Ep4

Finally, Bella spoke, her voice just above a whisper. "And if I agree to this... arrangement. What would be expected of me?"

Ryan's expression remained stoic as he spoke. "You would have to act as my wife. Attend social events with me, put up a convincing act in front of my family and associates. Nothing too burdensome, but convincingly enough that everyone believes we're a real couple."

A hint of a smile tugged at the corner of Ryan's mouth. "That's it," he confirmed. "Nothing too difficult, just a few appearances here and there. Is that something you can handle?"

Bella nodded slowly, her mind running through the possibilities. With the money he would pay her, she'd be able to support her family, pay her debts, and live comfortably for the year. It was an opportunity she couldn't afford to pass up.

Ryan noticed the hint of resolve in her eyes, the determination in her nod. He knew he had her. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a business card, handing it to her. "This is my card. Let me know your decision. My offer stands."

Bella took the card from him, her fingers brushing against his for just a moment. There was a shiver of electricity at the touch, but she pushed it aside. "I'll consider it," she said, holding his gaze for a moment longer before turning and walking back into the library.

Over the next few days, Bella found herself constantly thinking about Ryan's offer. She would be sitting alone in her small apartment, staring out the window, and her mind would drift back to him. She tried to push the thoughts away, to focus on her regular life. But the temptation of the money, the freedom it would bring her, was too strong to ignore.

The phone call from her father was a stark reminder of the reasons why she should accept Ryan's offer. Her family was struggling financially, and she was the one they looked to for support. The thought of being able to help them, to ease their suffering, was like a vice around her heart, making it harder and harder to ignore Ryan's proposal.

As she hung up the phone, Bella knew that she needed to make a decision. She couldn't bear the thought of her family suffering, of not being able to provide for them. She paced around her small apartment, weighing the pros and cons of the deal, trying to convince herself that it was the right thing to do.

The more she thought about it, the more she started to rationalize the arrangement in her mind. It was only for a year, right? She could handle acting the part of a fake wife for a few social events and in front of his family and friends. It wasn't the same as actually being married, was it?

She found herself almost convincing herself that the deal was worth it. The money would be life-changing for her family. She could pay off their debts, help her siblings with their studies, and maybe even start her own small business with the extra. This thought made her finally decide to call Ryan.

She dialled the number on his business card, feeling her heart pound in her chest as the phone rang. Suddenly, Ryan picked up, his voice familiar and cold. "You've decided?"

_____continue_____

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