SIGN MARRIAGE TO GET REVENGE

CLARA'S POV.

"Where's Cassandra?!"

Cassandra, my twin sister, disappeared.

Tomorrow was supposed to be her wedding day. But she hadn't heard from me since yesterday. Willson-my father had just returned to our mansion, giving his already tense face a look.

Meanwhile, Patricia-my mother has been in a daze since a few hours ago.

[The Number You Have Dialed Cannot Be Contacted...]

I sighed with uneasiness after hearing the same sentence for the umpteenth time. I saw that Cassandra's display name had changed to the message room.

There were some of my messages there.

[Clara: Cassandra, where are you?!]

[Clara: Tomorrow is your wedding day!]

[Clara: Cassandra, mom and dad are looking for you. Please come back. What about your and Lucas' arranged marriage?]

And none of my other messages have been replied to since yesterday.

"Is she reachable?" asked Willson, who was standing next to me.

I shook my head, looking straight at my phone screen. My heart was racing at the thought of where Cassandra had left us.

It wasn't just that. If Cassandra was missing, and the wedding was tomorrow, what would Lucas's family-the man who was going to marry Cassandra-have to say?

"There's no reply to messages. She doesn't pick up my calls either," I replied listlessly.

"What on earth is she thinking?" Patricia complained as she walked back and forth. "We can't cancel this wedding. Tomorrow is the day!"

"Right, this wedding is very important to unite our business and Lucas's family," Willson chimed in, sounding equally agitated.

I was well aware of the anxiety on Patricia and Willson's faces. They had organized the wedding between Cassandra and Lucas long ago.

The Lucas family owns The Weinstein Company, a subsidiary of WmW Noth Company. The second-largest company in America, it encompasses culinary, entertainment, law firms, and other fields.

Willson, my father, needed a large investment for his company. But he used Cassandra as a means of getting his way through an arranged marriage with Lucas.

"Hey, Clara, you try contacting Cassandra! At all costs. Try again!" Patricia urged me.

"I can't, Mom. I've sent many messages and tried calling her. But look..." I showed her my phone screen.

"There's no reply or trace of his whereabouts," I continued.

"Have you searched through contacting his friends? Or what's her social media footprint?" Willson asked.

I shook my head. I'd been doing that since yesterday, but no one knew Cassandra's whereabouts.

"I've done that too, Dad. The result is zero. No one knows where Cassandra is. They didn't get any news," I replied.

Willson sat down as he exhaled restlessly. His gaze darted all over the place.

"Cassandra... why is she doing this? Is she trying to ruin a business plan between our families?!" Willson grumbled.

"Maybe, she's feeling burdened because of the wedding, Father," I said carefully.

Willson's gaze turned sharper and focused on me. Instantly my whole body froze. I knew what I had just said would not be to his liking.

"Why should she feel burdened? She doesn't have to earn money. Lucas, the man who will be her husband, is wealthy. She won't have a hard life," Willson said firmly.

I had expected Willson to say that. Over the years, he had only been someone who thought about money and power. All he did was manage the company.

"We can't tell Lucas or his family," Patricia piped up, making Dad and me look away in unison.

I saw the obvious fear in Patricia's eyes. Suddenly, Patricia came straight to me.

Both her hands held my shoulders with a firm grip. The look in his eyes, which had radiated fear, now also radiated great pleading.

"Clara, you must take his place."

I was momentarily stunned after hearing that. For a split second, I convinced myself that I hadn't heard wrong. Or at least my mom was just having a fleeting thought.

However, for a while, she didn't change her mind. I never thought that I would face something like this.

"Wait, mom... why are you saying that?" I asked, then shook my head. "I can't-"

"You shouldn't argue, Clara!" Patricia suddenly raised her voice.

"I can't remarry, I just got divorced a month ago," I insisted, still trying to keep my tone.

"Your mother is right, Clara. You're all we have now," Willson suddenly interjected.

When I turned my gaze to Willson, I noticed the hopeful look on his face. I suddenly felt a sense of apprehension start to creep into my heart.

I felt a little offended by Father's words. Did he mean to say I was an item-the only thing they had and would sacrifice?

"This marriage is for the family business. We'll go bankrupt if we don't get their investment! Clara... you have to do this wedding," Patricia said again, more firmly.

"Marriage is not a game, Mom," I said.

"Are you going to be responsible if our family goes bankrupt, huh?" asked Patricia, her tone turning sardonic.

Now I really couldn't answer at all. My heart sank. Patricia's words made me realize my position in this family.

Compared to Cassandra, I was an unlucky woman. Cassandra lives with her successful career and education. Her beauty would bring many men to their knees.

Willson and Patricia loved Cassandra dearly despite their high regard for money and power. To them, Cassandra was the family's most precious treasure.

While I didn't get more than half of their affection. My marriage was ruined because my husband cheated on me behind my back.

"Clara, you haven't given as much to this family as Cassandra," Willson said.

I still couldn't open my mouth to say anything. Part of me wanted to refuse their request. But I was too scared.

What if they couldn't love me anymore?

"At the very least, you should do something, you're the daughter of this family. If this family's company is destroyed, we'll kick you out," Willson said.

"I'll do it."

***

Today is the day.

I looked at the reflection of my body that had been wrapped in a long white dress in the mirror. My memory replayed the moment when my first wedding ended in betrayal.

This was strange. There was none of the festive wedding euphoria I should have felt in my chest.

I couldn't understand why I was stuck in this situation. In fact, I didn't even think about taking Cassandra's place to marry a foreign man-someone I didn't love.

Can marriage be played with now?

"Mom, I feel hesitant to do this," I voiced in a languid tone.

Behind me, my mother in her elegant dress but eyes full of anxiety, gripped my shoulders.

"Clara, we have no choice. All the guests have arrived. Lucas' family is already here. If we tell them Cassandra is missing, our family will be completely humiliated!"

I grimaced. That wasn't the answer I wanted.

"But, Mom..."

I turned my face towards my father, hoping he'd give me support, but he just stood with his hands clenched at his sides. He didn't say anything, but the look in his eyes seemed to tell me that he agreed with my mother.

What did I expect from them?

I didn't have anyone who would defend me. No matter how much I tried to tell them how I felt, they wouldn't listen.

"How can I go through with the marriage without loving that person?" I asked. I was really careful when I said this.

I heard Patricia suddenly laugh sarcastically.

"Love? It won't save our family from bankruptcy," my mother said.

"That's right. You don't have to think about love, Clara. What you need to do is save this family," Willson, my father, said. He spoke calmly but firmly.

"This is only temporary, Clara," my mother continued, her tone trying to reassure me.

"We'll look for Cassandra after this is over. Once she's found, you can explain the situation to Lucas. But today, you have to do this for our family," my mom said again without hesitation.

Didn't they think about how I was going to get through this in the future?

I felt my legs go weak. "Lucas will know, Mom. He'll know I'm not Cassandra."

"You're twins, Clara," her father cut in sternly. "With the makeup and wedding dress, Lucas won't notice. He'll think you're Cassandra. This is to save our family's face."

I fell silent, drowning in mixed feelings-fear, anger, and helplessness. I knew how important it was to maintain the family's good name in their neighborhood, but what was being asked of him was too great.

How could I stand at the altar in my brother's place, lie to Lucas, and pretend to be married?

There was a knock on the door.

"The bride and groom should prepare now," a woman's voice from outside made my heart skip a beat.

Patricia turned my body to face the mirror again. Quickly, she smoothed out the folds of the long white dress I had forcefully put on.

"You'll look perfect. No one will suspect a thing," she said, her voice sounding both desperate and forceful.

"Mom, I'm scared..." I whispered, tears welling up in my eyes.

Her mother paused for a moment, looking at her daughter through the mirror.

"We're all scared, Clara. But this family depends on you now. Please... do this for us."

I closed my eyes, feeling the weight of that responsibility hit her like a tidal wave. I knew that if I refused, the consequences would be far worse. But every fiber in my body screamed that this was wrong.

When I opened my eyes, she was staring at her own reflection in the mirror-a face adorned with perfect makeup, a white dress that should have belonged to Cassandra, and a pair of eyes filled with confusion.

"All right," she whispered, almost inaudibly. "I'll do it. But you have to promise to find Cassandra. And after this is over, I don't want to be part of this lie anymore."

His mom nodded quickly, then kissed my forehead.

"You're a good girl. Thank you."

As I stepped out of the room towards the altar, my steps felt heavy, as if I was walking towards a worse life.

I could see Lucas standing at the altar. All the guests focused their eyes on me. They all looked radiant, and so did Lucas-although the look on his face was cold, he wasn't

CLARA'S POV.

I sat at the end of the bed, still wearing the white wedding dress that felt too luxurious for the reality that had just unfolded.

Outside, the sound of guests slowly dispersing begins to fade. Part of me wishes it would never go away, because the silence in this room feels like a noose ready to shut me up.

Lucas stands by the window, his back to me. He undoes his bow tie with a casual gesture, as if he doesn't feel burdened by this marriage.

"I know you're not Cassandra," he said suddenly, his voice flat yet sharp.

I froze, my hands clenched into fists above the skirt of my dress. My heart was pounding, but

I tried hard to keep a calm expression.

"What do you mean, who am I?" I asked, my voice shaking slightly despite my efforts to sound firm.

He turned around, his face expressionless.

"Don't lie, Clara," he said, emphasizing my name.

Instantly I flinched stiffly. Wait, how did he know my name?

"Do you think I don't find out about my partner's character? I know everything," Lucas said once again, this time smirking.

Really, now I feel like an idiot. He didn't say anything at all at our wedding.

If he really knew I wasn't Cassandra, why didn't he cancel the arranged marriage?

"Cassandra ran away, right?" Lucas asked. He walked over to me, then suddenly grabbed my chin.

I flinched slightly, but I couldn't get my face away from his. For a few seconds, he watched me intensely, as if he was looking for something on my face.

"Cassandra doesn't have a birthmark near her jaw, whereas you do," Lucas said as he pressed my jaw area with his thumb.

Suddenly, I pushed away his hand that was gripping my chin. I suddenly panicked and hid my jaw area from his sight.

While Lucas was laughing-salaciously, he sounded like he was laughing at me. Now I felt really stupid. How could he have pretended to smile at the altar earlier?

"If you knew I wasn't Cassandra, why didn't you call off the wedding?" I asked.

Lucas took a breath, then exhaled. For a moment he looked off in a random direction as if he was thinking about something.

"I know your family is almost bankrupt. I did you a favor," Lucas said.

I laughed sarcastically. "As if our family can only get money from your family," I replied a little exasperated.

"Isn't that so?" Lucas sounded sarcastic. "You have no hope other than this arranged marriage. Your father, Mr. Willson, only thinks about how to keep the company going."

What he said was the truth. But somehow it sounded painful to me.

"So, what do you want?" I asked. "I'm sure that's not the only reason you're going through with this marriage."

I noticed the thoughtful look on Lucas's face. Even so, I realized his lopsided smile implied that he was already planning something.

"I'm not going to pretend that this is an ideal marriage," he said quietly, but there was a cold tone in his voice.

"You may have your own reasons for pretending to be Cassandra, but I have plans too. So, how about we just make a pact?"

I looked up, staring into his sharp, hawk-like eyes.

"An agreement?"

"A marriage contract," he replied without hesitation. "I'll keep the family name, and you'll get protection. But don't expect me to be a loving husband, Clara."

My name escaped his lips in a tone that somehow sent chills down my spine. I tried to read his expression, looking for an opening, but his face remained like an impenetrable wall.

"And if I refuse?" I asked quietly.

Lucas smiled faintly, a smile that looked more like a threat than sympathy.

"You know the answer. Everything will fall apart. For you. For me. For everyone you're trying to protect."

I swallowed, my stomach feeling like it was being churned. Did I really have a choice?

I stared at Lucas with mixed feelings-anger, confusion, and, somehow, a little fear. His words were still echoing in my head.

The marriage contract.

It was like a nightmare that suddenly came true in the middle of what was supposed to be the most beautiful moment of my life.

Lucas stood in front of me, tall and sturdy like an indestructible wall. His dark eyes stared at me emotionlessly, like a judge who had just decided the fate of his defendant.

"You seriously want to make this marriage a contract?" I asked finally, my voice sounding sharper.

He nodded, without a hint of hesitation. "I've never been more serious than this."

I stood up from my seat, trying to match his height even though I knew it was futile.

"Lucas, marriage shouldn't be about contracts. It's about... love, trust, supporting each other."

I sounded like I was quoting cheesy romance books, but I didn't care.

Lucas snorted softly, like I'd just said something ridiculous.

"Love and trust?" he asked sarcastically. "You really think that applies to us, Clara? You even entered into this marriage with a lie."

His words stabbed like daggers, but I showed no reaction. I must not give her a reason to feel victorious.

"I have my reasons," I said quietly but firmly.

He nodded again, this time with a little more understanding.

"And I have my reasons too, Clara. This marriage is not about love or happy dreams. It's about a win-win deal. You get what you want, and I get what I need."

I folded my arms across my chest, looking at him probingly.

"And what do you need, Lucas?"

He approaches, his steps slow but confident. I backed away reflexively, but he kept enough distance to make me feel cornered. "I need a wife," he said, his tone softer now. "But I don't need someone who will mess things up with... unnecessary emotions."

"So you want me to be a doll, is that it?" I challenged.

She smiled faintly, almost like a joke. "I want you to be an ally. That's all."

I paused, trying to digest what he was saying. There was something in his voice that made me feel that this wasn't just about him. That there was a burden he was carrying, something he wasn't telling me.

"Fine," I finally said, sighing heavily. "But if you want me to agree to this contract, I have conditions."

Lucas raised his eyebrows, intrigued. "Oh? What's that?"

"We can't hide anything anymore," I said, making sure every word came out clearly. "If this is about cooperation, then we have to be honest with each other."

Lucas chuckled, but his laughter wasn't warm. "How ironic, coming from you pretending to be someone else."

I didn't answer. I knew he was right, but that didn't mean I was going to let him win.

She sighed softly, as if considering something. Then she said, "Alright, I agree. But I also have a condition."

I waited, trying to guess what she would say.

"This contract must be kept secret," she said finally. "No one should know, including your family. Let alone the media."

I frowned. "Why? Isn't this just an agreement?"

He looked at me with eyes that were hard to read. "Because the world doesn't need to know that this marriage is just a game. You know how people will react. They'll look for loopholes, and I don't have time for that."

I nodded slowly. I knew she was right. The world wouldn't understand, and I didn't have the energy to deal with the accusations or gossip that would inevitably arise.

"Fine," I said finally. "But I have one last question."

Lucas crossed his arms over his chest, waiting.

"If you knew I wasn't Cassandra, why did you marry me anyway?" I asked, looking directly into his eyes.

He was silent for a moment, then smiled slightly. "Because you're the only person crazy enough to stick by my side," she says. "And, Clara, I need someone crazy to live this life with me."

"I'll buy a building for you to own your business. This is the Purchase Agreement and Sale Deed of Property."

Now I know why everyone thinks Lucas is crazy. This wasn't something I expected. I had never gotten a property purchase deed, and this property was given to me!

"This... property purchase deed?" I asked, confused. I read the name on it, the location, and the price attached. It wasn't a small number-the amount was enough to make anyone surprised. "And this deed of sale is... in my name?"

Lucas nodded, his face as calm as ever. As if what I had just seen wasn't something out of the ordinary.

"Lucas, what's this all about?" I looked up, trying to find the answer in his eyes, but he just smiled a small smile, full of mystery.

He gets up from his chair, walks over, then sits on the edge of the table directly in front of me. "I know you like fashion, Clara," he says finally, his voice soft yet firm. "I've been looking into it-about what you liked, what you dreamed of before all this happened. And I thought, instead of you continuing to live with the feeling of being trapped, why not give you something that could be completely yours?"

I looked at her in confusion. "You mean... a boutique?"

She nodded. "The property is located in a great location. I've talked to a few consultants and made sure everything is in order. I want you to have a business that you can build from scratch. I'll provide the initial investment-"

"Lucas," I cut in, my voice almost a whisper. "This is too big. I don't even know if I can run it yet. And why are you doing this?"

He looked at me, and for a moment, I saw something behind his face that was always hard to guess. Maybe it was warmth, maybe it was hope, or maybe it was something that even she herself wasn't fully aware of.

"Because I want you to have something that is truly yours," she said finally. "I know our marriage is not something ordinary. I know you feel like it's just a deal. But I want you to know, Clara, that I have no intention of making you feel trapped. I want you to have the freedom to do something you love."

I paused, trying to digest his words. All this time, I thought Lucas only saw me as part of his plan, a tool to maintain his image in the eyes of the world. But tonight, he showed me a side I never expected.

"I don't know what to say," I whisper.

She smiled a small smile. "You don't have to say anything. Take some time to think about this. If you don't want to run the boutique, it doesn't matter. The property is still yours."

I stared at him, still in disbelief. "Lucas... thank you. This is... amazing. But I don't know how to start this business."

Lucas stood by the large window of his office, his back to the dim city lights that looked like a sea of stars. His back was straight, his hands tucked into his pants pockets, creating the perfect silhouette of a man who looked unflappable. However, when he spoke, there was a different tone in his voice-one I had never heard before.

"You know, Clara," he said without turning around. "I don't understand why you're so hesitant. You have everything you need to succeed."

I sat down on the couch, hugging the small pillow in my lap. "I doubt it because I'm not sure I can do it," I answered honestly. "I don't even know where to start."

Lucas finally turned around, looking at me with his deep, dark eyes. There was something there that made it hard for me to look away-it was as if he could see right into my mind, into my fears and doubts. He stepped closer, slowly, like a predator who knew his quarry wouldn't run away.

"Clara," he said, his voice low and almost a whisper. "You've been through far worse than just starting a business. You survived a man who treated you like you were nothing. You survived his betrayal, all the scars he left behind."

I averted my eyes, feeling heat on my cheeks. Hearing Lucas bring up my past with Ethan always made my heart feel tight, but this time there was something different. There was an intensity in his eyes, in his tone, that I couldn't ignore.

"Lucas, I don't want my life to be about... revenge," I finally said.

He chuckles, but his laugh isn't cold like it usually is. This time, his laughter was warm, almost like encouragement. "It's not just about revenge, Clara. It's about proving to the world-and to yourself-that you're more than he ever imagined. You have the power, the vision, and the ability to create something extraordinary."

She sat next to me, close enough that I could feel her body heat. His hand reached out, picked up the envelope on the table, and placed it on my lap.

"This property," he said, his voice growing softer, "is the beginning. This boutique will be the place where you can rebuild everything. I don't just want you to succeed, Clara. I want you to show Ethan, and everyone who has ever underestimated you, that they were wrong."

I stare at him, trying to look for signs of manipulation or hidden agendas, but all I see is honesty. Lucas is a man of secrets, but tonight, I feel a sincerity that he rarely shows.

"I don't know if I can," I whispered, my voice almost lost in the air.

He lifted my chin gently, forcing me to look into his eyes. "You can, Clara. I know you can. And I'll be by your side to make sure that happens."

My chest felt tight with sudden emotion. Something had changed between us tonight, something I couldn't explain. She wasn't just offering help or support; she was offering her faith, something I'd never gotten from anyone else before.

"What's in it for you?" I asked, trying to mask my nervousness with sarcasm.

He smiled a little, but his smile this time wasn't full of cynicism like usual. "What's in it for me? I get the satisfaction of seeing my wife become more than what others think she is."

His words hit me like a huge wave. For the first time, I felt Lucas wasn't just talking about a business deal or a contract marriage. He was talking about me, about the real Clara, and it made something inside me tremble.

"Fine," I said finally, my voice stronger than I expected. "I'll do it. I will build this boutique, and I will succeed."

Lucas smiled widely, a smile that, for a moment, almost seemed genuine. He leaned back against the sofa, looking at me with eyes that shone with satisfaction. "That's the wife I want," he said, his voice full of conviction.

And for the first time in a long time, I felt that maybe, just maybe, I wasn't alone.

CLARA'S POV.

I stood in the center of a large room filled with people in expensive clothes and calculating faces.

The scent of expensive perfume mingled with the fresh smell of roses from the large arrangements decorating the main table. The sound of clashing wine glasses and subtle whispers filled the air, but everything sounded like a distant hum in my ears.

The dark blue satin dress I'm wearing tonight fits my body perfectly, as if it was specially designed for me. But even the luxurious fabric is unable to make me feel comfortable.

I can feel the probing gazes from every corner of the room, even though I know most of them are trying to be polite. After all, tonight is Lucas's big night.

And my big night.

Lucas is standing next to me, his hand casually holding a glass of champagne. He looked perfect, as always-a neat black suit that framed his body perfectly, a faint smile that never really reached his eyes, and a cold aura that made anyone think twice before approaching him.

He tilted his body slightly towards me, his voice low yet loud enough for me to hear in the crowd.

"Just relax, Clara. You look like a deer caught in the headlights."

I glanced at him, trying to put on a fake smile.

"That's easy for you to say. You're used to all this."

She laughed softly, a sound that didn't really show joy.

"And you'll get used to it too, sooner or later."

I almost replied with sarcasm, but the sound of the microphone being gently awakened brought the entire room to silence. A middle-aged man with graying hair and a gray suit stood in the center of the small stage, a microphone in his hand. I recognized him-David Laurent, one of the Lucas family's biggest business partners.

"Good evening, everyone," he said in a carefully polished, friendly tone.

"Thank you for taking the time to attend this event. As you know, the Devereux family has always been one of the important pillars of our business community. And tonight, we are invited to celebrate a new chapter in the life of Lucas Devereux."

I held my breath involuntarily, and I could feel Lucas glancing at me. His cool hand suddenly touches my lower back, a small gesture that might look supportive to others, but I know it's more of a warning.

"Lucas, would you like to join us here?" David continued, waving at Lucas.

Lucas turned to me, giving a brief smile that didn't really touch his eyes.

"Showtime," he said in a calm tone, leading me forward with him.

I felt all eyes on us as we stepped onto the small stage. My high heels felt like an instrument of torture, and my heart was beating so fast I was sure everyone could hear it.

Lucas gracefully took the microphone from David, then turned to face the crowd.

"Thank you, David, and thank you to everyone for coming out tonight," he says, his voice steady and confident.

"Tonight is indeed special for me, not only as part of the Devereux family, but also as a man who has just started a new chapter in his life."

He glanced at me, his dark eyes seemingly trying to lock me in place.

"Allow me to introduce my wife, Clara Devereux."

Applause sounded throughout the room, though I knew it was mostly a formality. Lucas turned to me, handing me the microphone. Instantly, all my confidence evaporated. I wanted to hide behind his back, but that was definitely not an option.

I took the microphone with shaking hands, trying to remember all the things Lucas had taught me about public speaking.

"Thank you," I said, my voice shaking slightly before I managed to get it under control.

"It's a great honor to be part of the Devereux family. I look forward to supporting Lucas, his family, and everyone here to the best of my ability."

There was another round of applause, shorter this time, before I handed the microphone back to Lucas. He looked at me for a moment, his eyes seeming to want to make sure I wouldn't collapse in front of everyone.

"In addition to me announcing that Clara is now my wife, tonight, we are all gathered to celebrate the official opening of Clara Devereux's first boutique.

A boutique that not only offers an elegant fashion collection, but also carries the vision and spirit of its owner."

I felt my cheeks heat up at the mention of my name. All eyes were now on me and Lucas.

Lucas turned to me, giving a small nod before he released my hand and stepped forward. Everyone immediately fell silent as he took the microphone from the MC. His presence always gave off an aura that couldn't be ignored.

"Thank you for taking the time to attend this special event. Today is not just about a new boutique. It's about someone who had the courage and determination to start something new, someone I'm proud to call my wife, Clara Devereux."

I could feel my heart beating faster as he said my name that way, in a tone full of conviction.

Lucas continued, "This boutique is the result of Clara's hard work. But, like all great things in life, she didn't do it alone. I believe in her vision, in her talent, and that's why I decided to be part of this journey as a lead investor."

The room was filled with the sound of cameras beeping in succession, flashes blinding. I could see some reporters taking notes, while other guests whispered to each other.

Lucas turned to me, his eyes filled with something I couldn't explain.

"Clara, I know this journey hasn't been easy. But I also know that this is just the beginning of something big. And I'm so proud of you."

I wanted to say something, but my throat felt dry. Lucas handed me the microphone, motioning me forward. I hesitated for a moment, but then I remembered what he had said that night-that I had strength, and that I just needed to believe in myself.

With trembling hands, I took the microphone.

"Thank you," I said, my voice sounding more stable than I expected.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported this journey. Especially to Lucas, who not only believed in my idea, but also gave me the confidence to make it happen."

I took a deep breath, looking at the guests who were now staring at me attentively.

"This boutique is more than just a business to me. It is a symbol of new beginnings, of the courage to start over, and of the belief that no dream is too big to realize.

I hope this boutique can be a place where everyone feels confident in what they wear, because confidence is the key to everything."

Applause echoed throughout the room, and I felt a little lighter. As I handed the microphone back to the MC, Lucas approached, lowering his body slightly so that only I could hear his whisper.

"You did well, Clara," he said, and for a moment, I felt like he was being completely sincere.

I looked at him, and amidst all the camera flashes and lights, I felt that for the first time, I was where I was supposed to be. Here, next to Lucas, and in the middle of a dream that was slowly coming true.

After that, everything passed like a mist. Lucas talked more about business, about the family's future plans, and about how our marriage would be a symbol of new power.

I stood by his side, smiling and nodding at the right times, even though every word that came out of his mouth felt like an affirmation that I was just part of the grand plan.

I wasn't sure if it was a genuine compliment or just something he said to keep me calm. Yet I chose to answer with a faint smile, because in this world, I know falseness is the most commonly used language

***

"Clara," Ethan greeted, his voice filled with a mocking tone. "I almost didn't recognize you. Expensive dresses, glittering jewelry... You really know how to level up, huh?"

I clenched my jaw, trying to keep my face calm. "Ethan," I replied coldly, not wanting to show how shaken I was to see him again. "What are you doing here?"

He chuckled, raising his wine glass. "Oh, I was invited, of course. I've always been part of this circle, you know. But I didn't expect to see you here. And, apparently, you've found someone new. So fast, Clara. One month ago we were divorced, and now you're Mrs. Lucas Devereux."

I felt my blood boil, but before I could reply, Lucas stepped forward, standing slightly in front of me, as if to protect me. His gaze was cold, and his voice sounded like polished steel when he spoke.

"Ethan, right?" Lucas said, his tone polite but full of veiled threats. "Nice to meet you. I'm Lucas, Clara's husband. And I suggest you be careful with your choice of words."

Ethan laughed again, louder this time. "Take it easy, Lucas. I'm just kidding. Besides, I was just a little surprised at how quickly Clara moved on to another man after-"

"After what?" cut in Lucas, his tone turning sharp. He stepped closer to Ethan, leaving little space between them. I could feel the tension in the air. "After you failed to appreciate her? After you threw away a wonderful woman you were supposed to take care of? If that's what you want to talk about, then I agree, Ethan. But if you want to continue degrading her in front of me, I won't stand for it."

I was stunned. Lucas had never shown this much emotion before, let alone in public.

Ethan looked confused for a moment, then tried to smile again, although this time his smile wasn't as strong as before. "Lucas, you're too serious. I was just joking."

"Unfortunately, I don't see anything funny in what you're saying," Lucas snapped. "If you want to talk business, I'll make time for you. But if all you're doing is trying to annoy my wife, then I suggest you leave before I run out of patience."

Ethan looked like he wanted to retaliate, but he just swallowed and forced a smile before backing away slowly. "Alright, Lucas. See you later."

He turned and walked away, leaving us in silence. I still stood frozen, unsure of what to say. Lucas turned to me, his face calm again, like a storm that had just passed.

"You don't have to listen to such nonsense," he said softly, though his tone was still stern.

I stared at him, trying to find the words. "You don't need to defend me like that."

He shrugged, as if it was no big deal. "I'm your husband, Clara. That's my duty."

"You don't need to do that when our marriage is just a contract."