Contract Marriage

Alice - POV

"I'm sorry, what?" I asked, staring at James in disbelief.

"Do you want me to repeat myself?" James asked.

"It's hard to believe you're agreeing to marry me. Am I not damaged goods?" I blurted out my thoughts.

"You speak constantly, lowering yourself as if you are trash. I don't see you that way; I see you as a fighter," James said, leaving me guessing. His eyes were fixed on me. "I see you in a different light, a strong woman."

My eyes widened in surprise at his words. James's small smile made my heart race.

"James, you didn't want a mate, and now you're okay with getting married. Is it because of my situation?" I smiled awkwardly at him. Keeping hope for something romantic is a foolish and bad idea. James's eyes still stared at me. "Right?" I asked with my insecurity.

"Don't answer that. I'm happy you're helping me," I added.

"Boom, boom." A fire broke out, and fireworks lit up the sky.

"I love fireworks," I muttered in awe at the colors spreading across the beau