Chapter 5

This man is gorgeous. His cold hands on my skin was affecting me in a way I can't explain.

"I'm sorry, Layla." He pleaded.

Awwn, he is so cute. I felt a flutter in my chest as he said my name. No one has ever called my name so perfectly.

What is worng with you Layla? I shouldn't be feeling this way for someone who took my pride and left me all to myself.

Caution Layla! Caution! I warned myself, but there's no going back.

"It's just a contract marriage, for three years." He explained, holding out some papers. "You can read the terms before signing it."

I collected the papers from him.

Shock gripped me as I scanned the content.

A part of me wanted this marriage to be real not just a fake agreement.

We went back inside. " So what do you say? He asked.

I hesitated, not wanting to seem desperate. But I am desperate!

"Hum, do I get to think about it?" I asked.

"Yes, you can, but I really don't have much time, you have just one week to decide. When you are ready, call my assistant." He said and he stood up and left me.

Wow, see how arrogant he is. He is not the one who needs my help? Why is he making it look like he is doing me a favor?

His assistant, drove me back to school.

Immediately I got home, I signed the papers.

There is nothing to think about, it is just to good to be true.

It's only in novels and movies that things like this happen. I feel like a heroine in a story.

I couldn't even sleep well that night. The thought of being a Billionaire's wife with a monthly allowance of $5 million and a payout of $100 million after three years was too surreal.

I didn't tell my mom about the marriage. I know she will not consent to it.

To her, I am still too young for marriage, but who am I kidding. I would do anything it takes to make my mom live a comfortable life. She has been through enough hardship already.

I am sure my dad too won't be happy wherever he is right now.

But dad, your cupcake is so sorry. I am just tired of living a life of hardship. I want to taste a little bit of enjoyment once again.

Tears welled up in my eyes as memories of my dad came back.

The love and care he showed me and my mom was undeniable.

I love you dad! I cried my eyes out that night, but it was a mixed feeling of joy and sadness.

I planned to defer my schooling for three years. I will continue after the contract is over.

I can't forsake my dream of becoming an actress, to continue my mother's legacy.

A week later, I contacted the assistant, and he arranged a meeting with him at the King's Hotel.

As I entered the hotel lobby, I spotted him sitting in the corner, his eyes fixed on me. We sat down, and an uncomfortable silence ensued.

Finally, he broke the silence, his voice low and smooth. "I didn't prepare any food today, so you won't have a reason to get angry with me again for calling you a beggar."

I smiled wryly, feeling a pang of embarrassment. I just starved myself for no reason.

I handed him the signed papers, and he flipped through them, his eyes scanning the contents. "You read the terms carefully, right?"

I nodded, my heart racing. "Yes, I did."

He gazed at me intently, his eyes searching mine. "And you're sure you can handle the no-emotional-attachment clause?"

I raised my chin, feigning confidence. "Of course, I can."

He stood up, his movements graceful. "Good. I've taken care of your mother's surgery and cleared your debts."

"Thank you." I said, feeling emotional.

"No need to thank me. I am following through with my part of the contract. Just make sure you follow yours." He replied.

"Yes, I will." I said.

He paused his movement, and turned to me. "Meet me at the resort at 5 pm to sign the marriage papers."

"Okay." I replied.

I stood there, stunned from the sudden turn of events. My life had changed in the blink of an eye, and I wasn't sure if I was ready for what lay ahead.

As he was about to step out, the sudden turn of even left me thunderstruck.

A slender, tall lady walked in, her hips swaying seductively with each step.

She planted a warm kiss on Alex's lips. With a husky voice, she said, "My husband. I have been searching everywhere for you."

Alex's gaze became bloodshot as he said with a voice that sounded as cold as that of death, " Amelia?"

I blinked my eyes to be sure I was seeing clearly.

My heart raced as I felt a chill run down my spine. "Who is this woman?"