"Sign it. You can go through the details later," he said, his voice gruff as if this were simply a business transaction. Who am I kidding? What else could it be? I'd be a fool to expect anything more from someone like him.
I signed the papers immediately without reading the contents, watching as the man in front of me walked toward the door. My heart suddenly skipped a beat when he stopped at the threshold, sparing me one last glance. "If you mess this up by any chance... I'll kill you." The look on his face suggested he meant it, but there's no way he'd actually do something like that... right?
At first, I thought I was fortunate—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rebuild my father's empire. However, two minutes into this fake marriage, I already felt like quitting.
*Elena Reid.* That would be my new name from now on. It didn't sound bad. "It's only for six months," I told myself, trying to stay positive as I observed the room. In addition to being his wife, I would also hold an important role in his business. *I wonder why, though. Why was that one of the conditions of the marriage?* I began to read through the contract word by word, line by line. It was pretty straightforward.
I would be his wife for a period of six months—just long enough to fool the public. I would also hold a major role in his company, attend board meetings, accompany him to various occasions and events, and convince his grandfather that we were in love.
Upon successful completion, I would receive ten million dollars in cash, and my father's debt would be paid off. Look at me. It really does feel like I'm selling myself for money.
**Ring... Ring.**
My phone suddenly began to ring, pulling me back to reality. I already had a general idea of who it was—probably my father. It had been a few hours, and I'd forgotten to call him.
"Hello, Dad," I said gently, my tone light. For some reason, I seemed happy that it had been successful, even though I knew it wouldn't be peaceful.
"So how was it? Did it go well?" My father's anxious, nervous voice came through shakily. From his tone, I could tell he was probably scared to hear the answer. Perhaps I'd play a prank on him. The reaction would be priceless—too bad I wouldn't be able to see his face.
"I'm sorry, Dad. It didn't work out," I said, faking a sad tone and even going as far as sobbing. One... two... three... seven... ten seconds passed, and the other side was silent. Did he hang up? No, he didn't. Perhaps he was disappointed? Finally, his voice came through—low but firm.
"It's alright. Don't stress yourself. We'll pull through somehow. If worst comes to worst, we'll sell the company itself, as well as some properties. You've done enough. I'm sorry for dragging you into this." His voice was gentle, strong, and still held hope.
If I told him I was joking, it would be kind of awkward. Ugh, I hate myself. "I'm sorry, Dad! I was only joking. From now on, be sure to address me as Elena Reid." I said with a smile on my face. Once again, the other side went silent. Perhaps he didn't understand what I meant.
"*Sob*... Elena... don't play with me like that. *Sniff.* I'm a fragile old man. I almost gave up a second ago. I'm truly sorry for having you do this for my sake... please find it in your heart to forgive me!" He was actually crying. I could tell he was sad, perhaps also disappointed in himself. But he was wrong. "I did it for our sake, Dad. You don't have to blame yourself for anything. Don't worry—he seems like a nice man." *Like hell he is.* He already threatened to kill me. Of course, I couldn't tell him that. Who knows how my father would react?
"That's great, so wh—Damn it, I'll call you back, sweetheart. I can smell my lunch burning!"
"Okay, Dad. Make sure you rest, and don't forget to take your medications!"
"Alright, sweetheart. I'll take care of myself... Bye!"
"Bye!"
I felt relieved after talking to my dad. Perhaps from now on, he could finally take it easy and focus on his health—
"So I seem like a nice man?" The voice of the most dreadful person I know rang out from the doorway. Since when was he there? What the—I hope I didn't mess up!
"I... I... I—"
"Save your breath. Follow me. I'm sure you've read the contract. I'll introduce you to the necessary people."