Trapped in a fake engagement, Emily Wilson must navigate the treacherous world of billionaire Ryder Blackwood's making. But as his secrets surface, can she escape the possessive grip of a man who refuses to love?"
Chapter 1 The Unexpected Proposal
I adjusted my clipboard, surveying the lavish ballroom. My event planning company had transformed the space into a fairy tale, complete with crystal chandeliers and a live string quartet. The evening's charity gala would be the talk of the town.
Just as I confirmed the catering details, a deep voice interrupted my thoughts.
"Emily Wilson?"
I turned to face the speaker, my eyes widening. Ryder Blackwood, billionaire entrepreneur and notorious bachelor, and my boss. Well actually my company's client as he was the one hosting the gala. He Stood before me. His chiseled features and piercing blue eyes made my pulse quicken.
"Mr. Blackwood," I replied, extending my hand. He shook it firmly. "Please, call me Ryder. May I have a word?"I followed him to a secluded corner, curiosity piqued. What could Ryder Blackwood want with me?
"I've been impressed with your work, Emily," Ryder began. "Your attention to detail is unmatched."
"Thank you, sir," I replied, trying to sound professional despite the flutter in my chest.
"I have a proposal for you." His gaze locked onto mine, intense. "I need a fake fiancƩe for the next few months. Are you interested?"
My eyes widened. A fake fiancƩe? Was he kidding? Ryder's expression remained serious. "I'm finalizing a major business deal, and my investors require... stability. A fiancƩe would convey that.
I hesitated, weighing the pros and cons. My sister's medical bills loomed, and this opportunity could solve our financial struggles. But what would it cost me?
"What?" I asked, surprised. Mr Blackwood merely acknowledged my astonishment and continued
"You'll accompany me to events, pose for photos, and maintain the illusion," Ryder outlined. "In return, I'll pay off your sister's medical debts and provide a substantial stipend."
My heart skipped a beat. How the hell did he know about my sister? The offer was tempting, but something in Ryder's eyes made me wary.
I'm sorry, could you repeat that?" I asked, stunned. "You want me to pretend to be your fiancƩe?" Ryder nodded, his expression unreadable.
"Yes. It's a simple arrangement. You'll accompany me to events, pose for photos, and maintain the illusion."
I shook my head, trying to process. "And why would I do that?" Ryder's eyes narrowed slightly. "I'll pay off your sister's medical debts and provide a substantial stipend." My mind raced. The offer was enticing, but the absurdity of the proposal made me hesitant.
"I don't understand," I said, trying to clarify. "Why do you need a fake fiancƩe? Can't you just find someone... genuine?"Ryder's jaw clenched. "This is business, Emily. I don't have time for genuine relationships." His words sent a shiver down my spine. This was a man who saw people as assets, not individuals. "I'm not sure," I hedged, unsure if I wanted to get entangled in Ryder's world. Ryder's eyes flashed with impatience. "Don't play coy, Emily. You need the money, and I need the image. It's a mutually beneficial arrangement."His blunt words stung. Did he think I was that desperate?
"What's the catch?" I asked, searching for hidden strings.
Ryder's expression turned cold. "You'll adhere to my rules. No engaging with other men, no revealing our arrangement, and absolute discretion."
"I need time to think," I said, stalling.
Ryder's gaze intensified. "You have 24 hours. After that, the offer expires." With that, he turned and walked away, leaving me reeling.
What had just happened? Was I considering selling myself to a billionaire for the sake of my sister's medical bills? As I watched Ryder disappear into the crowd, I felt a shiver run down my spine.
As the event came to an end, I could still feel the gaze of Ryder on my back, watching my every turn. The question that kept ringing in my ear was, why me? Mr Blackwood has been a long time client of her company as they have handled all his events, they've crossed paths a few times, but I never thought he knew my name, let alone my personal life!
Feeling vulnerable, I gathered my things, my mind in a whirlwind of questions I was unable to answer. Saying my goodbyes to my colleagues I got into my car and drove out.
The next morning, I arrived at my office, still lost in thought. My best friend, Rachel, greeted me with a concerned expression. "Emily, how was the gala?" she asked. I filled her in on Ryder's proposal, leaving out no details. Rachel's eyes widened. "Emily, this is huge! But are you sure you're ready for this?"
Biting my lips, I shook my head. "I don't know. I need time to think."
Just then, my phone buzzed. Mr Blackwoods name flashed on the screen. "Emily," he said, his voice low and commanding. "I expect your answer soon.
"Emily, this is insane!" Rachel exclaimed. "You can't seriously consider pretending to be his fiancƩe."
"I know, but Sarah's medical bills..." I trailed off. Rachel's expression softened. "I get it. But think about the emotional toll. You'll be tied to this guy for months, pretending to be in love." Her words resonated. I valued my independence and honesty.
"Let's keep this between me and you for now. " I said, Rachel nodding, looking very unpleased.
That evening, I drove to the hospital. Tears, streamed down my face, as I struggled to steady my breaths. "You've got this." I whispered to myself, watching as the nurses went in and out if the hospital. I picked up my phone and got down from the car, and headed inside.
I got to her room, standing by the door I watched as she struggled to breathe even with the oxygen attached to her face. A tear escapes my eye. I whipped it off immediately she spotted me and smiled weakly. I walked up to her and sat beside her hospital bed, holding her frail hand.
"Hey, sis," I said, trying to sound cheerful. "I have something to tell you."
Sarah's eyes sparkled with curiosity."What is it, Emily?"
I hesitated, unsure how to share Ryder's proposal. "There's this... opportunity," I began. "A way to pay off your medical bills, but it's complicated." Sarah's grip on my hand tightened. "Tell me," she urged.
"I can't, I'm sorry." I said, begging her with my eyes. "But I promise, you'll get your surgery done and I'll get you out of here."
"What are you going to do, Emily?" she asked, worry etched on her features. I shrugged. "It's nothing for you to worry about." I smiled, weakly. Sarah's eyes locked onto mine.
"Emily, I don't want you to sacrifice your happiness for me," she said, her voice trembling. "But... I don't know how much longer I can keep fighting."
Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. Sarah's words broke my heart. "We'll figure it out together," I promised, hugging her tight. As I held Sarah close, I realized I needed to make a decision.