Rian's expression remained unreadable, calm as ever. "It's just a contract marriage. Three years. After that, divorce. You can marry anyone else. I'll even provide you with money—it won't be a problem."
"No. Still… no, thank you," Mimi repeated, her voice firm, though her heart trembled. She had always believed in one life, one partner, love that was mutual and real. She refused again and again.
But fate had other plans. A few days later, her grandmother fell gravely ill. Hospital bills mounted, and Mimi felt helpless, desperate. She swallowed her pride and approached Rian, her hands shaking as she laid out her conditions.
"I… I will agree to the contract marriage," she said softly. "But two things: you will handle the hospital bills completely, and you must never reveal the contract to anyone. Appear in front of me as a perfect, kind grandson-in-law. My grandmother must not worry."