin Julian will get everything." "The same Julian who falsely accused my father of stealing from Drake Global?" Adrian's face remained expressionless. "Yes. That's why I need someone who presents a clean image. Someone who in all likelihood wouldn't marry me for financial gain. That is who you are. " Sophia's laughter was bitter. "You're crazy." "Possible. But in all seriousness, we need to act fast." Her eyes were blazing as she took a step closer. "Why not a socialite or model who genuinely wants the position of a wife instead of me?" "Because drama is not what I want. I want to keep it private. You need to save. The media respects my name. Both of us will gain from it." She felt her heart beating. "To preserve my father's legacy, do you think I would marry you?" "I believe you already realize that you have no other choice." It struck like a slap. Worst of all it was the truth. Every bank investor and bit of pride she had, was gone. The air was choked with silence. The machines continued to beep despite the raging conflict between them. She whispered, "I don't intend to commit myself to a man like you." Adrian's eyebrow went up. " Fine. Do whatever you want. And watch your father's remaining assets dismantled by the board and angry investors." As he turned to go he stopped. "You have just twenty-four hours to make up your mind. The contract will be sent over by my lawyer. Then the deal goes away." His scent, his threat, and the flicker of temptation that repulsed her were all gone when he walked out.