weeks and I'll pay you every penny. Thanks. When she hung up her cell phone, Christopher quickly left and ran to the elevator, going up to his floor. He would rather wait for her at his table. But a new question arose in his head: What type of debt did Melanie have? A few minutes later the elevator opened and her eyes widened when she saw him standing next to her desk. She adjusted her red hair and approached. - Sorry, sir. Campbell. He was in the bathroom. Do you need something? - I told you you can use the one in my office, Miss. Fisher. - No need, thank you.
Do you need something? - She repeated the question, blushing. She always blushed when he said something that went beyond something professional, even offering her the bathroom in his office for her to use, it caused redness on her face. - I would just like to ask that you cancel the two meetings I was having in the afternoon and anyone who calls today, tell them I'll get back to you tomorrow. I'm leaving. - All right, sir. Campbell. - Thanks. See you tomorrow. - See you. She turned and went towards the elevator, but stopped before calling it, looking at the girl with red hair who was already sitting at her desk watching something on the computer. - MS. Fisher - he called her. - Yes? - She looked at him. He thought about what he was going to say, she would probably think he was crazy, but the idea that came to his mind when he found out she was in debt seemed very convenient. His secretary had worked with him for three years, she was the person he trusted most because she always gave every reason to never think otherwise. He couldn't have had a better idea. Melanie would make a great pretend wife! And as crazy as it might seem, it wasn't worth taking a risk, he had no problem accepting a no, much less insisting. - Come to my office - He went towards her office and she looked at him confused. - You just said you were leaving. - Yes, but I remembered one thing. Need to talk to you. Melanie got up, went to her boss's office, closed the door and sat in the chair he pointed out for her to sit on. - So, Miss. Fisher, I have a proposal. She frowned and pursed her lips, visibly confused by that conversation. - Well, next month I'll need to go to Brazil for my sister's wedding. I haven't seen my family in person for six years and they know little about me, because as you know, I'm a very private man. For reasons that are not appropriate at the moment, I need someone to pretend to be my wife. - And you want me to look for someone? - She asked, still confused. - No. I want it to be you. - Do you want me to pretend to be your wife? - She arched her eyebrow. - Yes. I know it sounds crazy, but you're one of the few people I trust. I can pay, I know you are in debt and I will pay your debt. - How do you know I'm in debt? - She opened her eyes wide. - I went looking for you and heard you talking to someone on your cell phone while you were in the bathroom. - Eavesdropping is a very ugly thing, sir. Campbell! I have always respected your privacy. - It was unintentional, Miss. Fisher. I was looking for you to let you know I was leaving. - And then you thought you had the right to stop and listen to my conversation? - She crossed her arms and he rolled his eyes. - I'm sorry, but the bathroom is the worst place for you to have this kind of conversation, I don't know if you know, but there are a lot of gossipy people in this company. - And eavesdroppers too, apparently. - She bit her lip, irritated. - I'm sorry. - She sighed - So, do you accept? What is your debt? - I don't accept it, sir. Campbell. Sorry - If she got up - I don't even know the reason for all this madness. I advise you to hire an actress. - Please, Miss. Fisher. Let's do this, I'll take you to dinner and tell you everything. Then, if you want, we can negotiate the price and you can also tell me what your debt is about. The wedding is a month away, but I can pay off your debt before the deadline ends. This fake marriage will only last as long as we spend there, a month or so, then you will go back to being my secretary and I will just be your boss. Think and tell me later, do you have my number. If you accept, we'll have dinner tomorrow. I'll pick you up at your house at eight. - I'll think about it, sir. Campbell. But I'm already clear that I don't feel at all comfortable with this. Excuse me. - She got up and left the room. Christopher preferred not to say anything else, getting up and leaving immediately. Melanie was thoughtful when he left and he hoped that by the end of the next day she would say "yes". Chapter One Christopher would never admit it, but he spent the whole night waiting for Melanie to call, he even prayed for it to happen and he wasn't even that religious. The thought of appearing in Brazil without a companion gave him chills and he only thought about how everyone would realize that he still felt hurt by his ex-girlfriend. In fact, it was a great humiliation for him when he discovered that his brother and his girlfriend had been having an affair for months. And he didn't find out the best way. It still hurt to remember when he went to his girlfriend's house to surprise her for her birthday, thinking she was in another city. But, when he opened the door with his spare key, he was the one surprised. The two were lying on the living room carpet and Evelyn was bouncing on her brother's cock. Christopher had to pinch himself to make sure that this humiliation was nothing more than a terrible nightmare. Watching the wide eyes of the woman he loved and his brother when they saw him while Andrew still had his cock stuck in her vagina, it was even worse for him. "I can explain" the two said as they stood up completely naked, but there was nothing to explain, the ridiculous scene that Christopher witnessed with his own eyes was enough to require no explanation. Explanations were given to those who were confused or had doubts, he understood very well what was happening there. Heartbroken, Christopher turned and left as quickly as he could. He hated to think that he would be the target of pitying looks when everyone found out that her girlfriend cheated on him with her brother, on the same carpet where the night before, he proposed and she accepted, completely excited. Cynical, and he considered himself an idiot. Luckily, no one other than his mother knew he was almost engaged. All that was left was the ring and making it official, otherwise the looks would be even worse. However, he still wondered if everyone really looked at him with pity, or was it just the shame he felt when everyone found out the real reason for his breakup. Evelyn went to his door the day after the incident, apologized and tried, once again, to explain herself. As if the fact that she has been in love with her brother since before they dated was a plausible and understandable reason
When she replied that it was precisely to get closer to her brother, who had always been a chicken, he had to restrain himself from slapping her in the face. He would not forgive himself for this act, he had always been against violence, especially against women. She wouldn't let anger take over him, because it would never be a reason for him. He wasn't a cowardly son of a bitch who beats women. However, she didn't think twice before attacking her brother when it was his turn to explain himself. For Christopher, he had been a great son of a bitch.
His brother knew how much he was in love with that woman, he witnessed Christopher declaring his love to whoever he wanted to listen to several times. She was always by his side, to stab him in the back at the first opportunity she had and with his girlfriend, who he loved so much. Why Christopher never fully got over this fact was always a question that swirled around in his head, but he never had any signs of any clue to arrive at the final answer. He simply decided to close himself off and move on. Very far from there. Christopher felt good, in fact he felt great. He never fell in love again, he was with whoever he wanted and whenever he wanted, but it was always just sex. No commitment, no charges. He didn't allow that. And he intended to keep it that way, it was better than ending up heartbroken again. For him, love never again. When Christopher arrived at the company, he knew he wouldn't find Melanie there. He was half an hour early, the result of his poor night's sleep. He couldn't bear to think about it anymore and felt like a stupid teenager. He entered his room and began to resolve some pending matters, the less he thought about his sister's wedding, the less he would go crazy. He didn't have time for that. That morning he had two meetings, so he only saw Melanie briefly when she entered and left his office to go to the meeting room. However, the two times he saw her, he was tempted to ask something about her proposal, but if she hadn't called, it was because he didn't want to get involved in this madness, he concluded. After lunch, he returned to his office to review the papers for the meetings he would have later. Luckily, the day was being productive, making him avoid thinking about what would happen in a month. He heard two knocks on the door and allowed whoever it was to enter without taking his eyes off the paper. - Mr. Campbell, can I talk to you? - He raised his head when he heard Melanie's voice and nodded. The redhead closed the door and approached his desk, sitting in the chair facing him. At that moment she had never felt so crazy about what she would say next and she mentally asked herself if she shouldn't seek psychiatric help for agreeing to get involved in all of her boss's madness. - Yes - She said simply and he looked at her confused - I accept your proposal. A smile lit up Christopher's face and Melanie wondered how he could be so handsome. And because she was so beautiful, why did he choose her for all that madness? - Great, Miss. Fisher! - He tried not to show how excited he was about not having to look for another girl - How much do you need to pay off your debt? - Fifteen thousand. - Great, I'll pay twenty-five thousand. Melanie swore her jaw was on the floor, and she wondered if he'd heard what she said right. - No, sir. Campbell. There are fifteen thousand. - She opened her eyes wide, feeling her face burn. - I heard very well, Miss. Fisher. However, I want to pay extra, it will be one month in Brazil. A very important reason why Christopher wanted Melanie's help so much was that she spoke Portuguese very well. She had Brazilian relatives and knew the language perfectly. It would be a big plus point. Melanie opened her mouth, but then closed it. He was willing to pay twenty-five thousand for just one month, but then he remembered that money was not an issue for Campbell. - We have a lot to agree on. I haven't thought about the details of our "relationship" yet - he made quotation marks with his hands - But we can have dinner tonight and come to an agreement. I'll take this opportunity to tell you what I need to know about my family and I want to know more about you too. We need to know each other well, we will be newlyweds. - Agreed then, sir. Campbell - She stood up and extended her hand, he also stood up and shook her hand, sealing the deal. - I'll stop by your house at eight. - I'll be ready - She smiled and left. He smiled, satisfied that things would turn out as he wanted. Exactly at the appointed time, Christopher was ringing the doorbell at Melanie's house. Luckily, the girl was sitting on her couch waiting for him. When she heard the doorbell ring, Melanie quickly got up and grabbed her small bag, slinging it over her shoulder and quickly leaving the house. She opened the gate and after locking it, turned to him and smiled. - Hello Mr. Campbell. Christopher smiled, and led her to her car. -Nothing from you, sir. Campbell, Melanie. We don't need formalities outside the company, just Christopher or Chris, whichever you prefer. - He said and then opened the door for her to enter. He turned around and got in, starting the car. As soon as they left, she looked at him. Christopher was a very reserved man, he talked as much as necessary, but he was still a great boss. He never disrespected her and he was always helpful when she needed her, but he never had ulterior motives. He was just very grateful to her for keeping everything organized. She was his salvation in many situations. In all her years at the company, she has never had someone as dedicated as Fisher. Melanie was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice when Christopher parked in front of a restaurant. -Melanie? - He called her and she looked at him scared - We're here. - Oh yes - she smiled and got out of the car. He led her inside the restaurant and to the table he had reserved. After being served by the waiter and placing their orders, Christopher looked at her. - When do you need the twenty-five thousand? - Still this week. - Melanie replied feeling her face burn, she felt embarrassed for having such a huge debt. Even though, technically, she wasn't the one who incurred this huge debt. - Sorry for the inconvenience, but may I know the reason for your debt? - He asked and she looked at him for a few seconds. - Can I know the reason for the proposal? - She arched her right eyebrow and he was surprised. He never imagined Melanie would ask. - If you tell me, I'll tell you. - Right - She lowered her gaze and then looked at him again - I've lived in that house since I was born. My father stopped paying the rent a few years after his death. Fifteen thousand accumulated and I only found out when he died and I was alone. - And his mother? - Christopher asked without thinking. - She ran away with a lover when I was four years old - her eyes watered a little, but she soon recovered and he regretted the unthought-out question - Now it's your turn.
everything went the way he wanted and once again it would be like that. - And you think I'll be the best person for you to come out on top? - She looked at him, after the waiter served their orders. - Yes.
- But I'm simple. I don't have branded clothes, much less am I rich. - You're the kind of girl my mother would love to have as a daughter-in-law, Melanie. Everyone will like you. The redhead analyzed him for a few seconds. I still didn't see any reason for such madness, if it were her, she would probably prefer to show her ex that she was single and could kiss several mouths if she wanted, that was an example of a well-resolved person who doesn't need anyone to be happy. However, this would give her the money she needed to stay in her home and she could still save the rest, so she kept quiet. She would have nothing to lose. - And what did you think about our relationship? - She asked and he looked at her. She sipped some water and thought for a few minutes before responding. - I thought we could say we've been married for two months. We can say we got married in Las Vegas. You are my secretary and we fell in love. It's the truth, however, with a hint of lies. - Right. And do you think your family will believe it? - Yes. I hardly talk to them and when I do, I almost don't talk about my personal life. - If the problem is with your brother and your ex, why did you stay away from your family? - Because at the time I thought it was the best and I decided to keep it as the years went by. My sister has come to visit me a few times and my mother once. But as she is very attached to my father and he hardly has time for anything because of the company, so she didn't come anymore. Everyone was already upset with me anyway, so it wasn't that difficult. Melanie didn't think like him, but she shrugged. She had nothing to do with it, she would just be his wife for a month and then everything would go back to normal. Just a simple secretary and he is her boss. - Do you want me to create a written contract? - He asked. Melanie grimaced. - I do not trust you. And I don't think it's necessary, we're simply doing ourselves favors. - Okay - He smiled. The two got into random conversations, mainly about the company, then Christopher took her home. He was thanking God and Melanie that everything was working out. Chapter Two Melanie almost couldn't believe how quickly time passed. A month had already passed and now they were on the plane waiting for takeoff. She had received the money from Christopher and paid off the debt on her house, which made her sleep much better. She was relieved to know that she wouldn't be sleeping on the street. About her "husband", she could already say that she knew a few things about Christopher, the basics. Some days they would go out to lunch together and get to know a little more about each other. Just so as not to embarrass myself in Brazil, in case someone asked a question or something like that. She remembered the conversation with her best friend, Megan, the week before. The way her friend was elated about this trip was scary. The brunette was extremely lively and outgoing. She didn't mince words and was very well-rounded, which sometimes caused Melanie a hint of envy. However, the redhead had different thoughts than Meg on some issues. Megan's words still echoed in her head. And it was funny how she was elated for her friend, as if she were the one going to Brazil with Christopher to pretend to be his wife. Of course if it were Meg, she would definitely attack Christopher on the first night to have an incredible night of sex. In fact, that was exactly the advice she received from her friend, but she wasn't like that. It was strange how they got along, one being the opposite of the other. Unlike Megan, Melanie was extremely shy and had some different thoughts than most. That no one needed to know. - Everything is fine? Are you afraid of planes? - Christopher called her when he realized how lost she was in her thoughts. Melanie looked at him with wide brown eyes and only then realized that the plane had already taken off. She needed to stop this habit of disconnecting from the world when she started thinking. - I'm not afraid of planes! I am fine. I was just thinking. - All good. - She laid her head back on her armchair. He even felt curious to ask what she was thinking, but decided to respect it. If it were the other way around, he would hate to be asked. Melanie, on the other hand, also rested her head on her armchair and closed her eyes. She was so tired that she quickly fell asleep. When they landed at São Paulo airport, Melanie felt nostalgic. It had been so long since she visited this country, the last time was when she was ten years old. Her father needed to work full time and she came to spend time with her grandmother. Two years. It was there that she learned to speak Portuguese, however, when her grandmother passed away she returned. And it was then that her father had to leave the service to dedicate himself to her, and things took a different turn, which made his heart hurt just remembering. Melanie snapped out of her thoughts when a blonde girl ran up to Christopher and hugged him tightly. - I missed you so much, Chris! I'm so glad you're here! - She gave Christopher a long kiss on the cheek and when she walked away from him she looked at me smiling. Melanie analyzed her, she was beautiful, her long blonde hair, model body and blue eyes would make anyone envious. She was the typical Barbie, beautiful. However, she had nothing to do with Christopher. - You must be Melanie, my brother's wife! - That's right - she smiled and felt surprised when Ashley hugged her tightly as if she had known her for years. - I'm very happy to meet you. Knowing that my brother is happily married makes me so excited! I'm just sad that I only found out three weeks ago. - She walked away, but continued to smile. - I always told your brother he should tell you, but you know how stubborn he is, right? - Oh, I know! - She laughed and faced Christopher - Come on! Mom is so excited to see you! Christopher linked his fingers with Melanie's and the three walked to the airport door. Ashley excitedly recounted the details of the wedding, and only stopped when they arrived in her car. They put their bags in the trunk and the blonde threw the car keys to her brother. - Go ahead with Christopher, Melanie - Ashley said smiling and opened the back door to enter. Melanie even thought about saying something, but the blonde was already in the car, so she sat in the passenger seat. Christopher also got into the car and within seconds they were pulling out of the parking space. Ashley went back to talking about her marriage and how happy she was. The blonde's excitement was funny and Melanie already liked her. She was so spontaneous and funny, totally the opposite of Campbell. Not that he wasn't nice, but he wasn't as friendly as his sister and Melanie wondered if he had always been like that. It was funny to imagine a lively, fun-loving Christopher if she only knew his bossy, closed-off boss. But there was one thing she could never complain about, he