She signed a contract. He signed a grudge. Now they’re bound by a mistake neither of them can undo.
	Anastasia Rae thought she was accepting a freelance design deal. Instead, she walked straight into a marriage contract—with none other than Christian Blake, New York’s most private and untouchable billionaire.
	For Christian, the marriage was a means to an end—a loophole to unlock his late grandfather’s empire. He never planned to fall for anyone. And definitely not for her.
	But fate doesn’t care about their intentions.
	Now, trapped in a cold marriage built on secrets and legalities, Ana and Christian must act like a perfect couple in front of the world.
	But when fake kisses spark real feelings, and revenge collides with vulnerability…
	What happens when love was never part of the deal—
but becomes the only thing either of them wants?

	• Profession: Billionaire CEO of Blake Enterprises


	• Traits: Cold, calculating, emotionally distant, dangerously intelligent


	A self-made billionaire with a heart locked behind layers of power and a past betrayal.


	Christian didn't believe in love—and definitely didn't believe in marriage—until his grandfather's will forced his hand.


	But he didn't expect Ana to undo everything he thought he knew—starting with himself.


	• Profession: Fashion design student and part-time waitress


	• Traits: Spirited, grounded, emotionally strong, fiercely independent


	A fiercely independent design student juggling debt, dreams, and barely enough sleep.


	Ana doesn't believe in fairy tales—especially not the kind where billionaires and cold boardrooms are involved.


	But fate signs her name on a contract—and drops her into a stranger's penthouse and the spotlight.


	And she sure as hell isn't planning to play the part quietly.


	• Christian's charming younger cousin. Flirtatious, observant, and always a step ahead.


	• He sees Ana for who she really is. But he also sees how dangerous Christian's plan could become.


	• Ana's protective older sister. Practical, honest, and deeply suspicious of anything involving billionaires or contracts.


	• She'll do whatever it takes to protect her baby sister—even from Christian Blake.


Chapter 1 - Main Character Introduction