ad. "We both know this isn't a real marriage. If I go there, they might thi

ally. "She knows the terms, but her family doesn't. Just

vident in his voice. "I don't

buzzed. It was his si

bly and full of jokes,

appened

some bruises on her arm. The nan

rge of anger. "I'

e the fact that you've neglected y

needs a mother," he heard his

s ther

, sh

motion. Lily will have a moth

daughter while I'm awa

nd? Finally! This is great news! Please int

I are still here; she'll be fine,"

d to Charles, his expression serious. "This is getting serious

me Hadassah's contact

ing married, huh? Here's her contact," he said, hand

annoyed look. "Hey

hands in mock surrender. "J

on Lily," Bernard replied, frustr

pdated," Charles said, still grin

. "I have a business meeting with an i

eave soon too-just waiting for a report from m

rles said, headi

ying there. He stared at it for a moment, feeling a mix of hope and anxiety wash over him. Taking a deep breath, he tuc

-

guy with that kind of aud

e's in love with yo

that! After my ex, I need a vacation from

burst int

layful grin. "Eventually, you have to overlook looks and just settle for love. I

ayful huff. "I don't blame you! You've gotten into a fake relationshi

"At least it won't hurt l

t to save your soul!" She burst into laughter, surrendering to Hadassah's playful wit. Shaking h

hing her hair back. "Girl, my pho

he bed; it shou

ged in her phone. Just as she was a

with surprise. "Sharon,

ho

ard!" she

" Sharon jumped up and sa

read the message. "This guy is so cold! 'He

t's see what e

aned in

new message popped up. Her eyebrows shot up as she read through a

move in! But remember, this is a contract relationship. I just

sage, replaced by a knot of worry in her stomach. She

eel the chill from Bernard's unapproachable demeanor. Her shoulders slumped

it weren't important. You really need this money right now. Just focus on the benefits-ignore his a

ble; I don't want to regret this." She leaned back, running her fingers through her hair, but her hand trembl

t! Come on, girl, apply some skincare and let'

"Alright, you're right. I'll make sure I look good," she

-

rushed home and walked st

g clothes. "Mom, we need to talk," Hadassah s

my sweetheart! What is it? I'm all ears," she

wanted to make sure he's serious and really wants to marry me

ugged Hadassah tightly. "Oh my beloved, you've ma

r Hadassah as guilt nagged a

thing for him?" her

ckly. "Let's just clean the ho

g with excitement, began

ntly and headed off

-

led onto the couch for a much-needed

from Bernard su

e on my way. Text

she quickly grabbed her phone, eager

-

windows glided into their compound. The car was imposing, its polished

nard as he stepped out of the car. When he saw her, he paused, captivated by her beauty. Her long, blonde hair flowed elegan

radiant beauty, while Hadassah felt a flutter in her chest at the sight of hi

sah said, "Welcome," her voice

ied, his expression

her politely, his demeanor respectful. "Good even

t you. You don't have to say much; she's shared so much about you alr

se of sincerity. "Oh yes, ma'am

eart whisper

like her, and I need to

y sweetheart, you've brought a

mother glowing with happiness, while Bernar

e you something to eat," h

ve something to attend to. I'll come back and see yo

gasping at the luxurious vehicle. "Oh, my darling, you've ma

nd anticipation, her heart still racing from their encoun

g her. The caller ID showed an unkn

said, her h

ce warned, low and urgent. "Ber