Chapter 3 The Wedding Without a Smile

Lily stood in front of the full-length mirror in a simple, ivory dress that hugged her slender figure. It wasn't extravagant-there were no crystals, lace, or veil. Just a plain white gown Damien's assistant had picked out from a boutique that catered to "emergency weddings."

Her hair had been pinned up by a professional stylist. Her lips painted a soft rose. Yet, when she looked at herself, she didn't see a bride.

She saw a girl signing her future away for the price of a miracle.

The door to the dressing room opened. A woman in a gray pencil skirt and heels stepped in with a clipboard.

"Miss Morgan-" she corrected herself, "-soon-to-be Mrs. Blake, the groom is ready. The officiant is waiting."

Lily nodded and followed her, heart pounding against her chest like a war drum. Every step toward the private ceremonial room felt like walking deeper into a life she didn't recognize.

The room was tastefully decorated-white roses lined the walls, a silk carpet stretched from door to altar, and only a few witnesses stood around: Damien's assistant, the officiant, and two suited men she assumed were from his legal team.

And Damien himself.

He wore a tailored black suit, his presence as commanding as always. But his eyes never met hers. He stood still, hands folded in front of him like this was just another meeting on his calendar.

No smile. No warmth.

Just a man doing what he had to do.

Lily reached his side, her hands trembling slightly. Damien noticed but said nothing.

The officiant cleared his throat. "We are gathered here today for a civil union between Mr. Damien Blake and Miss Lily Morgan..."

The words blurred into background noise.

This isn't real. It's just a contract. He's not your husband. You're not his wife.

But the moment the ring touched her finger, reality hit hard. A simple silver band, chosen for its lack of sparkle-just like the ceremony.

"You may now kiss the bride," the officiant said with a gentle nod.

Lily froze.

So did Damien.

There was an awkward pause. Then, with calculated grace, Damien leaned in and brushed his lips against her cheek.

It was cold. Businesslike. Empty.

And that was it.

The witnesses clapped politely.

The officiant signed the documents, and just like that, Lily Morgan became Lily Blake, wife of one of the city's most powerful men-and a stranger.

Damien turned to her as the crowd began to disperse. "You'll move into my penthouse tonight. My assistant will send a car at 6."

Lily blinked. "Tonight?"

"Part of the agreement. Public appearances begin immediately. The press can't suspect this is fake."

She nodded slowly.

"Don't be late," he said before turning away.

He didn't offer a smile. Not even a "congratulations."

Later That Evening – Blake Penthouse

The elevator dinged softly as it reached the top floor. The doors opened to reveal a breathtaking space-glass walls with a 360° view of the city, marble floors that glistened, and a living room larger than her entire apartment.

Lily stepped inside slowly, clutching her small suitcase like a shield.

A woman approached-elegant, mid-40s, dressed like she walked off a fashion magazine.

"You must be the new Mrs. Blake," she said with a cool smile. "I'm Carol, the housekeeper. I've served Mr. Blake for 10 years."

"Oh... hi. I'm Lily," she replied awkwardly.

"I know," Carol said, eyeing her. "Your room is down the hall. You'll be staying in the east wing. Mr. Blake is in the west. Dinner is served at 8 sharp. He prefers punctuality."

Lily smiled politely. "Thank you."

As Carol walked away, Lily entered her room. It was stunning-white and gold décor, a walk-in closet, a vanity, and a balcony with a view of the city lights. She sat on the bed, heart still racing.

This is your life now.

At exactly 8 p.m., she found Damien already seated at the long dining table. He was scrolling through something on his tablet.

She sat opposite him in silence.

"I assume the room is to your satisfaction?" he asked without looking up.

"Yes. Thank you."

"You'll accompany me to a charity gala on Saturday. It's our first public appearance as husband and wife."

Lily forced a smile. "Okay."

Damien finally looked up. "This is all pretend, Lily. But we can't afford mistakes. No emotional entanglements. No rumors. We're business partners. Nothing more."

Her throat tightened. "I understand."

For the next half hour, they ate in near silence. Every sound of clinking cutlery echoed louder than words.

When dinner ended, Lily stood to leave.

Damien spoke, his tone quiet but firm. "Thank you... for doing this. I know what you gave up."

She turned back, surprised.

It was the first real thing he had said all day.

And maybe... just maybe... he wasn't entirely made of ice after all.