Chapter 3 3

The morning sun shone brightly but Amelia still lay on her bed like someone who had no plans for the day. After a couple of hours, She took a deep breath and she rose up, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and nervousness. She knew that her decision to sign the contract would change the course of her life in every way she could ever think of. But she also knew that this was an opportunity that she couldn't let go of.

Summoning her courage, Amelia picked up her phone and dialed Ethan's number. As the phone rang, she reminded herself of the genuine connection they had shared during the time they had spent together.

"Hello?" Ethan's voice greeted her warmly.

"Hi, Ethan," Amelia replied, trying to steady her voice. "I've made my decision. I'm ready to sign the contract and begin the process."

Ethan's silence on the other end of the line was something she felt she could see. She could almost picture the expression on his face as he processed her words.

Finally, he spoke, his voice steady and sincere. "Are you sure, Amelia? This is not a decision to be taken lightly."

"I am," she replied with an unwavering determination. "I've thought about it over and over again, and I believe this is the right path for me. I trust that we can go through this unexpected phase of our lives with honesty and respect for each other's boundaries."

Ethan let out a soft sigh of relief, his heart lifted by Amelia's convincing words. "Thank you for trusting me, Amelia. I promise to honor our agreement and make this as smooth as possible for us."

As their discussion came to a wrap, they agreed to meet again at the agency's office to finalize the contract details with the agency and sign the papers before proceeding with the legal process. Amelia felt a sense of calmness wash over her as she hung up the phone. She knew that her decision might raise eyebrows, but she was determined to follow her heart and embrace this opportunity with open arms.

On the day of the meeting, Amelia arrived at the agency's office with a mix of nervousness and anticipation. She met with the consultant who had guided them from the beginning. Emily explained the legal aspects of the contract, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and mutual respect during the arrangement.

Emily brought a set of documents for them to go through, when it was laid before them, Amelia stole a glance at Ethan, her eyes seeking reassurance. He offered her a warm smile, a silent affirmation that they were in this together.

They read through the contract several times ensuring that all the terms were agreeable to both parties. Ethan's commitment to supporting Amelia's artistic pursuits was clearly stated, and Amelia felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunities that lay ahead.

As they reached the final page, Emily handed Amelia a pen. "Are you ready to sign, Amelia?" she asked her. "Yes ma'am" she answered with a nod. "Then go ahead and do the needful"

Amelia took a moment to steady her hand before signing her name on the dotted line. With that simple act, the path filled with uncertainties, challenges, and the potential for genuine connection has just began.

Ethan followed suit, signing his name beside hers, symbolizing their commitment to each other for the duration of the contract.

The weight of the moment hung in the air, both daunting and liberating. But Amelia knew that in taking this leap, she was choosing to live life on her own terms. This is a decision that carried a promise of growth, fulfillment, and the possibility of finding love in the most unexpected of places.

As they left the agency's office, Ethan turned to Amelia, his eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and determination. "Thank you for embarking on this journey with me, Amelia. I promise to be there for you on every step of the way."

Amelia smiled, feeling a sense of warmth and reassurance in his words. "And I promise to give this my all, Ethan. Let's begin this unexpected journey together." With that, they departed.

* * * * * * * * *

As Ethan Blackwood's car passed the iron gates of his luxurious compound, he couldn't shake off the sense of satisfaction that had settled within him. The day with Amelia had been captivating , stirring emotions he had long suppressed.

As he stepped out of the car, he was greeted by the lavish beauty of his estate; an evidence to his success and the life he had built. Yet, beneath all, he couldn't escape the feeling that something was missing. As he was about to take a step his phone rang, when he checked who the caller was, he discovered that it was his mother.

Reluctantly, Ethan answered the phone as he made his way towards the grand entrance of his mansion. "How're you doing Mum ," he asked, attempting to hide the unease in his voice.

"Ethan, darling," his mother's voice chimed, dripping with warmth and charm. "I'm fine but I hope I'm not interrupting anything too important."

Ethan knew his mother well. Her seemingly casual inquiry often hid a deeper purpose. "Of course not, Mother. I was just heading inside."

She laughed softly, her tone betraying her knowingness. "I was just calling check on you and also to remind you, my dear, that it's time to settle down. You need to find a suitable wife to carry on the Blackwood legacy."

Ethan sighed inwardly, a familiar sense of frustration creeping in. "Mother, you know my thoughts on marriage. I have a lot on my desk right now, and I'm not ready to rush into such a commitment."

His mother's voice softened, her intentions becoming more clear. "Ethan, I only want what's best for you. You have achieved so much, but it's time to think about the future of the Blackwood's name. A wife would bring stability and social standing to your life."

Ethan's jaw tightened, torn between duty and his own desires. "I know you want what is best for me, Mother, but I can't let societal expectations dictate my life. I need to find my own path, one that aligns with my heart and ambitions."

His mother's tone turned slightly stern. "Don't forget your responsibilities, Ethan. As the heir to the Blackwood empire, you have a duty to uphold the family's reputation."

A wave of frustration washed over Ethan. He had always felt the weight of his family's legacy on his shoulders and the pressure to conform to their expectations. But he also knew that he couldn't sacrifice his own happiness for the sake of anyone's opinion.

"Mother," he said firmly, "I promise you that I will consider your words, but I can't rush into something as important as marriage. I need time to find the right person, someone who understands me and shares my values."

His mother hesitated for a moment before responding, her voice filled with concern. "Very well, Ethan. But please, don't take too long. Time moves swiftly, and the Blackwood's name deserves to be carried on by someone as worthy as you are."

Ethan's resolve hardened. He doesn't want to be pressured into telling his mother his recent moves. "I understand, Mother, but I won't settle for anything less than a genuine relationship."

With that, he bid his mother farewell and ended the call. The conversation had only deepened the conflict within him. The expectations of his family weighed heavily on his mind, but so did the connection he was about to begin with Amelia.

As he walked through the grand entrance of his mansion, his thoughts returned to Amelia. her artistic passion, her determination to break free from her debts, and the spark of understanding that had ignited between them.

He knew that their contract marriage was a calculated risk, a way to break free from his family's demands while seeking a relationship with someone who shared his desire for independence. But he also recognized the potential for something more. Maybe an opportunity to find love and fulfillment in a way he had never imagined.

The uncertainty loomed before him like a stormy sea, but Ethan knew that he couldn't turn back. He would go through this journey with an open heart, trusting that fate had led him to Amelia for a reason.

As he stood in the silence of his magnificent home, Ethan realized that it wasn't just his family's legacy that was at stake. It was his own happiness, his own fulfillment, and the chance to find love in the most unexpected of places.

After some weeks of having a conversation with his mother, he decided to take her by surprise. The anticipation weighed heavily on Ethan's mind as he dialed his mother's number. It had been several weeks since he had made the life-altering decision to pursue a contract marriage with Amelia, and now he was about to share the news with his family in an indirect way.

"Hello, Mother," he greeted, trying to keep his voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in his stomach.

"Ethan, my dear," his mother's voice came through, polite yet filled with curiosity. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this call?" She teased him.

"I have a surprise for you," Ethan replied, his excitement barely contained. "I'd like to visit you and Father this weekend. I'll be bringing someone special with me."

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line, and then his mother's voice softened. "Someone special? A lady friend, I guess?"

"Yes, Mother," Ethan confirmed. "Her name is Amelia Morgan. She's an artist, a talented one at that and she's been a breath of fresh air in my life." He said as he placed his hand on his head. "I just over reacted" he muttered

His mother's tone became more friendly. "I'm looking forward to meeting her, Ethan. I hope she is as charming and accomplished as you make her sound."

"I believe you'll find her delightful," Ethan said confidently. "She's a remarkable woman, and I think you'll appreciate the qualities she brings to the table."

After ending the call with his mother, Ethan informed Amelia about the upcoming visit. Her heart raced with a mix of excitement and nerves. Meeting his parents was a significant step, and she couldn't help but wonder how they would react.

As the weekend approached, Ethan and Amelia prepared for the visit together. They flew in his private jet.

As they neared the Blackwood family estate, Amelia took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. She had done her best to dress elegantly but not extravagantly, wanting to make a good impression while staying true to herself.

The moment they stepped out of the car in front of the stately mansion, Ethan's parents came out to greet them. His mother, elegantly dressed, greeted Amelia with a warm smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. His father, a distinguished man of few words, nodded in acknowledgment.

"Ethan, dear, it's wonderful to see you," his mother said, embracing her son.

"And this must be Amelia," his father added, offering a courteous handshake.

Amelia returned the greetings with a gracious smile. "It's a pleasure to meet both of you."

As they stepped into the mansion, Ethan's mother guided them to the grand sitting room, adorned with expensive artwork and furniture.

The conversation was polite yet somewhat formal. Amelia could sense her presence being scrutinized, and the weight of her background and the contract marriage hung in the air.

Ethan took the lead in directing the conversation, emphasizing Amelia's artistic talent and her dedication to her craft. He spoke with pride about her accomplishments, making sure to highlight her unique qualities and the genuine connection they had discovered.

His mother's curiosity softened slightly as the conversation continued. She seemed genuinely captured by Amelia's passion for art.

Ethan's father, though more reserved, listened attentively. Amelia sensed an air of attentiveness about him, as if he was quietly observing the situation.

As the day progressed, Amelia felt herself relaxing, finding common ground with Ethan's parents in unexpected ways. They discussed art, travel, and even shared a few lighthearted stories that brought up genuine laughter.

By the end of the evening, Amelia couldn't help but feel relieved and accepted by his parents. It was clear that his parents were beginning to see her for the person she truly was.

As they bid farewell and returned to the city, Ethan's mother pulled him aside with a knowing smile. "You have eyes for quality, son. She's an interesting young woman, Ethan. I can see why you're drawn to her."

Ethan smiled, feeling a glimmer of relief. "Thank you, Mother. I knew you would see the special qualities in her."