A contract marriage

The next morning, Julian sat in his office, staring at his phone. He knew what he had to do. The plan had been to destroy the Frosts completely, to leave them with nothing. But now, he couldn’t decide if he wanted to continue or stop.

He picked up the phone and dialed. When the person on the other end answered, Julian’s voice was curt. “I want the financial pressure on Frost Corporation eased. Temporarily.”

The person hesitated. “Sir, are you sure? This could—”

“Just do it,” Julian snapped, hanging up.

He leaned back in his chair, his expression grim. He couldn’t afford to lose focus now. He had waited too long for this. But for the first time, doubt had crept into his carefully laid plans, and it refused to leave.

Julian was in his office, reviewing the latest financial reports, when his secretary’s voice came through the intercom.

“Mr. Mathers, Miss Selena Frost is here to see you.”

He froze for a moment, surprised by her audacity, but then a flicker of curiosity crossed his face. 

Since Harrison has his words, her bail was accepted. 

“Send her in,” he said curtly, leaning back in his chair as he steeled himself.

When Selena entered, her appearance startled him. The glamorous, confident woman he had encountered before was gone. In her place stood someone vulnerable, with puffy eyes, pale skin, and trembling hands. Despite her fragility, there was still a stubborn determination in her gaze.

“Hello,” he said coolly, gesturing to the chair in front of his desk. “What an unexpected visit.”

She sat down without hesitation, clasping her hands tightly in her lap. “I’m here to ask for your help. My father’s company…it’s going to collapse soon.” 

Julian raised an eyebrow, folding his arms across his chest. “I believe I told you, Selena, that this was your family’s problem, not mine if you won't marry me.”

She swallowed hard, tears welling up in her eyes. “I know. But no one else is ready to help us.” 

“And why would I do that?” he asked, his voice laced with mockery though he felt a strange feeling in his heart seeing her like this. “I warned you what would happen if you didn’t agree to my terms.”

Her desperation spilled over. “I’ll marry you. If that’s what it takes, I’ll marry you. Just…please save my father’s company.”

For years, he had fantasized about breaking her, about seeing the proud Frost princess beg for his mercy. Now that it was happening, it didn’t feel as satisfying as he had imagined. 

Instead, her tears stirred something deep within him, something he didn’t want to acknowledge.

He stood, walking around the desk to stand before her. “You’ll marry me?” he repeated, his tone unreadable.

“Yes,” she whispered, her gaze dropping to the floor.

He tilted her chin up, forcing her to meet his eyes. “I don’t make deals without guarantees, Selena. If you’re serious about this, you’ll sign a prenuptial agreement. No hesitation, no complaints.”

She nodded slowly. “I’ll sign it.”

Julian smirked, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. He turned to his assistant, who stood silently in the corner of the room. “Aaron, bring in the agreement.”

The document was extensive, filled with clauses and legal jargon designed to protect Julian’s assets and maintain control over the relationship. One clause, in particular, caught Selena’s attention:

The marriage will remain private. Any public acknowledgment of the relationship without prior consent will result in a breach of contract and severe penalties.

Julian leaned over her shoulder as she scanned the document. “I trust you have no objections?”

Selena hesitated, her fingers gripping the pen. “This… this makes it sound like a business deal, not a marriage.”

Julian’s chuckle was cold. “That’s exactly what it is, Selena. A contract. Nothing more.”

The next morning, Selena’s charges were mysteriously dropped. The district attorney released a statement citing “insufficient evidence,” and all the incriminating news articles about the accident vanished from the internet. Whispers circulated about a powerful benefactor pulling strings, but no one dared to investigate further.

Meanwhile, Frost Corporation saw an unexpected influx of investment, stabilizing the company. Harrison Frost, while relieved, felt uneasy. He knew Julian’s involvement came with strings attached, strings that now controlled both him and his daughter.

The marriage itself was a cold, mechanical affair. There was no ceremony, no celebration—just a quick signing of papers in Julian’s office. Selena wore a simple white dress, but the lack of joy in her eyes was evident.

“Smile, Selena,” Julian said as they stood before the justice of the peace. “You’re a bride, after all.”

Her glare was icy, but she forced a weak smile. “Happy?”

Julian smirked. “Ecstatic.”

Once the papers were signed, he leaned in close, his voice low. “Remember, this isn’t a fairy tale. You’re here because I allowed it. Don’t forget that.”

That evening, Selena sat alone in the lavish bedroom of Julian’s penthouse, staring at the wedding band on her finger. The room was immaculate, decorated in cool grays and whites, but it felt cold and unwelcoming—much like Julian himself.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door. Before she could respond, Julian entered. He loosened his tie and regarded her with an unreadable expression.

“You’re still dressed?” he asked, looking her up and down in question. 

Selena’s heart raced. “I wasn’t sure what you—”

Julian cut her off, stepping closer. “I’m waiting for you in our room,” he said, his voice dropping an octave. “And I won’t like it if you keep me waiting.”

Her breath hitched. She stood, clutching the sides of her dress as her nerves threatened to overwhelm her.

“Don’t look so terrified,” Julian said, smirking slightly. “I’m not a monster. But I suggest you don’t test my patience.”

Without another word, he turned and walked toward the adjoining room, leaving the door slightly ajar.

Selena stared after him in fear. She had no idea what to expect from Julian Mathers, the man who held her life—and her heart—in his hands.

Summoning her courage, she took a deep breath and followed him.