There's no turning back!

The following day, Marianne get ready to meet Felix and his team. She wanted to turn her back and run away from them, but how can she? They paid for her mother's hospital bills. 

Marianne's heart raced as she got ready to meet Felix and his team, the weight of her decision heavy on her shoulders. She knew there was no turning back now, not after they had settled her mother's hospital bills. The sense of gratitude and obligation clashed with the uncertainty of the path she had chosen.

As she arrived at the agreed-upon location, she couldn't help but feel a mix of anxiety and apprehension. This was uncharted territory for her, and she had no idea what to expect. She spotted Felix and Nate waiting for her, wearing their businesslike expressions.

"You're late! Did you know how many hours we've been waiting for you?"

Marianne's heart sank at Felix's stern words. She hadn't meant to keep them waiting, but the gravity of the situation had weighed on her all morning. She quickly apologized, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be late. I just had a few things to take care of."

"I want to make things clear here, Ms. Marianne," Felix stood in front of her. "In a business like this, you're just an employee, and I am your BOSS. Did you get that?"

Marianne nodded, feeling the tension in the air. She understood that this was strictly a business arrangement, but Felix's stern demeanor still caught her off guard. "I understand, Mr. Anderson. I'll treat this as a professional engagement."

Felix's expression softened slightly, and he continued, "Good. Now, let's go over the terms of our agreement. Our marriage will be strictly on paper, a legal contract, and it will last for a specified period. During this time, you'll be expected to fulfill certain obligations, like attending social events and accompanying me when necessary. It's essential to maintain appearances, but remember, there will be no emotional involvement."

Marianne listened carefully, absorbing the details of their arrangement. She couldn't help but feel a sense of unease about the whole situation, but the desperate need to support her mother drove her to proceed.

Nate interjected, "We've already hired lawyers to draft the necessary documents. You'll have access to the agreed-upon financial support for your family and personal expenses, including your mother's medical bills. Rest assured, we will make sure all your needs are met during this time."

Marianne felt a mixture of relief and apprehension. While the financial support was crucial for her family, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was entering uncharted waters.

Felix concluded, "Our 'marriage' will remain discreet and confidential. We'll discuss the details with our lawyers and sign the necessary documents. Once that's done, our arrangement will officially begin."

Marianne was lost in deep thought as she was thinking of her future. She didn't even had the experienced to have a boyfriend, but now... SHE WILL GET MARRIED BECAUSE OF MONEY!

Marianne's mind raced as the weight of the situation bore down on her. She had never imagined herself in such a peculiar arrangement, let alone a marriage of convenience. It felt like she was stepping into a world far removed from her own, one filled with uncertainty and unfamiliar responsibilities.

She nodded in agreement with a mixture of determination and apprehension, "I understand the terms, and I'll do my part as agreed. But please remember, this is all business to me. Nothing more."

Nate looked at her with worriedness. "Are you alright, Ms. Marianne?"

She raised her head and a tear trickle down her eyes. Marianne wiped away the tear quickly, trying to regain her composure. She couldn't afford to show vulnerability in this situation, especially when dealing with Felix and his team. Taking a deep breath, she replied, "I'm fine. It's just a lot to take in, you know? But I'll do what I need to do."

"Good! Because you're doing this for money, and I am too," Felix interfered and went out. Nate followed him after, and Marianne was left there all alone. She leaned her back against the sofa inside and took a deep breath. 

As she was walking on the streets, she received a call from Ethel, "Hey! How's the auditioned? Did you pass?" she asked. 

There's a moment of silence between them before Marianne speak up and answered her. "I got the job," she said, but her voice wasn't that happy. 

"That's great! But, why are you sad? Did something happened?"

Marianne hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much she should reveal to her friend. She trusted Ethel, but this was a unique and confidential situation. "It's just that... it's not exactly what I expected, Ethel. The job is... different. It's not your typical job."

Ethel's curiosity piqued, and she pressed further, "What do you mean, Marianne?"

Marianne took a deep breath and decided to share a bit without giving away all the details. "Well, it's more like a business arrangement, and it involves... marriage. But not a real one. It's all on paper. I did it for the money, for my mom's medical bills."

Ethel's voice held a mix of surprise and concern. "Marriage? Marianne, are you sure about this? It sounds complicated and... well, unusual. Are you okay with it?"

Marianne sighed, her emotions in turmoil. "I don't know, Ethel. I didn't have much of a choice, and it's all for my mom. I just hope I can handle it."

Ethel tried to be supportive, "I understand you're doing it for your family, and that's admirable. But please, promise me you'll be careful and think about your own well-being too. If things get too difficult, don't hesitate to reach out to me or someone you trust."

Marianne appreciated her friend's concern and nodded, even though Ethel couldn't see her. "I promise, Ethel. I won't forget who I am and what's truly important. Thank you for being there for me, but please," she sighed, "Don't tell mother about this."

"Alright. I won't."