The rain drummed against the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Vane Empire tower. Inside, the air smelled of expensive sandalwood and cold ambition.
Seraphina didn't even look up from her diamond-encrusted phone as the door opened. She was the "Ice Queen" of the business world, a woman whose beauty was only matched by her ruthlessness.
"You're late," she said, her voice a smooth, dangerous velvet.
Xavier stood there in his faded jacket, his jaw tight. He was a man with a haunted past—a former elite commander who had lost everything to a lie. Now, his younger brother was in the hospital, and the bills were ₦25,000,000. He was desperate.
"I had to make sure my brother was stable," Xavier replied, his voice deep and steady.
Seraphina finally looked at him. For a split second, her icy eyes softened as she took in his rugged features and the strength in his shoulders. She pushed a black folder across the desk.
"My grandfather's will is simple: I marry within 48 hours, or I lose my position as CEO," she said. "I've checked your record, Xavier. You have no family left but your brother. You have no scandals. You are the perfect 'ghost' husband."
Xavier opened the folder. The contract was clear.
1 Year of Marriage. * Separate Bedrooms. * Reward: ₦50,000,000 and the best medical care for his brother.
"Why me?" Xavier asked, leaning over the desk. "You could have any billionaire in the city."
"Billionaires want my company," Seraphina said, standing up. She walked closer, her expensive perfume filling his senses. She reached out and straightened his collar, her fingers lingering for just a second too long. "I want someone who only wants the money. Sign it, Xavier. Save your brother, and save my throne."
Xavier took the pen. He wasn't just signing a contract; he was walking into a golden cage with the most beautiful woman in the world. He signed his name in bold strokes.
"Welcome to the high life, Xavier," Seraphina whispered into his ear, her breath warm against his skin. "Try not to fall in love with me. It wasn't in the contract."