"It means we don't file for annulment. Not yet. We maintain the appearance of a legitimate relationship for approximately two months. Long enough for this story to die down and for me to close my acquisition."
"And by 'maintain the appearance,' you mean..."
"Public events when necessary. You keep quiet about the circumstances of our marriage. You don't speak to the press. And when required, you appear at my side looking like this arrangement was intentional rather than accidental."
She nods slowly, and I can see her processing.
"So basically," she says, "you want me to play 'CEO's Wife' in the most bizarre corporate theater production ever staged."
"If you want to phrase it that way."
"How would you phrase it?"
"Damage control. For both of us."
"Right. Damage control." She looks down at her hands. "And if I... had thoughts about that?"
"Then you're welcome to share them."
"Well, first thought: this is insane." She looks up. "But I'm guessing you already know that."
"I'm aware of the irregularity."
"Irregularity. That's one word for it. Second thought: I assume saying 'no thank you, I'd rather face the media circus' isn't really an option?"
"It's an option. Just not a particularly wise one."
"Because without your 'protection'—" she makes air quotes, "—I'll be torn apart by the press?"
"Yes."
"And with your protection, I get to pretend to be happily married to my boss for two months while everyone at this company watches and judges?"
"Essentially."
She lets out a breath that might be a laugh. "Well. When you put it like that, it sounds absolutely delightful."
"Your alternative is navigating this alone."
“I see. So not really an alternative at all." She straightens. "What exactly would I need to do? Specifically."
"Attend events when I ask. Smile for cameras when necessary. Act appropriately in public. What you do in private is your business. I'm not asking you to move in or?—"
"Oh thank God. Sorry. Please continue."
I almost smile. Almost.
"In exchange," I continue, "I ensure your time here at StreamEats is beneficial. Good projects. Proper resources. You'll have every opportunity to succeed in this role."
"While also being married to the man who controls my entire career trajectory."
"Yes."
"No pressure though."
“Miss Beaumont.”
"Sorry. Processing." She rubs her temple. "This is just—it's a lot. Two months of pretending to be your wife while also trying to prove I deserve this job on my own merits is..." She trails off.
