Chapter 4 The Billionaire's Proposition

The following morning, Ella tried to focus on her work, but the memory of Alexandro at the gala lingered. His intense gaze, the way he had whispered for them to talk, and the stunning woman by his side all played on her mind. She was frustrated with herself for allowing him to occupy her thoughts.

Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her reverie. She glanced at the screen-an unknown number. Reluctantly, she picked up.

"Ella," the familiar deep voice said.

Her heart skipped. "Alexandro? How did you get my number?"

"I have my ways," he said smoothly. "We need to talk. I'm sending a car to pick you up."

"Wait, what?" Ella's voice rose. "You can't just-"

"It'll be outside your office in an hour," he interrupted, his tone leaving no room for argument. "Please don't keep me waiting."

The call ended before she could protest further. Ella stared at her phone, torn between ignoring his summons and satisfying her curiosity. Eventually, curiosity won.

An hour later, a sleek black car was indeed waiting for her. She climbed in reluctantly and was whisked away to one of the city's most luxurious hotels. The driver led her to a private suite, where Alexandro was waiting.

He stood by the window, gazing out at the city skyline. When he turned to her, his expression was unreadable. "Thank you for coming."

"I didn't exactly have a choice," she said, crossing her arms. "What's this about?"

He gestured for her to sit, but she remained standing. Alexandro sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. "Ella, I need your help."

She blinked. "My help? With what?"

"There's a deal I'm trying to close," he began, his tone serious. "It's critical for my company, but the investors are... old-fashioned. They value stability, especially in personal relationships."

Ella's brow furrowed. "What does that have to do with me?"

"I need you to pretend to be my fiancée," he said, his words hanging heavily in the air.

Ella stared at him in disbelief. "Are you insane?"

"Hear me out," he said, stepping closer. "I'll compensate you generously. This arrangement will only last a month, and after that, we go our separate ways."

"And why would I agree to this?" she asked, her voice sharp.

Alexandro's gaze softened. "Because you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Think about it, Ella. You could use the money to achieve your dreams. I promise, no strings attached."

Ella hesitated, her mind racing. The proposition was outrageous, but the temptation was undeniable.

"I'll think about it," she finally said, turning to leave.

"Ella," he called after her. "This could change everything."

As she walked out of the suite, Ella knew her life was about to take a turn she could never have predicted.

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