Chapter 4 The Contract

Ethan's proposition left Alex speechless. She couldn't fathom how a marriage, especially a contract-bound one, could solve their problems. "Why, Mr. Blackwood?" she managed to ask, her eyes filled with confusion, "Why would you want this...this...contract marriage?"

Ethan's gaze drifted towards the window, looking out into the city's skyline but not really seeing it. "My mother," he started, a note of annoyance creeping into his otherwise controlled voice, "has been insistent on me settling down. This constant nagging for marriage has been... tiresome."

He turned back to face Alex, his face a mask of indifference. "So, I marry you for 120 days. That should satisfy my mother's need to see me settled. And you," he pointed at her, "get your company's debts paid off. After those 120 days, we divorce. Simple."

His declaration left Alex reeling. She had met men of all kinds, but Ethan Blackwood was unlike anyone she had ever encountered. His blatant disregard for marriage, the sanctity of it, was disturbing. Yet, his proposal held the potential solution to her predicament. It was a drastic measure, one that went against everything she believed in. But, was she in a position to reject such an offer?

Ethan's lifestyle, his serial affairs were the stuff of tabloids. He was a notorious playboy, unapologetic about his lack of commitment or his hedonistic pursuits. Yet, she couldn't ignore the fact that this man was willing to help her save her father's legacy, albeit for his own selfish reasons.

"I... I need some time," Alex said, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts. Ethan simply nodded, a glint of something unreadable in his eyes.

That night, Alex lay awake in her bed, her mind going over the events of the evening. Her father's company, her family's legacy, was hanging by a thread. Ethan's proposal, as outrageous as it was, could salvage it. But, it also meant surrendering herself to a man known for his ruthless demeanor and a marriage devoid of love.

After what felt like an eternity, as the first light of dawn seeped through her window, she made her decision. It was for her father, for her family, for the Monroe legacy. She would accept Ethan's proposal.

A few days later, Alex found herself at the Blackwood Enterprises, one of the city's most iconic skyscrapers. Taking a deep breath, she stepped out of the elevator onto the top floor that housed Ethan Blackwood's office.

The office was a reflection of the man himself – stark, imposing, and oozing power. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided a panoramic view of the city skyline. The furniture was minimalistic, mostly made of rich mahogany. A massive desk sat at the center, surrounded by high-tech screens showcasing various stocks and shares. On one side of the room was a glass wall that led to a private balcony. It was the perfect blend of elegance and authority, a space designed for dominance and control.

However, the sight that greeted her as she entered was not what she had anticipated. Ethan Blackwood was there, engaged in a passionate kiss with his secretary. Alex's stomach turned, a wave of disgust washing over her.

Clearing her throat, she announced her presence, causing Ethan and his secretary to break apart. His secretary, a tall blonde with striking features, looked mortified and quickly excused herself. Ethan, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. He simply wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and gave Alex a smirk.

She met Ethan, her determination evident in her sapphire eyes. "Mr. Blackwood," she started, her voice firm, "I accept your proposal."

"You're here, wife," he said, the word 'wife' drawn out and laced with amusement.

Alex chose to ignore the jab, focusing instead on the task at hand. She opened her bag, pulling out the documents that would seal their fate. "Here's the NDA," she said curtly, handing him the papers, "I believe this is the usual procedure in your... dealings."

Ethan took the documents from her, his smirk never leaving his face. "My, my, someone's done their homework," he said, his tone patronizing. He skimmed through the documents, signed them, and handed them back to her.

The moment was surreal. Here she was, in a man's office she barely knew, signing an NDA for a contract marriage. She felt a lump in her throat, but she swallowed it down. This was her decision, her sacrifice for her family and her father's legacy. She was in this now, and there was no turning back.

As she left the office, she couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. The next 120 days were going to be challenging, she was certain. But she also knew that she was stronger than she gave herself credit for. She would get through this and hopefully, come out on the other side with her dignity intact.

As they concluded their business, Ethan turned to her, a smug grin on his face. "I suppose you must've sold your car by now," he commented, a mocking glint in his eyes. "I'll drive you home."

The jab at her financial status stung, but Alex held her ground. "That won't be necessary, Mr. Blackwood. I can get home myself," she retorted, her voice steady.

Ethan's expression hardened, and the air in the room turned chilly. He did not like to be defied. "I wasn't asking, Alexandra. I was telling," he responded, his tone stern, leaving no room for negotiation.

As they descended to the underground parking garage, Alex was led to a sleek black Bentley Continental GT, a vehicle that screamed luxury and power. Its exterior was pristine, an embodiment of superior craftsmanship and design. The interior was plush, furnished with leather seats and a host of sophisticated tech controls.

Ethan was dressed impeccably in a charcoal-black suit that clung to his muscled frame, paired with a crisp white shirt and a black tie. He carried an air of authority and dominance that was almost tangible. His cologne was a mix of wood and spice, a masculine scent that was as intoxicating as it was overwhelming.

Alex, in contrast, was dressed elegantly in a teal blouse and cream pencil skirt, her ensemble a perfect mix of professionalism and style. Her perfume was light and floral, a direct contrast to Ethan's strong scent.

As they drove to her house, Ethan turned to her. "We have to fool everyone, Alexandra," he said, his voice serious. "Starting with your mother. We have to make them believe that we're in love."

Alex felt a shiver go down her spine at his words. This charade was going to be a lot harder than she had anticipated. But she nodded, acknowledging his words. She knew the stakes. She had to convince the world, her world, that she was head over heels in love with a man she barely knew and hardly liked.

Upon reaching her home, they paused at the entrance. Ethan turned to her, his grey eyes stern. "Remember, this is just the beginning of our game," he warned her, before stepping out of the car, transforming his stern demeanor into one of charming affability.

As they faced her mother, their hands entwined, Alex steeled herself for the act she was about to put on. The game had indeed begun.