happening." She seemed to have lost sight of the reality that I was the one offering them a chance they desperately needed. I was the one extending a hand, risking my comfort for their

new the risks of borrowing from me, he knew if he didn't pay back in time like he had promised there would be consequences. I remembered the day he walked into my office two years ago, asking for a loan. He initially borrowed 4 billion, then returned six months later, requesting an additional 2 billion. I'd had my doubts about how he was going to repay the loan, but a part of me had hoped he'd prove me wrong. Now, with Andrew in default, I was left to collect my money in a more... unconventional way. "If you can pay me back within a reasonable timeframe... she'll be returned to you, unharmed," I explained, slightly pleased that Andrew was cooperating. Can't lie about that. I wasn't some creep with a kink. I just needed someone to boost my public image, and she was fit for the role. In fact, she was perfect for it. Even though she was a pretty ordinary-looking person. Brown hair, brown eyes, freckles, normal features. She wasn't the typical beauty standard - no porcelain skin, no striking blue eyes, no delicate features. And yet, infuriatingly, I couldn't stop staring. "She'll sign it," he nodded, his expression a mix of resignation and desperation. Aria's face twisted in horror. "What do you mean?" she whispered, her eyes screaming louder than her words. Andrew's voice was low as he reached out to her. " just listen-" But her anger boiled over, cutting him off. "No, I won't stand here and let you do this to me!" Her voice rose, each word trembling. "Why do I have to pay for your mistake?" His face contorted in a pleading expression. "Aria, I'll fix this, I promise. I'll pay him back-" Her laughter was laced with tears and her voice cracked with emotion. "You'll fix it? You'll fix it?" "I'm your father-just listen to me-" "Just-j-j-ust, you know what, I can't, I just can't with you right now" She spun on her heel, storming out of the room as tears streamed down her face. Well that was that I was already having second thoughts about the contract marriage. I couldn't help but think that wiping out her family would be easier - and less complicated. But James warned me about the potential backlash. I, on the other hand, was still weighing the pros and cons of the aftermath. "I'll find a way to pay you back" Andrew said, his eyes locked on mine. My tone dripped with sarcasm "I'm shaking with anticipation." I strolled around the room, taking in the empty spaces where Aria's belongings once were. The soft carpet flooring muffled my footsteps as I walked. The scent of vanilla and dust lingered in the air. The glass-fronted wardrobe was emptied a while ago, Her bed was stripped down to its pink upholstered headboard. Two movers perched on a ladder, carefully dismantling the chandelier and its crystals. Andrew's eyes locked onto mine "You didn't have to