The Night Before — Nicole's POV
The contract felt heavier than it should have as Nicole stared down at the neatly printed pages, every clause blurring together despite how carefully she reread them. Four years. Penalties. Appearances. A life carefully outlined by ink and obligation. Her fingers tightened around the pen as doubt crept in—quiet but persistent. Am I really ready for this?
She glanced over her shoulder.
Ash sat cross-legged on the bed behind her, silent but steady, eyes warm with reassurance. She didn't rush her. Didn't joke. Just nodded once—You've got this.
Nicole inhaled slowly, then signed.
When the final page was complete, she slid the contract away from herself like it might bite.
"Finally… it's done," she whispered, nerves buzzing under her skin.
Before she could second-guess herself, she scanned the pages and emailed the signed contract to Isaac. The moment the email sent, her heart raced—but beneath the fear was something else.
Hope.
⸻
That Same Night — Gu Sean's POV
Isaac entered the study with barely contained excitement, a tablet tucked under his arm.
"She signed," he announced, grinning. "Nicole sent the contract back. Court Affairs Bureau tomorrow morning."
Gu Sean's pen paused mid-signature.
For a brief moment, he said nothing—then a slow, satisfied breath left his chest.
"Good," he replied calmly, though his eyes gleamed with something far warmer. "Everything's ready?"
Isaac nodded eagerly.
"Her room is finished. Upstairs. Across from yours, just like you asked. Lavender walls, silver furnishings, custom closet. Her study is set up across from yours as well—new computer, project monitors, reference shelves. I added notes from her past work."
Gu Sean rose and walked down the hall, entering the room that would soon be hers. The space was soft yet elegant—light spilling in, the faint scent of lavender lingering in the air. He approached the bed and placed a small velvet box at its center.
Inside: a diamond ring.
Beside it, a handwritten note.
Thank you for trusting me. I promise to treat you with respect, patience, and care. Welcome home.
He ensured everything was perfect—wine chilled, chocolates arranged, house keys prepared. Outside, her purple Maybach waited in the private garage, driver already assigned. On the desk: black cards, a new phone programmed to contact staff instantly.
Gu Sean stepped back, surveying it all.
For the first time in years, anticipation—real anticipation—settled in his chest.
This wasn't just strategy anymore.
This was the beginning.