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A thrilling tale of secrets lies and redemption Alexandra "Lexi" Thompson, a feisty and independent event planner from a working-class background, and Julian Blackwood, a charming and ruthless billionaire investor from New York's upper echelon. When their families unexpectedly Merge their businesses, they're forced into a marriage of convenience to secure the deal. As they navigate their whirlwind romance, they must confront their differences and learn to trust each other. Lexi must adapt to Julian's high-society world, while Julian must confront his own biases and learn to appreciate Lexi's strength.
Chapter 1: The Unexpected Proposal
Lexi Thompson was in the midst of planning the biggest event of her career, a high-profile charity gala at the prestigious Plaza Hotel. Her phone rang nonstop, and her team buzzed around her, finalizing details. Suddenly, her mother's voice pierced through the chaos.
"Lexi, darling! I need to see you in the office. Now."
Lexi's heart sank. What could her mother want? She excused herself and made her way to the office, her mind racing with worst-case scenarios.
As she entered the office, her mother, father, and a suave-looking stranger were seated around the conference table. Her parents' somber expressions made her stomach twist with anxiety.
"Lexi, sweetie, this is Julian Blackwood," her mother introduced, her voice tight with tension. "He's...an investor."
Lexi's eyes narrowed. What did this have to do with her?
Julian stood, his piercing blue eyes locking onto hers. "Lexi, it's a pleasure to finally meet you. I've heard great things."
Lexi's confusion deepened. "Finally meet me?"
Her father cleared his throat. "Lexi, we've been discussing a potential merger between our companies. Blackwood Investments and Thompson Events would make a formidable team."
Lexi's mind raced. A merger? What did this mean for her business, her independence?
Julian smiled, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "And to solidify our partnership, I propose we take our relationship to the next level...by getting married."
Lexi's jaw dropped. Marriage?! Was this some kind of joke?
Let me know if you want me to continue with the next part of the chapter.
In order to fulfill her grandfather's last wish, Stella entered into a hasty marriage with an ordinary man she had never met before. However, even after becoming husband and wife on paper, they each led separate lives, barely crossing paths. A year later, Stella returned to Seamarsh City, hoping to finally meet her mysterious husband. To her astonishment, he sent her a text message, unexpectedly pleading for a divorce without ever having met her in person. Gritting her teeth, Stella replied, "So be it. Let’s get a divorce!" Following that, Stella made a bold move and joined the Prosperity Group, where she became a public relations officer that worked directly for the company’s CEO, Matthew. The handsome and enigmatic CEO was already bound in matrimony, and was known to be unwaveringly devoted to his wife in private. Unbeknownst to Stella, her mysterious husband was actually her boss, in his alternate identity! Determined to focus on her career, Stella deliberately kept her distance from the CEO, although she couldn't help but notice his deliberate attempts to get close to her. As time went on, her elusive husband had a change of heart. He suddenly refused to proceed with the divorce. When would his alternate identity be uncovered? Amidst a tumultuous blend of deception and profound love, what destiny awaited them?
Melanie married Ashton out of gratitude, but she quickly found herself entangled in a web of relentless challenges. Despite these struggles, she stayed true to her commitment to the marriage. In the hospital room, Ashton indifferently attempted to draw her blood, disregarding her discomfort. This callous act was a harsh revelation for Melanie, awakening her to the grim reality of their relationship. Resolved to prioritize her own welfare, she decided to sever ties. With newfound resolve, Melanie filed for divorce. In the process, she unveiled her concealed identities, leaving everyone in shock. Throughout these turbulent times, Melanie realized that Derek, Ashton’s uncle, had been discreetly protecting her all along.
Kara Martin was known as Miss Perfect. She was a beauty with good personality and successful career. Unfortunately, her life changed at one night. She was accused of adultery, losing her job, and abandoned by her fiance. The arrogant man who slept with her did not want to take responsibility. He even threatened to kill her if they met again. What's worse, Kara was pregnant with twins and she chose to give birth to them. Four and a half years later, Kara returned to work at a large company. As the secretary, she would frequently face their notorious CEO. Kara thought it wouldn't be a problem, but as it turned out ... the CEO was the father of the twins!
On the day of their wedding anniversary, Joshua's mistress drugged Alicia, and she ended up in a stranger's bed. In one night, Alicia lost her innocence, while Joshua's mistress carried his child in her womb. Heartbroken and humiliated, Alicia demanded a divorce, but Joshua saw it as yet another tantrum. When they finally parted ways, she went on to become a renowned artist, sought out and admired by everyone. Consumed by regret, Joshua darkened her doorstep in hopes of reconciliation, only to find her in the arms of a powerful tycoon. "Say hello to your sister-in-law."
Maria took her sister’s place and was engaged to Anthony, a disabled man who had lost his status as the family heir. At first, they were just a nominal couple. However, things changed when things about Maria were gradually exposed. It turned out she was a professional hacker, a mysterious composer, and the sole successor to an international jade sculpting master… The more that was revealed about her, the less Anthony could rest easy. A famous singer, an award-winning actor, an heir of a rich family—so many excellent men were chasing after his fiancee, Maria. What should Anthony do?
Rachel used to think that her devotion would win Brian over one day, but she was proven wrong when his true love returned. Rachel had endured it all—from standing alone at the altar to dragging herself to the hospital for an emergency treatment. Everyone thought she was crazy to give up so much of herself for someone who didn’t return her feelings. But when Brian received news of Rachel’s terminal illness and realized she didn’t have long to live, he completely broke down. "I forbid you to die!" Rachel just smiled. She no longer needed him. "I will finally be free."