The contract marriage proposal

As they sipped their coffee, Max pulled out a small notebook and began to scribble some notes. Lena's curiosity piqued, she asked, "What are you doing?"

Max looked up, a mischievous glint in his eye. "I'm proposing a contract marriage, Lena. I want to be a part of Jack's life, and I want to make it official."

Lena's jaw dropped. "A contract marriage? You mean, like a business deal?"

Max nodded. "Exactly. I know it sounds unconventional, but I want to make this work. I'll provide for Jack, and for you, and in return, you'll give me a chance to be a father and a husband."

Lena was taken aback by the proposal. It was crazy, yet a part of her was tempted. She had struggled to make ends meet as a single mother, and the thought of having a partner to share the load was enticing.

But could she trust Max to keep his end of the bargain? And what about her own feelings? She couldn't deny the attraction between them, but was it enough to build a marriage on?

As she hesitated, Max added, "I know it's a lot to ask, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make this work. And I promise, Lena, I'll make you happy."

Lena's heart skipped a beat at the sincerity in his eyes. Maybe, just maybe, this contract marriage was worth considering.

"Okay," she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'll consider it. But I need time to think."

Max grinned, relief written all over his face. "That's all I can ask for. And in the meantime, can I take you and Jack out for dinner? Get to know my son better?"

Lena smiled, feeling a spark of excitement. "That sounds like a date."

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Lena's heart raced as she got ready for dinner with Max and Jack. She couldn't believe she was considering a contract marriage, but there was something about Max that made her feel safe and wanted.

As they arrived at the restaurant, Jack's eyes widened at the sight of the kids' play area. "Wow! Can I go play, Mommy?"

Lena smiled, nodding. "Of course, baby. Go have fun."

Max watched Jack scamper off, a warm smile on his face. "He's an amazing kid, Lena. You've done a great job raising him."

Lena felt a flutter in her chest at the praise. "Thanks, Max. I've tried my best."

As they ordered dinner and waited for their food to arrive, Max regaled her with stories of his time in the military, making her laugh with his witty humor. Lena found herself feeling more and more at ease in his presence.

Over dinner, they talked about everything from their favorite books to their childhood memories. Lena was struck by how much they had in common, how easy it was to talk to Max.

As the night drew to a close, Max walked them home, his arm casually slung over Lena's shoulders. Jack chattered excitedly about his playtime adventures, oblivious to the tension between his parents.

As they reached the doorstep, Max turned

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