His Temporary Wife: A Billionaire's Tempting Deal

~Lucy's Pov~

I've always hated the sound of machines continuously beeping. But since my mother got ill I've gotten quite used to it. I walked into the intensive care where she laid connected to tubes and machines that hummed steadily.

"Mom," I called out, my voice shaking. "I'm here now. Please open your eyes. I should have been earlier, I'm sorry." Tears began to fall freely down my face.

Just then, Dr. Holmes entered, followed by a nurse holding a writing board in her left hand. "Miss Lucy," he called out, his tone low showing concern in it.

From that moment I knew he did not bring good news. I bowed my head looking at my mom because looking at him would make me feel worse.

"This is a very difficult thing to say but we have no choice but to discuss it. He continued.

I turned to him, my heart was racing. "What's going on? I thought you said she was getting better?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper, trying so hard to suppress my tears but it was not working.

"I'm afraid things have become much worse than we expected," he stated.

My stomach dropped. "Please doctor, I don't want to hear it. I don't understand what you mean."

"Your mother's... lung cancer," he said hesitatingly. "It's metastasized. It's advanced to stage IV."

My heart felt like it was squashed in. I was not ready to hear this now. Deep down I knew this was coming but no! I can't let my mom go. I felt my world crumbling down.

Dr. Holmes continued, his voice quiet but firm. "She was doing okay, fairly speaking, for the past several months. The tumors had stopped from growing due to the chemotherapy, but her body had been fighting for too long. The cancer spread to other organs and her.....brain. Most recently, the tumor in her lungs caused a massive obstruction, resulting in a severe respiratory failure."

I felt an odd indifference soothing me, the weight of his words sinking deep into my bones. "So that's what caused her to lose consciousness? The breathing issue?"

"Yes," he confirmed. "Her lung cancer has reached a point where it badly disrupted her ability to breathe on her own and freely. The body wasn't getting enough oxygen which triggered a loss of consciousness. We have done everything we could to stabilize her, but at this stage, we are hoping and praying her body responds positively."

"Will she ever wake up?" I finally asked, my voice thin, a whisper I never imagined would come out of my mouth.

Dr. Holmes took a slow breath before responding. "The next few hours are crucial. It could go either way. She might regain consciousness for a short while, or... she might not. We are uncertain. But I need to honest with you Lucy. This may be the end."

I looked at my mom, never would I have imagined a day would come like this. She has been sick for two years. She'd always been so strong, long before cancer came into our lives.

"I know this is hard, Lucy. But we need to think of what would be best for her. It might be time to consider comfort care-making sure she's as comfortable as possible, without prolonging her suffering."

I nodded numbly. "Make her comfortable?" I repeated, trying to make sense of the words.

"You'll need to make decisions about her ongoing care, and we'll need to discuss the financial standing as well."

I froze. I never wanted to hear those words. I turned to look in his direction, my eyes became blurry as tears gathered. "I understand Doctor but... I am at the edge of the bridge right now. I-I can't... I can't lose her and worry about that right now, please."

"We have a policy here and we've been doing our best for your mom since she was admitted. Dr. Holmes expressed, his voice full of empathy. You're already aware of your mother's insurance situation, correct?"

"There are other options on the table but I understand your financial situation," he added, and my stomach churned.

I nodded, my mind racing. "Yes, I am aware," I replied. My mom's insurance does not cover some important medical issues, which has made these past years incredibly difficult for me. The medical bills had started piling up faster than I could handle.

"Doctor, I've been working my ass off to raise money for the surgery but the bills are too much for me alone." I said faintly, holding my mom's hand.

"Do you have the means to cover her continued treatments?" Dr. Holmes asked softly. "If not, we can discuss palliative care"

Dr. Holmes watched me, his expression empathetic but firm. " I know this is a lot to take in. I really wish I had better news. However, the hospital requires to be reimbursed for the care she's receiving. I can help guide you through your options, but-"

"I'll figure it out," I cut him off, my voice trembling. "I'll figure something out. I just need to stay with her."

Dr. Holmes nodded, giving me a moment of silence. "I'll give you some time. We have to be prepared if your mother's case worsens."

As he turned to leave, my mind was spiraling.I tried to hold back the tears but my heart felt so heavy, like I was having a panic attack. But I held myself together.

I can't break down, not here. I have to be strong for my mom. I encouraged myself while wiping away the tears.

"Hang in there for me, Mom. I promise I'll do everything in my power to raise money. I promise..." I whispered, kissing her palm.

Buried in deep thoughts, my phone vibrated. I checked it-it was Daya, my colleague at work. It was time for my shift and I was late already. I didn't want to leave my mom's side incase she woke up . But I had to go to work. I kissed her and left, tears welling up in my eyes, then rushed through the hospital corridor, phone pressed to my ear.

"Daya I'm almost there. Please help me cover up, I had an emergency." I said quickly, not waiting for her to respond.

I suddenly bumped into a person without looking.

"Hey watch it!" he yelled. I flinched.

"I'm so sorry I didn't realize someone was coming" I immediately apologized, bending my head.

"There are sick people in this hospital you shouldn't be running like it's a playground" his tone was cold and dismissive, looking at me with disgust.

I was taken aback by his tone, and when I looked up and saw a tall man, his eyes were a deep shade of green with a sharp jawline and incredibly broad shoulders.

"I apologized already, you don't have to be rude " I replied, looking straight into his eyes.

He looked very sophisticated in his well-ironed suit. It was obvious he was rich. Judging from his features, there was something familiar about him.

"Have we met before?" I asked with a puzzled expression.

His gaze was filled with uncertainty, his brows raised in silent questions waiting for me to explain.

My phone buzzed again. "I... I have to go," I stammered, turning away and leaving the hospital.

~Lucy's Pov~

I hurriedly ran through the pavement towards the bar, my footsteps echoing against the walls. It's been a rough morning, and running late to work was bad for me. I recently got this job and messing it up would be depressing.

As I pushed open the door to the bar, I spotted Daya.

"Lucy! I was getting worried. What happened this time?" Daya asked as she walked towards me.

"What's going on? Where is Mr. Mark?" I asked while using my eyes to search the bar.

"He's been walking around, mumbling about discipline and employees who can't be trusted to show up on time. It's not pretty, Lucy." Daya added, her voice low so as not to draw attention from other employees.

My stomach twisted, but I had more weight on my mind than I was already carrying.After scanning the area, I walked briskly towards the counter, where I saw Mr. Mark coming from his office.

"Good morning Mr Mark," I greeted him, trying to sound organized. "I apologize for being late. I had a situation I had to deal with, but I'm here now."

"Everyone gather around!" Mr. Mark said in a sharp tone as he ignored me.

"We'll be expecting the owner of this hotel today. Everyone must be on their best behavior. You don't want to be the one to ruin this for us." Mr. Mark warned while addressing all his workers.

He finally looked at me, his gaze unkind and indispensable. "See me in my office right now," Mr. Mark ordered before walking away.

My heart lowered, but I forced myself to respond "Okay, sir."

The atmosphere was filled with little whispers as Mr. Mark walked away. Everyone had been anticipating meeting the owner, as it was rumored that he was very handsome.

"I finally get to see him," one of the bartenders cheered with little giggles.

"Lucy, you have to use your words well. You know how he can be. Beg him, cry if there's a need to. Okay?" Daya said while holding me from the side.

"I've heard you, Daya. Thank you," I whined, breaking the hug between us.

I headed towards Mr. Mark's office. I took a deep breath before entering and hoped he wouldn't fire me.

"Good...morning, Mr. Mark," I greeted, bowing my head to avoid eye contact.

"Look, I don't usually give people more than one chance when it comes to being late but I know you're hard working. But this shouldn't become a habit, Lucy because this is your second and last chance. I hate delays and excuses. I know you have things going on, but I'd advise you not to mix it up. If you can't show up on time, we'll need to reevaluate your position," Mr. Mark began without responding to my greetings.

My pulse quickened. "I'm sorry, Mr. Mark, I had to go to the hospital this morning. The hospital called. Apparently my mom..." I responded, my pulse quickening, expecting the inevitable.

"Enough, Lucy, I don't want to hear that today. We all have our problems," Mr. Mark cut in immediately. "This is the last chance I'll give you. You may go back to work now."

"Ermmm.. Sir I don't mean to upset you in anyway and this might be out of line, but I have a request." I said in a shaky voice.

"Urghh Lucy," Mr. Mark groaned, rolling his eyes. "What is it?"

"I was hoping you could give me an advan..." I requested.

"Stop there!" Mr. Mark interrupted me as he knew what was coming. "That's not possible, Lucy, the month just began, it's too early for that." Mr. Mark shouted in a croaky voice. "Just leave my office."

As I turned to leave, Mr. Mark cast one last look at me, his eyes like daggers. "I'll be watching," he warned.

I breathed a sigh once I came out of the office.

"Omg Lucy, what did he say? Did he fire you? Why do you look sad?" Daya continuously asked me.

"He did not fire me... It has been quite a morning, Daya, I don't want to bother you with my problems," I replied grudgingly and walked past Daya.

******

The bar was dimly lit, with the soft clink of glasses and the hum of low conversations creating a kind of detached warmth. The faint sound of jazz music occupied the atmosphere. I wiped down the counter, my mind elsewhere thinking of possible ways to make money.

A figure appeared at the door, tall and imposing, casting a shadow across the room, his dark hair, and broad shoulders were his noticeable features.

He walked in with confidence in his sharp navy blue suit perfectly ironed. Soon after, whispers started flying all around. Mr. Mark came from his office, approaching this man.

The bar was filled with little whispers between the staff. "OMG! Is that him? He is far beyond handsome," one of the bartenders whispered with a smile on her face. "He is literally breathtaking," the other girl replied with little giggles.

Mr. Mark gave them a dead stare and they bowed their heads in shame.

His face was familiar, yet I couldn't recall. He walked like someone used to getting exactly what they wanted.

"Welcome Mr. Drey," Mr. Mark greeted him while bowing his head, but he ignored Mr Mark and went towards the VIP lounge.

"So he is the owner of the hotel. Well, he lacks manners," I whispered to myself with disgust on my face.

"I need a drink, you know the usual," he said as Mr. Mark followed him to the lounge.

"Wait, that voice... I have heard it somewhere," I said to myself. "Oh my God! It's him!! The guy who I bumped into at the hospital!" I muttered, my voice almost loud enough for someone close to hear.

Two of my colleagues looked at me in a confused way. I quickly gave them a fake smile to divert their attention.

Mr. Mark came straight to me with an exhausted look.

"Get him a bottle of bourbon please, without ice," Mr. Mark begged, giving me a weird smile. "

"Coming right up, sir," I affirmed, still in a shocked state.

I had mixed feelings-one minute I was worried about raising money, and now the universe had given me manner on a golden plate. All I could think of was how to use this opportunity.

I took the drink just as requested to the VIP lounge. As I was about to enter, I overheard Drey on a call.

"James, I need you to think of something fast and productive. I can't lose this deal. The press is making it difficult for me by talking shit about my company. I need to give them something else to talk about."

Just then I walked in and served the drink to Drey.

"Here is the drink sir," I informed Drey, who was more interested in his call than the drink.

Drey completely ignored me and continued his call. "Do something I don't care about whatsoever." Drey went on the call with James.

I returned to the counter immediately. I thought of what would make him that desperate. I picked up my phone to search for what the press was talking about his company. I was surprised to see the allegations.

"Producing ineffective drugs? Harmful side effects from the drugs being produced?" "That's a lot," I put my hands over my mouth in a state of shock. I pondered on how I could use this to my advantage. Drey was a mannerless billionaire, there had to be a way to gain his attention.

******

After much thought, I summoned courage and headed back to the VIP lounge. As I entered, I took a seat across from Drey.

"I know how to relieve you of your worries," I suggested nervously. My palms started to sweat, but I had to keep it together.

I realized my choice of words made him misunderstand my plea.

"Hmm, that's impressive, just what I wante..." Drey muttered as he smiled before taking a sip of his drink.

"A marriage... more like a contract marriage," I cut in, the words were too heavy for my mouth but I said it.

"What??!" Drey asked in disbelief, as he nearly choked on his drink.

~Drey's Pov~

I was taken aback by the words spoken by the strange bartender sitting across from me. I had never encountered anyone with such boldness. I was sitting alone on the plush velvet chair in the corner.

She was dressed in a white shirt and short dark skirt with a neat ponytail hairstyle the way a bartender would dress.

"You have such nerve to come in here and utter such rubbish." I replied, giving her a dead look. My temper was gradually rising.

"It might sound crazy, but I know if we come to an agreement we would benefit from it," she replied, her voice sounding so soft yet intimidating.

For a brief moment, I studied her with curiosity. I was assessing her, I knew it. And I was betting everything on the fact that she was only trying to seduce me.

"I'm sorry I eavesdropped while you were on a call," she continued. "I could feel your frustration through your tone. And a marriage can most definitely help you out right now. I've seen the news, it does not look nice at all." She stated.

I felt quite embarrassed for a mere bartender to have such courage to rub the shit they talk about my company on my face.

"So, a contract marriage," I said slowly, testing the idea. "What makes you think I would even consider something like that? And with you?" I asked, letting out a little laughter.

She leaned in slightly, her lips curving into a small, confident smile. "Because it's the perfect solution for both of us. You need the public to believe you're happily married. And I need the money. We both walk away with exactly what we want-no strings attached."

I chuckled, feeling I was on the edge of it. "You're a bartender. What makes you think you can play the part of a billionaire's wife?" I chuckled darkly as my breathtaking face twisted into a Mona Lisa. "I can have you fired for this, you know."

She didn't flinch, but I noticed her sweaty palms. She could lose her only surviving job if I wanted that to happen. It was obvious how desperate she needed money but I couldn't just agree with her even if it was a good idea.

"I think you're misunderstanding me. I'm not some desperate woman trying to snag a rich man," She suddenly snapped. She was only an inch away from me now, trying to avoid any direct touch. "We don't have to be in love. I'm offering you a business arrangement. We keep it professional and look the part when the need arises."

For a moment, I didn't react, my expression stoic as ever.

From her expression, I could think of different reasons a lady would be sharply in need of money and it's funny how she thought I would be of help to her or even agree to her ridiculous proposal. Then, with a slow, deliberate motion, she slid between my knees, spreading my legs slightly, before leaning in closer, her breath warm against my neck.

Immediately, my fingers wrapped around her neck, stopping her. "Do you want to die? Now get out of my face," I growled.

I watched her leave the lounge without uttering a word. I picked up my phone and dialed Maxwell's number.

After a few minutes of being lost in thought, I left the bar. Heading straight to the garage where my Lamborghini Urus was parked. My secretary, Maxwell, was in the back seat, with a driver in front. I made my way to the back seat of my fully tinted car. The atmosphere in the car was unusual.

"Was there a problem at the bar?" Maxwell asked in a flat voice.

My facial expression alone could tell there was something on my mind.

Maxwell cleared his throat letting out a sound which I hate so much. "Your ex-girlfriend Lillian called earlier and she said there was something important for you two to discuss," Maxwell added, looking at me nervously as he noticed the disgust on my face.

I completely ignored Maxwell, not uttering a word until we got to the company.

*******

Everyone was surprised that we arrived so early. I usually take hours each time I visit my hotel.

"Welcome back, sir," all my employees greeted me, their heads bowed.

I got to my office and started pacing around, running my fingers through my hair. I looked stressed out about the conversation I had earlier with that bartender. I don't even know her name.

Maxwell stepped into my office and then took a seat in front of my desk.

"I have something important you need to help me do," I began.

"Oh...okay sir. What could that be sir.. " Maxwell replied, trying to use his words wisely to avoid provoking me.

"I have a brilliant idea on what to give these press to talk about," I replied as the corner of my lips turned up.

Maxwell was filled with confusion.where. I only acknowledge other people's ideas if I like them, but it was never me coming up with an idea. Maxwell's been working for me for over three years now, and he knows that I only smile whenever I get a deal closed.

"But first, you need to call my lawyer immediately," I suggested while continuing to pace around.

"What is this idea of yours that requires me to call the lawyer? Do you plan on breaking any law soon?" Maxwell asked, with concern in his voice.

"A wife," I suddenly said, turning to look in his direction.

"A..A...A wife? You mean you want to get married?" Maxwell stuttered, his eyes twitching as he was unsure of what he heard.

"I mean someone I can agree with for a fake marriage. More like a contract marriage," I responded, with a smile plastered on my cheeks.

"Where did you get that idea from?... That...that is brilliant! This will create a little diversion for the press to talk about rather than all those... lies" Maxwell replied, his face slowly turning from a smile to a frown. "And you're a billionaire, it would be challenging finding someone genuine to fit in as a wife," he added.

"It's not that simple. I need everything to be documented. That's why I need a lawyer," I insisted.

Maxwell sat upright in his chair, checking his pockets for his phone. "Getting a lawyer isn't a big deal, it's how and where to look for a suitable girl."

"That should be the least of your worries. I have someone in mind," I concluded with a smile on my face.

"Who could that be? Wait Lillian??." Maxwell asked, his eyebrows raised in surprise.