Dreams After Marriage

of the contract hung over her like a dark cloud, its promise of financial stability both a beacon and a burden. She had little ch

The opulence of the place was overwhelming; high ceilings, polished marble floors, and grand chandeliers created a sen

as he appeared at the top of the sweeping staircase. He was dressed

e barely above a whisper. She felt small an

to assist you with settling in. They will help you with anything you need.

to mask her apprehe

se. The staff, a polite and efficient team, quickly went about their tasks, making her feel slightly more at ease. S

ontrast between her old life and this new one. Every detail of the penthouse spoke of wealth and

ngs and social events that seemed to consume his every waking moment. When he was home, their interactions were b

collection of leather-bound books that lined the shelves. She reached for one and opened it, fi

s expression unreadable. "I s

up from the book. "It's beauti

y. "I rarely have time for leisure, bu

m. Alana longed for some sign of warmth or understanding, but Damian remained an enigma

ier in the stillness of the night. She had expected difficulties, but the emotional distance between her and Damian was more prof

om, his face drawn and tired. "I'm sorry for intruding," he said, notici

plied, her voice soft

demeanor softer than usual. "This arrangement is

n his words. "It's hard not to feel like we're

is a business arrangement. I know tha

irst time, Alana sensed a flicker of vulnerability behind Damian's gua

s," Alana suggested, her voice tentative. "F

thoughtful. "Perhaps you're right. It might

ut it was a start. As Damian left the room, Alana felt a small sense of relief. The col

s home. She took an interest in his work and the things he cared about, hoping to find some c

adapting to her new life and her new partner would be a complex challenge, but she was willing to try. The p