The drive back to Ethan's mansion was silent.
I kept my eyes on the window, staring at the passing city lights, trying not to think about the contract I had just signed… or the man sitting next to me.
"Do you always sulk like this?" Ethan finally asked, his voice calm but sharp.
I glanced at him, ready to snap, but stopped.
"How would you feel if you were forced into a marriage you never wanted?" I retorted.
He smirked faintly. "I'd probably enjoy it more than you."
I clenched my fists, trying to ignore the heat rising in my cheeks.
I hated him. I really did. Yet… there was something about the way he looked at me that made my heart skip a beat — something I didn't want to admit.
When we arrived, he led the way silently. The mansion was massive, cold, and intimidating — just like him.
"You'll stay in the guest wing for now," he said. "Don't touch anything that's not yours."
I nodded, my pride burning inside.
As I unpacked, I caught my reflection in the mirror — a bride in a world I never chose.
And in that moment, I realized this wasn't just about a contract anymore.
It was about survival… and maybe something more.