A flicker of darkness crossed Ethan's face, gone in a blink. "One year," he said. "Marry me, then you walk. Or…" His tone softened, which only made it colder. "…I tell them the truth. You slept with him. I saved you. They'll destroy your career. Mine will stay intact."
Her laugh was low, bitter. "You're blackmailing me?"
"Yes." He said coldly.
Her eyes narrowed. "Sure, where do I sign? One year. Married on paper only. We stay out of each other's lives?"
"But be careful Clara. Thinking of Cuckolding me already?" he said, taking a step closer. "My terms: You move into my family's estate. You treat my parents and little brother Axiel like your own family".
"You have a little brother?" She sounded surprised.
"Yes, he is Eight". Ethan's eyes brightened when he talked about Axiel.
Something in his voice shifted there, softer, but not weak. It unsettled her more than the threat.
Riley rose from the couch, moving to Clara's side, her arm sliding protectively around her. "And what's in it for you, Ethan?"
His mouth curved…not a smile, not even close. "That's for me to know."
He looked back to Clara. "The wedding is in a week. I'll arrange everything."
Sofia's eyes flickered with sympathy but she stayed silent.
Ethan pulled a slim folder from his briefcase and set it on the table. The contract inside looked more like a merger agreement than anything romantic. Clara's hands felt numb as she signed her name.
He was halfway out the door when she broke. Tears welled and slid down her cheeks, unbidden.
Ethan stopped, looked back.. not softened, not cruel, just firm. "See you soon, Clara. Keep your phone charged for the wedding planner."
And then he was gone , leaving only the faint scent of lilies, the echo of his voice, and the cold realization that she'd just signed away a year of her life to a cold man who vanished as easily as he arrived.