03

Petrik

The next morning, I sat at my desk with the pen in hand, waiting for her to arrive. The proposal I had made to Lia the night before still resonated in my mind, but I allowed no doubts. The contract was written, each line carefully crafted to ensure that the agreement would work for both of us — though it was obvious that the greatest benefits belonged to me. After all, I wasn’t known for making concessions without gaining something valuable in return.

The clock struck 9 a.m. sharp when I heard a knock on the door. Punctual, as always. "Come in," I announced, keeping my voice cold and controlled.

Lia entered the office, her expression composed, but there was a tension in her posture. It wasn’t a hesitation born of fear, but of someone weighing every word they had heard and about to make an irreversible decision. Observing her, my eyes unintentionally traced the outline of her body in her modest uniform. I had never really noticed before how that fitted fabric highlighted her figure, the simple and professional lines subtly concealing a presence stronger than I’d anticipated.

“Mr. Ivanov,” she began, her voice calm but with a slight tone of defiance. “You mentioned a proposal yesterday. I would like to hear more details before giving my answer.”

I smiled, controlling the faint satisfaction her words gave me. She was willing to listen. She was willing to negotiate. “Of course. I have prepared a formal contract, detailed to avoid any misunderstandings. In this contract, you will find all the guarantees necessary for your financial security and stability. The marriage period will be three years, the minimum required for me to fulfill the will’s clause. We only have 30 days to formalize this marriage, Lia. So, there’s no time for hesitation.”

She seemed to absorb the urgency in my voice. I observed her closely, noticing the slight furrow of her brow as she weighed the details.

“During these three years,” I continued, “you will receive a substantial monthly payment, your own apartment, and all expenses covered. And to show my seriousness, I have already deposited the initial amount into your account. You may check at any time.”

The surprise on her face was immediate. She hadn’t expected such readiness. For me, however, it was just another calculated move, a way to reinforce the fact that I had no intention of failing.

“In addition,” I added, “any personal or professional information exchanged between us will remain confidential. You are expected to fulfill all formalities and be present at social events, public appearances, and business meetings by my side. However, our lives will remain separate in all other circumstances. This will be merely an arrangement, with no obligations beyond the professional.”

She took a deep breath, analyzing the contract before raising her eyes to me. “And if, for some reason, I wish to leave this agreement before the agreed time?”

“If you terminate the contract before the three years, you will not be entitled to compensation beyond expenses already covered. However, I will ensure your financial stability until you get back on your feet. I know this proposal requires a lot, but I want to be fair with the commitment.”

Lia remained silent, pondering every word. There was no trace of sentimentality or doubt in my voice; this was a contract, like any other, based on reciprocity. But this time, her answer would impact not only her future but also mine.

The cold morning advanced as I watched every detail of Lia’s signature on the contract, her name perfectly aligned beside mine. With the pen resting on the paper, she raised her gaze, showing a mixture of determination and uncertainty that made her fascinating, despite her reserved demeanor.

As soon as she put the pen aside, I leaned forward, keeping my voice low and firm, aware of the impact of the next words. “Now that everything is formalized, prepare yourself. Tonight, there’s a company gala, an opportunity for our first public appearance as a couple. I need you to be ready, with the discretion and elegance this position demands.”

She seemed surprised by the urgency but slowly nodded, processing the new information. Lia knew there would be no time to adapt gradually. This contract would require her to transform quickly.

“There is a trusted stylist awaiting instructions to fit a custom outfit. And you won’t need to worry about the preparations; I’ve arranged everything to facilitate your adaptation,” I added, offering a slight smile of approval. “A car will pick you up at 7 p.m. for the event. Be ready.”

She hesitated, her gaze carefully weighing each word. “Understood. I will do what is necessary.”

Perfect. This marriage, after all, was a game in which I expected nothing less than perfection.