“No,” I cut in. “I thought about it all night. It’s crazy, but it’s also an opportunity. Not just for the money—though that helps—but to disappear for a while. Reset. Come back stronger.”
He nods, and for the first time, I see something real in his expression.
Understanding.
“Sometimes the most irrational decisions are the only ones that make sense.”
“Exactly.”
A quiet settles between us as I scan the final lines one last time.
Then I inhale deeply and extend my hand.
“A pen. Before I change my mind.”
He pulls a fountain pen from his jacket—of course he does—and hands it to me.
“You’re certain?”
“Not even slightly. But when have I ever been?”
I sign in one swift motion and hand it back. He signs next, precise and controlled.
“That’s it,” I say. “I’m officially your future wife. God help us.”
“God—or perhaps a good Scotch whisky.”
“I vote whisky.”
He slips the contract back into his briefcase, then pulls out a small black velvet box.
“Since we’ve formalized the agreement, this seems appropriate.”
My eyes widen as he opens it.
A breathtaking ring. Emerald-cut sapphire surrounded by diamonds, set in platinum.
“Oh… Is that for me?”
“Engagements generally require a ring.”
I hesitate.
“It’s stunning, but… isn’t this a bit much for a temporary marriage?”
“It belonged to my maternal grandmother. A cheap ring would raise suspicion.”
“A family ring? Callum, I can’t?—”
“You can. And you must. It’s part of the illusion. You’ll return it when this ends. It’s in the contract.”
“Of course it is,” I murmur.
I take the ring carefully, watching the deep sapphire catch the light.
“It matches your eyes,” I say before I can stop myself.
He raises a brow.
