Trapped With the billionaire

r's hospitalization flooded back. The desperation, the fear, the uncertainty. The hefty surgery bill had loomed over me like an insurmountable mountain. That's when Rose had stepped in, offering a lif

. "I'll offer her this and beg for more time," I thought, clutching the cash. As I stepped into our cozy home, the familiar scent of fresh-baked cookies enveloped me, momentarily lifting my spirits. "Mom, I'm home," I called out, the weight of my encounter with Nina still lingering. "Come in, Emily!" my mom replied from the kitchen, her warm voice a comforting balm. "You have a guest," she added, a hint of excitement in her tone. My curiosity piqued, I wondered which of my closest friends had dropped by. Gracie or Michael, perhaps? We'd shared countless memories, from late-night college study sessions to landing jobs at Rose's company – a chapter I was now determined to close. With renewed interest, I quickened my pace, my footsteps echoing through the hallway. As I entered the living room, my footsteps faltered. Cade Callaghan, the enigmatic figure I'd least expected, sat comfortably, sipping tea with my mom. "Here's your visitor, Emily," Mom said with a warm smile. "He said he's a good friend of yours, so I let him in." My eyes locked onto Cade's, and for an instant, time stood still. The memory of our unfinished conversation lingered, leaving me breathless. "Mr. Callaghan," I managed, my voice measured. "This is unexpected." Cade's piercing gaze never wavered. "I had to come, Emily. Our discussion yesterday wasn't finished. We have unfinished business to attend to." "I've made my stance clear," I said firmly, hoping to close the discussion. Cade's gaze lingered, his eyes burning with unresolved issues. "But I haven't. That's why I'm here, Emily." My mom tactfully intervened, her voice soft. "I'll leave you two alone. Later, dear, fill me in on the eviction notice." Cade's expression shifted from determination to concern. "Eviction? Are they really-" I cut him off, my tone sharp. "It's none of your business, Cade." With a newfound sense of urgency, I grasped his hand and led him outside, away from my mom's curious ears. As soon as we stepped outside, I released his hand and confronted him, my eyes blazing with anger. "Why are you here, Mr. Callaghan?" Cade's expression remained calm, but his eyes hinted at a deeper motive. "To see you, Emily." I pressed, my tone firm. "Why?" "I wanted to know if you'd changed your mind," he replied, his voice low and persuasive. I crossed my arms, resolve etched on my face. "My decision hasn't changed. I made that clear yesterday." Cade's gaze narrowed. "Not even with the eviction looming?" My anger flared. "I told you, it's none of your business!" Cade took a step closer, his voice taking on a smooth, enticing tone. "But I can make it my business, Emily. I can help you. Accept my deal, and whatever you want will be yours." I shook my head vehemently. "No, Mr. Callaghan. I won't do it." "Why are you persisting? I'm not your type," I snapped, frustration boiling over. "I'm not some socialite or glamorous brunette you usually date. Can't you choose one of them?" Cade's smile hinted at amusement, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "That's precisely why I want you, Emily. You're intriguing, a breath of fresh air. You're the only woman who hasn't thrown herself at me for my wealth." He paused, his gaze roving over my face. "Your independence, your fire – it's captivating. You'd be a perfect addition to my world." I shook my head, incredulous. "You can't be serious. I'm not some prize to be won or a trophy to display." Cade's expression turned serious, his voice low and persuasive. "I'm dead serious, Emily. You'll make a perfect bride, effortlessly playing the part. Together, we'll be unstoppable." He took a step closer, his proximity sending shivers down my spine. "Accept my deal, and all your problems will vanish. The eviction notice, your financial struggles – gone. I promise." His words dripped with sincerity, but I sensed an undercurrent of manipulation. "What's in it for you, Cade? Why do you need me so badly?" Cade's smile returned, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Let's just say, Emily, that you're the missing piece to my puzzle. With you by my side, I'll achieve everything I've ever desired." I fel