Share

Guests??

Author: Ava Grey
last update Last Updated: 2024-09-17 01:51:25

Ben

After my disastrous presentation, I took a break from work and drove home.

I needed to freshen up, eat one of Mama Canda's special meals so I can think more clearly and strategize for the postponed presentation.

That was the initial plan.

But somehow, I spent the rest of the day reviewing security protocols and briefing my team on Ana's arrival.

They knew the drill - keep an eye on her from a distance and make sure she wasn't being followed.

I sat at my desk, staring blankly at the papers in front of me. My mind kept wandering back to Ana. What was her story?

Earlier today she had been a little bit erratic and that was suspicious. What secrets was she hiding?

'Get a grip, Ben,' I muttered to myself. This was just a fake marriage, a business deal. Don't let it get personal.

I sighed, rubbing my temples. Focus, Ben.

Suddenly my phone rang. I checked the caller ID to see that it was my father, but my father never calls unless it was for something very important, like business.

He
Locked Chapter
Continue to read this book on the APP

Related chapters

  • Married For 30 Days    Beat

    AnaAs we stood looking around the big expanse of a mansion, Liam's eyes widened. “Mommy! Look.” He pointed at the big winding staircase.I forced a smile, feeling a sense of unease. “Yes, baby. It's our new home now.”“OMG, Ana. This house is huge!” Beth's lips parted in shock as she came down from the car and entered the mansion.As all stood rooted to a spot, admiring the house, an elderly woman appeared, a warm smile plastered on her face. She bustled towards us, her bright floral dress fluttering around her.“Well, well, well! Look who's here! Our lovely Ana and… her sweet boy!” She exclaimed, enveloping me in a hearty hug.“You can call me Candace dear.” She smiled and looked straight into my eyes.Her cheerful and confident demeanor immediately put me at ease. Liam giggled, charmed by her infectious energy.She beamed at Liam. “And you, young man, are going to love it here! We've got a whole wing for you, full of toys and games!”Liam's eyes widened, already sold.She turned to

    Last Updated : 2024-09-17
  • Married For 30 Days    I shouldn't Be Here

    AnaBen's contorted face loomed over me, his eyes blazing with fury as he growled in my face, “You're my property now!” His voice echoed dangerously in the dark room.My eyes flew open and I jolted awake in panic. I threw off the covers and scrambled out of bed. My legs tangled in the sheets, and I stumbled towards the door, knocking over the flower vase in the process. The sound of shattering glass echoed through the dark room.Ben's voice seemed to follow me, echoing ominously: "You can't run away from me. This is my house, and I'll find you in any hidey hole you might want to hide in." He let out a disturbing laugh that sent chills down my spine.Desperate for light, I got to what felt like the door and my trembling fingers searched for the switch. Finally, the room erupted into brightness, and I flattened myself against the wall. My eyes were wide with fear as I quickly scanned the room for the source of the voice.But there was no one else around, it was just me. Relief washed

    Last Updated : 2024-09-18
  • Married For 30 Days    He Found Us

    AnaCandace’s touch was warm and comforting, but her words didn't exactly have the same positive effect.A message from Ben? What could he want now?I finished my meal in silence, lost in thought. Candace’s kindness and warmth only made me more uneasy. Why was Ben being so generous to us? What did he expect in return?His generosity was way too much for someone that's paying a random woman to be his fake wife.Thinking about Ben's motives made me lose my appetite, and as I pushed my plate away, Candace gestured for me to follow her. "Come, child. Let's get that message."I trailed behind her, my heart racing. What would Ben's message say? Was it another trap? I was still paying for the contract trap and can't walk into another.We entered Candace’s cozy room, filled with the scent of lavender and old books. She closed the door behind us and gestured for me to take a seat.My heart raced as I wondered what the message could be.Candace seemed to notice my anxious demeanor and sought t

    Last Updated : 2024-09-18
  • Married For 30 Days    Almost

    Ana As we entered the conference room, Ben's confidence was palpable. How could he just shove me into an unfamiliar role and be okay with it? Whatever the outcome? "Remember, Ana, you're representing me and this company," he whispered, his breath cold against my ear. "Don't embarrass me." I felt a spark of defiance. This wasn't part of the deal! But Ben's grip on my elbow kept me in line. Ben took the floor and I settled into my seat, awaiting my turn to present. For a few moments, I fidgeted in my seat. My anxiety grew, as I worried about stumbling through the presentation and disappointing Ben and the investors present. His confident voice filled the room as he began his introduction. I watched, indignant, intrigued, as he commanded the investors’ attention. He spoke of innovation and progress, his words painting a vivid, believable picture. The investors leaned forward in their seats, captivated. My nerves began to settle. Ben's smooth delivery was strangely reassuring. "

    Last Updated : 2024-09-18
  • Married For 30 Days    Firecracker

    BenI entered my office and slammed the door behind me. I had tried my best to hold it together back at the conference room but this shit was infuriating.My face burned with rage as I clenched my jaw. How could this have happened?A lot was at stake. The successful signing of this deal was crucial to the company's future and there was no room for mediocrity.Ana's presentation was excellent, and flawless. It was above average and better than what I'd expected from someone like her. Yet, the deal didn't go through.What a waste! I slammed my hands on the desk, sending files, papers, and stationary flying in all directions.My assistant came running. “Is everything okay, Mr. Pierce?”“You were there, what do you think!” I snapped at him, my frustration getting the better of me.“We're still in the clear, sir.” He said, cautiously stepping into my office. “Your wife did a wonderful job with the presentation. At least this time, they aren't writing us off completely.”I took a few calm

    Last Updated : 2024-09-19
  • Married For 30 Days    Long Day

    AnaI stepped out of the building, my body threatening to collapse under my shaky legs any minute. I glanced around to find the driver waiting by the car, just like in the morning.I was still reeling from my heated argument with Ben. I wondered how I was going to survive 30 days in the same space with him.He would always be around me; in the house, in the office. Soon enough, I might find myself doing something I might regret later. The man was totally unbearable.And yet Mama Canda called him adorable? I'm absolutely sure she has no idea the type of man he really was. A giant asshole!The driver opened the car door and I entered, settling comfortably into the plush leather seat, grateful to be away from Ben's toxic presence.I sniffled and flicked away a single droplet of tears from my cheeks. I would never let Ben get under my skin again. I would do my job and get the hell out of his house once it's over.I fished around in my purse for my phone and called Beth.As I waited for Be

    Last Updated : 2024-09-19
  • Married For 30 Days    Rules

    AnaThe next morning, I descended to the kitchen, determined to face whatever challenges lay ahead.Ben was already seated at the table, sipping coffee and scrolling through his phone.Hmm. He didn't leave early today."Good morning," he said, his tone neutral.I nodded, taking a seat across from him. "Morning."The silence between us was tense, but I refused to break it.As we ate, I couldn't help but steal glances at him. His expression was guarded, but I detected a hint of curiosity in his eyes.What was he thinking?Did he regret our argument the previous day?Or was he plotting his next move?“Why didn't you inform me beforehand that you'll be moving in with a child and a teenager?” He suddenly asked, out of nowhere.“I had no reason to. You didn't leave me any choice.” I answered, pacing my tone so as to avoid losing it and yelling at him.He wiped his mouth with a napkin. “Fine. But we are going to have a discussion about it and I'm going to set some rules.”“It's your house. W

    Last Updated : 2024-09-20
  • Married For 30 Days    Masked

    Ana“Now let's talk about the rules of engagement between us, the adults.”For some unknown reason, the way he said it sent warm thrills across my entire body. What the hell is happening?He continued. “Technically, we're married. And in the public and business world, people will naturally expect to see us together.”I nodded, waiting for him to continue.“I know I've talked to you about this before, but it's much more serious now that you're living in the same house with me. A lot more is going to have to change.”“Like what?” I prodded, curious.“Things as simple as the way we relate to each other outside of this house, especially in the office.”“Oh,” I said, my voice laced with sarcasm. “Do you mean the way you bash me and insult me in the office? Is that what you're talking about?”He touched his beard and nodded slowly. “Okay. Maybe not like that. And I'm sorry for the way I spoke to you in the office.”I nodded, a bit taken aback by his honest apology.“Now, as I was saying,” h

    Last Updated : 2024-09-22

Latest chapter

  • Married For 30 Days    Family Over Husband

    Ana30 minutes later when Beth had finally calmed down, I took her up to her room and tucked her into bed. Then I headed down the hall to Liam's room. I hadn't seen my baby since I left in the morning.When I entered his room, I found a maid playing with him while cleaning up his room at the same time.Being a single mother myself, I was impressed by the way she expertly handled Liam and kept him occupied while doing something else. I chuckled to myself. The power of multitasking which appears to only be borne by women.As I watched the maid and Liam interact, I couldn't help but feel a pang of gratitude towards Ben for hiring such a wonderful staff. Being a boy Mom was no easy task and Ben's staff had made sure I took a well-deserved rest every now and then.The maid, whose name tag read "Maria", caught my eye and smiled warmly. "Hello, Mrs. Ana. I was just getting Liam ready for bed. Would you like me to finish up?" I shook my head, walking over to Liam. "No, Maria, thank you. I

  • Married For 30 Days    It's Not Safe Here

    AnaBen and I arrived home just a few minutes past 7:00 pm to find Beth sitting on the patio crying.Without waiting for the car to come to a complete stop, I jumped out and rushed towards Beth, my heart thudding widely in my chest.Why was she crying? Did something happen to Liam? Was it Shirley again?Oh, I'm going to kill her with my bare hands if she had anything to do with this!“Beth, what is it? Why are you crying?” I asked, my voice laced with fear as I crouched down close to her. “Is Liam okay?”“Everything okay?” Ben asked, slowly approaching us, his face filled with something that looked like fear. “Where's Candace?” “It's Alex,” Beth whimpered, tears streaming down her cheeks as she spoke. Who is Alex? I thought, and then it clicked. Alex is the ex-boyfriend that nearly hurt Beth.“What about him?” I asked, “Did he try to contact you again?”Beth stared at me, a sorrowful look in her innocent eyes. “He's dead, Ana. Someone killed him.” He finally said, her voice quaverin

  • Married For 30 Days    Blazing Hot Kiss

    AnaWaoh! I felt a flutter in my chest at the intimacy of the question. "That's a pretty personal question, Ben," I said, trying to sound nonchalant. I wasn't expecting that. I thought to myself.Now what do I say? Do I admit the truth, or do I lie and hope he doesn't prob any further?Ben grinned at me and cocked his head. "Hey, I'm your husband. I'm allowed to ask personal questions."I smiled, feeling a sense of ease returning. "Okay, fine. When I'm lying in bed at night, I'm usually thinking about..."“What?” He prompted, his eyes shining with child-like expectation.“You.” I finally said, and held my breath.Ben's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled. "Oh? And what am I doing in these thoughts of yours?"I felt a blush rise to my cheeks, but I tried to play it cool. "You're usually doing something very charming and romantic," I said, trying to sound nonchalant.Ben laughed, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I see. And do these thoughts of yours usually end with us living

  • Married For 30 Days    Dinner Date

    Ana***7 Days Until End of Contract***Two hours later, Kelly and I were finally done arranging stuff in my new office.Ben had sent the interior designer as promised and she did a fine job painting and decorating the space, and for that, I gave her a very generous tip, because she more than deserved it.As I stood by the window admiring the new decor, Kelly smiled and nodded in approval. "You're officially settled in, Mrs. Pierce," she said, gathering her things. "I'll let you get comfortable. If you need anything, just buzz me."“Thanks, Kelly,” I said and lightly touched her arm.Just then, the door swung open and Ben walked in, a warm smile on his face. "How's the new office?" he asked, his eyes scanning the room."It's perfect," I replied, feeling a sense of pride and ownership. "The designer did an amazing job."Ben nodded approvingly at the colors, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm glad you like it," he said. "You deserve it."We chatted for a few more minutes, discussing

  • Married For 30 Days    Corner Office

    AnaOmg! My new office? He really wasn't joking about getting me my own corner office.My eyes shone with joy and delight as I continued to follow him without further questions.As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and pride. My own corner office? It was a dream come true. I had always wanted to prove myself as a capable and independent individual, and this was a huge step in that direction.Ben led me to a door with a shiny new nameplate that read "Ana Smith, Executive Director." I gasped in surprise, my eyes widening with delight."Ben, this is...wow," I stuttered, my hand reaching out to touch the nameplate.Ben chuckled and leaned against the doorframe, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I told you I'd get you set up," he said, his voice low and husky.I turned to him, my heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, Ben," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "This means so much to me."I felt a flutter in my chest as I gazed up at him, my heart overflow

  • Married For 30 Days    My New Man

    AnaTerrence was already standing and waiting by the car as Ben and I came down from our respective rooms at the same time, as if on cue.Ben smiled and winked at me from across the foyer and my face turned red in a blush.Silly girl, I cautioned myself as I gracefully got in the back seat, followed by him.Usually, Ben would sit up in the front with Terrence but today was different. He wanted to sit close to me.His broad shoulders filled up the small space, and the heat from the closeness of his body radiated towards me, making my skin tingle with awareness.Flashes of the kiss we shared earlier in his bedroom flooded my memory and sent warm thrills across my entire body.I was giddy with excitement, but then I glanced at my wristwatch and grimaced, a frown creasing my brows. “We're so late.” I noted, my voice tinged with worry.“Says who?” Ben asked with a raised eyebrow.“I mean, aren't we?” I replied, glancing at my wristwatch again. “It's almost 10:00 am.”I turned to look at Be

  • Married For 30 Days    Falling Into You

    AnaLike a lost sheep being taken to the slaughter, I followed Ben as he took me by the hand and led me to his bedroom.I'd never been in his bedroom before and as I stepped through the door, the unmistakable scent of cologne filled my nostrils, making my head spin.I knew that scent. It felt familiar, like a warm hug. Where had I smelled it before? I wondered, glancing around the cozy, elegant space.“Make yourself at home,” Ben said, nodding towards a plush cushion beside the bed. "I love your room," I said, taking in the calming colors and comfortable furnishings. "It feels like a sanctuary.”Ben chuckled and nodded. “That's the same thing you said last night.”I did a double take, my eyes narrowing at his words. “What? Did I…Was I here last night?”“No,” Ben laughed and handed me a glass of water. “But maybe. I'm not sure.” He added, still laughing.I rolled my eyes at him and accepted the cup. “It's not funny, Ben.”“Aren't you curious though?” Ben asked, and slowly approached m

  • Married For 30 Days    Hungover

    AnaI woke up with a start, my top drenched in sweat, and my head pounding from a terrible hangover. Where was I?The slice of bright light seeping through the window blinds indicated that it was morning.I glanced at the alarm clock on the bedside table. 7:30am.I must've been really exhausted last night that I had fallen into such deep sleep. I don't even remember waking up in the middle of the night like I usually do.I rubbed my eyes and sleepily glanced around the room.My clothes were scattered all over the floor, trailing from the door up to the bed. I winced in pain as I tried to recollect how that came about.Oh god! Did I sleep with Ben? Did I shamelessly throw myself at him?I stumbled out of bed and headed straight for the medicine cabinet in the bathroom, my vision slightly blurred by a piece of straying hair.I walked past a mirror and paused, daring myself to take a look at the mess I must've made of myself last night.I succumbed, and as I gazed into the mirror, I was

  • Married For 30 Days    A Night To Remember-II

    BenAna and I danced together, laughing and spinning to the beat. For a moment, I forgot about our deal, about the future, and just let go.As the night wore on, we played games, told jokes, and even had a heated debate about the best pizza topping— Ana was adamant that pineapple belonged on pizza, while I was horrified by the suggestion.At one point, Remi pulled out a guitar and started strumming a lively tune. Ana grabbed my hand and pulled me into an impromptu karaoke session. We belted out a ridiculous duet of "I Will Survive," complete with over-the-top dance moves and dramatic arm flailing.I sang along to the beautiful tunes, never mind that my voice was already cracked from yelling on top of my voice all night.But I didn't mind, because for the first time in a long time, I was having the best time of my life with the woman I— love?Love? I caught myself midway, shocked to realize that I'd fallen hopelessly in love with this woman.I watched her happy face as we sang, my hea

DMCA.com Protection Status