"I told you, I don't want a fake wedding!" Aria whispered angrily, adjusting her borrowed bridesmaid dress. She had taken a wrong turn in the massive hotel and ended up in a bridal suite.
Before she could escape, the door opened, and a man walked in. He was breathtaking—sharp jawline, cold blue eyes, and a suit that cost more than her apartment. Julian Croft. The ruthless CEO everyone feared.
"You're not Elena," Julian said, his voice cold.
"I... I got lost," Aria stammered.
Julian stared at her. He needed a wife to secure his inheritance by midnight. Elena had run away. This girl was beautiful, desperate, and right here.
"What's your name?" he demanded, walking closer.
"Aria. Aria Sterling."
"Aria, how would you like to make a million dollars in one hour?"
Chapter 2: The Contract
Aria needed money for her sick brother's surgery. She should have said no, but she said yes. The contract was simple: Married for one year, no emotional attachment, then divorce.
The ceremony was fast. No family, just witnesses. When Julian slid the diamond ring onto her finger, a shiver went down her spine. It felt too real.
"Remember, Mrs. Croft," Julian whispered at the reception, his breath hot against her ear. "This is just business."
Chapter 3: The Untouched Heart
Months passed. The cold CEO was surprisingly kind behind closed doors. He took care of her brother, brought her food when she worked late, and protected her from his toxic family.
One night, after a charity gala, Julian found Aria crying on the balcony. He sat beside her, not saying a word, just holding her hand.
"Why are you so good to me?" she asked, looking into his eyes.
Julian paused. The cold armor he had worn for years was cracking. "Because," he whispered, breaking the contract rule, "I don't want this to be just business anymore."