Chapter Three: Meeting the Billionaire

The world knew Zavian Knight as a legend.

A self-made billionaire. The youngest CEO in Knight Enterprises’ history. Ruthless in the boardroom. Untouchable in his personal life.

But Aisha Malik only saw a storm she was being forced to step into—blindfolded.

The days leading up to their wedding were a blur of preparations she had no say in. Dresses were brought to her room. Invitations were sent without her approval. Paparazzi already camped outside her family’s estate, buzzing with rumors of the mysterious woman who had captured Zavian Knight’s interest.

No one knew it was a business arrangement. A trade cloaked in white lace.

And the worst part? She hadn’t seen him since that night.

Until now.

Aisha stood outside the massive black doors of Knight Enterprises, her stomach in knots. Her father had received a call that morning—Zavian wanted to “formally introduce her” to the company and begin legal preparations.

She hadn’t agreed to that part. But as always, her opinion didn’t matter.

The receptionist, a tall woman in a sleek gray suit, barely looked up. “He’s expecting you. Top floor.”

The elevator ride was suffocating. Each number she passed felt like a countdown to execution. By the time the doors opened, her legs were trembling.

She stepped into silence.

The top floor was stark and modern—marble floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and black-and-gold accents. At the far end was a glass office with its door wide open.

And there he was.

Zavian stood with his back to her, gazing out the window. He wore a charcoal suit, no tie, sleeves rolled up to his elbows. Even from behind, he radiated control—like a king surveying his kingdom.

He didn’t turn as she approached.

“I came like you asked,” Aisha said, keeping her voice calm.

“Right on time.” He finally faced her. His eyes scanned her face with a cool intensity that made her shiver.

She hated how gorgeous he looked. Hated that his voice, smooth and deep, unsettled her. Hated that he seemed completely unmoved, while she was falling apart inside.

“Sit,” he said, motioning to the chair across from his desk.

She didn’t move. “This isn’t a real marriage. Let’s get that straight.”

He gave a slow nod. “I’m not asking for your heart, Aisha. Just your obedience.”

Her fingers clenched at her sides. “What exactly do you expect from me?”

“Public appearances. Hosting events. A pretty smile when cameras are near. And silence when it comes to personal matters.”

“So I’m a doll in a display case.”

“You’re a shield,” he said bluntly. “A wife on paper keeps certain board members off my back and stabilizes investor confidence.”

“And what do I get?”

“Your family saved. A future secured. And, when the contract ends, your freedom.”

His cold detachment made her skin crawl.

But she knew what she was signing up for. She’d already agreed.

Still, one thing burned in her chest. She stood tall and met his gaze. “I’m not afraid of you, Zavian.”

For the first time, his expression shifted—just slightly. There was a flicker of amusement, or maybe interest, in those stormy eyes.

“Good,” he said. “Fear is boring.”

They stared at each other in a tense silence, two strangers bound by a cruel bargain.

This was the man she would marry.

And she had a sinking feeling—

He would ruin her before this was over.

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