The room was dimly lit, with only the soft glow of the city skyline filtering through the tall windows. Livia stood by the balcony, clutching her arms tightly around herself, staring out into the darkness. Her mind was a whirlwind—an endless loop of doubt, fear, and a reluctant flicker of hope.
She had agreed to this marriage—she had to. For her brother. For her dignity, maybe. But that didn't mean it was easy. Her heart was pounding a thousand beats per minute, her hands sweaty, her stomach twisted in knots.
The door clicked softly behind her. She turned sharply to see Reynaldi enter, his presence commanding yet calm. He was dressed sharply, the scent of cologne lingering in the air, his expression unreadable.
"You okay?" His voice was low, almost gentle.
She nodded, trying to hide her trembling voice. "Yeah. Just… thinking."
He stepped closer, his eyes piercing into hers. "This isn't just a business deal anymore. It's real now. We're in this together."
Her eyes widened slightly. "I know," she whispered. "But… it's a lot to take in."
Reynaldi took a slow step forward, his gaze softening just a little. "Livia, I want you to know—this isn't just about the contract. I don't take this lightly. I understand how you feel. I've been in your shoes—desperate, feeling like there's no way out."
Her heart clenched at his words. His voice was so calm, so reassuring, but she could see the weight of his own burdens behind those dark eyes.
"Why do you want to help me?" she asked softly. "Why now?"
He hesitated, then looked away briefly. "Some things in life are bigger than money or power. I'm not perfect—I've made mistakes. But I'm not a monster. And I won't let anyone hurt you or your brother."
Her breath hitched. She felt vulnerable—exposed in a way she never had before. But deep inside, a flicker of trust began to form.
Suddenly, the door opened again. A hotel staff member entered with a tray of glasses and a small bottle of champagne. Reynaldi gestured for her to sit, and she obeyed, her hands trembling as she took a glass.
"To new beginnings," Reynaldi said softly, raising his glass.
She hesitated, then clinked her glass against his. "To… hope."
They drank in silence, the noise of the city muffled outside. For a moment, everything seemed suspended—just two strangers trying to find their way in a dark, unfamiliar world.
But peace was short-lived.
The door opened again, and a man entered—sharp-featured, with a stern expression. He was carrying a thick folder.
"Mr. Arka," he said, voice professional. "Everything is ready for the signing. We can proceed now."
Reynaldi nodded. "Let's get this over with."
Livia watched as they moved to the adjoining room, where the formal paperwork awaited. Her stomach churned. She hadn't realized how heavy the weight of this decision was until now.
Inside the room, the atmosphere was tense. The lawyer explained the contract in precise terms, but all she could focus on was the pounding in her chest.
Finally, they signed the papers. The ink dried, sealing her fate.
Reynaldi looked at her, a mixture of determination and something softer—perhaps regret or pity.
"You're brave," he said quietly. "This isn't the end. It's just the beginning."
She nodded, her voice barely a whisper. "I hope so."
He reached out, gently taking her hand. "I promise, I'll protect you. And we'll get through this—together."
As she looked into his eyes, a strange feeling washed over her—hope mingled with fear. She knew this was only the start of a long, dangerous journey. But for the first time, she believed there might be a way out.
And in that moment, she realized—she wasn't alone anymore.