Chapter 1 : The Contract of Fate
The hospital corridor felt like it was shrinking around Avani. The cold, clinical smell of antiseptic was suffocating, and the constant flickering of the overhead light made her headache even worse. In her hand, she clutched a crumpled piece of paper—the final notice.
Three million rupees.
That was the price of her father's heart surgery. If it didn't happen within forty-eight hours, the doctors said he wouldn't make it. Avani was a simple girl, working three part-time jobs just to keep their small apartment. Three million was a sum she couldn't even dream of earning in ten years, let alone two days.
She walked out of the hospital, the heavy monsoon rain hitting her face instantly. She didn't have an umbrella, but she didn't care. She felt numb.
"God, please... just a miracle," she whispered.
Suddenly, a sleek, midnight-black limousine pulled up right beside her. The window rolled down, revealing a man sitting in the backseat. He was breathtakingly handsome, but his eyes were like pieces of dark ice. This was Aryan Singhania—the man people called the 'Heartless King' of the business world.
"Miss Avani Mallick," his voice was deep and carried absolute authority.
Avani froze. "Who... how do you know my name?"
"I know about your father's condition," Aryan replied, handing her a thick document. "I will pay for the surgery and ensure your father never has to worry about a bill again. In exchange, you will marry me. Tonight."
Avani stepped back, shocked. "What? Why me?"
"My grandfather is dying, and his last wish is to see me settled with a 'simple girl'. You fit the profile. One year of marriage, Avani. No feelings, no drama. After that, you walk away with a fortune."
Avani looked at the hospital bills, then at the man. She had no choice. With trembling fingers, she took the pen and signed her name.
"Welcome to the Singhania family, Avani," Aryan smirked. "Your life as you know it... is over."