Ethan sat in his office scrolling through his social media feed when he stumbled upon a news article about Avery Pierce. He had initially given up on her upon finding out she'd be getting married to an Elite.
His expression turned thoughtful as he read on. He couldn't believe the humiliation she must have faced. The memes and jokes circulating about the event made him feel pity for her.
He wants to meet her and is willing to offer her a chance to prove to the world that she was more than just a jilted bride.
*
Avery agreed to meet Ethan Blackwood, when she read his mysterious message.
"Let's take revenge on those that hurt you"
The message had piqued her interest and she agreed to a meet up. She walked into the high end bar, the dim lighting and soft jazz music enveloping her like a warm hug. As she scanned the room, her eyes landed on a tall imposing figure sitting at the bar, sipping a glass of scotch.
Ethan's piercing gaze met hers and she felt a shiver run down her spine. His aura was unmatched. He stood up with a fluid and confident movement and walked towards her..
"You look stunning"he said with a deep voice sending a flutter through her chest.
Avery gave a shy, sly smile. She couldn't help but notice his handsome features, his piercing blue eyes, his sharp jawline and prominent cheekbones gave him a strong angular face that was both captivating and intimidating.
As they sipped their drinks, the conversation flowed easily. Ethan was charming and witty outside his professional space. He had a great sense of humor and had Avery laughing for the first time in a few days. But beneath the surface, Avery felt a sharp and calculating gaze from Ethan
Ethan finally leaned forward, as he looked straight into her eyes "I have a proposition for you, I want us to have a contract marriage"
Avery stared at him in confusion. "A contract marriage? What do you mean?"
Ethan leaned back in his chair with a calculating glint in his eyes. "I mean a marriage on paper only. We'll sign a contract outlining the terms of their agreement. You'll receive a generous settlement, and in return, you'll play the role of a wife in public"
Avery's eyes narrowed as she considered Ethan's proposal. She thought about her step sister and her mother, who had always belittled her. Marrying Ethan Blackwood, a billionaire with power and influence would be the ultimate revenge. Her step- mother and sister would be green with envy and she would finally get the satisfaction of seeing them eat their words and from the proceeds of the contract she can start afresh in another country, away from the chaos.
"I'll marry you Ethan, but I want something in return" Avery said in a cold tone
"You will make my family jealous. I want them to know that am marrying a man who is more powerful and successful than Harrison would ever hope to be, I want them to regret underestimating me"
"I like your spirit. I think we can come to a mutually beneficial agreement. Let's make it official tomorrow"Ethan's eyes lit up in amusement
Avery extended her hand, and Ethan took it, with a firm handshake. As they sealed their agreement, Avery felt a sense of satisfaction wash over her. She was going to get her revenge and she would do it in style.
*
The next day, Avery stood outside the courtroom, her heart reaching with a mix of emotions. She was about to marry a man she barely knew, a man who had proposed a contract marriage to her, the thought was both thrilling and terrifying.
Ethan appeared beside her "ready?" He asked, with a low and smooth voice
Avery nodded, taking a deep breath, she was doing this for herself and for her own reasons.
The ceremony was brief, with a judge officiating the proceedings. Avery's hand trembled slightly as she placed the ring on Ethan's finger and he did the same. The judge pronounced them husband and wife, and Ethan's eyes met Avery with a hint of smile playing on his lips.
Avery felt a sense of detachment, as if she was observing the scene from outside her body.
"This wasn't a traditional marriage after all. It was a business arrangement, a means to an end". She thought to herself
When the judge finished speaking, Ethan leaned in and pressed his lips to hers. It was a brief chaste kiss, but Avery felt a spark of electricity run through her body. She pulled back, and for a moment, they just looked at each other. The court house wedding was a far cry from the grand wedding Avery had envisioned with Harrison and this made her feel a certain way.