Chapter 3 Marriage Agreement With A Male College Student

Kristine took getting married seriously.

If she didn't do it soon, her family would likely force her into some arranged match.

If anyone was going to make decisions about her life, it would be her.

The family could save their matchmaking schemes for someone else-her supposed sister, for one, who had taken Kristine's place for years after being switched at birth, would probably jump at the chance.

Her assistant responded, "Copy that. I'll get it done!"

Satisfied, Kristine set her phone aside and headed for the shower.

She pulled out her hair tie and let her hair tumble down over her shoulders before disappearing into the bathroom.

At dawn, Kristine was up and moving, squeezing in her usual workout before heading out for the day.

Kristine's assistant worked fast, already lining up a marriage candidate who ticked every box.

He was tall, solidly built, just twenty-two, and had come from overseas on a student visa. With no savings and graduation right on the corner, he was desperate to stay in the country-marriage was his golden ticket.

At least he had good looks, a gentle disposition, and zero hesitation about signing a prenup.

Kristine only cared about obedience.

She barely looked at his photo before snapping the file shut, already bored.

When she reached the courthouse, she spotted him waiting outside.

He was dressed head-to-toe in black-a hoodie, sweatpants, baseball cap, and a mask pulled up high. He slouched against the wall, long legs stretched out as if he didn't have a care in the world.

Kristine figured he was trying to hide, embarrassed at having to marry to stay in the country.

But honestly, his feelings didn't matter to her at all.

Closing the distance, Kristine realized he was taller than the profile had suggested.

Kristine found herself staring at his impossibly broad shoulders, forced to tilt her chin just to meet his gaze. The moment their eyes met, she froze.

Those green eyes of his were almost hypnotic-bright as polished emeralds, sharp and impossible to ignore.

Odd. The picture hadn't done him justice. Were contact lenses really this convincing now?

Suspicion flickered across her face as she dug out the prenuptial contract, eyeing him carefully.

"So, you're here to get married too?"

"That's right." Nathan Spencer's reply was calm, but he took his time studying Kristine.

Her wide eyes, small mouth, and round cheeks made her look lively and charming, though he honestly didn't care who he married. In his mind, the whole arrangement was just a business deal, and partners could be swapped out at any time.

With a shrug, Nathan scanned the contract, arched an eyebrow, and scribbled his signature with practiced ease.

Kristine had already signed. She felt a small thrill at his no-nonsense attitude. Nathan Spencer-her gaze dropped as she whispered the name under her breath.

They tucked the paperwork away and walked into the courthouse side by side, both steady and sure.

Just ten minutes later, the two of them walked out as a married couple, the deal sealed and official.

"If there's anything I need, I'll get in touch. For now, just stay put and wait for my instructions," Kristine said, not slowing down as she walked towards her car.

Nathan stopped for a second, caught off guard. Wasn't he supposed to be in charge here? After all, he was the one who hired her.

Still, the boldness in her voice made him want to laugh.

Too bad the mask hid his grin-nobody could see just how much her attitude amused him.

Nathan realized that Kristine never once tried to make conversation, barely even glancing in his direction during the entire marriage process. She followed every step by the book-no questions, no curiosity, just efficiency. That sort of discipline made her exactly the partner he'd hoped to find.

"Works for me," Nathan murmured, and then turned on his heel and strode off.

They both got what they wanted, no fuss or lingering looks.

Kristine got married, but she wasn't eager to parade herself in front of Benny just yet.

She took up residence at Rose Manor, throwing herself into a fierce fitness routine.

All her effort paid off-she slimmed down faster than she'd ever imagined.

Within two months, Kristine barely recognized herself.

Her new figure was all elegant curves and balance, the kind of silhouette that drew every eye in the room. Her delicate features seemed to glow, and just the hint of a smile could send hearts racing.

Admiring her reflection, Kristine traced the edge of the mirror with a pleased grin.

"Miss Holt, you look absolutely incredible! I swear, if I knew you'd end up like this, I would've volunteered for that marriage slot myself. How did I miss out on such a golden opportunity?" Pamela Warren, her assistant, burst into the room, beaming.

"Oh, right! The CEO from Glory Group sent you another invite. His grandson's birthday bash is tomorrow, and apparently, they're announcing the heir to the company," Pamela said, clapping her hands as she remembered. "Are you planning to go? I know you usually avoid these events these days, so-"

But Kristine's lips curved upward, a spark in her eyes, as she interjected, "Why wouldn't I go? It's about time I showed my face."

She had every intention of running into Benny at that party. He still owed her ten million, and Kristine was determined to collect every cent.