r, wealth, and an entire world that seemed light-years away from her own. The sleek, modern architecture was intimidating, with its sharp lines and reflective windows that

a sea of unfamiliarity. She hadn't thought she would make it this far. The decision to come here-to meet Alexander Blackwood, the man she was

friend standing beside her, her face a mixture of concern and skepticism. Kate had insisted on accompanying Len

etraying the nerves coursing through her. "I need to see

ething that felt far too dangerous, even for someone as desperate as she was. But Lena had made up her mind.

mmaculate, and modern, with marble floors that gleamed under the bright lights. Everything about it screamed wealth and exclusivity. It was a world she had never

they entered. Her smile was professional but lacked warmth as if

he receptionist ask

lackwood," Lena said, her voice

tter in Lena's hand before nodding. "Mr. Bl

ong corridor that led to a set of glass double doors. The receptionist knoc

lass allowing the light to pour in, illuminating the luxurious surroundings. Leather chairs, sleek desks, and dark wood accents filled the ro

reath caught in her throat. She had imagined him to be tall, but the reality was overwhelming. Alexander Blackw

handsome, was hard and unyielding. There was something about him that radiated control as if he were a force of nature that c

ep and smooth, sending a shiver down

about her, but something was chilling about the way he said her name as if he al

struggling to maintain composure. "I mean, the letter said

"This is who I am, Lena. This world-my world-isn't one for casualt

his ruthlessness, his ambition-but nothing could have prepared her for this encounter. This man was more tha

before she could stop it. "The letter said I had to marry you, but it didn't say why

Lena. You marry me, and in return, you'll have everything you could ever want. Wealth,

had dreamed of for years. But was it worth giving up everything for

Lena asked, her voi

ous crossing his face. "You don't have that luxury," he said quietly. "

escape, not without losing everything she had just been offered. The realiz

ly audible. "Why do you need me? There

race that was almost predatory. "Because, Lena, you're the only o

d something she hadn't before: this wasn't just about marriage. This was about power. And Alexa

wers, but all she had gotten was more questions. And now, with e

, her hand tightening

ewing inside her. "But I need to know everything. No secrets. If

a cold, assessing gaze. Then

now this: there's no going back from here.

threat or a promise. But as she stood there, in front of the man she

ready bee