er. It looked official-too official. The words on the page blurred together as Racheal stared at them, uns

alm, poised, the very picture of control, while she felt like a stranger in this world of wealth a

h me, and you perform the duties expected of a wife in a business arrangement. No e

d everything-her new life, her responsibilities, and her role as his wife in this arrangement. There w

" he continued. "Your presence will help solidify the image of unity and strength

tering the study. His face was unreadable, his expression almost cold,

g. Could she really live like this? Could she live with him, in

for a moment. "You'll have everything you need, Racheal. You'll never want for anythin

wasn't the life she had imagined for herself, but could she truly walk away? Her family's situation had always been frag

rk. This could be the opportunity to lift them from their difficulties. But at what cost?

nt of truth, Racheal. Once you sign, there's no turning back. It's n

s, about her role in the company, and about the expectations of their public life. There was no mention of love, no mentio

his face for any hint of kindness, any sign that he might care for her beyond what she could offer h

is? Could a man like him, so focused on power and control, ever cha

ision clear. She signed the document with a swift motion,

d, her voice ba

stood and walked around the desk, his gaze never leaving her. He held out h

said, his voice cool but with an undertone of

g as she placed it in his. The contrac

ke the feeling that this was only the beginni