AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Can you tell me more about who you’re running from?”
She inhaled a shaky breath. He was risking a lot to help her and her child. Brynn owed him at least this.
“Everyone.”
More lines appeared between his brows, but he didn’t press for further information.
She looked down to her clasped hands in her lap. “The marriage, of course, wouldn’t be real. It would never be . . . consummated.”
“Brynn? Look at me.” Aaron’s voice was soft, but the command was clear.
She obeyed, locking eyes with him once more.
“You set the boundaries here, and I’ll respect them. I won’t ask you for anything you aren’t willing to give freely. You’re in control of this arrangement.”
She blinked, unsure if she’d heard him right. Did men like this really exist? Was he being honest with her? Would it change after she said the vows?
Her eyes dropped to his unbuttoned collar. His umber throat bobbed as he swallowed. Aaron’s large hands rested on the desk, palms down. She was going to have to let those hands touch her at some point—occasionally—just to make their union believable. Would he be gentle? Or rough? And what if this wasn’t pretend? Would having sex with someone as attractive as Aaron feel different? Would I enjoy it?
She shook her head, ridding the ridiculous thoughts, then stood abruptly. “One year, and then we can separate. We’ll say it just didn’t work out.”
Aaron nodded, his gaze a mix of emotions she couldn’t read.
“And if you . . . need to . . . um, have female company . . . you can be discreet?”
Aaron frowned. “I won’t be having any . . . company.”
“Y-you’re going to remain celibate?”
“Yes. I wouldn’t disrespect you like that. Real or not, we’ll be married.”
“I . . . I don’t know what to say to that.”
“Do we have a deal?” He tipped his head to the side.
She drew in a deep breath and let it out before responding. “Yes. Thank you, Mr. Ridley.”
“Please, call me Aaron.”
“Right. When should we, uh, take the next steps?”
“Let me get some things in order, then I’ll reach out.”
“Okay. I better go.” She turned and walked out of the office, her heart thundering in her ears.
Oh my God. I’m getting married.
Hopefully, her husband wouldn’t find out.
