Chapter 4

The morning sun spilled through the wide glass windows, casting long shadows across Alexander’s office. Lily sat across from him, her back straight, her hands folded in her lap, but her heart thudded wildly. The tension in the room was palpable, and Alexander’s steely gaze didn’t help matters.

“This marriage,” Alexander began, his tone as sharp as a knife, “is strictly for a year and a half. There will be no romance, and we will not interfere in each other’s personal lives. Privacy is non-negotiable.”

Lily nodded, her throat tightening. She had known this was coming, but hearing it aloud made it all feel colder, more final. She forced herself to meet his gaze, though the weight of his words pressed heavily on her chest.

Alexander’s expression didn’t waver as he continued, “Finally, during this time, I expect you to bear my child. When the contract expires, I will take full custody, and you will receive your payment. I assume you read the terms yesterday, and I believe you also do again before coming here.”

The statement hit like a blow. Lily fought to keep her composure, though her mind raced. This wasn’t just a transaction—it was a life-altering arrangement. Yet, she swallowed her emotions and nodded. “I understand,” she said, her voice steady. Then, after a pause, she added, “But before we sign, I have conditions of my own.”

James, standing to the side, blinked in surprise, his brows furrowing as he exchanged a glance with Alexander. Alexander’s jaw tightened, the slightest flicker of irritation crossing his face. “Go on,” he said, his voice dangerously calm.

Lily took a measured breath. “As the woman of the house, I will handle all domestic matters. You will eat what I prepare. Additionally…” She hesitated but then pushed forward. “While I understand I won’t retain custody, I must be allowed to see the child twice a month after the contract ends.”

The room fell into a heavy silence. James’ mouth dropped open, his eyes darting between Lily and Alexander. Alexander’s expression hardened, his gaze narrowing to an icy glare. “You dare negotiate with me?”

“I do,” Lily replied, her voice unwavering, though her palms were damp. “I won’t let my child grow up without knowing their mother. If you can’t agree, we can end this here.”

For a moment, Alexander didn’t speak. The air between them felt electric, charged with unspoken tension. Then, finally, he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “No,” he said firmly. “You will not have access to the child after the contract ends. If that’s unacceptable, walk away now.”

Lily’s heart clenched, but she refused to back down. She rose from her seat, her chin held high. “Then there’s nothing more to discuss. Goodbye, Mr. Kane.” Without a backward glance, she strode to the door, her steps echoing in the silence.

James turned to Alexander, panic flashing in his eyes. “Boss, are you really letting her leave? We’re out of time. You won’t find anyone else like her in the next year and a half.”

Alexander’s gaze remained fixed on the door Lily had just exited. For a moment, his expression softened, but it was gone just as quickly. “It’s fine,” he said curtly. “I’ll deal with this myself.”

“Boss…” James hesitated, then pressed, “You might regret this. She’s different, and you know it.”

Alexander’s glare silenced him. “Enough,” he snapped. “Bring her back.”

Lily sat in the waiting lobby, her hands clenched tightly in her lap. She had left the office with her head held high, but now that she was alone, the doubt crept in. Had she made a mistake? Her resolve wavered as the seconds ticked by.

The door creaked open, and James stepped out, his face a mixture of relief and exasperation. “Ms. Evans,” he said, his voice tinged with disbelief. “I thought you’d left.”

Lily glanced up, masking her inner turmoil with a small smile. “I was just gathering my thoughts.”

“Well, it seems the boss has reconsidered. He’s ready to proceed—on your terms. Shall we?”

Lily’s heart jumped, but she kept her expression calm. Rising gracefully, she followed James back into the office, where Alexander awaited.

Alexander’s cold gaze met hers as she entered, but she didn’t flinch. Instead, she held her ground, standing tall as if she were the one in control.

“Let’s get this over with,” he said, his tone clipped.

The contract was signed in silence, the air thick with unspoken tension. When it was done, Alexander handed Lily her copy without so much as a glance. “James,” he said, “show her around the estate. Make sure she has everything she needs. And give her a card for shopping—I expect her to dress appropriately.”

James nodded, motioning for Lily to follow him.

The tour of the estate was as dazzling as it was overwhelming. Lily walked through grand halls adorned with crystal chandeliers and priceless artwork, her footsteps echoing on the marble floors. Yet, beneath the splendor, a chilling emptiness lingered. The mansion was beautiful, but it felt devoid of warmth—a gilded cage.

After introducing her to the staff and handing her a sleek black credit card, James left her to settle in. Alone in her new room, Lily stared at her reflection in the ornate mirror. The reality of her situation settled on her like a heavy weight. She had secured her place in Alexander’s life, but at what cost?

That evening, as the sky darkened and the mansion fell silent, Alexander returned. He found Lily in the living room, poring over a stack of documents. She looked up, startled by his sudden presence.

“Did you settle in well?” he asked, his tone unusually soft.

“Yes,” she replied carefully. “James was very helpful.”

“Good,” he said, his voice regaining its usual edge. “We must present a united front. Our marriage may be a contract, but appearances matter. Are you ready for that?”

Lily nodded, determination flickering in her eyes. “I understand. I’ll do what’s required.”

“Good,” Alexander said again. “We’ll attend a charity gala next weekend. Be prepared to act the part.”

As he turned to leave, Lily’s voice stopped him. “Mr. Kane,” she said, her tone steady. “You may think this is just a contract, but I won’t be invisible. I’ll find my place here, with or without your permission.”

Alexander paused, his hand on the doorframe. For a moment, he seemed to hesitate, but he didn’t look back. “We’ll see,” he said simply, before disappearing into the shadows of the hallway.

Lily sank back into her chair, her heart racing. She had made her move, but the gamheavyweighteginning.

And she wasn’t sure if she would win—or lose everything.