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When Julian Blackwood proposes to artist Ava Morales, things start spiralling out of control in a wave after wave of passion, secrets and lies. A pact of a whirlwind marriage with such financial and social security, but really? While Ava maneuvers the dangerous waters of Julian's world & high society, she is forced to deal with all her demons as well as the shadows lurking in Julian's past. Will their budding bond be strong enough to withstand the secrets that could tear them apart? Or wave goodbye to their hearts forever, the murmurs incarcerated by their bond?
Chapter 1 THE PROPOSAL
Julian Blackwood, a self-made entrepreneur, sat behind his sleek mahogany desk, the weight of the world pressing down on his shoulders. His office was the epitome of success: floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the city (the skyline glimmering with the golden hues of the setting sun). The modern furnishings, with their minimalist design, reflected his sharp and calculated nature. Every item in this space had been carefully chosen-not just for aesthetic appeal-but for functionality.
Julian had built his empire from the ground up and this office, perched high above the bustling city, was the symbol of his achievement. Despite the outward success, however, Julian could not shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at him. He had spent the last few days deliberating over the most important decision of his life-one that would shape his future, not just in business, but in ways he never imagined. The proposal sitting on his desk had the power to change everything. "What's it going to be, Julian?" he muttered under his breath, leaning back in his chair and folding his hands behind his head.
The proposal-a multi-million-dollar agreement with one of the largest technology firms in the country-was tantalizingly close to being secured. It represented a transformative opportunity, one that could propel his company to an entirely new echelon of success. However, there was a significant obstacle. To finalize the deal, Julian had to project a credible image: he required a spouse. The firm, under the leadership of a conservative CEO, maintained a stringent policy regarding family values. They would not endorse the agreement with a single, affluent entrepreneur, particularly not one like Julian, whose private life was perpetually scrutinized by the media. His phone vibrated on the desk, abruptly interrupting his contemplation. It was Marcus, his business partner and closest ally. "Julian," Marcus's voice crackled through the connection. "We need to discuss this deal. Have you considered how we're going to navigate this?" Julian exhaled deeply. "I've contemplated nothing else. I lack an option, Marcus." "You need a wife, Julian. And quickly. The firm is growing impatient. We're running out of time." Marcus's tone was urgent, a blend of exasperation and pragmatism.
"I'm uncertain about this entire 'wife' concept," Julian responded, his fingers drumming a steady rhythm on the desk. "It's not as if I lack alternatives... however, this feels... misplaced." The reality was that Julian had never been inclined toward settling down. His existence had been a meticulously crafted equilibrium of work, luxury and occasional fleeting romances. Marriage had never factored into his plans. Yet, now, it appeared to be the sole method to ensure the future of his enterprise. The notion of becoming someone's husband, even if merely for business purposes, caused his stomach to twist uncomfortably. He had devoted his life to constructing his empire on his own terms-unencumbered by commitments, free from anyone attempting to dictate his decisions. The idea of being tethered to another individual, even for a short time, felt oppressive. "Listen, Julian," Marcus pressed on, "I understand it sounds unusual, but you lack alternatives. A phony marriage is the simplest means to sustain the deal. And once we establish the partnership, we can progress. This is solely business. Nothing beyond that."
Julian gazed out the window, observing the vibrant cityscape below as it came alive with lights. His mind wandered to his family, particularly to his mother, Catherine, who would undoubtedly have a strong opinion on his choices. She had always maintained that he should settle down and marry someone from the appropriate social circle. He could almost hear her voice echoing in his mind, chastising him for his recklessness and lack of foresight. However, Catherine's criteria for a suitable wife seemed as distant from reality as could be. His life had revolved around calculated risks and rationality; emotions simply had no place in his world. "Alright," he eventually declared, leaning forward and rubbing his tired eyes. "I'll figure it out. But this can't be just anyone. I need someone... convincing." He could nearly hear Marcus smirking on the other end of the line. "Leave that to me. We'll make it work. I'll find someone suitable."
The call concluded, however Julian's thoughts continued to race. The idea of marriage (even if it were merely a contractual arrangement) felt like an anchor-one that would tether him when all he desired was freedom. He had constructed everything he possessed from the ground up; he didn't need anyone dictating his life. Nevertheless, there was no denying that this business arrangement was a game-changer. Although sometimes the world necessitated sacrifices, this was one of those occasions.
The office was now enveloped in a profound silence; the sole auditory presence was the sporadic hum of the city outside. Julian found his mind entirely absorbed by the impending contract. For the past several years, he had devoted himself exclusively to his business ventures. Relationships had ebbed and flowed, however, none had truly endured. He recognized that the concept of marriage-even if it were merely a façade-would undoubtedly complicate matters, but his ambition to secure the deal eclipsed his apprehensions. He was determined to devise a solution, just as he had navigated every other obstacle in his life. Yet, one question persisted in his thoughts: What would this entail for him, beyond the confines of the business realm? The notion of a fictitious wife, cohabiting under the same roof and performing a role for an entire year, appeared to be plucked from the pages of a subpar romantic comedy. He struggled to comprehend the idea of sharing his personal space with someone who was not an integral part of his meticulously curated existence.
The reality was that he was uncertain about who might be willing to engage in this endeavor. He required an individual with the appropriate persona-someone adept at deceiving both the public and the corporate sphere. It had to be a person who was not only attractive and poised but also inclined to maintain the façade for an entire year, free from complications. Julian ran his fingers through his hair, feeling the weight of the decision cause his thoughts to spiral. As the evening progressed (and it felt interminable), Julian found himself fixated on the contract resting on his desk, the stark lines of the document seeming to mock him. He was at a loss regarding how he could identify the ideal woman-or even if he truly desired to. However, as the minutes slipped away, one realization crystallized: this was a pivotal moment. He could either persist along the path of his own choosing, retaining control of his existence, or he could venture into a realm that necessitated vulnerability and compromise.
A soft knock on the door broke his reverie.
"Come in," he called out.
The door creaked open, revealing his assistant, Chloe, who stepped inside with a professional demeanor. She was always impeccably dressed, her auburn hair neatly tied in a bun, which contributed to her polished appearance. "Julian, your meeting with the tech firm is scheduled for next week. Are you ready for it?" she inquired (her eyes searching his face for any indication of his state of mind). Julian nodded absently, somewhat distracted by his own thoughts. "Yes, I'm ready. We just need to-" He paused abruptly, halting mid-sentence. The weight of the proposal felt suffocating and for the first time in a long while, a sense of uncertainty washed over him. This deal could elevate his career, but the cost was considerable. Was the price of success truly worth the personal sacrifices? Would he genuinely be able to follow through with this? "I'll be ready, Chloe. Thanks," he replied, offering her a half-smile as he attempted to dismiss the heavy thoughts that burdened him. She nodded politely and closed the door behind her. However, Julian remained where he was, fixated on the proposal before him. He found himself at a crossroads and no amount of business acumen could assist him in navigating this dilemma
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