When a business deal gone awry leaves the CEO, Alex, in need of a quick solution, he proposes to his assistant, Emily, as a strategic move to save face and secure the deal. What starts as a mutually beneficial arrangement soon develops into something more as Emily and Alex navigate the complexities of their newfound relationship, facing challenges both inside and outside the boardroom. As they confront their own vulnerabilities and insecurities, they must decide: is their marriage merely a business transaction or a chance at true love?
Chapter 1 A Proposal
Emily Parker couldn't believe her luck. She stared at the manila folder in her hands, heart pounding with excitement and nerves. Inside were the contracts she had spent weeks preparing for the biggest deal of the year. As the executive assistant to Alex Reynolds, CEO of Reynolds Enterprises, Emily had worked tirelessly to ensure that every detail was perfect. And now, it was finally time to present them to Alex himself.
Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, Emily approached Alex's office. The door was slightly ajar, and she could hear the muted sounds of a heated conversation coming from inside. She hesitated for a moment, wondering if she should come back later, but then steeled herself and knocked gently on the door.
"Come in," Alex's deep voice called out.
Emily pushed the door open and stepped into the spacious office. Alex was seated behind his desk, his brow furrowed in concentration as he spoke with a group of men in suits. She recognized them as the representatives from Smithson & Co., the company they were negotiating with.
"Emily, perfect timing," Alex said, looking up from his conversation with a faint smile. "Gentlemen, this is Emily Parker, my assistant. She's been instrumental in putting together the proposals for our deal."
The men nodded politely in her direction, but their eyes quickly returned to Alex as he continued to speak. Emily felt a surge of pride at Alex's words, grateful for his acknowledgment of her hard work.
As the meeting came to a close, Emily handed the folder containing the contracts to Alex. He glanced at them briefly before tucking them under his arm.
"Thank you, Emily. I'll review these later," he said, dismissing the other men with a wave of his hand. Once they had left the room, he turned his attention back to her. "You've done a fantastic job with these, Emily. I couldn't have asked for a better assistant."
Emily's cheeks flushed with pleasure at the praise. "Thank you, Alex. I'm just glad everything came together smoothly."
Alex leaned back in his chair, studying her intently. "You know, Emily, I've been thinking. This deal is crucial for our company, and I need someone I can trust to oversee it. Someone who knows the ins and outs of the project as well as I do."
Emily's heart skipped a beat. Was Alex implying what she thought he was?
"I believe you're the perfect person for the job," Alex continued. "Which is why I'd like to propose something."
Emily held her breath, anticipation coiling in the pit of her stomach.
"I want you to accompany me to the Smithson & Co. headquarters tomorrow to finalize the deal," Alex said. "Not just as my assistant, but as my wife."
The words hung in the air, and for a moment, Emily was too stunned to respond. Married? To Alex? It was a proposition she never could have imagined in her wildest dreams.
"I know it's unconventional," Alex said, breaking the silence. "But with the stakes this high, I need someone by my side who I can trust implicitly. And I can't think of anyone I trust more than you, Emily."
Emily's mind raced as she tried to process what Alex was asking of her. Married. To Alex Reynolds, the man she had once loved with all her heart, before their relationship had ended in heartbreak five years ago.
"I... I don't know what to say," Emily stammered, her thoughts in turmoil.
"Think about it, Emily," Alex said gently. "I know it's a lot to take in, but I truly believe it's the best course of action for both of us."
With that, Alex rose from his chair and crossed the room to stand in front of her. He reached out and took her hand in his, his touch sending a jolt of electricity coursing through her veins.
"I'll give you some time to consider it," he said softly. "But know that whatever you decide, I value your contribution to this company more than words can express."
As Alex released her hand and turned to leave the room, Emily was left alone with her thoughts, her heart torn between the past and the present. Could she really agree to marry the man who had once broken her heart? And if she did, what would it mean for their future together?
Chapter 1 A Proposal
23/04/2024