Chapter 2 - The Arrangement
The sedan pulled up to a massive penthouse building overlooking the Chicago skyline.
I hesitated in the leather seat, unsure if I should follow him inside.
"I can't just come to your apartment," I said, gripping my cheap uniform.
Vincent stopped halfway out the door and looked back at me with piercing dark eyes.
"There are already paparazzi waiting outside your small apartment building, Emily."
He held out his hand, his expression softening just a fraction.
"Trust me for one night, and I will fix this mess tomorrow."
I took a deep breath, placed my hand in his, and let him lead me to the private elevator.
His penthouse was exactly what I expected from a billionaire—cold, massive, and breathtakingly expensive.
He ordered his staff to prepare a guest room for me and asked if I was hungry.
"I'm too anxious to eat," I admitted, standing awkwardly in the center of the vast living room.
Vincent poured two glasses of scotch and handed me one.
"We have a mutual problem now, Emily," he said, taking a slow sip.
"The media thinks we are involved, and my business rivals will look for any weakness to exploit."
I gripped the heavy crystal glass, feeling a sudden wave of panic.
"Are you saying I'm in danger because of that kiss?" I asked.
"No," he answered quickly, his voice dropping to a dangerous rumble.
"I am saying anyone who tries to touch you will regret it, but we need to control the narrative."
He set his glass down and stepped into my personal space.
"I want you to pretend to be my girlfriend for the next three months."
My jaw dropped, my mind struggling to process the absurd request.
"You want me to fake date a mafia boss?" I asked in disbelief.
"A businessman," he corrected with a slight smirk.
"In exchange, I will clear your mother's medical debt, pay your rent for a year, and ensure Tyler never finds work in this city again."
The mention of Tyler made my blood boil, and the offer of financial freedom was intoxicating.
May you like
I looked into Vincent's intense, calculating eyes and made the craziest decision of my life.
"Deal," I whispered.
