《Married At First Glance: I Am Not Ugly》


 Begging Her

    Alexander Shim sat in thefort of his car, plugging in his ear pod. He tuned in to listen to his favorite musician. Taking the iPad whichyzily beside him and turned it on to check his work schedule for the day.


    The driver drives down into thepany¡¯s parking lot while the securities men rushed to opened the door for, getting down from the car he walked hastily to the elevator ignoring all greetings he gets from his employees.


    Alexander walked towards his office gracefully with a frown on his face, immediately his secretary sighted him, she hurriedly left her table and rushed towards him.


    ¡°Should I brew your coffee right now?¡± She asked while breathing heavily.


    ¡°Not now, what are my schedules for the day?¡± He asked and turned the door knob to his office.


    ¡°You¡¯ve a meeting with the Green¡¯s empire at noon and¡­.¡±


    He cutted her speech.


    ¡°Just go straight to the important ones and stop being a dummy.¡± He growled, loosening his tie a little bit while sinking down into his chair.


    ¡°You will be having a meeting with the board members in the next forty five minutes sir.¡±


    ¡°And you are just telling me that now huh?¡± hitting his hand on the table shattering some files that were neatly arranged on it making them fly away towards the west region.


    ¡°Uhmmm sir I.. t¡­ n¡­ o¡­¡­..¡± she said stuttering while crushing the files in her hands tightly to her chest.


    ¡°Prepare all the files that needed my attention within twenty minutes and send in my coffee immediately.¡± He said sounding so dangerous as ever sending cold chills down her spine as she hurriedly left the office in fear.


    Alexander turned his system on checking some emails Jace sent to himst night concerning the contracts they were working on presently while cross checking some of the files on his table before sending them to the various office that needed to take actions on them, picking up the tel phone on the table he called the auditing team.


    ¡°Send in the new ounts you verified through emails immediately.¡± Without waiting for their response he hanged up immediately.


    * AUDITING TEAM *


    Everybody bumped into each other while trying to process and coupled what their boss required of them, they knew better not to dy him else they¡¯re all gone. The audit manager could be seen running helter skelter while drips of sweats lined on his forehead he looks so worn out and equally stressed but who he is toin when he¡¯s not ready to lose his only livelihood.


    ¡°Have the ounting department sent those previous ounts we asked for?¡± Mr Lewis the auditing manager asked the secretary while going through some files on his table, despite the fact that the room is well ventted and the air conditioner was on, his whole body was covered in sweats, fingers is at war presently with the keyboards as everyone is busy correcting one errors or the other.


    ¡°Yes they¡¯ve sent it but the ount isn¡¯t corresponding with our total estimations.¡±


    ¡°And whose fault is that Annie?¡± The man who seemed to be worn out and provoked spoke out of anger, his veins almost poking out while his eyes were bulging out of their sockets.


    Thedy seemed not shaken as she stood her ground and spoke calmly as ever.


    ¡°Both parties are faulty because we worked on the previous ounts we have with us not knowing they haven¡¯t done their overall calctions sir.¡±


    ¡°Just go and rectify the faults and send it to my table for reviews within thirty minutes.¡±


    With a wave of hand thedy walked out of the office.


    ********


    Walking out the meeting hall exhausted, Alexander moved into his office to continue the day¡¯s work. He checked his emails to see if the auditing team had sent what he asked to him but he couldn¡¯t find any message from them, folding his fist together in anger he called the team manager once again.


    ¡°What the hell is dying the mail?¡± Alexander thundered.


    ¡°It will be sent to you immediately sir.¡±


    ¡°If I drop this call and I didn¡¯t receive the mail from your team, consider yourself and your team fired immediately.¡± with that he dropped the call immediately.


    A soft knock came on his door jolting him out of his thoughts.


    ¡°Come in.¡± he muttered dryly.


    ¡°I just received a message concerning the contracts we were pursuing and that you aren¡¯t qualified to win the contract.¡± His manager said while bowing his head a little.


    ¡°And what makes me disqualified? Did I not provide all the qualifications needed huh?¡± Anger could be seen written vividly on Alexander¡¯s face, he looks so displeased with the news he heard just now dampening his mood which also aggravated his anger.


    ¡°ording to the information sent to me you aren¡¯t qualified because you aren¡¯t married, the only way for you to be qualified is if you¡¯re married.¡±


    If a tester is to be brought to room now to check the temperature it¡¯s might actually blow off, Alexander gnashed his teeth together folding the piece of paper in his hand imagining it to be James neck cause he knows the only person behinds this new rule is no other person than James, his rival.


    ¡°That motherfucker.¡± he cursed beneath his breath. ¡°Is there any way around this new rule?¡±


    ¡°Not at all I guessed it¡¯s a new challenge, James has dared you.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you bastard.¡± Alexander yelled, throwing the frame on his table across the room, making it hit the wall, greatly shattering the ss that was used as picture cover all over the floor.


    The secretary hurriedly entered the office to check what¡¯s going on that would make her boss look as furious as ever.


    Both workers looked at each other then their boss but a single re from their boss made them scammed out of the office.


    Alexander picked up his phone to call his girlfriend and have one or two words with her.


    ¡°Hello baby.¡± came in the sweetest and angelic voice which made Alexander fall deeply for her all over again.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Hiiiiiiiiiii.¡± he replied dryly, not sure of her response to what he¡¯s gonna ask her.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong babe, why do you sound so off like this?¡± she asked with worries written all over her voice.


    ¡°Do you remember the contract I told you I was pursuing recently?¡±


    ¡°Yes I do and what about it?¡± she asked, urging him to go further.


    ¡°The new rules of the contract implies that I can only be qualified for the contract if I¡¯m married and you know what this contract really means to me.¡±


    ¡°So what are you implying now?¡±


    ¡°You know what I am talking about Jessie.¡±


    ¡°Alexander you and I know this can¡¯t work out now, it will ruin my career and you fucking know that¡­.. see all I have to say is find your way out of that situation cause I aren¡¯t getting married now cause of one godforsaking contract.¡± she replied harshly, almost screaming her lungs out on the phone.


    ¡°But Jessie-¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯ve nothing else to say to me, have a wonderful day then.¡± with that she hung up the phone.

 Accident

    Alexander stared down at the phone in his hand wondering if Jessie really hung the call on him.


    ¡°Like wtf, did she fucking hanged the call on me!?¡± He yelled, squeezing life out of the phone, passing all his aggression on it, making the screen crack a little bit.


    He stood up from his chair and began pacing to and fro of the room while thinking of what to do.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Gosh James really got me on this one.¡± He said while thinking aloud. ¡°Arrrrrrrgh.¡± he screamed frustratedly while pushing everything on his table away making them crash into each other causing a noisy and loud thud on the floor. He loosen the tie on his neck and threw it to only God knows before loosening three of his shirt buttons revealing his abs.


    He could feel the piercing look of his secretary on his body from the corner of his eyes through the transparent door, his phone vibrating on the floor.


    He walked over to pick it up while sliding over the screen which revealed an anonymous message, he read the message aloud to show his eyes or mind aren¡¯t ying any trick on him.


    ¡®Hope you do love the challenge I brought to you this time¡­¡­¡­.. let¡¯s see how you corner your way from it. This contract is mine buddy.¡¯


    He threw the phone towards the wall in anger making the screen crashpletely without remedy and fumed in anger throwing anything he cany his hands on away turning his office upside down.


    ¡°Fuck you bastard I¡¯m gonna get this contract by all means.¡± He reassured himself with nothing but a determined look on his face.


    James has been his rival right from the time when they were both schooling at the same school, he tends to want to have all the good things in life without sacrificing thinking everyone gets to bow down at his feet which is one thing he will never do, Alexander would rather die than to lose to him.


    ¡°Alexander think think think.¡± he said to himself while tapping his forehead and equally pacing around the already messed up room.


    Jessie is out the option cause even though he knows if Godes down from heaven with a skirt and blouse she¡¯s never going to let anything tamper or disrupt her career so therefore she¡¯s not an option for him.


    ¡°What about you finding any of your workers or any streetdy and signing a marriage contract with her?¡± His subconscious chipped in.


    ¡°Ummm nope any of my workers won¡¯t work cause they will feel I already created a room for disregard between us so I wouldn¡¯t want but choosing a randomdy on the street isn¡¯t a bad idea¡­¡­¡­¡­ nody in their right senses would want to reject an offer like this.¡± with just that thought on his mind he picked up his jacket having a determined mindset that he will marry the firstdy he set his eyes on for there months then they will divorce and he can now be with the woman of his dreams.


    Alexander walked out of his office with a frown on his face as usual, not as if he did have a smile stered on his face before tho, his hair falling casually covering the left part of his face giving him a bad boy vibe.


    He walked over to the parking lot. Sighting him from some distance away, the security men quickly opened the back door of his ck limousine while bowing their heads to show their respect to him.


    ¡°Where to sir?¡± the driver asked casually.


    ¡°Drive across the city of los Angeles.¡± He replied in a calm tone, closing his eyes and then releasing the breath he didn¡¯t know he was holding before.


    The driver ignited the car engine alive and drove away from thepany.


    ¡°y me some cool music.¡±


    He switched to a music yer while he clicked on the very avable one. Old town road by Lil nas started while he hummed along with the song.


    *Yeah, I¡¯m gonna take my horse to the old town road


    I¡¯m gonna ride ¡¯til I can¡¯t no more


    I¡¯m gonna take my horse to the old town road


    I¡¯m gonna ride (Kio, Kio) ¡¯til I can¡¯t no more


    I got the horses in the back


    Horse tack is attached


    Hat is matte ck


    Got the boots that¡¯s ck to match


    Riding on a horse, ha


    You can whip your Porsche


    I been in the valley


    You ain¡¯t been up off the porch, now


    Can¡¯t nobody tell me nothing


    You can¡¯t tell me nothing


    Can¡¯t nobody tell me nothing


    You can¡¯t tell me nothing


    Riding on a tractor


    Lean all in my dder


    Cheated on my baby


    You can go and ask her


    My life is a movie


    Bull riding and boobies


    Cowboy hat from Gi


    Wrangler on my booty


    Can¡¯t nobody tell me nothing


    You can¡¯t tell me nothing


    Can¡¯t nobody tell me nothing


    You can¡¯t tell me anything¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­


    He was jolted out of hia fantasy when the car screeched to stop abruptly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir, are you okay?¡± the driver said immediately looking sober.


    ¡°What was that all about?¡± He asked ready to rant and rave at him.


    ¡°Ady almost got hit, that¡¯s why I had to press the brake immediately to avoid causing an ident sir.¡± he replied while shivering with fear.


    Alexander got down from the car to check out the situation.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± He could hear his driver asking thedy as he helped her stand to her feet. She should be in her mid twenties or so.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry I almost implicated you sir.¡± thedy apologized facing Alexander while bowing slightly she turned around to go but winced in pain.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay, miss?¡± His driver insisted while holding her hand standing beside her as a means of support to her.


    ¡°Get her into the car, maybe we could drop her off.¡± Alexander finally spoke out while entering the car back. Hia driver looked so shocked, his eyes almost bulging out of his sockets, because he couldn¡¯t believe what Alexander had just said.


    Alexander sat down and rested hus head backwards.


    ¡°Was I really the one who said that just now?¡± He asked myself while chuckling lightly.


    They both joinedter on while he zoomed off.

 Will You Marry Me

    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± Alexander asked thedy sitting beside the driver.


    ¡°Marissa Preah,¡± she replied, fidgeting with the tip of her dress.


    ¡°Mind having a brief conversation with you? It will really help you a lot.¡± He said arrogantly while scanning her body.


    She nodded her head in response to what he had just said to her.


    ¡°Drive us to the nearby restaurant and I suppose you know what to do when we get there right?¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡± he said at once while navigating towards another direction.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Alexander hope this really works out cause this is hisst hope.


    The ride to the restaurant was smooth, his driver got down to ask the manager to lock down the restaurant for him, you know Alexander can¡¯t really be dining wheremoners are.


    Jamie, who happens to be his driver, came out of the restaurant with a satisfactory smile ying across his lips but it vanished immediately when he got to my side.


    ¡°It¡¯s done sir.¡±


    Alexander wined down the ss a little bit to see those dining in the restaurant trooping out with angry faces, some little kids who came with their parents stumped their tiny feets on the ground in protests of why they weren¡¯t allowed to finish their meal, while some cried on their mother¡¯s shoulders even the mother¡¯s weren¡¯t left out.


    He got down from his car, running his finger in his brown soft silky hair brushing his hair backwards. He nudged thedy to follow him.


    Walking gracefully into the restaurant all the employees all lined up to wee him while bowing their heads in respect, he was ushered to a cozy part of the restaurant where he satfortably.


    Thedy walked in and made an attempt to sit but his voice stopped her.


    ¡°At least you should have manners. I never offered you a seat so remain standing,¡± Alexander said to her coldly.


    She objected to his word but a single re from him shut her up.


    ¡°First of all why did you want tomit suicide and even if that¡¯s the best solution to your predicament must it then be in front of my car so people can rant and rave at me huh?¡± He yelled at her pouring out his anger at her.


    She opened her mouth to talk but nothing came out . Instead tears flowed freely from her eyes down to her check which angered him more.


    ¡°Now you¡¯re acting pitiable huh? When you know you¡¯re tired of your pathetic life you should have jumped into the river or better still poisoned yourself.¡± the more Alexander talk the tears flowed down like a running tap from her face. So ugly.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡± she managed to speak up while huping. She turned around to leave but then he remembered why he hade outside in the first ce.


    ¡°Will you marry me?¡± He asked, which made her halt her step immediately.


    ¡°Huh.¡± was the only thing she could uttered.


    ******************


    Few Hours Ago:


    Marissa peeped through the small opening in the door when she heard a soft knock on the door. She was shocked when it turned out to be her kid brother Samuel. Without thinking twice she opened the door ajar.


    ¡°Samuel what¡¯re you doing back home?¡± She asked, holding him tightly as if he was gonna disappear any moment from now.


    ¡°I was sent back, cupcake, because of my school fees,¡± the little boy said while crying on her shoulders.


    Marissa¡¯s heart shattered into pieces as she heard what he said.


    ¡°Why me?¡± She mumbled to herself slowly while hot tears rolled down her cheeks. It has be her hobby now, crying is now like her other half.


    ¡°C¡¯mon the principal shouldn¡¯t have done that at least I already promised to pay up.¡± She said, cleaning her tears away at least to be strong for him.


    ¡°But how do you want to do that? You and I know we have no money to pay them.¡± he said, disengaging from her embrace while looking deeply into his eyes as if searching for something in it.


    ¡°I will pay them okay? Now pick up your bag, let¡¯s go.¡± She said while helping him back his bag very well before heading out of the house towards his school.


    After what seems like forever because the walk to his school isn¡¯t a short distance at all and the morning sun also did an injustice to me cause it brought out its shining glory early in the morning without pity the peasants who do trek their way down to their destinations.


    They got to the school entrance, after exchanging pleasantries with the security man she walked down to the principal block and knocked on her door politely.


    ¡°Come in.¡± Marissa could hear a faint voice inside the office. Maybe the principal is not alone or probably she¡¯s on call she guessed.


    She walked into the room holding her brother¡¯s hand tightly while making herselffortable on the seat.


    ¡°Ms Preah, how may I be of help to you?¡± The woman inte fifties spoke without even sparing her a nce.


    ¡°Hmmmm I came to plead with the school authorities to give me little time to gather the money I¡¯m owing so I will be able to pay up¡± Marissa said trying to sound so soberly maybe it will calm the woman¡¯s heart cause judging by the disgusted look on her face she¡¯s ready to throw them out of her office.


    ¡°Thest time we both checked you know I¡¯m not the owner of this school. I¡¯m also employed to take care of it so it¡¯s my duty not to let it go bankrupt, if you may excuse me, kindly make use of the door and when you have your outstanding bills, my office is always open to wee you in.¡± with that she made a gesture towards the door which Marissa understood what she meant immediately.


    Marissa tried talking but was cut short by her dangerous re. Kingsley held onto her tightly because if res could kill they would have bitten the dust and be six feets under by now. She respected herself and walked out with a heavy heart.


    On their way back home to her one room rented apartment when Samuel suddenly slumped to the ground.


    The tears she has been holding back in suddenly broke out freely.

 Broken

    Marissa let down the tears that she has been holding back in her freely without it having any obstacle nor obstruction, she bent low beside her lil brother while shaking him vigorously to get up.


    ¡°Samuel pls don¡¯t do this to me, please kindly get up!¡± She screamed while hot tears flowed down her cheeks, mucus alsoing out from her nostril.


    She cared less about those watching hee tangling her hair with her fingers. She yelped out in pain while holding her chest with her right hand, she choked on her tears which resulted in sharp pains in her chest.


    ¡°Someone, please fucking call the ambnce and don¡¯t just stand there like a dummy fools¡± She yelled to the passerby, behaving like a mad woman in the street while throwing pebbles stones at them.


    She stared down at the unconscious body beside her and snuggled closer to it, cing his head on her chest while crying bitterly.


    Few minutester the ambnce siren could heard from a far distance while people rushed away from the road in order for it¡¯s to pass, it¡¯s got to her side, a stretcher was immediately pulled out by two nurses who dressed in green who immediately pulled her away from her brother and he was ced on the stretcher before it¡¯s was then wheeled inside the ambnce.


    She hurriedly followed them inside, sitting very close to his body. She held his tiny little hand while crying silently.


    Praying inwardly to keep her little bro safe just this once.


    The ambnce tyres screeched loudly while it drove away from the dusty part of LA in speed, navigating towards the right hand side it moved speedily while honking towards theing vehicles to clear the road as it is an emergency case.


    They drove into the hospital roughly alerting other nurses on duty of an emergency case, they all rushed out of the hospital helping those inside the ambnce to wheel away the stretcher to the IUC room.


    Marissa followed them all the way to the IUC room holding his hand but got stopped by one of the nurses.


    ¡°You can¡¯t go in with us ma¡¯am, kindly wait at the reception.¡± she said while she removed her hand from his hand before wheeling him inside.


    Marissa stared through the ss door as they inserted some pipes into his nose and mouths and some injections are been given to him immediately, she watched as the nurses passing some syringes and needle to a young man probably in his early forties or mid forties or thereabouts who has a stethoscope hanged around his neck while he has his eyes focus on Samuel checking his vitals time to time.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    After what seemed like forever, the man whom she assumed to be the doctor gave out an instruction though she didn¡¯t hear what he was saying but judging from the way he was gesticting with his hands and stern face she knew he was passing out an Instruction to them.


    The man whom sheter got to know as doctor Finn came out of the IUC room looking at her from head to toe contemting whether to tell me what¡¯s going on or not and finally spoke out.


    ¡°Sorry, who are you to the patient in the ward?¡± he asked, adjusting his spectacle properly.


    ¡°I¡¯m his elder sister.¡± she replied with a cracked voice while trying to keep her dress properly.


    ¡°Have you informed your parents or guardian of the present situation?¡± he asked, writing some things on the folder in his hand.


    ¡°No sir.¡± she answered while staring down at her worn out slippers, who look so dusty and unkept.


    ¡°And why if I may ask?¡± he asked, staring at her curiously as if he¡¯s trying to find an answer to his questions in her body.


    ¡°Ummm we don¡¯t really have one sir. I¡¯m the only one he has and he¡¯s the only one I equally have, we both have lost our parents a long time ago.¡± Marissa managed to exin to the man without tearing up in his presence because she didn¡¯t want to look like a walking corpse in his presence.


    His gaze softened upon hearing what ahe had just said while his face was full of pity.


    ¡°So you mean you are an orphan?¡± he asked to be sure of what she said while she only nodded her head in affirmation to the question he had asked her.


    ¡°Take this to the reception room, give it to any staff on duty and present them with any Information they need after thene see me in my office.¡± he said while stretching the folder he was previously writing something on to her.


    Marissa walked down the hallway with a heavy heart heading towards the reception room dragging her feetszily on the floor, her stomach rumbled reminding her she hadn¡¯t taken anything since morning.


    She got to the reception room and met a lot of people there. Some were seated while some were pacing up and down. She walked to ady she saw sitting on the counter without bothering to greet anyone.


    ¡°The doctor asked me to give you this,¡± she said, stretching the folder in her hand to the nurse.


    She looked up from the files she¡¯s attending, eyeing her as if Marissa have done anything wrong. She snatched the folder in her hand with a loud hiss.


    Marissa smirked, watching her, waiting patiently for her to ask whatever she needed to know. If it wasn¡¯t for what happened she wouldn¡¯t be here suffering like this huh; she thought inwardly almost tearing up.


    ¡°What¡¯s the name of the person you brought in here?¡± she asked, chewing the gum in her mouth loudly.


    ¡°Samuel Preah.¡± Marissa answered, resting her chin on her hands which rested on the table.


    ¡°How old is he and what are the symptoms he has been showing before he was rushed down here?¡± she asked, filling some information on the folder Marissa gave to her.


    ¡°His nine years of age and the only symptoms I could remember him showing was himining of constant headache and I do get some pain killers for him that¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Okay take this, go straight turn left the first door by your right hand side knock on it and give the person this.¡± she said, handing me the folder back.


    ¡°Okay.¡± was all I could mutter.

 Broken (2)

    Marissa walked down to the directions given to her by the receptionist dragging her feetzily on the floor making some annoying sounds coupled with the fact that the scandal is worned out already which makes the metal pallet use to hold the shoe solepletely out making it scratch on the floor.


    Her stomach made yet another rumbling sound but that¡¯s the least of her problems. Now she has gone three days on empty stomach and she is not dead up till now.


    Marissa got to the office she was directed to and knocked gently on it before turning the doorknob in, she scratched her nose together when the awful smell of aspirin and blood hit her nostril her breathings seized for some seconds that she had to hold the person next to her for support as her vision became blurry.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± She could hear the person whom she held as a support asking her while guiding her to the nearest avable seat in the room.


    Her vision became clear gradually as her breathing went back to the normal rate. She looked around the office trying to register every face and thing she saw in her brain. That¡¯s just how she does it. She¡¯s an adventurous person and she likes taking observations of her surroundings and the people around her.


    The person seated across her cleared his throat which made her divert her full attention to him to hear whatever he has to say to her before he finally speaks up.


    ¡°Are you okay now?¡± he asked with a voice full of concern.


    ¡°Yes I am, it¡¯s just that I¡¯m allergic to the smell of aspirin and blood,¡± Marissa exined calmly while trying to act cool.


    ¡°So how may I be of help to you Ms¡­¡± he said gesticting that he needs help on her name.


    ¡°Ms Preah.¡± She said with a smile finding its way to her lips. She doesn¡¯t know why but she feelsfortable around the man even when she doesn¡¯t know him.


    ¡°Hmmm, I was directed here by the receptionist to give you this,¡± she said, handing over the folder she clutched tightly to her chest.


    He looked at the folder closely while adjusting his ss.


    ¡°Is it just my observation or why does almost everyone in here use ss?¡± She thought inwardly.


    ¡°Ummm are you aware of the illness that has befall your younger brother Ms?¡± he asked with a stern face, his face hard as a rock.


    She nodded her head in disapproval while urging him to go on with his exnations.


    ¡°Your brother is going through an ailment which we refer to as brain tumor, this usually happens or urs to someone who faced tragic situations constantly and if been treated well the person might be cure from it but it¡¯s seems you¡¯ve not be observing the little boy cause ording to the reports in my hand it¡¯s shows that it¡¯s already in thest stage which means he needs to undergo surgery within 48 hrs or we say bye bye to the boy.¡± he concluded his exnation.


    Marissa looked on like a dummy for like a sec as her brain was unable to process what the doctor in front of her just said, her brain wasn¡¯t just getting it right, samuel has 48 hrs to do the surgery or his dead, she blinked her eyelid repeatedly as hot tears flowed down her cheeks it feels as if her whole world got broken and shattered and she felt totally useless at the moment cause only two thoughts going in her head.


    Where does she find the money for surgery? When it¡¯s already hard for them to feed three square meals a day and if she doesn¡¯t find the money all hopes are gone.


    She was lostpletely in hee whole world and didn¡¯t hear a nurse that ran into the office panting heavily.


    ¡°Sir the boy in the IUC room just gave up the ghost.¡± she said breathing very hard.


    The doctor nced towards her before settling his gaze back on the nurse who came to report.


    Marissa swallowed a big lump down her throat before speaking out, her voice barely audible.


    ¡°W¡­ h¡­. I¡­ c.. h.. b.. o.. y¡± she managed to ask through a cracked voice.


    ¡°The one who was rushed in about an hour ago.¡± The nurse replied feeling confused on why thedy was asking.


    Marissa broke down into loud tears wailing, she saw the image of her brother just like an illusion waving to her.


    ¡°Samuel!¡± She screamed, holding out her hands to draw him.


    ¡°Ms, Ms, Ms, Ms.¡± the doctor called repeatedly, shaking her vigorously.


    ¡°Uh¡± was the only thing she could mutter. Was she daydreaming before? She asked herself.


    ¡°It has to be, I can¡¯t just lose my brother that way, it¡¯s not possible.¡± She thought inwardly. She would rather die than lose him to thend of graves.


    ¡°Why did you scream so loud, I never said your brother is dead, you still have 48 hrs to gather up his surgery money.¡± the doctor said rather pissed off by her reactions.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I will love to take my leave now.¡± Marissa stood up from the chair tiredly walking her way out of the office while tears rolled down her eyes continuously, she strolled over to the IUC room and opened the door quietly while walking in.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry kid, I haven¡¯t been a good sister to you but I promise to do all I can to make you stand on your feets again even if it will cost me myst breath.¡± She said to his lifeless body which different pipes were attached to.


    She cleaned her face with the back of her hand more determined than ever. She walked out of the IUC room with onest nce. Then she walked her way out of the hospital with a deadly and determined look on her face.


    Marissa crossed over the road heading towards the main market. She could probably see any job vacancy poster outside.


    Shebed both the nook and cranny of the main market but couldn¡¯t find a job that can pay her for like 6 months immediately so that she can pay for Samuel hospital bill immediately but found none. And resort to begging passersby.


    It¡¯s almost gettingte in the afternoon and she hasn¡¯t even gotten up a dime for the surgery. She looked up to the sky praying for any miracle to happen but it seems none ising.


    She dusts her already haggard looking flower gown even a maid gown is far better than hers.

 Jerk

    Marissa stood there, her eyes wide open in shock, trying to understand what had just happened. A stranger, a rich-looking man, had asked her to marry him out of nowhere.


    ¡°Huh? Wait, what?¡± Marissa said, her voice shaky.


    Alexander seemed annoyed, sighing loudly.


    ¡°Yeah, I asked if you¡¯d marry me. Can you answer that?¡±


    Marissa was confused, not sure what to say. She had been having a tough day, and this unexpected proposal was just too much.


    ¡°But¡­ why me?¡± Marissa finally managed to ask, her voice trembling. ¡°I mean we don¡¯t even know each other and you just told me to marry you just like that? It¡¯s just¡­.. crazy don¡¯t you think?¡±


    He leaned back in his chair and looked at her closely.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got my reasons. You¡¯re the one I want for this.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Marissa asked, a look of surprise on her face.


    ¡°Hmm-hmm.¡± he replied.


    ¡°You¡¯re the perfect person I want to marry for this.¡±


    ¡°But¡­. you¡­. don¡¯t know who I am.¡± she said. ¡°I could be a bad girl or worse a thief who just wants to steal from you and run. Why would you marry someone you just met?¡±


    ¡°Because I need your help,¡± he said.


    Marissa was still struggling to make sense of the whole situation, and her thoughts tumbled out in a rush.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°This is insane! You¡¯re like¡­. proposing to me out of nowhere, and we haven¡¯t even had a proper conversation! What if I have a dozen cats at home and I talk to them in my spare time like doctor dolittle huh? What if I have a secret collection of garden gnomes that I like to y with? What if I was some witch who can just cast a spell and make you disappear to Hogwarts huh? ¡°You don¡¯t know anything about me! Marissa eximed, her voice filled with disbelief.


    Like this guy must be crazy or something or maybe he got some loose screws in his brain and needs medical attention.


    ¡°Or do you need to go to the hospital or something for a test? Because it looks like you¡¯ve clearly lost your mind.¡± she said.


    ¡°My mind is clearly intactdy. I need your help and I¡¯m not crazy.¡± he said


    ¡°Marrying someone you don¡¯t know is all round insane you know that right?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I know¡­. but do I look like someone who gives a fuck what you think. I don¡¯t care if we just met. I asked you a simple and direct question; will you marry me?¡± he said, looking obviously angry.


    ¡°And what if I say no?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Then I have no business with the likes of you.¡± he said, harshly.


    Marissa has had enough of this guy rudeness and cleaned her tears.


    ¡°You don¡¯t talk to me like that. I deserve to be respected.¡± she said. ¡°If you are asking someone for a favor, you should be polite and respectful and not be all rude and a jerk about it.¡±


    ¡°Did you just call me a jerk?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t call you a jerk. I said if you want to ask someone for a favor all you had to do was be nice about it and not be all rude and a jerk about it.¡± she replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s the same thing! You called me a jerk!¡±


    ¡°Oh my gosh! You¡¯re so impossible right now.¡± she said. ¡°This is the reason why we can¡¯t get married, mister. You¡¯re not nice and you like treating people like me like shit.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­. I treat those I want or like well, while those who don¡¯t deserve it, I treat them like a piece of shit. That¡¯s how I roll young girl.¡± he said.


    Marissa wasn¡¯t going to back down easily, especially when faced with rudeness. She decided to address the matter head on.


    ¡°You know.¡± Marrissa began, her voice firm. ¡°You can¡¯t just go around treating people like they¡¯re disposable. Your attitude is terrible.¡±


    He looked at her with an angry face.


    ¡°And who are you to lecture me on my attitude huh? Are you my parent or are you my girlfriend? Answer me!¡± he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m someone who won¡¯t stand for being treated like dirt. If you want my help, you¡¯ll have to change that annoying attitude of yours.¡±


    He scoffed.


    ¡°You think I care what you think? I have my reason for everything I do.¡±


    ¡°Well I don¡¯t fucking care about your goddamn reason okay? You can¡¯t expect anyone to marry you if you keep acting like this.¡± she said.


    He raised an eyebrow, intrigued by her boldness.


    ¡°Are you saying you won¡¯t marry someone like me?¡±


    ¡°YES!! If you were you, would you marry you?¡± she asked.


    He didn¡¯t say anything and just kept staring at her, anger in his eyes but Marissa didn¡¯t care at all. She has been going through a lot and had less than 48 hours to provide the money for her brother¡¯s radiotherapy.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t answered my question.¡± he said finally.


    Marissa nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I¡¯m saying. I won¡¯t marry someone who¡¯s disrespectful and treats people like garbage.¡±


    He leaned back in his chair, a smirk ying on his lips.


    ¡°Well well, you certainly have a way of standing up for yourself.¡±


    Marissa shot back without hesitation.


    ¡°And you have a way of pushing people away with your arrogance. Our conversation had taken an unexpected turn, with both of us standing our ground. It remained to be seen whether we could findmon ground or if our differences would prove too great to ovee.¡±


    Alexander looked angry.


    ¡°Look, I have my reasons alright for this, and I don¡¯t think I need to exin my reasons to you since we don¡¯t know each other. I just need your help and cooperation and I thought this proposal would be a simple way to get it. If you¡¯re not interested, just say so and stop wasting my precious time. Because if you haven¡¯t noticed, I¡¯m a busy man.¡± he said.


    ¡°What a jerk!¡± Marissa said to herself while looking at him.


    Marissa paused for a moment thinking about what to do. Part of her is curious about what his reason was to propose to ady he just met and the other part is wondering what¡¯s in it for her if she epts his proposal.


    ¡°Okay, fine. Let¡¯s say I¡¯m crazy enough to go along with this. What¡¯s in it for me?¡±


    Alexander stood up from his seat and came closer to her, his voice serious.

 Agreeing To His Proposal

    She had always wished for a better life, and this offer seemed like a miracle.


    ¡°Just three months?¡± Marissa asked to make sure she heard right. ¡°And then I¡¯m free?¡±


    He nodded, looking confident. ¡°Exactly. After three months, we will go our separate ways, and you can live your life.¡±


    ¡°And I won¡¯t get to see the likes of you.¡± Marissa thought about it. This was a strange and unusual idea, but it might be her chance to escape her problems. After all, she had less than 48 hours toe up with the funds for her brother¡¯s surgery.


    This was insane, but where would she even get the money to pay for the surgery when she had no means of getting it.


    And it may be the Creator of the universe who had shown her so much mercy by bringing this arrogant, selfish prune her way to help her financially.


    It is just marriage on paper which means she doesn¡¯t have to sleep with him and after three months she would return back to her life and forget this whole thing ever happened and her brother would be healthy again.


    She turned to him with a smile.


    He furrowed wondering what she was thinking.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll marry you for three months.¡± She smiled, like she had won a prize.


    ¡°Good. To make it look real, we¡¯ll set some rules, and mywyer will write up a contract.¡±


    ¡°No no no no no no.¡± she said.


    ¡°What is it?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Do you really think people would believe you if you told them you had gotten married after you showed them the marriage papers?¡± she asked.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± he asked, his brow furrowed.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking about your friends or family who you are trying to convince that you are married now. Do you really think they would believe you?¡± she asked.


    ¡°So what are you suggesting?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Uh.. a wedding.¡± she revealed.


    ¡°A what!¡±


    ¡°A wedding to convince your family, friends that you¡¯re married.¡± she said.


    ¡°Never gonna happen.¡± he said.


    A wedding wasn¡¯t part of his initial n, and he had concerns of his own. This wedding mightplicate things.


    And he doesn¡¯t intend to tell her that he has a girlfriend, she might probably ask him why he didn¡¯t ask her to marry him instead.


    So it¡¯s best he keeps it to himself. If Jessie found out about it, she might not be happy or worse she might break up with him which he doesn¡¯t want.


    ¡°A wedding would make our arrangement appear more authentic. We can¡¯t risk anyone doubting the legitimacy of our marriage on paper.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t do that,¡± he said.


    ¡°Why not?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you the reason. I just can¡¯t do that.¡± he said.


    She looked at him with a suspicious gaze. What could he be hiding and why would he just propose to a stranger without even thinking?


    What could he be searching for or in need of? She thought in her mind.


    Marissa persisted,


    ¡°C¡¯mon sir, think about it. A wedding would make this whole thing look real to everyone. It¡¯s not just about us; it¡¯s about convincing your family and friends.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to convince anyone. Our marriage is just gonnast us three months and we are done.¡± he said.


    ¡°I know¡­. but do you think they would believe that? I mean you¡¯re an arrogant person who would want to marry you?¡± she said.


    Alexander shaked his head.


    ¡°No, girl, I can¡¯t do that. This was never part of the n. It¡¯s just a paper marriage for three months. Nothing more.¡±Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Marissa was frustrated, her voice raised.


    ¡°But we need it to be believable! Do you want people to doubt our marriage?¡±


    Alexander was resolute.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what people think. I¡¯m not marrying a stranger in a big ceremony.¡±


    Marissa crossed her arms, determined not to back down.


    ¡°Well, then, how do you n to make them believe it¡¯s real?¡±


    Alexander paused, realizing he didn¡¯t have a convincing answer.


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Marissa leaned in, her eyes fixed on him.


    ¡°See? We need a wedding.¡±


    Alexander sighed, feeling cornered.


    ¡°Fine, but it has to be small, private, and quick. No big celebration.¡±


    Marissa smiled, satisfied with thepromise.


    ¡°Deal. We¡¯ll make it believable, and then after three months, we¡¯re done.¡±


    ¡°So I will call you tomorrow to give you the contract so that you can sign it and then we start. Is that fine?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Sure, but do you have my number? And besides, we don¡¯t know each other¡¯s name. What¡¯s your name?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Do I have to answer that? Just give me your number and I will call you where we would meet tomorrow to sign the contract.¡± he said.


    ¡°Nope! You have to tell me your name first before I give you my number.¡± she said standing her ground.


    Alexander sighed.


    What an annoying woman she is! He said to himself.


    ¡°My name is Alexander Shim.¡± he said, after much hesitation.


    ¡°See? That wasn¡¯t so hard. Why do you have to be all rude and annoying when you can just be nice.¡± she said.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not nice and I don¡¯t pretend to be nice.¡± he said, his face serious.


    ¡°Whatever¡­..¡± she said.


    ¡°Anyways, my name is Marissa Preah.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Marissa. I¡¯ll contact you tomorrow with the contract details.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Alexander. I¡¯ll be waiting,¡± Marissa replied with a mischievous grin.


    ¡°Alright then.¡± He said, as he called his driver to take them out of there.


    ¡°His driver entered the car and zoomed off leaving Marissa in surprise at how things had turned out.


    As Marissa walked home, she couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling of disbelief.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe this¡­ Is this real?¡± she muttered to herself.


    Passersby nced at her oddly as she continued talking to herself.


    ¡°I mean, a rich stranger proposes to marry me out of the blue? This has to be a dream.¡±


    ¡°It just can¡¯t be real.¡±

 Meeting Him

    Marissa remembered his words as she headed home.


    ¡°Financial security for life, ess to afortable lifestyle, and all your needs taken care of. In return you¡¯ll be my wife in name only for three months. We won¡¯t have any real obligations to each other, and then we¡¯ll get a divorce.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t believe her ears. It sounded too good to be true.


    She pinched herself lightly and winced.


    ¡°Ah! Nope, not a dream.¡±


    Marissa sighed and shook her head, as if trying to p herself into reality.


    ¡°I must be crazy to consider this, right? Marry a total stranger for three months, just on paper? It¡¯s insane!¡±


    She entered her small apartment and she flopped onto her bed, still contemting the unbelievable offer.


    ¡°This is surreal. But it¡¯s my chance to fix everything, to save my brother. I can¡¯t let it slip away.¡±


    ¡°What if he is a serial killer and wants to kill me or kidnap me and traffic me to another country for prostitution?¡± she asked herself.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Oh.. the horror.¡±


    ¡°No, Marissa, don¡¯t overthink it. He¡¯s a rich man, not a criminal. And it¡¯s just a three-month paper marriage. I¡¯ll be okay.¡±


    Yet, the worry still lingered in her thoughts as she reflected on the bold choice she had made.


    She entered the bathroom to bathe and as she showered, more weird thoughts crossed her mind.


    ¡°What if he changes his mind and kicks me out with nothing after a month?¡±


    ¡°And what if his so-calledwyer tricks me into some shady deal?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the potential pitfalls of this weird arrangement.


    After her shower, Marissa wrapped herself in a towel and paced around her apartment, lost in thought.


    ¡°Maybe I should back out before it¡¯s toote. This whole thing sounds too good to be true, and it¡¯s making me nervous.¡±


    But then she remembered her brother¡¯s desperate need for surgery, and her resolve strengthened.


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t back out now. I have to take this chance, no matter how crazy it seems.¡±


    ¡°I need his help for my brother¡¯s surgery and he needs my help for whatever thing he needs me for.


    So it¡¯s a win-win game.¡± I told myself.


    ¡°Well let¡¯s find out what tomorrow has in store for us shall we?¡± she said as sheid down to sleep, but she couldn¡¯t as she worried about her brother.


    *


    The next day, Marissa returned to her workce, a small cafe where she worked as a waitress.


    While Marissa was working, her phone rang from an unknown number. She answered cautiously, ¡°Hello?¡±


    On the other end, a cold and unfriendly voice spoke, ¡°Marissa, it¡¯s Alexander. We need to discuss where to meet and sign the contract. Mywyer has it ready.¡±


    Marissa, a bit taken aback by his tone, replied, ¡°Alright, just let me know when and where.¡±


    ¡°How about we meet at my office at 3pm tomorrow?¡± Alexander asked. ¡°I¡¯ll text you the address.¡±


    Marissa hesitated. ¡°I can¡¯t do it tomorrow, I¡¯m already booked up,¡± she said. ¡°What about next week?¡±


    Alexander sighed impatiently. ¡°I really need this done as soon as possible,¡± he said. ¡°What about Friday?¡±


    Marissa paused. She didn¡¯t want toe across as rude or unprofessional, but she didn¡¯t want to be pushed around, either.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but Friday won¡¯t work either,¡± Marissa said firmly, but politely. ¡°I can do it next Monday, though.¡±


    There was silence on the other end. ¡°Fine,¡± Alexander said atst. ¡°I¡¯ll see you at my office on Monday at 3pm.¡±


    ¡°Perfect,¡± Marissa replied, feeling relieved. ¡°I look forward to it.¡±


    Alexander hung up without another word. Marissa exhaled, and looked down at the pile of work in front of her. It was going to be a long day.


    Just then she remembered that the doctor had told her she had 48 hours for her brother or she would lose her brother.


    She sighed heavily resting on a chair close to her.


    She had to act like she was busy and not avable at his beck and call but she was desperate and so called him back.


    Marissa quickly called Alexander and waited for him to pick up. After a few rings, he answered in the same unfriendly tone.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± he asked sharply.


    ¡°Actually, can we meet today instead to sign the contract? Is that okay with you?¡± Marissa asked.


    ¡°What made you change your mind so suddenly? You said you were busy,¡± he replied coldly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to exin. Can we meet today or not?¡± Marissa¡¯s voice was filled with desperation.


    Alexander let out an annoyed sigh. ¡°Fine, we can meet today, but it has to be quick. I¡¯ll text you the address.¡±


    Marissa felt relieved. ¡°Thank you, Alexander. I¡¯ll be there.¡±


    He hung up abruptly, leaving Marissa feeling uneasy.


    ¡°What a rude punk.¡± she said to herself. ¡°Marissa, remember this isn¡¯t about you right now. It¡¯s about your brother and so let¡¯s get through this alright.¡±


    She took a deep breath and smiled to herself. She knew dealing with him would be challenging, but she had no other option if she wanted to save her brother¡¯s life.


    She had no choice but to cope with the guy¡¯s rude and annoying character for three months.


    ¡°You can do this Marissa. Fighting!¡±


    Returning to her work, she tried to concentrate, but thoughts of the uing meeting continued to distract her.


    While she was working, a text entered her phone and she checked.


    The text from Alexander read:


    Meet me at the address below at 5 PM today.


    Marissa sighed, knowing she had little time to get ready for the meeting.


    She replied with a simple ¡°OK¡± and went back to her work, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination.


    As the hours passed, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but wonder about Alexander¡¯s true intentions.


    Why had he chosen her for this strange arrangement? What did he really want from her?


    She had so many questions, but for now, she needed to focus on the task ahead and hope that this temporary marriage would solve her family¡¯s financial troubles.

 Anderson Questions

    Meanwhile after Alexander drove off, he realized what he had just done.


    ¡°What the hell did I just do?¡± he asked himself while in the car going home.


    ¡°Were you talking to me sir?¡± his driver asked him.


    ¡°No, I was talking to myself. Just focus on where you¡¯re going.¡± Alexander said.


    Did he just ask a random girl to be his wife on paper for three months? He couldn¡¯t believe he could stoop so low to do such a thing.


    As Alexander¡¯s car continued its journey, he couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling of disbelief and uncertainty.


    What had possessed him to make such an outrageous proposal? It was unlike him to involve himself in such bizarre arrangements.


    He had always been a man of few words and strong convictions, but this situation had thrown him off bnce.


    His thoughts were interrupted by a call on his phone. It was Jessie, his girlfriend. He answered with a sigh.


    ¡°Hey, babe,¡± Jessie¡¯s cheerful voice came through the speaker. ¡°I just wanted to check in. How was your day?¡±


    Alexander hesitated for a moment. He couldn¡¯t bring himself to tell Jessie about the impulsive decision he had made earlier.


    Instead, he replied, ¡°It was fine, just a bit busy. How about you?¡±


    As he continued to chat with Jessie, guilt gnawed at him.


    He knew he was keeping a big secret from her, and he couldn¡¯t help but wonder how long he could keep up the facade.


    As he returned to his apartment that night, he went to take a ss of wine and opened it.


    He thought about the conversation he had with Marissa and realized that no one had the nerves to talk to him that way, but Marissa didn¡¯t give a damn about his status or what he owned, but just said words to him back.


    He sipped his drink.


    ¡°What a weird girl.¡± he said to himself. ¡°She¡¯s got some nerves, talking to me like that.¡±


    But he had no choice. He needs that contract and he doesn¡¯t care if she is annoying him as long as they both get what they want, everybody is happy.


    Alexander sat in his fancy mansion, thinking about the strange situation. He felt Marissa was very different from anyone he had met before.


    He took another sip of his wine, feeling its warmth. Even though Marissa had annoyed him at first, he found her confidence interesting.


    As he leaned back in his chair, he thought about how this unique situation might turn out and how it could affect them.


    But for now, he decided to enjoy his wine and the excitement of the unexpected event.


    He decided to call hiswyer.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Anderson,¡± Alexander greeted hiswyer when the call was answered.


    ¡°Good evening, Mr. Shim. How can I assist you today?¡± Mr. Anderson replied.


    Alexander went straight to the point. ¡±


    I need you to prepare a contract for a short-term marriage.¡±


    There was a brief pause on the line before Mr. Anderson responded, ¡°I see. Could you provide me with more details about this arrangement?¡±


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much he should reveal.


    ¡°It¡¯s a three-month paper marriage for a specific purpose. I need the contract to be airtight and discreet.¡±


    Mr. Anderson was a seasonedwyer who had handled countless unconventional cases, so he didn¡¯t press for further details.


    ¡°I understand, Mr. Shim. I will draft the contract ordingly. When would you like to meet to discuss the specifics?¡±


    Alexander thought for a moment. ¡°Let¡¯s meet tomorrow at my office. I¡¯ll have my assistant schedule the appointment and send you the details.¡±


    ¡°Very well, Mr. Shim. I will be ready,¡± Mr. Anderson confirmed.


    *


    The next day, Alexander¡¯s assistant told him that the meeting with Mr. Anderson was set for the afternoon. He went to his modern office and got ready for the discussion.


    When the time came, Mr. Anderson arrived at the office. They greeted each other, and then Mr. Anderson started talking about the contract.


    ¡°You wanted to see me about a contract agreement you wanted me to write down for you.¡± Mr. Anderson said.


    ¡°Yes, a marriage agreement. I told you about it yesterday when I called you.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Yes, you told me, but I thought that maybe I didn¡¯t hear you correctly.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°Well you heard me right. I need you to prepare a contract marriage agreement that would onlyst for three months and after that the contract is terminated.¡± Alexander said.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°And if I may ask¡­. who are you nning on doing this whole contract marriage thingy with?¡± he asked.


    Alexander didn¡¯t reply but just took a pen and wrote down Marissa¡¯s name and handed it over to him.


    ¡°Just write the agreement and when you are done let me know.¡± Alexander said.


    Hiswyer looked at him with a surprising face.


    ¡°Uh¡­ you know, I would need more details to be able to draft the agreement sir. So I need you to tell me everything.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander rolled his eyes and sighed since he knew that Anderson needed to know why he wanted to do a marriage agreement.


    ¡°Do you remember that deal I went all the way to Singapore to secure, the criteria for me qualifying to sign their agreement is that I have to be married,¡± he exined.


    ¡°Okay¡­.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°So why didn¡¯t you talk with Jessie to marry you after all, you guys have been seeing each other for a while now, so I don¡¯t see any reason why she won¡¯t say yes to you.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­.. that¡¯s the thing. You know how ambitious Jessie is. She won¡¯t do anything that would affect her career so she refused and told me to sort it out my way and so this was the only option I had.¡±


    ¡°And how did you meet this girl?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander frowned, finding it annoying to discuss his personal matters with Mr. Anderson. He cleared his throat and said,


    ¡°I met her when my driver almost hit her with our car.¡±

 Anderson Questions (2)

    ¡°So I offered to take her home to make sure she was fine,¡± he lied.


    ¡°You did that! You? I¡¯m shocked, Alexander. I never thought you had it in you to be nice to aplete stranger.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°I¡¯m not nice. And besides, my driver almost hit her so it was the only way that she wouldn¡¯t make a scene.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°So you decided to be a good Samaritan for the first time in your life.¡± Anderson said with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m impressed, Alex,¡± he added.


    ¡°Yeah whatever.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°So you then decided to ask her to marry you right? Since you¡¯ve observed her that she could be poor and desperate for money didn¡¯t you. Because I know that you don¡¯t just choose random people for your scheme, but you choose desperate ones who would do anything for you.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°Probably, she¡¯s ugly anyway, but she gave me a hard time before she epted to marry me. She insulted me and spoke back at me. And honestly it was the first time anyone apart from you have spoken to me like that.¡± he said. ¡°She called me a rude and annoying jerk!¡±


    ¡°She did! Wow! I think I like her. Because she got some guts and you need someone like that, Alexander.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°Whatever¡­.. I didn¡¯t like the fact that she called me a jerk and you know, she never apologized for calling me that.¡± Alexander said with a frown on his face.


    ¡°Oh! I love her already. She¡¯s one brave woman.¡± Anderson said, with a smile on his face.


    Alexander chuckled and shook his head,


    ¡°I don¡¯t know about liking her, but she¡¯s definitely different.¡±


    Mr. Anderson raised an eyebrow, ¡°You may have just met your match, Alexander.¡±


    Alexander smirked, ¡°We¡¯ll see about that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, Alex. You need someone like her who can look at you face to face and tell you the truth without holding back.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander, growing impatient, interrupted Mr. Anderson,


    ¡°Enough talk, Anderson. Just draft the contract and send it to my email by the end of the day.


    I don¡¯t want to keep that contract waiting for any longer. James Fernado is trying to get it, and I won¡¯t let him beat me to it.¡±


    Mr. Anderson understood the urgency in Alexander¡¯s tone and nodded,


    ¡°Very well, Alexander. I¡¯ll get it ready and send you the draft as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°You may go now.¡±


    As Anderson turned to leave, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but wonder if he was making the right decision.


    Sure, Marissa was unlike any woman he had ever met before, but was she really what he needed?


    He knew he needed someone who could be honest with him, but would Marissa really be able to do that?R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Or was she just another person who would be drawn in by his wealth and power? He couldn¡¯t be sure, but he knew that he needed to be careful.


    As he sat there, alone in his office, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off.


    He decided to call her to set up a meeting for them to sign the contract once the contract was ready.


    When he called her, and scheduled they meet, she told him that she was busy and didn¡¯t have time until the following week which honestly pissed him off because she was acting all important because he needed her.


    He sighed and agreed even though he knew that he normally does not agree to people¡¯s terms but he found himself agreeing to her terms.


    ¡°She¡¯s really getting on my nerves.¡± he said to himself.


    He ended the call angrily because of it and sat down on his chair.


    ¡°Who the hell does she think she is to be dictating to me when we should meet and sign the contract? I should be calling the shots and not her!¡± he said to himself as he flinged his phone on his table.


    Just then his phone began to ring and he checked the caller and realized that it was Marissa calling.


    Has she realized that she should have listened to me? He thought.


    Let me wait a while before I pick her call so I don¡¯t look desperate like a hungry puppy.


    Then he picked the call and was surprised when she asked to reschedule for them to see today after work to sign the contract.


    He smiled and realized that he won. She was as desperate as he was. He agreed and ended the call immediately not to give her room to think he¡¯s free and on her beck and call.


    He sent the address of the location they should meet to sign the contract.


    After he finished sending the text, he called hiswyer asking him if the contract was ready.


    ¡°Alexander, you¡¯re so not a patient man. I just left your office not quite long and you¡¯re already expecting the contract. You should get it before the closing hour.¡± he said.


    ¡°I¡¯m expecting it in the next 30 minutes or expect to be reced, Mr. Anderson.¡± he said and ended the call.


    Alexander knew he was being demanding, but he couldn¡¯t help it. This deal was too important to him, and he didn¡¯t want to leave anything to chance. He needed to have the contract in hand before the day was over, or he would be very displeased.


    As he sat there, waiting impatiently for the contract to arrive, he started to feel a sense of dread.


    Something about this deal just didn¡¯t feel right, and he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off.


    He tried to push the feeling aside, but it only grew stronger the longer he waited.


    What if Jessie finds out that he did a fake marriage just to secure a deal. Would she have pleaded with him?


    He definitely didn¡¯t think so, but he had no choice, if he wanted this deal so badly, he had to fight for it or James would get it and he had worked hard to get it so he is not gonna lose it to anyone especially to James Fernado.

 Meeting Anderson

    Marissa closed and got out of the cafe to the address Alexander had sent to her.


    ¡°I really can¡¯t believe I am doing this.¡± she said to herself.


    She sighed¡­


    Took a deep breath and walked to where she could get a cab to the address.


    Marissa managed to hail a cab, and she gave the driver the address that Alexander had provided. As the cab pulled away from the curb, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel anxiety and excitement.


    Why was she feeling that way? She thought.


    She was about to enter a fake marriage with aplete stranger who has serious character issues, but she had to if she wanted to save her brother.


    She had a short time left to send the money or she would lose her brother.


    So she arrived at the location and paid the cab driver. The driver left and she was left alone on a dark bushy road.


    ¡°Or could he be a serial killer who uses fake marriage contracts to lure women to kill them by promising to give them money?¡± she asked herself.


    She could hear the sounds of frogs.


    Ribbit!


    Rustling¡­


    ¡°This is getting really creepy?¡± she told herself.


    She brought out her phone and dialed Alexander¡¯s number.


    It rang but he didn¡¯t pick. So she tried it again and he picked it up.


    ¡°Where the hell are you? I¡¯ve been close to the address you gave me and honestly I¡¯m beginning to doubt this agreement of a thing. What if you¡¯re some serial killer and you lured me here to kill me.¡± she said.


    ¡°Hahahahaha¡­.¡± heughed on the phone.


    ¡°You think this is funny huh! I¡¯m in the middle of nowhere and you areughing?¡± she said, anger evident in her voice.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you worry, scaredy cat, my driver ising to pick you up.¡± he said and hung up.


    ¡°You-¡± she wanted to say something, but he had hung up the call on her.


    ¡°What a rude jerk!¡± she yelled.


    After a few minutes, she saw a car approaching and wasn¡¯t sure she should wave to show where she was, so she observed it closely until she saw Alexander¡¯s driver.


    She had to be careful so that someone won¡¯t know where she is and then kidnap her.


    Oh the horror!


    She waved at the driver and he alighted from the car and went over to meet her.


    ¡°Miss Marissa?¡± the driver called out.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s me.¡± she answered.


    ¡°I apologize that I took so long toe and get you.¡± he apologized.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. You¡¯re here now and that¡¯s all that matters.¡± she said.


    The driver walked towards the car and opened the door for her to enter.


    She entered and sat down and they zoomed off.


    While in the car, Marissa was curious so she decided to ask.


    ¡°Sorry sir, I didn¡¯t ask you your name.¡± she said.


    ¡°Oh! My name is Olsen ma¡¯am.¡± Olsen replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s a very nice name sir. And how long have you been working for that prick? I mean your boss?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Um¡­ three years, ma¡¯am.¡± he said.


    ¡°Do you enjoy working for him?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Well¡­. nobody really enjoys their jobs nowadays but we just have to if we want to provide for our families. Don¡¯t you think?¡± he said.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Mr. Olsen.¡± she said. ¡°So where are we going Mr. Olsen? Are we going to his office?¡±


    ¡°No, Ma¡¯am. We are going to his apartment.¡± he replied.


    ¡°His apartment?¡± she asked, a look of surprise written on her face as she adjusted herself on the seat.


    Yes, Ma¡¯am. Alexander has many apartments under his name and this one is one of them. He felt it would be weird in his office or restaurant for you two to meet. So he felt this was safer and more secretive.¡± he said.


    ¡°Alright¡­.¡± she said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you worry, Ma¡¯am. You¡¯re safe. Mr. Alexander might be a rude person, but he always keeps his word and pays well.¡± he said.


    ¡°Oh¡­ really?¡± she said.


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am,¡± he answered.


    ¡°Well, Mr. Olsen, I¡¯ll hold you to your word.¡± she said, with a smile.


    Mr Olsen smiled as well through the center mirror.


    They arrived at Alexander¡¯s apartment.


    Marissa followed Mr. Olsen out of the car and into the building once he has parked the car. She couldn¡¯t help but feel curious and a bit nervous.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Alexander¡¯s behavior had been so unpredictable, and she still wasn¡¯t entirely sure what she had gotten herself into.


    As they entered the apartment, Marissa was surprised by how nice it looked.


    The ce was decorated well and had a great view of the city through big windows.


    ¡°Wow, this ce is fancy,¡± Marissa said, feeling a bit out of ce.


    Mr. Olsen agreed, saying, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s really nice. Mr. Alexander likes fancy things.¡±


    Marissa sat down in the living room, and Mr. Olsen said he would let Alexander know she was here.


    While she waited, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but wonder how this meeting would go. She had agreed to this strange arrangement because of her brother¡¯s surgery, but now that she was here, it all felt so strange.


    A few minutester, Alexander walked in, looking confident and a bit arrogant as usual.


    He nced at Marissa and then spoke to Mr. Olsen,


    ¡°Thank you, Mr. Olsen. You may leave now.¡±


    Mr. Olsen nodded and exited the apartment, leaving Marissa alone with Alexander.


    As Marissa waited, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder how this meeting would go. She had agreed to this unusual arrangement out of desperation, but now that she was here, it all felt so surreal.


    Just then another person entered the room and it was none other than Alexander¡¯swyer.


    When he saw Marissa, he smiled and walked towards her and sat beside her.


    Marissa seemed a bit scared and wondered why he came to sit beside her.


    ¡°So you must be Marissa Preah,¡± he said.


    ¡°Yes¡­.. and who are you?¡± she asked, a bit of fear in her voice as she looked at the stranger.


    ¡°Oh! Please pardon my manners.¡±

 The Contract

    ¡°My name is Anderson and I¡¯m Alexander¡¯swyer and I would be handling your fake marriage contract if you don¡¯t mind.¡± he said.


    ¡°Not at all.¡± she said.


    ¡°I must say this Miss Marissa, but I like you.¡± he said.


    She furrowed wondering where he was getting at. She looked at Alexander who was just looking at them with a cold expression.


    He looked like someone who didn¡¯t care what they did.


    ¡°What do you¡­. mean?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I mean, you¡¯re the first person who had spoken to Alexander in such a very bold manner aside from me, but you know, I¡¯m hiswyer. But you spoke the truth about how annoying his character is and you didn¡¯t give a fuck! He needs someone like you in his life. That¡¯s why I said I like you, Marissa and I hope we could be friends.¡± he said.


    She felt a bit rxed after she heard that. She had thought he wanted to say something else.


    ¡°Someone had to say it. I mean he has serious character issues and I don¡¯t know how anyone could handle such a terrible character that he has.¡± she said.


    Anderson chuckled,


    ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right, Marissa. He¡¯s not the easiest person to deal with, but we¡¯ve managed to tolerate each other for quite some time now.¡±


    Alexander, who had been listening to their conversation, finally spoke up,


    ¡°Alright, enough chit-chat. Let¡¯s get down to business.¡±


    Marissa turned her attention back to Alexander, her nerves returning. She had to remind herself that this was just a business arrangement, nothing more.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Marissa replied.


    ¡°What do I need to do?¡±


    Alexander leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled.


    ¡°First, we need to go over the contract. Anderson will exin the terms, and you can ask any questions you have.¡±


    Anderson pulled out a folder containing the contract and began to exin the details.


    ¡°First, let¡¯s go over the contract,¡± Alexander said, his tone businesslike. ¡°Anderson here will exin all the terms, and you¡¯re free to ask any questions or seek rifications.¡±


    Anderson, Alexander¡¯swyer, took out a folder containing the contract and began to exin the details to Marissa.


    ¡°Alright, Marissa, this contract outlines the terms and conditions of our three-month marriage arrangement,¡± Anderson began. ¡°First and foremost, both parties agree that this marriage is strictly for legal and financial purposes. It is not a real marriage in any traditional sense. You¡¯ll be paid a substantial sum upon thepletion of these three months.¡±


    Marissa listened intently, absorbing the information. She knew this was a critical part of the arrangement, and she had to understand all the terms involved.


    Anderson continued,


    ¡°During these three months, you¡¯ll need to maintain the appearance of a married couple when necessary, especially in public. This includes attending events or social gatherings together. However, we will provide you with a detailed schedule to minimize your inconveniences.¡±


    Marissa nodded, understanding the need for appearances. She didn¡¯t want her friends or family to suspect anything unusual.


    ¡°Wait a minute. What do you mean attend events or social gatherings together? I can¡¯t do that and you know it.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Alexander, if you make it only on paper, thepany you need it for might do their private investigations and if they realize that your marriage is fake, they might terminate the contract and sue you for it.¡± Anderson exined.


    ¡°But if she finds out, she would be devastated.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Then she would have agreed to marry you instead of letting you do a fake marriage agreement with someone you barely know.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°You know how she is. She¡¯s ambitious and all.¡± he said.


    ¡°Yeah¡­. putting her work above your rtionship. She¡¯s just not the type you marry, Alexander and I believe that one day you¡¯ll see that.¡± Anderson said. ¡°But this has to be done. People have to see you together and apart from that. You both have to stay together.¡±


    ¡°We what!?¡± they said together.


    ¡°Me and him?¡± She asked, pointing to Alexander with a look of disgust.


    ¡°Yeah, you and him. You must act the part that you both are married even though it¡¯s fake for three months and then you can divorce after.¡± Anderson exined.


    ¡°Unbelievable.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying that I have to share an apartment with her and act like we are both married?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­. yes.¡± Anderson nodded.


    ¡°She will kill me if she finds out about this.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t need to know. Remember that this is a secret between the three of us here and so no one and I mean no one is gonna tell another person about this deal. Understand?¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander and Marissa nodded.


    They had no choice.


    Marissa knew she couldn¡¯t risk anyone finding out about this unusual arrangement.


    Her brother¡¯s life was at stake, and she couldn¡¯t afford anyplications.


    Anderson continued to exin the various uses of the contract, including financial terms, responsibilities, and expectations.


    Marissa took notes and asked questions whenever something was unclear.


    Once Anderson had covered all the details, Marissa had a better understanding of what was expected of her during the next three months.


    She nced at Alexander, who was watching her closely, waiting for her response.


    This contract was her lifeline to saving him, and she had to make sure everything went smoothly.


    ¡°So you two have to do a private wedding.¡± Anderson revealed.


    ¡°Another condition? Look, you¡¯ve already told us that we had to be seen together as a married couple so that people would believe us, but this is just too much. I can¡¯t possibly agree to this.¡± Alexander said.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Well you have to, Alex. Pictures don¡¯t lie. Once people see the pictures and all, they would also believe.¡± Anderson said.


    Alex sighed heavily, cing his hand on his hair.


    ¡°This is just too much. I don¡¯t want to lose my rtionship over this.¡± he said.


    ¡°Well, you should have thought about that before you went along with a n to do a fake marriage with someone you don¡¯t know.¡± Anderson said.

 Signing

    ¡°We¡¯re here right now¡­. so let¡¯s just do this and be done with it.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t Anderson. It¡¯s just too much.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°And you think this isnt too much for me either. I risked my own life to do this with you, because I need your help to sort a pressing issue. I don¡¯t want to do this as well. Because seriously you ain¡¯t my type. And I never want to marry an arrogant, rude jerk like you before. But I have to because of what I want.¡± she said.


    There was silence in the room and then she broke the silence.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just get this over with. I need something from you and you need whatever it is from me. We¡¯re all in this together now.¡±


    As Anderson continued to exin the contract, Marissa listened intently, taking in the details of their arrangement.


    It was aplex agreement, outlining the terms of their three-month paper marriage.


    They would have to y the roles of a married couple in public, attend social events together, and even share a home.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but think about the challenges ahead. Living with Alexander for three months was not something she had ever envisioned.


    She had to remind herself constantly that it was all for her brother¡¯s sake.


    Alexander, on the other hand, was growing increasingly impatient with the lengthy contract discussion. He kept ncing at his watch, clearly eager to get this over with.


    Finally, after what felt like hours, Anderson reached the end of the contract and asked, ¡°Any questions?¡±


    Marissa raised her hand tentatively. ¡°What happens after the three months? Do we just go our separate ways?¡±


    Anderson nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. After three months, the marriage will be legally dissolved, and you¡¯ll both be free to go your separate ways.¡±


    Alexander added,


    ¡°And we¡¯ll each get what we want, without any further obligations.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of relief. It was a short-termmitment, and she hoped she could endure it for the sake of her brother.


    With no more questions, Anderson handed them pens, Marissa agreed to the terms and signed on the dotted line. It was official; she was now married to Alexander on paper.


    Alexander nodded in satisfaction,


    ¡°Good. That¡¯s settled. Now, Marissa, there are a few rules you need to follow during our three months of marriage.¡±


    Marissa raised an eyebrow, curious about what he was going to say next¡­.


    ¡°And what¡¯s that?¡± she asked.


    ¡°You are not going to leave the house whenever you feel like until I tell you too. Is that understood?¡± he said.


    ¡°And why shouldn¡¯t I leave the house when I want?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°Because I said so, damn it!¡± he said.


    ¡°Look here you jerk. I¡¯m not your employee, you would be bossing around like they are not anything to you. I can decide to walk out of this if you keep on annoying me with that asshole personality that you have.¡± she said.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± he said.


    ¡°You damn well heard me.¡± she said.


    Alexander couldn¡¯t believe Marissa¡¯s audacity. No one had ever spoken to him like this before.


    But he knew he had to maintain control, especially if this fake marriage was going to work.


    ¡°Marissa, let me make this clear. In this arrangement, you will follow my rules. That¡¯s non-negotiable.¡±


    Marissa crossed her arms, unfazed by his stern tone.


    ¡°Well, Alexander, let me make this clear too. I may be your fake wife on paper, but I won¡¯t be treated like a prisoner in my own home. I have my own life, and I won¡¯t let you dictate every aspect of it.¡±


    The tension in the room was getting really high as they red at each other, neither willing to back down.


    They had entered into this arrangement for their own reasons, and it was clear that both were determined to get what they wanted.


    Anderson, sensing the escting conflict, decided to intervene.


    ¡°Okay, okay, calm down, you two. Let¡¯s not start this marriage with a fight. We can work out some ground rules that you both can agree on, alright?¡±


    Marissa and Alexander reluctantly nodded, realizing that if they were going to make this work, they needed to find somemon ground.


    As they sat down to discuss the ground rules for their fake marriage, Marissa and Alexander tried to find apromise.


    It was clear that their personalities shed, but they had no choice but to make this arrangement work.


    ¡°First rule,¡± Marissa began, ¡°I won¡¯t be confined to the house. I have a job, and I need to go to work.¡±


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, then nodded reluctantly. ¡°Fine, you can go to work. But no unnecessary outings or socializing.¡±


    Marissa raised an eyebrow but agreed,


    ¡°Okay, no socializing. But I have a ce to be after work beforeing home.¡±


    ¡°And where is that?¡± he asked her.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your goddamn business.¡± she said.


    They both stared at each other, Alexander was obviously angry at the way Marissa talked to him


    But he decided to maintain his cool.


    Alexander pondered this for a moment before replying,


    ¡°Fine, you can go wherever it is you wanna go, but note nights alright? I don¡¯t want our arrangement to be public knowledge.¡±


    Marissa nodded, somewhat satisfied with thepromise. ¡°Alright, that works for me.


    Now, about our personal lives¡­¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°What about it?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Do you have a boyfriend or someone you like?¡± he asked her.


    ¡°That¡¯s still not your goddamn business.¡± she said.


    ¡°Harsh¡­.¡± he said.


    ¡°Look you two¡­ you¡¯re already married. Can¡¯t you just agree on this without arguing?¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°No!¡± they yelled.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Alright then.¡± he said, ¡°I think I will take my leave now and let you two handle your issues, but try not to break each other¡¯s heads.¡± he said as he walked out of the apartment leaving Alexander and Marissa alone in the house.


    The two obviously needed toe to amon ground if they wanted to survive and make this contract work for three months.

 Saving Samuel

    The two of them sat quietly not saying anything to each other for hours and then Alexander who couldn¡¯t take it anymore, spoke.


    ¡°Look, I need this contract and I know that you need it as well¡­ so let¡¯s just respect each other and make this work. After all, it¡¯s just for three months and we are done. Nothing is gonna change between us, alright.¡± he said.


    ¡°So I need you to be as cooperative so that we can get through this without raising suspicion.¡±


    ¡°And you need to as well.¡± she said. ¡°You don¡¯t boss me around and tell me what to do or what not to do. I¡¯m not your pet or your employee. You have to treat me with respect that I deserve.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± he epted.


    There was silence again in the room, but this time, Marissa broke the silence.


    ¡°Um¡­ since we have signed the contract, can I get some money from you. I have a pressing matter and I really need the money.¡± she said.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ typical.¡± he said.


    Marissa¡¯s furrowed wondering what he meant by typical.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°Ugly thing like you need the money to get yourself new bags, shoes and fancy outfit huh? Women¡­ that¡¯s all you think about.¡± he said.


    Marissa eyes turned red with anger.


    ¡°Look, you piece of shit. I don¡¯t appreciate your annoyingments about me. You don¡¯t know me, you don¡¯t know what I have been through. So you don¡¯t open your mouth and judge me.¡± she said.


    ¡°I risked my life to do this not because I wanted this, but because I needed the money for something important. So don¡¯t go around and opening your mouth when you don¡¯t know shit.¡± she said.


    Alexander was taken aback by Marissa¡¯s outburst. He hadn¡¯t expected her to react so strongly. After a moment of silence, he sighed and reached for his bank check on the table.


    ¡°Fine, how much do you need?¡± he asked, his tone begrudgingly willing to help.


    Marissa named the amount, and Alexander wrote out the money, added some and sign it and handed it to her. There was still tension in the room, but at least they had settled this matter.


    ¡°Now that you have your money, is there anything else you need?¡± Alexander asked, his tone slightly less harsh.


    Marissa shook her head, ¡°No, that¡¯s all. I just needed the money.¡±


    Alexander nodded,


    ¡°Alright, then. Let¡¯s stick to the terms of our contract and make this fake marriage work.¡±


    Marissa agreed, and they both knew that they had a long and challenging three months ahead of them.


    ¡°So um¡­ where are we going to be staying now?¡± she asked.


    Alexander ced his hand on his hair, trying to think.


    ¡°Uhm¡­. I have another apartment asides this one, I think we could stay there. I will tell the maids to prepare it for us.¡± he said.


    ¡°Then what about our private wedding?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Anderson will work on that.¡± he said.


    ¡°But he¡¯s yourwyer.¡± she said.


    ¡°This agreement is between the three of us. So who should handle it if it isn¡¯t him?¡± he asked, looking at her coldly.


    ¡°Fine, I get your point.¡± she epted.


    Marissa agreed to the ns, even though dealing with Alexander¡¯s attitude was not easy for her.


    They decided to stay in another apartment that Alexander owned. He told her hiswyer, Anderson, would handle the arrangements for their private wedding.


    Marissa had her reservations since Anderson was Alexander¡¯swyer, but she didn¡¯t argue. She understood that it was part of the deal.


    ¡°So when are we moving into the new apartment?¡± she asked.


    Alexander thought for a moment before replying, ¡°We can move in tomorrow. I¡¯ll have the maids prepare everything.¡±


    Marissa nodded, realizing that this was all happening so quickly.


    As they walked out of the apartment building, she couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that her life was about to take a very unexpected turn.


    After she came down from Alexander¡¯s car and he left, Marissa didn¡¯t waste any time. She rushed to the nearest street corner, hailed a passing cab, and hurried to the hospital.


    Time was of the essence, and she couldn¡¯t afford to waste a single minute. She needed to see the doctor and make arrangements for her brother¡¯s surgery as soon as possible.


    The weight of the situation hung heavily on her shoulders as she watched the city pass by through the cab window, knowing that her brother¡¯s life depended on the decisions she was about to make.


    Marissa arrived at the hospital and rushed inside. She approached the reception desk, panting from the urgency of her mission.


    ¡°I need to see Dr. Ramirez, urgently,¡± she told the nurse at the desk.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    The nurse looked up from herputer and asked, ¡°Do you have an appointment?¡±


    Marissa shook her head. ¡°No, but it¡¯s an emergency. My brother needs surgery, and I have to pay for it. I was give 48 hours and it¡¯s almost 48 hours.¡±


    The nurse took in Marissa¡¯s anxious expression and said, ¡°Let me check if the doctor is avable.¡±


    Marissa paced back and forth in the waiting area, her heart pounding with worry.


    After what felt like an eternity, the nurse returned and said,


    ¡°Dr. Ramirez will see you now.¡±


    Marissa followed the nurse to the doctor¡¯s office, her mind racing with thoughts of her brother¡¯s well-being.


    She knew that time was running out, and she had to do whatever it took to save him.


    Marissa entered Dr. Ramirez¡¯s office, and the doctor looked up from his desk.


    ¡°What seems to be the problem?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to pay for the surgery for my brother. You told me that I had 48 hours or he would die. So I¡¯m here to pay for his surgery.¡± she said and gave him the check with her.


    Dr. Ramirez nodded, understanding the urgency. ¡°I see. Let me check the avable slots for the surgery.¡±


    Marissa anxiously waited as Dr. Ramirez made a call and checked his schedule. Finally, he looked up at her.

 The Next Step

    ¡°We can schedule the surgery for tomorrow.¡±


    Marissa was relief.


    ¡°Thank you, Doctor.¡±


    Dr. Ramirez smiled kindly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll do our best to take care of your brother.¡±


    ¡°Can I see him?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Uhmm¡­ it¡¯s actually passed visiting hours, but because of you I would make an exception, but it would only be for 30 minutes.¡± he said.


    ¡°Thank you, doctor.¡± she appreciated.


    ¡°Let me call the nurse so she would see you to where your brother is. ¡± he said.


    ¡°Okay, doctor.¡± she said.


    Dr. Ramirez picked up the phone and called the nurse. After a brief conversation, he hung up and said,


    ¡°The nurse will be here shortly to take you to your brother.¡±


    Marissa nodded, feeling grateful for the doctor¡¯s understanding.


    She knew that every moment counted, and she wanted to spend as much time as possible with her brother before the surgery.


    A few minutester, a nurse arrived and greeted Marissa. ¡°Follow me, please,¡± she said.


    Marissa followed the nurse through the hospital corridors until they reached her brother¡¯s room.


    When she entered, her heart sank at the sight of her brother lying in the hospital bed, looking weak and pale.


    She rushed to his side, tears welling up in her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m here, Samuel,¡± she whispered, holding her brother¡¯s hand gently.


    Samuel weakly opened his eyes and managed a faint smile. ¡°Marissa¡­ you came.¡±


    Marissa nodded, trying to hold back her tears. She didn¡¯t want her brother to see her cry.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m here, and everything will be okay.¡±


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I¡­ feel¡­ like shit, but I¡¯ll live¡­.¡± he said


    Marissa gave a weak smile, her eyes still moist with tears.


    ¡°You¡¯re a tough one, Samuel. You¡¯ll get through this.¡±


    Samuel managed a weak chuckle.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ve been through worse.¡±


    They continued to talk, sharing memories and reassuring each other.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but worry about the surgery, but she tried her best to stay strong for her brother.


    After the 30 minutes were up, the nurse gently reminded Marissa that visiting hours were over.


    Reluctantly, Marissa stood up from her brother¡¯s bedside.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be back tomorrow, Samuel,¡± she promised, giving him a gentle hug.


    Samuel nodded, looking grateful.


    ¡°Thank you, Marissa.¡±


    As Marissa left the room, her thoughts were filled with both hope and anxiety.


    She had taken a huge step by agreeing to the fake marriage with Alexander, and now everything depended on the sess of her brother¡¯s surgery.


    She knew that the next few months would be challenging, but she was determined to do whatever it took to save her brother¡¯s life.


    After she left the hospital, Marissa returned home.


    Shey on her bed, her mind in turmoil. She couldn¡¯t help but feel overwhelmed by the decision she had made to marry Alexander for three months.


    It all seemed like a surreal dream, and she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of disbelief.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I agreed to this,¡± she whispered to herself, shaking her head.


    ¡°Marrying Alexander Shim, of all people.¡±


    The thought of spending three months as his fake wife filled her with a strange fear and worry.


    She had always known him as an arrogant and rude man, and now she had willingly entered into this bizarre arrangement.


    As shey there, Marissa pped her forehead lightly as if trying to snap herself out of a trance.


    ¡°Come on, Marissa, get a grip. It¡¯s just a paper marriage, all for Samuel¡¯s sake.¡±


    She knew she had no other choice. The clock was ticking, and her brother¡¯s life hung in the bnce.


    This was her best shot at securing the money for his surgery.


    With a heavy sigh, she closed her eyes and tried to push away the doubts and uncertainties that swirled in her mind.


    The encounter with Alexander in his apartment and the contract signing still felt unbelievable.


    Marissa picked up her phone and messaged Anderson, Alexander¡¯swyer, for updates on the private wedding arrangements.


    She wanted everything to go smoothly, especially with her brother¡¯s surgery scheduled for the next day.


    While waiting for Anderson¡¯s reply, Marissa couldn¡¯t stop thinking about her brother, Samuel.


    She prayed the surgery would be a sess, and he¡¯d recover quickly. The responsibility weighed on her, but she was determined to see it through.


    Finally, her phone buzzed with Anderson¡¯s response, assuring her that the wedding ns were in progress, and they¡¯d keep her informed.


    Marissa felt a bit of relief; at least one part of theplex n was moving ahead.


    Marissa closed her eyes, trying to clear her mind. She needed rest for the uing day.


    The day of her brother¡¯s surgery. She couldn¡¯t afford to be tired or distracted.


    Meanwhile Alexander returned to his apartment tired from all the stress of the day. He needed to rest and prepare for work.


    He got to his fridge and took a cold drink and sat on the couch thinking about everything that happened to him that day.


    ¡°What a mess this has be. I never imagined I¡¯d find myself in such a situation. A fake marriage? It¡¯s absurd. But desperate times call for desperate measures, I suppose.¡± he muttered to himself.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    He took another sip of his drink, his thoughts a whirlwind of doubts and uncertainties.


    Despite his tough exterior, there was a part of him that couldn¡¯t help but wonder about Marissa. She was unlike anyone he had ever encountered.


    ¡°Marissa¡­ she¡¯s not the typical woman who¡¯d willingly enter into such an arrangement. She¡¯s got spirit, and she isn¡¯t afraid to stand up to me. That¡¯s¡­ intriguing, to say the least.¡± still talking to himself.


    As he continued to mull over the situation, Alexander couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that his life was about to take an unexpected turn, and he wasn¡¯t entirely sure if it would be for better or worse.


    Then he thought about Jessie. How was he going to handle her? If she found out that he had gotten married, she would be devastated even though it was a fake marriage, but still she would be devastated.

 Date With Jessie

    He sighs


    Jessie¡­ What am I going to tell her?


    She won¡¯t understand any of this. I¡¯ve been seeing her for a while, and things were getting serious. Now, all of this chaos¡­ she¡¯ll think I¡¯ve lost my mind.


    He leaned back on his couch, running a hand through his hair in frustration.


    The thought of hurting Jessie weighed heavily on him, but he knew he had to protect his business interests and reputation.


    ¡°Maybe I can keep her in the dark for a while. Tell her it¡¯s a business deal or something. She doesn¡¯t need to know the details.¡± he muttered to himself.


    As he contemted his n to deceive Jessie, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing sense of guilt.


    He knew that juggling this fake marriage and his rtionship with Jessie would be aplicated and risky endeavor.


    Just then his phone buzzed and he checked and saw that it was Jessie and her text message:


    Hey, Alexander! I was thinking about our weekend ns. Are we still on for that romantic dinner on Friday?


    Alexander sighed, feeling the weight of his impending deception. He knew he had to respond to Jessie¡¯s message, but he also knew that he was about to lie to her.


    Hey, Jessie. I¡¯ve got some unexpected workmitmentsing up, and I might have to reschedule our ns. I¡¯ll fill you in on the details soon. Sorry about this.


    He hit send and waited for Jessie¡¯s response, feeling the guilt gnaw at him even more.


    Jessie¡¯s reply came quickly, and it was clear she was disappointed.


    Oh, that¡¯s a bummer. But I understand, Alexander. Just let me know when you¡¯re free, okay?


    Alexander felt a pang of guilt as he read her message. He didn¡¯t want to hurt Jessie, but he also couldn¡¯t risk her finding out about the fake marriage.


    He had to keep up the charade for the sake of the contract and his business.


    Thanks for understanding, Jessie. I¡¯ll make it up to you, I promise. We¡¯ll n something special once this work stuff settles down.


    He hoped his words would reassure Jessie, but deep down, he knew that his web of lies was only going to get more tangled as time went on.


    Then he decided to send her a message asking if they should meet the next day at their favorite restaurant to discuss.


    Hey Jessie, how about we meet at our favorite restaurant tomorrow evening? I¡¯ve got something important I want to discuss with you.


    As he sent the message, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of unease.


    He knew that the uing meeting with Jessie would be another challenge in his web of lies, but he had no other choice if he wanted to keep the truth hidden.


    Momentster, Jessie replied to Alexander¡¯s message:


    Sure, Alexander. I¡¯ve missed you, and I¡¯d love to catch up. Tomorrow evening at our favorite spot sounds perfect. Can¡¯t wait to see you!


    Alexander sighed with relief. At least, for now, Jessie seemed understanding, and he hoped their meeting would go smoothly.


    As he put his phone down, he couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of the secrets and lies he was carrying.


    It was a tangled web he had woven, and he knew that as time passed, it would only be moreplicated to maintain.


    But for now, he had to focus on his meeting with Jessie and keeping his fake marriage with Marissa hidden.


    ¡°Maybe I should tell her. She might understand.¡± he muttered to himself.


    ¡°Well¡­. I¡¯ll find out tomorrow.¡±


    He went to his room and slumped on his bed to sleep.


    The night passed, and Alexandery awake, his thoughts filled with uncertainty and guilt.


    He couldn¡¯t escape the feeling that his life was spiraling into a chaotic mess, and he wasn¡¯t sure how to regain control.


    *


    The next day arrived, and Alexander prepared for his meeting with Jessie, hoping he could find the right words to exin his situation without hurting her too much.


    Jessie walked into the room with a warm smile, and Alexander felt a pang of guilt. Here was this woman, who had opened her heart to him, and he was about to tell her that their rtionship was built on a lie.


    He took a deep breath and tried to gather his thoughts.


    ¡°Hi Jessie, thanks foring. I wanted to talk to you about something important.¡±


    Jessie¡¯s smile faded, and she looked at him with concern. ¡°What¡¯s going on, Alexander?¡±


    Alexander paused, not sure how to begin.


    Just then, her phone rang.


    ¡°Sorry dear, could you hold on a bit? I have to take this call, it¡¯s from work.¡± she said.


    ¡°But it¡¯s the weekend.¡± he said.


    ¡°I know,¡± Jessie replied, ¡°but something urgent hase up. I promise I¡¯ll be back as soon as I can.¡±


    She took the call outside, leaving Alexander alone with his thoughts. He couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of relief, but also guilt.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    He didn¡¯t want to drag this out any longer, but he also didn¡¯t want to hurt her.


    As he sat there, he tried to gather his thoughts and figure out the best way to exin the situation. But no matter how he tried to phrase it, it all sounded wrong.


    Finally, Jessie returned, a worried expression on her face. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry about that, Alexander. What did you want to talk about?¡±


    Alexander took a deep breath. ¡°It¡¯s about our rtionship,¡± he said, ¡°and what we mean to each other.¡±


    Jessie¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Oh¡­ is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°No, not exactly,¡± Alexander said, ¡°but I have to tell you the truth.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± she said, ¡°you know you can tell me anything.¡±


    ¡°What I want to say is¡­¡± he began, but she cut him short as another call came in.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I need to pick this.¡± she said.


    Alexander felt his frustration growing. He didn¡¯t know how much longer he could keep this up.

 Date With Jessie (2)

    He was trying to do the right thing, but it felt like everything was working against him. He began to wonder if it would be better to just keep quiet and let things continue as they were.


    After a few minutes, Jessie came back, her phone now switched off.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry about that. I promise this time there won¡¯t be any more interruptions.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°So what did you want to tell me?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Uhm¡­ where do you want to go for our trip?¡± he asked, after deciding not to tell the truth. It was best he didn¡¯t tell her about his fake marriage with Marissa.


    Jessie was taken aback by the question. She had been expecting something much more serious.


    ¡°Uhh, well¡­ I hadn¡¯t really thought about it,¡± she said, trying to recover from the surprise. ¡°Where did you have in mind?¡±


    Alexander could tell she was confused, and felt a bit guilty for not being honest. But he just couldn¡¯t bring himself to tell her the truth.


    ¡°How about we go to the Bahamas?¡± he said, trying to sound excited. ¡°I heard the beaches are amazing.¡±


    Jessie looked at him skeptically. ¡°The Bahamas?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he said, trying to convince her, ¡°it¡¯ll be a great trip. You can lie on the beach, soak up the sun, and just enjoy yourself. It¡¯ll be like a dreame true.¡±


    Jessie looked at him, still not convinced. ¡°I don¡¯t know, it just seems kind of sudden. Why do you want to go to the Bahamas all of a sudden?¡±


    Alexander felt like he was getting trapped in his own lies. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve just been wanting to go somewhere tropical and rxing. And I thought it would be nice to take you there.¡±


    ¡°Is that what you wanna tell me?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ why?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Well¡­ because we could have discussed this on phone. I had to leave some work unattended because you said you wanted us to discuss something. So I thought it was urgent and that was why I came.¡± she said.


    Alexander¡¯s heart sank. He had never thought about it that way. He had only been thinking about himself, and not about how his actions would affect others. He felt horrible.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to inconvenience you. I just¡­ I just wanted to talk to you in person. I wanted to see you.¡±


    He could see the disappointment in her eyes, and it hurt him to know he was the cause of it.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± she said, trying to soften the blow. ¡°I¡¯m d we got to talk.¡±


    But even though she was trying to be understanding, Alexander could tell that something had changed between them. There was a tension in the air, and he felt like he had lost some of her trust. He tried to think of a way to make things right, but he couldn¡¯t think of anything.


    ¡°So¡­ what now?¡± he asked, trying to move past the awkwardness.


    Jessie sighed. ¡°I think we should just forget about it and move on. Let¡¯s not let it ruin our day.¡±


    She tried to smile, but it was clear she was still upset.


    He realized that he couldn¡¯t tell her about his fake marriage with Marissa. He felt it could hurt her and so it was best he kept it to himself until he secures the contract.


    He realized that he was in a difficult situation. On the one hand, he didn¡¯t want to hurt Jessie by keeping secrets from her. But on the other hand, he needed to protect his business interests and secure the contract.


    He decided that the best thing to do was to try to move past the awkwardness and make things right with Jessie, without revealing his secret. He knew it would be difficult, but he was determined to make it work.


    ¡°I understand,¡± he said. ¡°We don¡¯t have to talk about it anymore. Let¡¯s just enjoy the rest of the day.¡±


    ¡°So what do you want us to do today, then?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we order our favorite meal and just spend time chatting?¡± he suggested.


    ¡°That sounds perfect,¡± she said, visibly relieved. ¡°I¡¯m actually really hungry, so food would be great.¡±


    They ordered their favorite meals and settled in for a long chat. They talked about everything from work to their families to their hobbies. The conversation was easy andfortable, and for a while, Alexander forgot about the secret he was keeping.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    But as the day went on, he found himself thinking about it more and more. He knew that eventually, he would have to tell Jessie the truth. But he wasn¡¯t sure how to do it, or when.


    As the day drew to a close, Jessie suggested that they go for a walk. They strolled through the park, enjoying the cool evening air and the golden glow of the setting sun. The tension between them had eased, and they were able to enjoy each other¡¯spany without any awkwardness.


    ¡°Thank you for today,¡± Jessie said as they headed back to the house. ¡°I really needed some time to rx and just be myself.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± he replied. ¡°I¡¯m d I could help. And thank you for being so understanding.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a problem,¡± she said. ¡°I know you¡¯re under a lot of pressure with the business. I just want you to know that you can always talk to me if you need to. I¡¯m here for you.¡±


    The sincerity in her words touched him, and he felt a rush of gratitude. He realized how lucky he was to have such a supportive friend.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he said, his voice thick with emotion. ¡°I really appreciate that.¡±


    ¡°I have to go now, I have an important meeting tomorrow morning, dear.¡± she said.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine¡­.¡± he said.


    She walked towards her car and zoomed off.


    Alexander made a decision and then called Anderson to carry out the ns.

 Samuel鈥檚 Recovery

    The next day, Marissa went to the hospital for Samuel¡¯s surgery. She arrived just in time to see her brother being prepared for surgery.


    Marissa anxiously waited in the hospital¡¯s waiting area while her brother was in surgery.


    She prayed for a sessful procedure and tried to keep her mind upied by reading a book.


    The minutes felt like hours as she waited for any updates from the doctors.


    After what seemed like an eternity, a nurse finally approached Marissa with an update on her brother¡¯s surgery.


    ¡°Miss Marissa, your brother¡¯s surgery went well,¡± the nurse informed her with a reassuring smile.


    ¡°He¡¯s in recovery now, and the doctor will speak with you shortly.¡±


    Tears of relief filled Marissa¡¯s eyes as she thanked the nurse profusely. She couldn¡¯t wait to see her brother and hear from the doctor about his condition.


    A short whileter, Dr. Ramirez came to speak with Marissa. He had a smile on his face as he approached her.


    ¡°Good news, Marissa,¡± he began. ¡°The surgery was a sess. We were able to remove the tumor, and your brother is in stable condition now. He¡¯ll need some time to recover, but he should be on the path to healing.¡±


    Marissa felt tears of joy welling up in her eyes. She couldn¡¯t believe the relief she was feeling at that moment.


    She thanked Dr. Ramirez with all her heart for his skill and care.


    ¡°I want to see him,¡± Marissa said, her voice filled with gratitude.


    Dr. Ramirez nodded and led her to her brother¡¯s room.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    When Marissa entered and saw Samuel, weak but alive, she couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. She rushed to his side and held his hand.


    ¡°Samuel, you¡¯re going to be okay,¡± she whispered, tears streaming down her face.


    Samuel managed a weak smile, and Marissa knew that they had ovee a significant hurdle.


    ¡°You know I¡¯m stronger than I look¡­.¡± he said, his voice weak.


    ¡°I know¡­ just rest okay.¡± she said, smiling back at her brother.


    As Marissa sat by her brother¡¯s bedside, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of gratitude and hope.


    Her decision to enter into a fake marriage with Alexander had led to this moment, and she was willing to face whatever challengesy ahead to ensure her brother¡¯s full recovery.


    Over the next few days, Marissa stayed by her brother¡¯s side, helping him through his recovery.


    She was relieved to see Samuel gradually regain his strength and spirits.


    Meanwhile, she kept in touch with Anderson, Alexander¡¯swyer, to keep abreast of the wedding ns.


    Anderson assured her that everything was on track, and she felt a growing sense of anticipation mixed with nervousness.


    ¡°Why the hell am I feeling this way when it¡¯s just a fake wedding?¡± she asked herself.


    ¡°Get a grip Marissa! This is just a fake wedding and not a real one okay? You don¡¯t like the guy because he is annoying and has a serious attitude problem. You need him just as much as he needs you, so don¡¯t let anything jeopardize that.¡± she said to herself as she slumbed on her bed.


    Just then a thought crossed her mind as she was resting.


    What if they fall in love with each other?


    ¡°Hell no! That¡¯s never gonna happen!¡± she muttered to herself as she shook her head.


    ¡°Oh the horror! Whoever marries that piece of shit guy is the most unlucky bitch on the whole!¡± she said to herself.


    ¡°That guy is a piece of work!¡±


    Just then, she received a call from Alexander and she picked it.


    ¡°Why did you call?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I didn¡¯t call to check on you, alright? I ain¡¯t interested in your kind.¡± he said on the phone.


    ¡°In my kind? What the hell do you mean by that statement, you big brain?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Big brain? You¡¯ve a lot of nerve, Marissa.¡± he said.


    ¡°You started it you piece of shit. What do you mean by my own kind?¡± she said.


    ¡°A low life like you can¡¯t ever be with someone like me. I just need you to fix my problem and when I¡¯m done, I will throw you away like a piece of rag that you are.¡± he said.


    Marissa was pissed.


    ¡°You annoying piece of work. Do you know that you don¡¯t deserve a person like me and you know why? Because you¡¯re the one that is worthless and means nothing to nobody. You are just trying to prove that you mean something but the truth is that you don¡¯t mean anything and I mean anything to anyone.¡± she said.


    There was silence on the phone as Alexander didn¡¯t say anything.


    He was angry at that statement she made and didn¡¯t know what to say back to her.


    So he hung up the call.


    ¡°Ah! Got nothing to say you asshole!¡± she said as she held her phone.


    ¡°What a piece of shit! How dare he call me a low life.¡± she said to herself.


    Marissa¡¯s anger continued to simmer long after the call had ended. She paced around her small apartment, unable to shake off the hurtful words Alexander had thrown at her.


    ¡°He thinks he can just insult me and get away with it?¡± Marissa muttered to herself, her frustration mounting.


    She decided to distract herself by focusing on her brother¡¯s recovery. Samuel¡¯s surgery had gone well, and he was now in the recovery room.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t wait to see him and reassure herself that he was okay.


    As she made her way to the hospital, her thoughts kept drifting back to the heated exchange with Alexander.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder how she had gotten herself into this mess, and if enduring his insults was really worth it to save her brother¡¯s life.


    While sitting beside her brother, she was just tapping her feet in annoyance over the words Alexander gave her.


    Her brother who noticed asked her.


    ¡°Sis¡­. are you alright?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yeah, why?¡± she asked him, holding his hands.

 His Apology

    ¡°Well¡­. because you¡¯re tapping your feet on the floor and I know that when you do that, it¡¯s because you¡¯re angry at something or someone¡­. so spill sis.¡± he said.


    ¡°Oh¡­ it¡¯s nothing brother. You just rest and don¡¯t think about anything, okay?¡± she said, assuring her brother.


    But hell no she wasn¡¯t okay. The jerk she was about to do a fake wedding with just insulted her and called her a low life.


    She felt if she was face to face with him, damn she would have given him a hot p for saying such a mean and nasty thing to her.


    What a jerk!


    Meanwhile after the phone conversation Alexander had with Marissa, he was pissed as well.


    ¡°How dare she say those words to me? Doesn¡¯t she know who I am?¡± he said to himself as he paced back and forth.


    ¡°Anyone who is with me, should count themselves lucky to have me, but how dare she say that I¡¯m worthless and mean nothing to nobody. I have a very sexy and beautiful girlfriend who loves me as I love her. And I also havepanies and houses and servants that obey mymand. How am I worthless?¡± he asked himself.


    He was silent for a while as he sat on his couch. Then he decided to call Anderson.


    Anderson picked up the call.


    ¡°Hello.¡± Anderson answered.


    ¡°Do you know what that girl called me today?¡± he asked him.


    ¡°What is it again?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°She called me worthless and that I mean nothing to nobody! Can you imagine the guts she has to say such to me?¡± he said.


    Anderson sighed on the phone.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you gonna say anything?¡± he asked him.


    ¡°What did you say to her?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± he asked.


    ¡°What did you say to her, Alexander?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°I¡­. um¡­ called her a lowlife.¡± he replied


    ¡°So you pissed her off, didn¡¯t you?¡± he said.


    ¡°Well¡­I didn¡¯t do that intentionally, but I just felt that wasn¡¯t an abuse.¡± Alexander said.


    Anderson scoffed on the phone.


    ¡°Not an insult? Are you fucking kidding me right now? You called her a low life and you expect that she won¡¯t be pissed at you for saying that? Damn man! You¡¯ve got a lot of learning to do.¡± Anderson said.


    Anderson¡¯s exasperation was clear in his voice as he responded to Alexander¡¯s exnation.


    ¡°Alexander, you¡¯ve really put your foot in it this time. Calling her a lowlife is an insult, in and simple. You need to apologize and make amends.¡±


    Alexander sighed in frustration. He knew Anderson was right, but apologizing was not something that came easily to him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ think about it,¡± Alexander mumbled.


    Anderson¡¯s voice turned stern.


    ¡°No, you won¡¯t just think about it. You will apologize, and you will do it sincerely. This fake marriage depends on both of you cooperating, and your behavior could jeopardize everything.¡±


    Alexander knew Anderson was right, and deep down, he realized he needed to make amends if he wanted this arrangement to work.


    But apologizing was a bitter pill to swallow for someone as prideful as him.


    ¡°And why am I the one to do the apologizing? After all she called me a worthless piece of shit that nobody wants.¡± he said.


    ¡°And you started it, I¡¯m sure. You must have called her a low life before she red up and called you that.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°Wait a minute! Aren¡¯t you supposed to take my side and not hers? Why are you supporting her when you should have just supported me?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Because I know you Alex. You like causing trouble and it just isn¡¯t right. There¡¯s one thing I know and it¡¯s that Marissa looks like a decent girl because I have checked her records and realize that she has a brother whom she takes very good care of and works different jobs to provide for herself and her brother.


    So she isn¡¯t some girl who just wants to get money from you and all¡­ she must have her reasons. So you need to apologize to her.¡± she said.


    Anderson¡¯s words struck a chord with Alexander, making him pause and reflect on his behavior.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Anderson. I need to own up to my mistakes and apologize to her. I shouldn¡¯t have let my anger get the best of me.¡±


    Anderson nodded, satisfied with Alexander¡¯s response. ¡°Good. It¡¯s the right thing to do. Remember, this fake marriage is a delicate situation, and maintaining a civil rtionship with Marissa is crucial.¡±


    Alexander knew he had some damage control to do, and he agreed with Anderson¡¯s advice.


    ¡°I¡¯ll apologize to her and try to make amends,¡± he said, realizing that cooperating with Marissa was in his best interest, even if it meant swallowing his pride.


    ¡°But how am I gonna do it?¡± he asked.


    ¡°You know that I don¡¯t apologize to anyone apart from Jessie.¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how you¡¯re gonna do it Alex, but you figure it out.¡± Anderson said as he hung up.


    ¡°But-¡± Alex said, before Anderson cut the call.


    ¡°Did he just cut the call on me?¡± he asked himself.


    Alexander found himself frustrated as Anderson abruptly ended the call. He wasn¡¯t ustomed to apologizing, and the thought of doing so left him feeling somewhat uneasy.


    Nevertheless, he knew he had to make amends with Marissa to ensure the sess of their fake marriage.


    As he contemted his next move, he realized he needed toe up with a sincere apology.


    It wasn¡¯t going to be easy, but he was determined to do it right and make things right with Marissa.


    ¡°How am I going to apologize to her?¡± He asked himself.


    Just then, a message entered his phone and when he checked it, it was from Anderson telling him to ask her to meet him at a cafe and then he apologized for calling her a lowlife and he should try not to piss her off again.


    Alexander sighed.

 His Apology (2)

    This wasn¡¯t something he was fond of doing. He was used to getting his way and for the first time, someone else was forcing him to apologize.


    ¡°Why do I need to apologize to her after all she insulted me?¡± he asked himself.


    But then he thought about the contract he needed to sign with thatpany and he knew he couldn¡¯t lose it to Jaime Fernado.


    He decided to swallow his pride and sent a message to Marissa that she should meet him at a cafe named ndo the following afternoon. After he finished writing it, he pressed send while waiting for her reply.


    He knew that apologizing to her was essential to maintain the fragile bnce of their fake marriage and secure the contract he so desperately needed.


    As he waited for her response, he couldn¡¯t help but wonder how their meeting would go and whether Marissa would be willing to ept his apology.


    The following day, Alexander anxiously awaited Marissa¡¯s response.


    He kept checking his phone, hoping for a message from her confirming their meeting at the cafe.


    Finally, his phone buzzed, and he saw a message from Marissa. She had agreed to meet him at the cafe in the afternoon.


    Alexander let out a sigh of relief. At least she was willing to give him a chance to apologize.


    As the time for their meeting approached, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but feel nervous.


    He knew he had to make things right with Marissa, not just for the sake of their fake marriage but also to secure the contract that was hanging in the bnce.


    He arrived at the cafe a bit early and found a secluded table where they could talk privately.


    Alexander hoped that this meeting would go smoothly and that he could mend things with Marissa.


    Marissa arrived at the cafe and saw Alexander sitting down waiting while pressing his phone.


    When he saw her, he signaled her to join him and she walked to where he was and sat down.


    ¡°It¡¯s unlike you to be the first to make a move. What happened?¡± she asked.


    Alexander knew he needed to make amends, so he decided to take the initiative. ¡°Let¡¯s order first. What would you like to have?¡± he asked Marissa.


    Marissa appreciated the gesture. ¡°I¡¯ll have a cappino, please,¡± she replied.


    Alexander signaled the waiter, and they ced their orders. Afterward, he turned his attention back to Marissa.


    ¡°I wanted¡­.. to apologize¡­¡­. for¡­.. what happened on the phone the other day,¡± he stammered.


    Marissa looked at him with a shocking expression on her face.


    ¡°Really?¡± she asked.


    Alexander sighed¡­.. rolling his eyes.


    ¡°Yes, I shouldn¡¯t have called you a lowlife, and I¡¯m sorry for my words.¡±


    Marissa studied him for a moment, and then her expression softened. ¡°I appreciate your apology,¡± she said. ¡°It¡¯s not easy to admit when you¡¯re wrong.¡±


    Alexander nodded, relieved that she was willing to ept his apology.


    ¡°I understand that we may not get along all the time, but I hope we can find a way to work together during this arrangement.¡±


    Marissa smiled, ¡°Agreed. Let¡¯s try to make this fake marriage as painless as possible.¡±


    As they sipped their drinks and talked further, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but think that maybe, just maybe, this arrangement wouldn¡¯t be as bad as he had initially thought.


    ¡°I apologize as well for calling you worthless and all¡­. I didn¡¯t mean it actually.¡± she said.


    ¡°Nah¡­ you meant it.¡± he said.


    ¡°Maybe a little.¡± she admitted.


    ¡°A little?¡± he said.


    ¡°Alright, alright, maybe a lot.¡± she admitted again.


    ¡°Well¡­ I understand. Actually it¡¯s not really my thing to apologize to people. Instead people apologize to me. So you¡¯re the first.¡± he said.


    ¡°Wow! I¡¯m shocked! Should I feel honored?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Ha! Ha! Very funny, Marissa.¡± he said.


    She chuckled.


    The waiter approached their table, and Alexander ordered a couple of coffees for them. As they waited for their drinks, Alexander decided to steer the conversation towards more serious matters.


    ¡°So, Marissa, I wanted to talk about our arrangement,¡± he began.


    Marissa nodded, her expression serious now. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    ¡°I know this whole thing is unconventional, and neither of us is thrilled about it. But we have to make it work, at least for the next three months,¡± Alexander said.


    Marissa agreed,


    ¡°I understand that, and I want this to go as smoothly as possible.¡±


    Alexander nodded in understanding.


    ¡°Right, and that¡¯s why I want to make sure we both have a clear understanding of our roles in this arrangement.¡±


    Marissa listened attentively as he continued,


    ¡°During these three months, we need to maintain the appearance of a real married couple.


    That means we¡¯ll have to attend social events together, go out, and maybe even live together, at least part-time.¡±


    Marissa raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised by the living together part.


    ¡°Live together? Is that really necessary?¡±


    Alexander exined, ¡°It¡¯s to make our marriage appear authentic. We don¡¯t want anyone to suspect that it¡¯s fake.


    And besides, it¡¯ll make it easier for us to coordinate our schedules.¡±


    Marissa sighed, realizing that she had little choice but to agree.


    ¡°Alright, I understand.


    But let¡¯s set some ground rules. We need our own space and privacy, even if we¡¯re living together.¡±


    Alexander nodded, appreciating her concerns.


    ¡°Agreed. We¡¯ll establish boundaries and respect each other¡¯s space. And if there are any issues, we shouldmunicate openly, like we just did.¡±


    Marissa smiled, feeling a bit more at ease now.


    ¡°That sounds reasonable.¡±


    Their coffees arrived, and they continued their conversation, discussing the specifics of their arrangement.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    While it was far from ideal, they both knew they had to make the best of it, for their own reasons.


    As they talked, they started to realize that maybe, just maybe, they could find a way to make this unusual marriage work without tearing each other apart.


    Just then someone they didn¡¯t expect arrived at the cafe.

 Unexpected Visitor

    ¡°Alex boo, what are you doing here?¡± A voice asked from behind Marissa.


    Marissa turned to look and saw ady, standing and staring at Alexander. He was obviously in shock as he didn¡¯t expect to bump into Jessie that day.


    ¡°Baby, I thought you had a meeting out of the country today; what happened?¡± he asked.


    ¡°The meeting was canceled by the client.¡± she said.


    ¡°Who is this?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s¡­.. um¡­ my¡­..¡± he stammered.


    Marissa turned and stood up bringing out her hand for a hand shake.


    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Marissa. I¡¯m Alexander¡¯s childhood friend.¡± she said.


    ¡°Oh! I didn¡¯t know you had a childhood friend, Alex.¡± Jessie said, as she held out her hand also for a handshake.


    ¡°It¡¯s nice to finally meet someone that grew up with Alexander. I¡¯m Jessie by the way. I¡¯m Alexander¡¯s girlfriend.¡± she revealed.


    ¡°Really.?¡± Marissa asked.


    ¡°Mmm-mm.¡± Jessie answered, nodding.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, can I join you guys?¡±


    ¡°Sure¡­we don¡¯t mind.¡± Marissa answered.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Jessie sat beside Alexander, who was obviously concerned about Jessie finding out that Marissa wasn¡¯t his childhood friend but is his fake wife and they were there nning their fake wedding for him to secure a contract.


    Marissa could sense the tension in the air as Jessie joined them at the table.


    Alexander¡¯s difort was evident, and Marissa knew that keeping up the facade of a childhood friend would be a challenging task.


    ¡°So¡­ you were Alexander¡¯s childhood friend.¡± Jessie said.


    ¡°Yes, I am.¡± Marissa answered.


    ¡°Tell me more about Alexander when he was in highschool. I mean what was he like?¡± she asked.


    Marissa didn¡¯t know what to say because she had no clue how Alexander was when he was in school.


    ¡°Well¡­. um¡­. Alex¡­.. was uhm¡­. not really friendly when he was in high school¡­.¡± Marissa said. ¡°He was more of a loner who liked to do everything himself and not get any help from anyone. He believed that if he must seed, he must seed on his own.¡±


    Alexander was impressed as to the way Marissa was handling the situation. He¡¯d never expected that she would know a little about his personality.


    He smiled as he stared at Marissa who was still talking about him.


    ¡°Wow¡­. you really are his childhood friend.¡± Jessie said. ¡°Because he still has that personality.¡±


    ¡°I know right?¡± Marissa agreed, and the twodiesughed.


    Jessie seemed friendly, and Marissa couldn¡¯t help but notice how affectionate she was with Alexander.


    It was clear that they were in a serious rtionship, and Marissa felt a pang of guilt for being a part of the deception.


    After a while, Jessie excused herself to use the restroom, leaving Marissa and Alexander alone at the table.


    Alexander leaned in closer to Marissa, his expression filled with concern.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing a great job with the fake story of you knowing me when we were kids.¡± He said.


    ¡°You never told me you were in a serious rtionship with someone.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°Well¡­. I don¡¯t think it¡¯s any of your business. My private life is my private life. After all, I don¡¯t know if you have a boyfriend.¡± he said.


    ¡°If I had a boyfriend, I wouldn¡¯t agree to this because I know how painful it would be if he found out that I¡¯m agreeing to a fake marriage with someone I barely know for money.¡± she said.


    ¡°Look, I didn¡¯t want this before alright. But she wasn¡¯t ready to get married after I asked her to marry me, for me to secure the contract. So I thought of an alternative, You.¡± he said.


    ¡°You would have told her about the new alternative so that she wouldn¡¯t get hurt. What if she finds out herself? Don¡¯t you think she would be devastated?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell her eventually,¡± he said. ¡°You just focus on the ying along with the childhood friend story. Please don¡¯t reveal anything about our arrangement to her. I¡¯ll tell her myself.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you.¡± she said.


    ¡°Please just do this, alright.¡± he said.


    ¡°Fine, but if she finds out about this, I¡¯m not gonna deny it.¡± she said.


    ¡°Whatever, just continue acting your part,¡± he said.


    Marissa nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best, Alex, but this is gettingplicated.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± he replied with a sigh. ¡°I¡¯ll figure something out. Just help me for now.¡±


    ¡°Sorry that I took so long.¡± Jessie said.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°So¡­. how did you guys end up bing friends?¡± she asked.


    Marissa looked at Alexander confused on what to say next.


    ¡°Um¡­ we met after I transferred to his school. As I said, he was a loner and refused to mingle with any of the kids in school. So no one wanted to hang out with a loner. And I was a loner myself but not as bad as him. So I walked up to him and asked him a funny question.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°What did you ask?¡± Jessie asked, curiosity in her voice.


    ¡°He was super glued to his books that he didn¡¯t look up, but when I asked him the question, he looked up at me with a confused expression.


    ¡°Really?¡± Jessie asked, smiling.


    ¡°Mmm-mm.¡± Marissa nodded.


    ¡°I asked him if we could be friends¡­. he looked up and said this word so harshly. No!¡±


    ¡°OMG! That was really harsh.¡± Jessie said.


    ¡°Yeah, he said that. So I sat in front of him and looked at him. I told him that you think you¡¯re so smart huh, but I¡¯m smarter than you and I¡¯ll beat you in every exam until you surrender to be my friend.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°Hahaha! You¡¯re funny. And what did he say?¡± Jessie asked.


    ¡°He said he doesn¡¯t need a friend and that I should leave him alone.¡± she said.


    ¡°I can rte.¡± Jessie admitted.


    ¡°So what happenedter on?¡±


    ¡°Heter epted after I kept beating him in every exam in ss.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°Not every exams, but yeah.¡± Alex said, ying along as well with the fake story.

 Fake Story

    As the conversation flowed, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but wonder how much moreplicated their fake marriage was going to get, especially now that Jessie was in the picture.


    Jessie¡¯s phone began to ring.


    ¡°Sorry, I need to take this.¡± she said, as she walked out to pick the call.


    ¡°Damn Marissa! You¡¯re a good story teller.¡± Alex said. ¡°I never believed you could pull it off, but you did so nicely.¡±


    ¡°You have to tell her about your fake marriage.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell her, but for now¡­. I need this until I secure the contract.¡± he said.


    ¡°What if she finds out within those three months? Don¡¯t you think it wouldplicate things?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I know alright. But right now, I don¡¯t have a choice. If I want the contract, I need to do this and besides, as I told you before, I asked her to marry me so I could secure the contract, she said she wasn¡¯t ready to get married at least not yet. So once the contract is finalized, we get a divorce and then I can go ahead and marry her.


    It¡¯s not like we are going to be doing anything together asides going to social events and all.¡± he said.


    ¡°What if she attends one of your social events and you had no choice but to introduce me to her again and not as your childhood friend, but your wife?¡± Marissa asked.


    Alexander reassured her, ¡°I¡¯ll do my best to avoid that situation. I won¡¯t introduce you as my wife unless it¡¯s absolutely necessary. We can¡¯t risk her finding out the truth too soon.¡±


    Despite his reassurance, Marissa couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that their secret might be in jeopardy, and their fake marriage could be exposed before they intended.


    As they continued their conversation, Jessie seemed engaged in a separate discussion on her phone, giving Alexander and Marissa some privacy to talk.


    Marissa leaned closer to Alexander and whispered, ¡°We need to be careful, Alex. This situation is delicate, and we can¡¯t afford any slip-ups. Let¡¯s stick to our n and make sure Jessie doesn¡¯t find out.¡±


    Alexander nodded in agreement, his face tense with worry. ¡°I know, Marissa. We have to be cautious at all times. I¡¯ll do my best to keep our secret safe.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Marissa was still a bit uneasy about the whole situation, but she knew they had no other choice if they wanted to achieve their respective goals.


    They continued their discussion, keeping a watchful eye on Jessie, who remained absorbed in her phone.


    ¡°Why are you keeping such a big secret from the woman you im to love, Alexander?¡± Marissa asked.


    Alexander sighed, his expression conflicted. ¡°Marissa, I never meant for things to get thisplicated. I care about Jessie, it¡¯s a huge contract, and I can¡¯t risk losing that contract. It¡¯s a difficult situation, and I don¡¯t know how to exin it to her without hurting her.¡±


    Marissa understood the dilemma but couldn¡¯t help feeling empathy for Jessie. ¡°I get it, Alex. But remember, we¡¯re both in this situation because we have our own reasons. Let¡¯s just try to navigate it as smoothly as possible. Hopefully, once the contract is secured, we can find a way to resolve everything.¡±


    Alexander nodded, his mind filled with uncertainty about the future.


    ¡°I hope so too, Marissa. Let¡¯s just take it one step at a time.¡±


    With that, they returned to their normal conversation, their eyes asionally darting towards Jessie, who remained oblivious to the secrets being discussed right under her nose.


    ¡°If I may ask, how did you and Jessie meet?¡± Marissa asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it concerns you.¡± Alex answered rudely.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a piece of work you know that right?¡± she said.


    ¡°I know¡­. but let¡¯s just forget about me and let¡¯s focus on her right now. She¡¯sing.¡± Alex said, signaling that Jessie was returning back to their table.


    ¡°Sorry boo¡­ the call took so long. The client was just so bent on meing over to Singapore to discuss the terms of the contract. So I need to go right now.¡± she said.


    ¡°You are leaving now?¡± Alex asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid so, I have booked my flight to Singapore and so I need to be in it by 7pm.¡± she said.


    ¡°When are youing back?¡± he asked her.


    ¡°Probably by next week Wednesday. I don¡¯t know yet, I just hope it won¡¯t be longer because of this client. He¡¯s really a pain in the ass.¡±


    Alexander looked a bit disappointed but tried to hide it with a smile.


    ¡°Alright, Jessie. I understand. You have to take care of work. We¡¯ll catch up when you¡¯re back.¡±


    Jessie leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek.


    ¡°Thanks for understanding, Alex. You¡¯re the best. I¡¯ll call you when I¡¯m in Singapore.¡±


    After Jessie left, Marissa turned to Alexander and said,


    ¡°That was close. We need to be careful, Alex. The more we meet in public, the riskier it gets.¡±


    Alexander nodded, realizing the truth in her words. Their fake marriage and the secrets they were keeping were like a ticking time bomb, and they had to be cautious at all times to prevent it from exploding.


    ¡°So now that she¡¯s not gonna be around, we have to do the private wedding we were nning to do,¡± he said.


    ¡°Where are we gonna use and who is gonna join us?¡± she asked.


    ¡°We are not doing all that. We just need Anderson to be there and then we take some pictures to make it look like we were really married so that I can show this to them and then once I get the contract, we¡¯ll get a divorce.¡± he said.


    ¡°That¡¯s fine. I don¡¯t intend to stay married to you anyways.¡± she said.


    ¡°As do I. You¡¯re not my ideal type of woman. Jessie is.¡± he said.


    ¡°Yeah, a career woman whopletely ignored the fact that you wanted her to be around, but she¡¯s never around.¡± she teased.

 His Mansion

    ¡°She has her reason alright. She¡¯s an ambitious woman and I love that about her.¡± he said.


    ¡°Yeah¡­. she¡¯s ambitious alright, but I sense that isn¡¯t the type of wife you want. You just don¡¯t want to admit that because you love her.¡± she said.


    ¡°Look, Marissa. You don¡¯t know shit about me alright. So don¡¯t you dare judge me!¡± he said.


    ¡°Okay¡­.. I¡¯m just stating the fact because you and I both know that she isn¡¯t what you want¡­. you are just too dumb to realize that she would always choose her work before you. So she would never be ready to marry you, Alexander.¡± she said.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough! I don¡¯t think I want to continue having this conversation with you.¡± he said, getting up to leave.


    Marissa watched as Alexander stood up, clearly upset by their conversation. She didn¡¯t want to push him too far, but she also couldn¡¯t help but speak her mind.


    ¡°Alexander, I¡¯m not trying to upset you,¡± she said in a softer tone,


    ¡°I just want you to be happy. If Jessie makes you happy, then that¡¯s what matters most.¡±


    He red at her, his frustration evident.


    ¡°Marissa, why don¡¯t you just mind your own business? You don¡¯t know the first thing about my rtionship with Jessie.¡±


    She hesitated for a moment, taken aback by his harsh words. ¡°I¡­ I didn¡¯t mean to overstep. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    They fell into an ufortable silence, both aware that their fake marriage was bing moreplex with each passing day.


    While in the car, both said nothing to each other and the drive to her apartment was awkward.


    Why was she worried about him getting hurt? They were not a real couple so what¡¯s the issue here?


    She stole nces at him while he wasn¡¯t looking.


    Why was she concerned about him?


    She turns and shakes her head.


    ¡°Marissa, you don¡¯t need to concern yourself with his personal life. You¡¯re just his fake wife and it¡¯s only for three months and after that you¡¯ll have your life back and he will have his.


    The both of you would go your separate ways never to cross paths again.¡± she told herself in her mind.


    When they arrived at her apartment the car packed in front of a small house.


    ¡°So this is where you live huh?¡± he asked, looking at the apartment with disgust.


    ¡°Yes, this is where I live. What¡¯s wrong with it?¡± she asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s ugly, that¡¯s what.¡± he said, still looking at the house with disgust.


    ¡°Well, this is what I can afford.¡± she said.


    Alexander¡¯s rudement about her apartment didn¡¯t sit well with Marissa, but she chose to brush it off. She didn¡¯t want to get into a confrontation with him, especially considering the delicate situation they were in.


    As they both got out of the car, Marissa led the way to her apartment. It was a modest, cozy ce that she had worked hard to maintain.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s not as fancy as what you¡¯re used to, but it¡¯s home,¡± she said, trying to defend her living arrangements.


    Alexander didn¡¯t respond, and Marissa couldn¡¯t help but wonder what he thought of her humble abode. However, she reminded herself that this fake marriage was only temporary, and soon they would both go their separate ways.


    ¡°So pack your bags now, we are leaving,¡± he said.


    ¡°Why?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Really? You had to ask me that?¡± he asked, pointing at the rundown apartment she was staying in.


    ¡°I can¡¯t possibly let you stay here and besides we agreed to stay together until after three months.¡± he said.


    ¡°You know what¡­. don¡¯t pack anything, we will get you new clothes and all so you¡¯d fit the part of my wife.¡± he said.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you going around looking like¡­..¡±


    ¡°Looking like what?¡± she asked, already getting angry at what he¡¯s about to say.


    ¡°Well¡­. like a girl with a lot of issues.¡± he said.


    ¡°Yes, I do have a lot of issues as you can see.¡± she said pointing at her apartment.


    ¡°But I¡¯m not afraid to admit or ept myself the way I am. You just have issues with epting me just the way I am.¡±


    ¡°Just let¡¯s go.¡± he said.


    ¡°Let me remind you that we need to both respect each other¡¯s opinions and not get on each other¡¯s nerves.¡± she said.


    ¡°Yeah yeah yeah¡­. I know¡­ you don¡¯t have to tell me twice.¡±


    ¡°So can we go now¡­. it¡¯s gettingte?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yes, we can.¡± she said, as they walked out of her apartment and back into his car.


    ¡°So where are we going?¡± she asked.


    ¡°To one of my mansion that I had prepared beforehand for this whole fake marriage thing,¡± he said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you worry, you will love it.¡± he said.


    As they drove to the mansion, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of emotions.


    She was grateful for the opportunity to escape her small, rundown apartment, but she also knew that this was just another part of the charade.


    She nced at Alexander, who seemed lost in thought. Despite his tough exterior and arrogant attitude, there was something about him that intrigued her.


    She wondered what had led him to agree to this fake marriage, and why he was willing to go to such lengths to secure a contract.


    For now, Marissa decided to focus on the task at hand and make the best of their three-month arrangement.


    As they arrived at the mansion, Marissa was taken aback by its elegance and luxury.


    It was clear that Alexander had spared no expense in preparing this ce for their fake marriage.


    ¡°Wow, this ce is amazing,¡± she remarked, genuinely impressed.


    Alexander smirked, seeming pleased with her reaction.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you like it. This is where we¡¯ll be staying during our fake marriage.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of unease. She knew that this charade was necessary for both of them, but being in such close quarters with Alexander for the next three months was going to be a challenge.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get settled in,¡± Alexander said, breaking her thoughts.


    ¡°We have a lot to discuss and n for our fake wedding.¡±

 Paying Double

    Marissa nodded, trying to push her doubts aside. They hadmitted to this n, and now they had to see it through, no matter howplicated it might be.


    ¡°Alright.¡± she said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll call Anderson so he would prepare the ce where we would take pictures and exchange rings and all. You need to pick a dress so, my driver will pick you up and take you to one of the best fashion houses so you will pick a dress.¡± he said.


    ¡°Okay¡­. What time?¡± she asked.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°By 2pm¡­.¡± he said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be having a meeting by that time with the board so he shoulde home here and pick you up so you¡¯d go pick not only the dress for our fake wedding, but also other dresses you¡¯d be wearing for the next three months while staying with me.¡± he said.


    ¡°I won¡¯t be home by that time. I have a ce I need to be.¡± she said.


    ¡°And where is that exactly?¡± he asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your concern.¡± she said coldly.


    ¡°Whatever, suit yourself.¡± he said, sounding like he didn¡¯t care.


    But he was, what was she hiding? Why did she agree to this because he had noticed that she wasn¡¯t some gold diggingdy out there who would even sell their bodies for money.


    So why was she going through all these and for who?


    ¡°And also you have to quit your part time job and face this full time.¡± he revealed.


    ¡°Wait¡­. what?!¡± she eximed. ¡°You mean I won¡¯t get to have a social life because I would be your fake wife for three months?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly it.¡± he said.


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious.¡± she said.


    ¡°Well¡­ Marissa, I¡¯m seriously, honestly and sincerely serious.¡± he said. ¡°And besides, I¡¯ll be paying double for all and whatever I will pay you is more than they would ever pay you working in that cafe.¡± he said.


    Marissa¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief as Alexander dropped the bombshell about her quitting her part-time job. It was anotheryer ofplication to their fake marriage arrangement.


    ¡°Quit my job? That¡¯s a bit extreme, don¡¯t you think?¡± she protested.


    Alexander didn¡¯t seem swayed by her objection. ¡°It¡¯s necessary for the credibility of our fake marriage, Marissa. Besides, I¡¯llpensate you generously. You¡¯ll be better off financially.¡±


    Marissa was torn. Her job was important to her, not just for the ie but also because it was a ce where she had friends and some semnce of a normal life. But the lure of financial stability was hard to ignore.


    ¡°I need some time to think about it,¡± she finally said, trying to buy herself some room to consider this new development.


    ¡°There¡¯s no time. You¡¯d have to make a decision right now.¡± he said.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do this to me. I¡¯m the one who is losing here.¡± she said. ¡°You get to live your perfect CEO life, attend meetings and all, while I get to be cooked up in here and be deprived of any social activity.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? You¡¯ll be attending social events with me and when I travel to secure that contract, you¡¯ll be going with me. So I don¡¯t see how that¡¯s a problem.¡± he said.


    Marissa felt the weight of the decision bearing down on her. She knew that Alexander was right in some ways, but it was hard to let go of her independence and the life she had built for herself.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll do it,¡± she reluctantly agreed. ¡°But you have to promise me that you¡¯llpensate me as you said, and that I won¡¯t regret this.¡±


    Alexander nodded, a hint of satisfaction in his eyes. ¡°You won¡¯t regret it, Marissa. This is a win-win for both of us, remember?¡±


    Marissa wasn¡¯t entirely convinced, but she had made her choice. Now, she had to face the consequences and the challenges thaty ahead as she embarked on this fake marriage journey with Alexander.


    ¡°So which room am I gonna sleep in, because I know we are definitely not sleeping in the same room.¡± she said.


    ¡°Why? Are you scared that I might do something?¡± he teased.


    Marissa rolled her eyes at hisment. ¡°No, it¡¯s just a matter of personal space and boundaries. We¡¯re supposed to make this look real, right?¡±


    Alexander chuckled. ¡°Alright, you can have the guest room down the hall. I¡¯ll take the master bedroom.¡±


    Marissa nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Sounds good. Let¡¯s get this charade started then.¡±


    She went to the guest room and opened the door.


    She noticed it was way fancier than her rundown room.


    Marissa found the guest room quite fancypared to her own ce. As she unpacked her things, she couldn¡¯t believe the situation she had gotten herself into.


    She was about to spend three months in a fake marriage with a man she barely knew, in apletely different world.


    But she had made this choice for her brother¡¯s sake, and she was determined to see it through, even if it meant enduring this unfamiliar and ufortable situation.


    In the master bedroom, Alexander was lost in thought too. He knew this fake marriage was a business move, but he couldn¡¯t help worrying about how it might affect his rtionship with Jessie.


    Nheless, he decided to focus on making the fake marriage appear real, as that was his primary goal.


    A thought crossed his mind as he sat down on his chair. He thought about what Marissa said about Jessie being the woman he wanted to marry.


    Alexander contemted Marissa¡¯s words about Jessie being the woman he truly wanted to marry.


    It was a nagging thought that had been bothering him ever since he agreed to this fake marriage.


    He knew that deep down, there was truth in Marissa¡¯s words. Jessie¡¯s ambitious nature and her dedication to her career had alwayse between them, making it difficult for their rtionship to progress.


    But he also couldn¡¯t deny that he loved her.


    With a heavy sigh, Alexander pushed those thoughts aside. Right now, he had to focus on making this fake marriage with Marissa work.


    It was a means to an end, a business strategy that he couldn¡¯t afford to fail¡­..

 Choosing A Wedding Place

    It was a means to an end, a business strategy that he couldn¡¯t afford to fail¡­..


    Alexander left the house and went to his office. His secretary called him on the phone to inform him that Anderson was here to see him.


    ¡°Send him in,¡± Alexander replied to his secretary, preparing himself for the meeting with hiswyer, Anderson.


    As Anderson entered the office, he looked at Alexander with a knowing expression.


    ¡°I heard about your little argument with Marissa. You really need to be more careful with how you treat her.¡±


    Alexander sighed,


    ¡°I know, Anderson. It¡¯s just that this whole situation is getting to me. I don¡¯t want to mess things up with Jessie, but I can¡¯t afford to lose this contract either.¡±


    Anderson nodded, understanding theplexity of the situation.


    ¡°I get it, Alexander. But you have to find a way to bnce both rtionships.


    Marissa is essential to the sess of this fake marriage, and you can¡¯t afford to alienate her.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know,¡± Alexander replied,


    ¡°I¡¯ll try to be more considerate in the future.¡±


    ¡°She made breakfast for me this morning.¡±


    ¡°Who made breakfast for you this morning..?¡± Anderson asked to be sure he heard what Alexander just said.


    ¡°You heard me.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°I honestly didn¡¯t. Can you say it again so I can hear you well?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°Marissa made breakfast for me this morning,¡± Alexander repeated.


    Anderson raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. ¡°That¡¯s surprising. I didn¡¯t think she¡¯d be so amodating after your argument.¡±


    Alexander shrugged, still somewhat surprised himself. ¡°She just did it without me even asking.¡±


    Anderson chuckled, ¡°Well, maybe she¡¯s trying to build a rapport with you. It¡¯s crucial for this fake marriage to work.¡±


    Alexander nodded, realizing that he needed to tread carefully in his interactions with Marissa to maintain a harmonious partnership.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to get too close, Anderson. As you are well aware that this is strictly a business deal and nothing more so I don¡¯t want any unnecessary feelings or interactions to grow between us.¡± Alex said.


    His secretary came in with a tray of cups of coffee and ced it on the table and then left.


    ¡°What are you scared of man?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander hesitated for a moment before answering, ¡°I¡¯m not scared, but I want to be cautious.


    This whole situation is alreadyplicated enough. I don¡¯t want emotions to muddy the waters further.¡±


    Anderson nodded, understanding the reasoning behind Alexander¡¯s concern.


    ¡°That¡¯s a wise approach, Alexander. It¡¯s better to be cautious from the beginning.


    ¡°But maybe she¡¯s just being friendly.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I know. But I don¡¯t want to get involved with her. I¡¯m with Jessie and she¡¯s my fake wife.¡± Alexander said.


    Anderson leaned back in his chair, contemting the situation. ¡°You¡¯re right, Alexander. Jessie is your real girlfriend, and Marissa is just part of this business deal. But keep in mind, even fake marriages require a certain level of cooperation and understanding. You don¡¯t have to get personally involved, but maintaining a friendly atmosphere will make this whole charade more convincing. Just be careful not to cross any lines.¡±


    Alexander nodded in agreement, recognizing the importance of a delicate bnce. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind, Anderson. We need this contract to work.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t want to start having unnecessary feelings.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°That¡¯s never gonna happen. I love Jessie and besides, Marissa isn¡¯t my type.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Never say never Alex. Anything can happen.¡± he said.


    ¡°Well definitely not with Marissa.¡± Alexander said.


    Anderson sighed. ¡°Alright, if you say so. But just remember, in this world of business, things aren¡¯t always ck and white.


    Now, let¡¯s get back to the ns for our fake wedding.¡±


    ¡°Can we focus now on the most important reason you¡¯re here?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yes, we can.¡± Anderson answered.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°So since it¡¯s a secret, I have few ces I think you guys can do the private wedding and take all the pictures you would need to convince your contractors as well as everyone around you including Jaime Fernado that you are married.¡±


    ¡°Okay, let me see them.¡± Alexander said, reaching for the file to go through the ces Anderson was suggesting they do the private wedding.


    ¡°So where do you think we should do this private wedding?¡±


    ¡°Uhm¡­ I¡¯ve got a few ideas. We need a ce that¡¯s discreet and convincing.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°Discreet is good, but it also has to look legit.¡± Alexa said.


    ¡°Exactly, so I¡¯ve thought about a few options. First, there¡¯s the secluded garden of that old mansion on the outskirt of town. Anderson said.


    ¡°Oh¡­. the one with the beautiful rose garden? That could work.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Yes, it has a ssic charm to it. Then, there¡¯s a small chapel in the woods nearby. It¡¯s pretty¡­. but not too fancy.¡± he said.


    ¡°What about the beach? A beach wedding could look very convincing?¡± Alex asked.


    Anderson gave him a cold look.


    ¡°Do you want to draw a lot of attention to yourself?¡±


    Alexander shook his head realizing that it was a terrible idea.


    ¡°And what about a rooftop garden with a view of the city?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°Sure¡­ that¡¯s a nice one huh. So that everyone would know I am getting married.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°Okay¡­ so let¡¯s go with the option of the mansion wedding.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°The mansion has potential. We can decorate it nicely and make it look elegant.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go with the mansion wedding then. What about the wedding date?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°I suggest next week since I would be traveling that next weekend to see and discuss with my potential client. So I need to be married before then.¡±


    ¡°Sounds good. We¡¯ll work out the details and make it happen.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°I have told my driver to go and pick her up by 2pm so she could go to pick some nice outfit for the wedding and for all our social eventsing up all through these three months of our fake marriage.¡± Alexander said.

 Wedding Shopping

    ¡°Perfect,¡± Anderson replied. ¡°That gives us a timeline to work with.


    Now, we should focus on arranging the necessary documentation for the wedding. We¡¯ll need a marriage license, certificates, and all the formalities to make it look real.¡±


    Alexander nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve got my legal team working on that already.


    And I¡¯ve arranged a list of guests, some of whom are just close friends, so it doesn¡¯t look like a grand wedding. We¡¯ll need witnesses to make it official.¡±


    ¡°Great,¡± Anderson said. ¡°The more real it looks, the better.


    And what about Marissa¡¯s attire? You mentioned your driver picking her up for shopping. Do you have any preferences for her wedding dress?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave that to her. I hope she has a good sense of style,¡± Alexander responded.


    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡± Anderson asks, looking at Alex in a weird way.


    Alexander brow furrowed at Anderson.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±


    ¡°You know the type of person you are. Are you sure you¡¯re okay with her style?


    I mean what if she chooses some clothes that you do not like and does not suit your style?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°C¡¯mon man, she¡¯s not a child that needs someone to teach her to have a sense of style,¡± he said.


    ¡°Alright¡­ if you say so.¡± Anderson said.


    But Alexander was concerned about what Anderson had just said.


    What If she actually picks clothes that he doesn¡¯t like? What if she doesn¡¯t have a sense of style?


    Alexander¡¯s worries about Marissa¡¯s sense of style continued to nag at him throughout the day.


    What if her choice of clothes for the fake wedding wasn¡¯t in line with what he normally likes?


    As he sat in his office, he decided to send Marissa a message to subtly inquire about her fashion choices.


    ¡®Hey Marissa, I hope you¡¯re doing well. I¡¯m not sending this to make you think I care. Just wanted to check if you have any specific ideas for the wedding attire. Let me know your thoughts. ¨C Alex¡¯


    He hoped that she would provide some insight into her fashion sense and their coboration for the uing events.


    ¡®Hello, Alexander. I don¡¯t care about that. I have some ideas on my phone. I will send it to you now. ¨C Marissa.¡¯


    Alexander received Marissa¡¯s message and quickly opened the attached photos of her ideas for the wedding attire.


    He was curious about what he would find.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    As he looked through the pictures, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of relief. Marissa had a good eye for fashion, and the outfits she had suggested were tasteful and elegant.


    He was pleasantly surprised by her choices and realized that his worries about her sense of style had been unfounded.


    ¡°Thank you, Marissa. These ideas are great,¡± he replied. ¡°We¡¯ll go with them for the wedding attire.¡±


    Alexander was relieved that Marissa¡¯s fashion choices aligned with his sense of style, making the uing events more manageable.


    He was learning that, despite their differences and the nature of their arrangement, they could still work together effectively.


    Meanwhile Marissa wasn¡¯t home as she had gone to the hospital to check up on her brother who was still recovering.


    ¡°Hey brother. How are you feeling?¡± she said as she sat down beside him.


    ¡°Like death!¡± he replied.


    ¡°Stop, don¡¯t say that.¡± she warned.


    ¡°I¡¯m bored sis. This ce just¡­. makes me more sick.


    I want to return to school and breathe in and out the school breeze again.¡± he said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll be going back to school soon after the doctor have done more test on you to be sure that you¡¯re strong and ready to go home.¡± she said.


    Marissa spent some time with her brother, trying to lift his spirits. She knew how much he missed being at school and among his friends.


    She assured him that he would be back in no time and encouraged him to focus on getting better.


    Her phone began to ring and as she checked the caller id, she realized that it was Alexander¡¯s driver.


    Oh boy¡­ What is she going to do? She didn¡¯t want him to know she was in the hospital so she didn¡¯t pick the call.


    He called again and this time she picked up trying to act asposed and calm as possible hoping that the driver wouldn¡¯t suspect that she was somewhere.


    ¡°Hello.¡± she answered her voice low.


    ¡°Sorry, ma¡¯am but my boss informed me that I should pick you up and take you to get something by 2pm and this is 2.¡± he said.


    Marissa felt the pressure of the situation. She had toe up with a quick excuse to exin her whereabouts without revealing that she was at the hospital visiting her brother.


    ¡°Hi,¡± she responded, trying to soundposed. ¡°I¡¯m currently tied up at a friend¡¯s ce, and I won¡¯t be able to make it to the appointment right now. Can you give me a little more time? I¡¯ll let you know when I¡¯m ready.¡±


    The driver agreed and said he¡¯d be on standby. Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel relieved that she had a bit more time to be with her brother without arousing suspicion.


    Marissa spent another hour with her brother at the hospital, trying to keep his spirits high and distract him from his illness.


    After a while, she decided it was time to return to the mansion.


    She called the driver and informed him that she was ready for the outing. The driver arrived shortly to pick her up.


    She was determined to y her part in this fake marriage, even if it meant juggling her personal life and hermitments to him.


    As she arrived at the mansion, the driver was there waiting inside the car and so she knocked his ss in the driver¡¯s seat to get his attention.


    ¡°Oh ma¡¯am.¡± he said as he came out of the driver¡¯s seat.


    Marissa smiled.


    ¡°I apologize for keeping you waiting, I was just stuck with something¡­ but I¡¯m free now¡­ so let¡¯s go.¡±


    The driver nodded and went to the passenger seat to open the door.


    ¡°Oh no no you don¡¯t have to do that. I can open the door myself. But thank you.¡± She smiled and entered the car.

 Wedding Shopping (2)

    The driver closed the car door, and they set off for their shopping trip. During the ride, Marissa decided to strike up a conversation.


    ¡°Hey, um¡­ I know this might sound a bit strange, but do you know what type of clothes Alexander likes for the uing events?¡± Marissa asked, wanting to understand his fashion taste better.


    The driver looked at her in the mirror and thought for a moment. ¡°Well, ma¡¯am, Mr. Alexander prefers ssic and fancy clothes.


    He usually goes for formal outfits. But it¡¯s also a good idea to pick something that matches your own style. You both should lookfortable together.¡±


    Marissa understood and appreciated the driver¡¯s advice. She realized that finding a bnce between their clothing preferences was important for making their fake marriage appear genuine.


    ¡°Will you help me choose an outfit that you believe Mr. Alexander would like?¡± she said.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Of course, ma¡¯am. I¡¯d be happy to help you select something that aligns with Mr. Alexander¡¯s style,¡± the driver replied with a friendly smile.


    ¡°I would be so grateful.¡± she said, smiling back at him.


    Marissa and the driver arrived at the shopping district. The area was filled with various boutiques and stores, all offering an array of clothing options.


    Marissa stepped into the first boutique, a high-end store with a selection of elegant dresses and suits. As she browsed through the racks, she began a conversation with the driver.


    ¡°I¡¯m not exactly sure what Mr. Alexander¡¯s style is, but I want to find something that will match his preferences.


    Do you have any specific rmendations?¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°Certainly, ma¡¯am. Mr. Alexander usually prefers formal and ssic outfits. He tends to go for fancy and well-tailored clothes.


    But it¡¯s also essential that you choose something that aligns with your personal style. It¡¯s important to lookfortable and confident together.¡±


    Marissa nodded, appreciating the advice. She started to explore the dresses, picking out a few options that caught her eye.


    ¡°What do you think of this one?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a lovely choice, ma¡¯am. It¡¯s elegant and could be a good fit for the uing events.¡±


    Marissa continued to try on different outfits, seeking the perfect one for the fake wedding and other social gatherings.


    The driver assisted her in selecting outfits that matched both her style and Mr. Alexander¡¯s preferences.


    After visiting several stores and boutiques, they finally found an outfit that Marissa felt confident in.


    It was a well-tailored dress that exuded elegance and wouldplement the image of a happily married couple.


    She was determined to make this fake marriage appear as authentic as possible, and the sessful shopping trip was a step in the right direction.


    Marissa and the driver got back into the car, the chosen outfit carefully stowed away.


    As they drove back to the mansion, Marissa felt a mix of emotions. She was relieved to have found an outfit that met Mr. Alexander¡¯s taste while still reflecting her own style.


    The driver, seeing her contemtive expression, decided to start a conversation to lighten the mood.


    ¡°I must say, ma¡¯am, you¡¯ve made an excellent choice. Mr. Alexander will surely be pleased with your selection.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. I hope so too. This whole situation is quite overwhelming, but I¡¯m determined to make it work.¡±


    ¡°I believe in your ability to pull this off. You¡¯ve shown great adaptability today.¡±


    Marissa offered a grateful smile. The driver¡¯s words of encouragement were a wee reassurance.


    She knew that the sess of their fake marriage was crucial for both her and Mr. Alexander.


    ¡°I appreciate your help and guidance today. It¡¯s been a learning experience.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a pleasure assisting you, ma¡¯am. If you ever need further help or have any questions, don¡¯t hesitate to ask.¡±


    Their conversation was filled with a sense of mutual support.


    As they approached the mansion, Marissa felt a growing determination to make this fake marriage convincing, regardless of the challenges thaty ahead.


    When they arrived back at the mansion, the driver helped Marissa with the shopping bags and then opened the door for her.


    She stepped out of the car, feeling a newfound sense of confidence after sessfully selecting an outfit that met Mr. Alexander¡¯s taste.


    As she entered the mansion, Marissa was surprised that Alexander was already home.


    ¡°You¡¯re around? I thought you won¡¯t be home anytime soon.¡± she said as she dropped her shopping bag.


    ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t really have much to do so I decided to return home to rest.¡± he informed me while sitting on the chair watching Television.


    ¡°And before I forget, how did the shopping go?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­. It went well¡­ I managed to find an outfit for the uing events.¡±


    ¡°Really¡­. that¡¯s nice.¡± he said, still focused on what he was watching on the Television.


    ¡°Do you want to see it? So that it would go with your taste?¡± she asked, handing over the shopping bags to him.


    He looked at the outfit she had chosen. A smile formed on his lips and he nodded in approval.


    ¡°The outfits are nice and I must say you have quite the taste for clothes.¡± heplimented.


    She looked at him in shock.


    He looked at her with a confused expression.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m shocked that youplimented me.¡± she said.


    ¡°Well¡­ I do sometimes when I see something good.¡± he said as he sat down to continue what he was watching on the TV.


    ¡°Well thank you for thepliment.¡± she said.


    ¡°And I¡¯m d you like the outfits I picked because I asked your driver and he really helped me with the picking of the outfits to match your sense of style.¡±


    ¡°Oh really?¡± his face surprised at what I said.


    ¡°Mmm-mmm¡± she nodded.


    ¡°Well, he goes with me to the mall when I need new outfits or sometimes I want to get Jessie some new clothes to surprise her.


    So I guess that was how he knew my sense of style.¡± he exined while pressing the remote to change the channel.

 A Big Argument

    ¡°He did a very good job and I was truly grateful.¡± she said


    ¡°So have you picked the ce for the fake wedding yet?¡±


    Alexander looked at Marissa after she mentioned the fake wedding.


    ¡°Uhm¡­ yeah. I was going over some options with mywyer. We¡¯ve decided on a mansion.


    It¡¯s a private and elegant location that should work well for our n. What do you think?¡± he asked, facing Marissa to get her view about the matter


    She looked surprised.


    ¡°A mansion? Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s a bit much?¡±


    ¡°Look, for my business partners who I want to sign the contract with need to be convinced that I really am married so that I could sign the contract with them.


    Do you know how much it will cost to get that contract for mypany?¡± he asked Marissa.


    Marissa and Alexander sat across from each other in silence, tension filling the room. Alexander had been dismissive of her opinions and had a tendency to be unfriendly.


    ¡°A mansion? Seriously, Alexander? You¡¯re making this fake wedding sound like a royal affair,¡± Marissa said with an irritated tone.


    He leaned back in his chair, not bothering to hide his annoyance.


    ¡°This is a business deal, Marissa, not a fairy tale. It needs to look convincing, and a mansion is the best choice.¡±


    Marissa clenched her jaw but didn¡¯t back down.


    ¡°I still think it¡¯s excessive.¡±


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re entitled to your opinion, but I¡¯m not changing the n,¡± he snapped.


    ¡°This is my idea and you are not gonna tell me what I should or should not do.


    You¡¯re here because I picked you to be my fake wife, so you don¡¯te and start deciding for me alright.¡±


    She looked at him pissed with what he just said.


    ¡°Do you know¡­. I thought we could have a meaningful conversation but all we do is fight, fight and fight because you are one piece of work, Alexander.¡± sheshed out.


    He turned from what he was watching and stared at her with anger zing in his eyes.


    ¡°Are you implying that I¡¯m the problem here?¡± he retorted.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say that, but you said that meaning you know that you¡¯re the problem.¡± she said to him, obviously angry at his words.


    ¡°You know what, I wouldn¡¯t have picked someone like you in the first ce, because you are seriously a piece of work, Marissa.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing. Alexander¡¯s harsh words hit her like a p in the face.


    ¡°You¡¯re no better.¡± she shot back.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have agreed to this if I knew you were so insufferable.¡±


    ¡°Me? Insufferable? You¡¯ve got a lot of nerve talking back at me, Marissa.¡± heshed out standing up to face her.


    The room was now a battlefield of words, each of them determined to have thest say. Marissa stood her ground, refusing to back down.


    ¡°At least I¡¯m not arrogant and self-centered like you!¡± she retorted, her anger boiling over.


    ¡°Seriously, Marissa, don¡¯t push me.¡± he threatened.


    ¡°Oh please¡­ do you really think I¡¯m scared of you huh?¡± she rolled her eyes.


    Marissa was seething with anger. She couldn¡¯t believe the audacity of Alexander¡¯s words.


    ¡°You¡¯re not making any sense, Alexander,¡± she snapped back. ¡°You act like I¡¯m the one causing all the problems here.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s face turned even redder with frustration. ¡°Oh, so now you¡¯re saying I¡¯m the problem, huh?¡±


    Marissa wasn¡¯t backing down. ¡°You¡¯re so full of yourself, it¡¯s unbearable. I never thought I¡¯d meet someone as arrogant as you.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s nostrils red.


    ¡°Arrogant? Look who¡¯s talking! You can be incredibly stubborn.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s voice was filled with contempt.


    ¡°Stubborn? Maybe if you weren¡¯t so controlling, we wouldn¡¯t be having this argument!¡±


    The room felt like a pressure cooker about to explode. Alexander clenched his fists.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know the first thing aboutpromise, Marissa.¡±


    Marissa shot back,


    ¡°And you don¡¯t know the first thing about being a decent human being.¡±


    ¡°And you do?¡± He shot back.


    ¡°I mean take a good look at yourself. I changed your life. If I didn¡¯t propose this would you have had the money to buy those decent clothes over there.¡± Pointing to the new clothes he bought.


    ¡°Oh ¡­ . so you feel you changed my life huh.¡± she said.


    ¡°You are a scumbag!¡±


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t want me to agree, you would have found a way to talk to your damn girlfriend to be your wife, but wait a minute, she¡¯s too ambitious to have time for a little clingy boyfriend like you.¡±


    Alexander was beginning to lose control of his anger.


    ¡°You bitch! don¡¯t you dare talk about Jessie like that.¡± he yelled, moving closer to face her.


    ¡°You¡¯re not my type and will never be. You pauper!¡±


    Marissa¡¯s anger red even higher. ¡°Pauper? That¡¯s riching from you, Mr. High-and-Mighty CEO!¡±


    Their voices shed like thunder in the room as their argument reached a level.. The tension was almost choking.


    ¡°Maybe I don¡¯t want to be your type!¡± Marissa yelled back at Alexander, her face filled with anger.


    Alexander was almost trembling with anger.


    ¡°You know what? I should¡¯ve never agreed to this ridiculous n.¡±


    Marissa pointed a finger at him, her voice dripping with sarcasm.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re such a catch that every woman would want to marry you.¡±


    Alexander was furious, but he couldn¡¯te up with a response. He turned and stormed out of the room, leaving Marissa seething.


    ¡°Where are you going, asshole? I¡¯m not done talking yet you fucking bastard!¡±


    The air was thick with their heated exchange, and the room felt like a battleground. Their argument had left them both wounded, but they were far from reaching a truce.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Meanwhile, Marissa was left standing alone in the room, her heart still pounding from their intense argument.


    She hadn¡¯t expected their fake marriage to be easy, but the level of anger that had just erupted took her by surprise.


    She took a few deep breaths to calm down.

 A Bit Guilt

    She knew they were stuck with each other for the next three months, and they needed to find a way to live together, even if they didn¡¯t get along.


    Marissa decided to give it time and not let this fight break her determination to make this fake marriage work.


    Alexander stormed out of the house and entered his car and drove off. While in the car he dialed Anderson¡¯s number.


    ¡°I ain¡¯t gonna continue with this damn fake wedding with that bitch, never!¡± he told himself as he pressed his phone trying to dial Anderson¡¯s number while driving and calling his number.


    Anderson picked up.


    ¡°Hey, Alexander. What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°Anderson, you won¡¯t believe the way Marissa spoke to me.


    She¡¯s impossible. I can¡¯t tolerate her for even a day, let alone three months. This whole thing is a disaster, and I¡¯ve had enough.¡±


    Anderson tried to remain calm.


    ¡°I understand, Alexander. Emotions can run high, especially when two people are forced into such an arrangement.


    But remember, you can¡¯t afford to lose this contract.¡±


    Alexander couldn¡¯t contain his anger.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about the contract anymore. I¡¯d rather look for someone else, anyone else, to be my fake wife.


    This is ridiculous.¡±


    Anderson knew he had to persuade Alexander to stick with the n.


    ¡°Listen, I know it¡¯s tough, but Marissa is our best option. You won¡¯t find someone else who can pull this off as convincingly as she can. Let¡¯s not throw away our chances for sess.¡±


    Alexander grumbled, but Anderson continued his reasoning.


    ¡°We¡¯ll find a way to manage their differences, keep things professional, and make it through these three months. It¡¯s just a business arrangement, Alexander.¡±


    After a tense pause, Alexander reluctantly agreed to proceed.


    ¡°Fine, we¡¯ll continue, but I don¡¯t have to like it.¡±


    Anderson reassured him, ¡°I¡¯ll support you both in making this work. It¡¯s just a matter of time, and we¡¯ll secure that contract.¡±


    As Alexander hung up the phone, he still seethed with frustration, torn between the need for the contract and his disdain for the fake marriage arrangement.


    Just then, his phone rings and he looks at it and realizes that it was Jessie.


    As Alexander grappled with his decision to continue the fake marriage, his phone rang, and he saw that it was Jessie calling. His emotions were in turmoil, and he hesitated for a moment before answering the call.


    ¡°Hey, Jessie,¡± he said, his voice trying to convey some semnce of normalcy.


    ¡°Hey, Alexander,¡± Jessie replied. ¡°I was thinking about our rtionship and how we¡¯ve been so busytely.


    I miss you, and I think we need to spend more time together.¡±


    Alexander felt a pang of guilt as Jessie spoke. He knew he had been preupied with the fake marriage arrangement, and it had taken a toll on their rtionship.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right,¡± he responded, trying to sound sincere. ¡°I miss you too, Jessie. Let¡¯s n something special soon.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ once I return from my trip, I think we should go somewhere nice and quiet to just be alone. What do you think?¡± she asked him on the phone.


    ¡°Yes, Jessie. That would be really nice. How¡¯s work going over there and when are youing back?¡±


    Alexander was relieved that Jessie seemed understanding and eager to spend time with him. He knew he needed to make it up to her for being distanttely.


    Jessie¡¯s voice on the other end of the line was warm as she replied,


    ¡°Work¡¯s been hectic, but it should calm down soon. I should be back in a few weeks. I can¡¯t wait to see you, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Me too, Jessie,¡± he said, genuine happiness in his voice. ¡°Just a few more weeks, and we¡¯ll have the quality time we need.¡±


    As they continued talking, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of relief that things were still okay with Jessie. He hoped he could find a way to make their rtionship work while managing the fake marriage with Marissa.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you get back to whatever you¡¯re doing. Just remember, I love you.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s heart sank as he replied, ¡°I love you too, Jessie.¡±


    After ending the call, he sat in silence, torn between hismitment to Jessie and the challenging situation with Marissa. Theing months would test his ability to bnce his real and fake rtionships.


    He drove to a bar to get himself something to drink.


    This whole fake marriage and Jessie was getting to him and honestly Marissa wasn¡¯t helping him.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Of course he knew he was a piece of work, but she didn¡¯t have to say it to his face even though he knew he also said some mean words to her.


    Alexander sat at the bar, nursing his drink and trying to drown out his frustrations.


    The dimly lit bar was a wee escape from the chaos of his current situation.


    As he stared into his ss, a young woman in a ssy red dress approached him, a charming smile on her face.


    She had noticed Alexander sitting alone at the bar and decided to strike up a conversation.


    ¡°Hi there,¡± she said, her voice soft and inviting. ¡°You seem like you could use somepany. Mind if I join you?¡±


    Alexander looked up, slightly surprised by her bold approach, and gestured to the empty stool next to him.


    ¡°Sure, go ahead.¡±


    She gracefully took a seat, her eyes locking onto his.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t help but notice you sitting here all alone. Is something bothering you?¡±


    Alexander sighed, appreciating the stranger¡¯s concern.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s just been a tough day, you know? Work and personal stuff, it¡¯s all a bit overwhelming.¡±


    Her face showed empathy as she leaned in closer.


    ¡°Ipletely understand. Sometimes a good conversation with a stranger can help.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­. it¡¯s not really something I can say.¡± he said.


    ¡°Try me¡­¡± she said.


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, debating whether to open up to this stranger.


    The dimly lit bar provided a certainfort and calmness, which made him feel more at ease.


    He took a deep breath and decided to share a little.

 Sarah

    ¡°I¡¯m caught up in thisplicated situation. I¡¯m in a fake marriage, and it¡¯s causing all sorts of problems in my personal life.


    It¡¯s like I¡¯m living a double life, and it¡¯s overwhelming.¡±


    The woman nodded, her expression understanding.


    ¡°That does sound like a challenging situation. But it¡¯s only temporary, right?¡±


    Alexander shrugged, a hint of frustration in his voice. ¡°It¡¯s supposed to be, but it¡¯s taking a toll on me.¡±


    She leaned in closer, her words softer. ¡°Sometimes we need to do what we have to do to achieve our goals. But don¡¯t forget to take care of yourself along the way.


    You mustn¡¯t allow those kinds of things to affect you. Try to rx and not get all worked up about it.¡±


    Alexander was taken aback by the wisdom of her words. It was a brief encounter, but he found himself feeling a little lighter, as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he said sincerely, giving her a small, appreciative smile. ¡°I needed to hear that.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ I¡¯m kinda a counselor so it¡¯s no biggie for me.¡± she said, while sipping her drink.


    ¡°A counselor huh? You really are good at what you do, I must say.¡± he said, a smile on his face as heplimented her.


    She smiled.


    ¡°Well¡­. I try to be.¡±


    ¡°No, honestly, you really are good at what you do.¡± heplimented again.


    ¡°You see I don¡¯t believe that a counsellor can help me work on my problems¡­ you know sitting down for 4 hours discussing about why I am angry at someone and all.


    But I just had a brief discussion with you and I must say, you¡¯re different from any counselor I have ever had an encounter with.¡±


    She appreciated his kind words and blushed slightly at thepliments.


    Alexander thanked the woman for her words of wisdom. ¡°You¡¯re really good at this.¡±


    She smiled. ¡°Well, I try my best.¡±


    ¡°You know, I usually find counseling sessions long and tedious. But this short conversation with you has been surprisingly helpful.


    You¡¯re different from any counselor I¡¯ve ever met.¡±


    She appreciated thepliment. ¡°Thank you. I believe that sometimes, a meaningful conversation can be as effective as hours of counseling.¡±


    Alexander agreed. ¡°Absolutely. You have a way of getting to the heart of the matter quickly. It¡¯s a wee change.¡±


    She smiled.


    ¡°So what are you nning to do now about your fake wedding and all?¡± she asked him.


    Alexander sighed, thinking about theplex situation he found himself in.


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll have to continue with the n. It¡¯s crucial for my business, even if it¡¯s causing me a lot of personal stress.¡±


    She looked at him sympathetically.


    ¡°It sounds like a tough spot to be in. But remember what we talked about ¨C don¡¯t let it consume you.¡±


    He nodded appreciatively.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯ll find a way to make it work, one step at a time.¡±


    ¡°Yeah one step at a time.¡± she said.


    ¡°But I¡¯m telling you, thedy is a piece of work. She is stubborn and doesn¡¯t listen to me.¡± he said.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I mean she called me a piece of work and that I¡¯m the most selfish and self centered.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ what did you call her that led to her saying such words to you?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I um¡­. called her¡­ a pauper.¡± he revealed.


    The woman chuckled. ¡°A pauper? That¡¯s quite a harsh word to use.¡±


    Alexander nodded. ¡°I know, I lost my temper. But she was pushing my buttons too.¡±


    ¡°Well, it takes two to tango,¡± she pointed out. ¡°Maybe you both need to find somemon ground.¡±


    ¡°Common ground? Me and her? Never gonna happen.¡± he said, facing his drink.


    She leaned in, lowering her voice slightly. ¡°You never know, stranger things have happened. Sometimes, people surprise us.¡±


    Alexander mulled over her words for a moment. ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right, maybe not. But thanks for the chat. It¡¯s been a surprisingly pleasant distraction from all the drama.¡±


    The woman smiled. ¡°Sometimes, that¡¯s all we need. Good luck with your¡­ unique situation.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, I¡¯ll need it,¡± he said, raising his ss in a silent toast before taking another sip.


    ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t get your name,¡±he asked.


    She chuckled. ¡°My name is Sarah.


    ¡°My name is Alexander,¡± he revealed.


    ¡°Nice to meet you, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Likewise, Sarah.¡± Alexander offered a genuine smile, appreciating the unexpected encounter.


    Sarah waved as she left, leaving Alexander to his thoughts, his mind already racing with ideas on how to handle theplicated web of his current life.


    He thought about what to do with the issue with Marissa. He realized that maybe he would continue with the fake wedding.


    Alexander sat there for a while, pondering his options. Sarah¡¯s advice had given him some perspective.


    Maybe there was a way to make things work with Marissa. It wouldn¡¯t be easy, but he was determined to find somemon ground.


    As he finished his drink, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He knew he had a challenging path ahead, juggling his real rtionship with Jessie and the fake marriage with Marissa. But he was ready to face it head-on.


    With a deep breath, he left the bar and headed home, prepared to confront Marissa and try to make their unusual arrangement function, even if it meant finding a way to make amends.


    He got into his car and drove back home. While he was in his car, he thought about what to say to Marissa.


    As he drove back home, Alexander realized the importance of choosing his words carefully when he spoke to Marissa.


    He didn¡¯t want to start another argument. Instead, he wanted to find a way to make things right.


    While driving, he practiced what he would say. He knew he needed to admit his own mistakes and say sorry for the hurtful things he had said.


    He also wanted to emphasize hismitment to making their fake marriage work and ensure it wouldn¡¯t affect his rtionship with Jessie.


    With a n in mind, Alexander kept on driving, determined to make amends with Marissa and move forward with theirplicated situation.

 Cooking Breakfast For Him

    As Alexander drove home, he thought about how important it was to talk to Marissa carefully.


    He didn¡¯t want to argue again. Instead, he wanted to make things right.


    While driving, he rehearsed what he¡¯d say. He knew he needed to admit his own mistakes and apologize for the hurtful things he said.


    He also wanted to emphasize hismitment to their fake marriage and reassure Marissa that it wouldn¡¯t affect his rtionship with Jessie.


    Alexander kept driving, determined to make amends with Marissa and move forward with theirplicated situation.


    When Alexander arrived home, he found Marissa in the living room, her face etched with worry. She seemed taken aback when he entered.


    He took a deep breath and approached her with a sincere expression.


    ¡°Marissa, I want to talk to you.¡±


    Marissa looked up at him, a mixture of curiosity and caution in her eyes.


    ¡°Okay, go ahead.¡±


    ¡°I want to apologize for what I said earlier. It was uncalled for, and I shouldn¡¯t have used hurtful words.¡±


    She nodded slowly, her guard beginning toe down.


    ¡°I appreciate the apology, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Even though I honestly didn¡¯t expect that you would apologize, but thank you for apologizing to me.¡± she smiled at him.


    He continued,


    ¡°I also want you to know that, despite our differences, we need to make this fake marriage work.


    I don¡¯t want it to affect my rtionship with Jessie. It¡¯s important to me that we find a way to cooperate and make it convincing for the sake of the contract and our lives.¡±


    Marissa seemed to consider his words.


    ¡°I agree. Let¡¯s try to work together without all the fighting.¡±


    Alexander felt a sense of relief that she was willing to cooperate.


    ¡°Thank you for understanding. Let¡¯s start fresh and find a way to make this situation work for both of us.¡±


    ¡°We may have started as adversaries, but at this moment, we need to be ready to make this work at all cost.¡± she said.


    She sat back on the couch as he also sat down on the couch.


    ¡°So when are we doing the private wedding and all?¡±


    ¡°Uh um¡­.. Let¡¯s make it tomorrow by 4pm. Is that fine?¡± He looked at her waiting for her response.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­. I kinda have something to do by that time, but I think I could move it so that we can do whatever we wanna do by that time.¡±She replied.


    ¡°Okay, great!¡± he sped his hands together.


    ¡°I guess it¡¯s settled then.¡± he got up and began to walk out of the sitting room.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you rest now. I need to be up and out of the house early cause I have an early appointment with a client.¡± He informed her.


    She smiled, her hand brushing some strands of hair to the side of her ear.


    Alexander didn¡¯t know why she smiled, so he asked her.


    ¡°Why are you smiling?¡±


    Marissa¡¯s smile remained as she responded, ¡°I¡¯m smiling because it¡¯s a relief that we can have a civil conversation for once. It¡¯s been quite a rollercoaster, and I¡¯m d we¡¯re on the same page now.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile. ¡°I¡¯m d too. Let¡¯s try to make this work.¡±


    With a nod of agreement, Marissa watched him as he made his way towards the door. ¡°I¡¯ll rest up for our meeting tomorrow. Have a good day with your client, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Marissa. I¡¯ll see you tomorrow,¡± he replied before leaving the room, this time with a sense of hope that their strange partnership might just survive.


    ¡°Should I wake up early and prepare breakfast for him¡­?


    Wouldn¡¯t it sound weird or look weird after all we are not an actual couple?¡± she spoke to herself.


    As Marissa contemted whether to prepare breakfast for Alexander, she realized that it might be a way to bridge the gap between them. After all, they were ying the roles of a married couple, even if it was fake.


    With a determined look, she decided to set her rm a bit earlier to whip up a simple breakfast. It was a small gesture, but she hoped it would contribute to a more harmonious rtionship between her and Alexander.


    The next morning, Marissa was up as she yawned and stretched.


    Honestly, left to her she would have loved to stay in bed and sleep longer, but she felt she needed to wake up and prepare breakfast for Alexander as a kind gesture and nothing more.


    Or could there be another reason she was doing it? Could she be growing feelings for him?


    She shook her head and told herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m just doing it to just show that I was appreciative for his help and all and nothing more.¡±


    She nodded to herself and smiled then got out of bed and headed to the kitchen.


    ¡°Okay¡­. so what can I prepare this morning that could be fast before he wakes up?¡± she thought as she searched the fridge.


    She looked at the fridge for sometime contemting what to prepare for breakfast. She wanted something quick yet satisfying.N?velDrama.Org content.


    As she stood in the kitchen, her eyes roamed over the content of the fridge.


    Then, she noticed the eggs. A n formed in her mind.


    ¡°I could prepare some scrambled eggs, toast a few slices of bread and brew a pot of fresh coffee for him.¡± she decided.


    She nodded to herself and decided to go along with her ns to prepare the breakfast.


    She took a pan from a cupboard, cracked a few eggs into a bowl, and whisked them until they were smooth.


    The smell of coffee filled the kitchen as she set up the coffee maker and brewed a pot.


    She slid slices of bread into the toaster, making sure they were golden brown before cing it into a te.


    Soon the kitchen was filled with the delightful aroma of freshly scrambled eggs and the rich fragrance of coffee.


    Marissa set the table, cing a te of eggs and toast along with a steaming cup of coffee at one setting.

 Her Kind Gesture

    She looked at what she had made and smiled at herself for doing a job well done.


    Marissa had prepared a simple yet delicious breakfast, a gesture to show her appreciation for Alexander¡¯s help and an attempt to ease the tension between them.


    Meanwhile, Alexander was in his room, getting ready for the day, when he caught the aroma of breakfast wafting through the house.


    He was pleasantly surprised. As he walked into the kitchen, he found a neatly set table with a warm breakfast waiting for him.


    Marissa looked up and smiled at him.


    ¡°I thought we could start the day right with a good breakfast.¡±


    Alexander was genuinely touched by her gesture.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Wow! I¡¯m truly touched by this.¡± he continued.


    ¡°I never thought I would take anything this morning before going to work. I normally don¡¯t eat this early, but now having a fake wife is not pretty bad.¡± heplimented.


    ¡°Hahaha¡­. Sit down and eat before your breakfast gets cold.¡± she said.


    He smiled and sat down at the table, and they began to eat together. For a moment, the tension between them seemed to have eased.


    ¡°So my driver should pick you up here by 4pm, So please be ready by then.¡± he said, while sipping his coffee.


    ¡°Do I need to put on my dress here or over there?¡± she asked.


    ¡°No¡­. you¡¯ll be sorted out there when youe. There would be a makeup artist who would do some little touches on your face.


    But my driver shoulde earlier to pick you up so that you could go and do some beauty make over to your body.¡± he said.


    ¡°To my body?¡± she asked, looking at herself.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my body?¡±


    ¡°Nothing actually, but it¡¯s necessary for you to look neat and healthy and fit to be my wife. So a body beauty makeover is needed.¡± he said.


    ¡°And what would they do exactly?¡± she asked, curiosity in her voice.


    ¡°Well¡­ they um¡­.¡±


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, not sure how to exin the beauty makeover process to Marissa.


    He wanted to be truthful but also didn¡¯t want to offend her.


    ¡°They¡¯ll enhance your natural beauty, Marissa,¡± he began carefully.


    ¡°They might do things like hair styling, makeup, and ensure your attire looks perfect for the asion. It¡¯s just to make sure you look your best.¡±


    Marissa nodded, starting to understand the purpose behind it. She had no issues with looking her best for the event, as long as it didn¡¯t change who she was.


    ¡°Alright, that sounds fine,¡± she replied, her earlier concerns easing. ¡°I¡¯m willing to do whatever it takes to make our fake marriage convincing.¡±


    ¡°Great, I appreciate your cooperation,¡± Alexander said with a hint of gratitude in his tone.


    ¡°You¡¯ll see, it won¡¯t be asplicated as it may sound.¡±


    ¡°Hmm-mmm.¡± she nodded.


    He checked his wrist watch and then got up.


    ¡°I have to leave now, I¡¯m sure that my driver is outside waiting for me.¡±


    ¡°Really? Are you sure¡­? But why didn¡¯t he ring the bell to let you know he¡¯s around?¡± she asked him, as she began clearing the table.


    ¡°Because I told him not to. I thought you would be sleeping and I didn¡¯t want to wake you up. I didn¡¯t know you would wake up and prepare me breakfast.


    Which I enjoyed by the way.¡± he smiled as he wore his suit and took his briefcase.


    ¡°Ah!¡± she eximed.


    She entered the kitchen and wrapped some toast with eggs and put some hot brewed coffee into a sk and handed them to Alexander.


    ¡°Could you be so kind as to hand this over to your driver?¡± she asked, giving Alexander the wrapped breakfast and sk.


    ¡°Why?¡± he asked, surprised at what she was asking of him.


    ¡°Because, like you don¡¯t normally have breakfast that early due to the time of your meeting, I¡¯m sure your driver won¡¯t have had anything either so please give him this so that he could take something as well.¡±


    Alexander smiled at her kind gesture. He never expected that she could be this thoughtful even when he never thought about it.


    ¡°Okay¡­. I¡¯ll do that.¡±


    ¡°Thank you and have a great day.¡± she smiled.


    Marissa¡¯s thoughtful gesture took Alexander by surprise. He hadn¡¯t expected her to think of his driver¡¯s well-being.


    ¡°Thank you, Marissa. I appreciate your kindness,¡± he said sincerely.


    With the breakfast and coffee in hand, he made his way to the driver, who was waiting outside.


    The driver was pleasantly surprised when Alexander handed him the breakfast and coffee. ¡°Thank you, sir. I didn¡¯t expect this.¡±


    ¡°Marissa prepared it for you,¡± Alexander exined, realizing that she was capable of kindness and consideration.


    The driver expressed his gratitude, and Alexander left for his meeting, feeling grateful for the unexpected turn of events and the beginning of a more amicable rtionship with Marissa.


    As the car continued on its way to the meeting, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but reflect on the surprising turn of events.


    Marissa¡¯s thoughtfulness  had caught him off guard. He had often wanted someone who would care for him the way she did, but he had never expected  it from their fake marriage arrangement.


    He had always wanted to be with a woman who would take care of him like a child and showed him the love he never experienced when he was growing up.


    But he shook his head realizing that this wasn¡¯t a real marriage but a fake one to get what he wanted as well as she gets what she also wanted.


    He continued studying the document in his tablet as the car zoomed on.


    While still studying the documents on his tablet, he found his thoughts drifting back to Marissa again.


    He wondered if there was more to her than met the eye. Perhaps, despite their differences, there was a chance for understanding and cooperation in this unique situation. The thought both intrigued and confused him.


    Alexander knew that he had to stay focused on the business at hand. The important meeting required his full attention.


    After all, the sess of hispany was on the line, and he couldn¡¯t afford to let personal matters interfere.

 Brotherly Love

    With determination, he focused his mind back into the documents, putting aside his thoughts about Marissa for the time being.


    It was time to face his business partners and secure the vital contract he had been working so hard to obtain.


    While still in the car, his phone rang and he checked it and realized that it was Jessie calling.


    He wondered why she was calling that early.


    He picked up.


    ¡°Hey, Jessie,¡± Alexander answered, his voice tinged with surprise.


    ¡°Is everything okay?


    You don¡¯t normally call me this early. So what¡¯s up?¡±


    Jessie¡¯s voice sounded rushed and anxious on the other end of the line.


    ¡°Alexander, I¡¯ve got some news¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­.. I¡¯m listening¡­¡± he said, hoping it wasn¡¯t what he was thinking. Hope she hasn¡¯t found out anything?


    Nah¡­.. I don¡¯t think so. Anderson and myself are the only ones who know about the fake marriage thingy and my driver but they had all signed a confidential agreement that if they disclosed my secret, they would have to pay.


    So he hoped it wasn¡¯t the reason she called. He thought to himself as he listened to her on the phone.


    ¡°Something unexpected hase up.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Jessie?¡±


    ¡°I just found out that I have to extend my business trip,¡± she exined. ¡°It¡¯s unavoidable, and I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll be back.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s heart sank. Her extended absence meant that he would need to maintain their long-distance rtionship for even longer, which was already strained by his fake marriage arrangement.


    ¡°I understand, Jessie,¡± he replied, struggling to hide his disappointment.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°I¡¯ll manage things on my end. Just focus on your work, and we¡¯ll make it work, okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Alexander,¡± Jessie said apologetically.


    ¡°I promise I¡¯ll make it up to you when I get back. I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, Jessie,¡± Alexander replied sincerely.


    After the call ended, he couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of hisplex web of rtionships, all pulling him in different directions.


    Alexander couldn¡¯t shake off the mixed emotions that swirled within him. On one hand, he felt a growing connection with Marissa, stemming from her unexpected kindness that morning.


    On the other hand, his real rtionship with Jessie was already strained, and her extended absence added anotheryer ofplexity.


    As he arrived at the meeting location, he focused on the task at hand. The business partners he was about to meet were crucial to the sess of hispany.


    The negotiations, discussions, and presentations filled his day, leaving him with little time to dwell on his personal life.


    The business meeting went on for a long time, and Alexander was fully focused on securing the important contract for hispany.


    He didn¡¯t have much time to think about his personal life or the fake marriage with Marissa.


    The meeting was sessful, and he managed to secure the contract. It was a significant achievement for hispany, and he felt a sense of pride.


    As the meeting ended, Alexander left the venue, ready to face the challenges of his fake marriage once again.


    He knew that bncing his real and fake rtionships was not going to be easy, but he was determined to make it work.


    On his way to his office, he couldn¡¯t help but wonder how hisplicated life would unfold, especially with Jessie being away and the unexpected connection he was building with Marissa.


    Meanwhile, Marissa cleared the kitchen she prepared to go to the hospital to check up on her brother.


    She wanted to look fresh and presentable, even though she was just visiting her brother. After her shower, Marissa quickly got dressed and checked herself in the mirror.


    Satisfied with her appearance, she grabbed her purse and headed to get a cab and headed to the hospital.


    She was determined to ensure her brother¡¯s recovery was going well, as family remained a priority in her life.


    Marissa arrived at the hospital, feeling both worried and hopeful for her brother¡¯s recovery.


    She greeted him with a smile and was prepared to offer the help andfort he needed during his healing process.


    ¡°Hey there, champ,¡± Marissa greeted her brother as she entered his hospital room.


    ¡°How¡¯s my favorite patient doing today?¡±


    He managed a weak smile.


    ¡°Getting there, sis. Thanks foring.¡±


    Marissa took a seat next to his bed.


    ¡°I brought some snacks to keep youpany. How¡¯s the hospital food treating you?¡±


    Her brother chuckled. ¡°Terrible, as always. Your snacks are a wee change.¡±


    As they chatted about various topics, Marissa¡¯s brother seemed to regain some of his spirits, and the conversation turned to his favorite hobbies and uing ns.


    He suddenly asked, ¡°How¡¯s work, sis? Anything exciting happening at the office?¡±


    Marissa gave a brief nod, careful not to reveal her secret fake marriage.


    ¡°Work¡¯s been keeping me busy, but I can¡¯tin. Lots of projects to manage.¡±


    ¡°I have no doubt you¡¯re doing amazing things,¡± he said with pride in his eyes.


    Marissa smiled. ¡°You¡¯re my inspiration, little bro.¡±


    He looked at her in a weird way.


    ¡°I¡¯m your inspiration?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Hmm-mmm.¡± she nodded.


    ¡°How so?¡± he asked, a smile on his face as he leaned closer while eating his snacks.


    Marissa chuckled at her brother¡¯s surprise.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯ve always had this incredible resilience. Even when things were tough, you managed to stay strong and never give up. That¡¯s what inspires me.¡±


    Her brother grinned, his eyes reflecting the bond they shared. ¡°You know, you¡¯re pretty inspiring too, Sis.¡±


    ¡°Aw, you¡¯re making me blush,¡± Marissa teased, grateful for the chance to lift her brother¡¯s spirits.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious sis. You never gave up on me and you made sure that I did the surgery and now¡­ I¡¯m getting a little better because of you.¡± he said, cing his hand on her hand as she smiled at him.


    ¡°You mean more to me than anything, and I will make sure that nothing happens to you.¡± She said, looking into his eyes with so much care and love.


    ¡°A¡­ now I¡¯m feeling very important.¡±


    ¡°Because you are important, silly,¡± she said with a grin, feeling her heart swell with love for her brother.

 A New Change

    Meanwhile, Alexander returned back to his office, exhausted after the meeting he had early that money.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    He sat down on his chair while his secretary who had followed immediately he entered, came to brief him on his other appointments for the day.


    Alexander sat down at his desk, clearly exhausted from the morning meeting. His secretary, who had been waiting, approached to brief him on his schedule for the day.


    ¡°Sir, you have a conference call with the overseas clients in 30 minutes,¡± she informed him, noticing his tired expression.


    He sighed, clearly feeling overwhelmed by his tight schedule.


    ¡°Alright, set it up for me. Anything else I need to know?¡±


    She nodded and continued.


    ¡°You also have a meeting with the marketing team at 3 PM, and there¡¯s a dinner event tonight with the potential investors.¡±


    Alexander leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples.


    ¡°I need a break, but it looks like I won¡¯t be getting one today. Thank you for the updates.¡±


    His secretary was taken aback by his kind response and telling her thank you, she stood there for a few seconds.


    Alexander looked up and wondered why she was still standing there looking dazed.


    ¡°Is there anything else¡­..?¡±


    She shook her head, snapping back to attention.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s all for now. I¡¯ll prepare for your next meeting.¡±


    He nodded, and she quickly left his office to carry out her tasks, leaving Alexander to focus on his busy schedule for the day.


    As the secretary closed the door behind her, she returned back to her seat wondering what was happening to her boss.


    He wasn¡¯t nice, and has never thanked her for anything. All he does all day is yell and insult her which she was already used to.


    Not that it wasn¡¯t painful, but she got used to his behavior, but this sudden transformation is so weird.


    She opened herputer and went to thepany¡¯s chat room for employees and informed them that Mr. Alexander said thank you for the first time since she has been working for him.


    She quickly typed in the chat room:


    ¡°Just had a surprising encounter. Mr. Alexander actually said ¡®thank you¡¯ today.¡±


    Her colleagues¡¯ responses came pouring in:


    ¡°Are you serious? Is the world ending?¡± One of her colleaguesmented with a surprise emoji.


    ¡°He said ¡®Thank you?¡¯ Did you record it? We need proof!¡± Another colleaguemented.


    ¡°Maybe¡­. he¡¯s a clone! That¡¯s the only exnation!¡± Another colleaguemented.


    ¡°I think we should call an emergency meeting about this.¡± anothermented.


    ¡°Or is he dying so he¡¯s trying to get on God¡¯s good side?¡± another responded.


    ¡°Or is thepany going bankrupt and he¡¯s trying to be nice before he drops the bombshell?¡± anothermented.


    ¡°Send a selfie with him as evidence!¡± another said.


    She chuckled as the chat room buzzed with their surprise. Alexander¡¯s sudden politeness was indeed a rare urrence in the office.


    What could have suddenly changed a mean and abusive boss to a kind one who says thank you to his staff?


    She was curious to find out. She was so lost in thought that she didn¡¯t know that Mr. Anderson was in front of her desk calling her mind to reality after noticing that she was lost in thought.


    He knocked on her table to snap her back to reality.


    When she snapped back to reality she got up quickly.


    ¡°Is Mr. Alexander on seat?¡± he asked her.


    ¡°Um¡­. Yes, sir. He¡¯s having a 30 minute call with some overseas client but you can go in.¡± she replied, still trying to get her mind back to reality.


    ¡°And also¡­. what¡¯s all this side talks I¡¯m hearing about Mr. Alexander while I was in the elevator?¡±


    ¡°I um¡­ what happened was that¡­. um¡­¡± she stammered, scared to reveal anything since she knew Mr. Anderson was her bosswyer and they were close.


    He leaned close to her table and smiled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Sarah¡­ your secret is safe with me. So spill.¡±


    She quickly filled him in on the unexpected turn of events regarding Alexander¡¯s newfound politeness and lively chat room discussion that followed.


    Mr. Anderson chuckled and shook his head.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s quite unusual. Let¡¯s hope itsts. Anyway, I need coffee, ck with cream and a little sugar and Alexander¡¯s usual inside.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir. Right away.¡± She left her table to carry out Anderson¡¯s orders while Anderson smiled and entered Alexander¡¯s office.


    As Mr. Anderson entered Alexander¡¯s office, he found his friend engaged on a phone call with an overseas client and also doing some paperwork.


    Alexander looked up and signaled Anderson to sit down that he would be right with him.


    Anderson nodded and sat down on the couch close to his table while he waited for Alexander to be done with his phone call.


    After a few minutes, he ended the call.


    ¡°What brings you here today? I thought we would be meeting at the mansion for the private wedding?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­. I just felt I should check in with you about some few things before I leave and then go to the mansion for your fake wedding.¡± heinformed Alex.


    ¡°And also¡­. while in the elevator, a lot of your staffs were talking that you said ¡®thank you¡¯ to your secretary today. What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Alexander raised an eyebrow, not used to being questioned by hiswyer. ¡°It was just a moment of appreciation. Is that a problem?¡±


    Anderson chuckled, ¡°No problem at all. I¡¯ve been working with you for years, and it¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen this side of you.


    So forgive me if I was taken aback by that. I mean you never say thank you to anyone except Jessie. So it¡¯s surprising.¡±


    ¡°Just a change of heart, Anderson. That¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°Or¡­ could it be that Marissa has started changing you into bing a good man?¡± Anderson said.


    Just then, Sarah walked in with a tray of cups and slowly ced them on the table.


    Alexander gave her a nod of thanks, and she quickly left the room.

 Self Doubts

    ¡°Marissa has nothing to do with it, Anderson. It¡¯s just a different perspective,¡± Alexander replied, as he took a sip of his ginger tea.


    Anderson raised an eyebrow,


    ¡°Different perspective, you say? Well, whatever it is, if it keeps up, I¡¯m sure your staff will appreciate the change.¡±


    Alexander sipped his coffee. ¡°Let¡¯s not get carried away. It¡¯s a one-time thing. I have more important matters to focus on.¡±


    Anderson chuckled. ¡°Of course, the businesses first.¡±


    ¡°Hmm-mm if you say so.¡±


    Alex drops his cup on the table.


    ¡°Do you know that Marissa woke up early this morning after I told her that I had an early meeting with some client and prepared breakfast for me?¡±


    ¡°She woke up very early to prepare breakfast for you?!¡± a surprise look on Anderson¡¯s face.


    Alexander nodded.


    ¡°I honestly was surprised and part of me wasn¡¯t expecting that she would go through all the trouble to do that. I mean we were not like a real couple¡­. we are just a fake couple so that I could secure a contract and then we break up after everything. So I actually didn¡¯t expect that.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­.. I¡¯m shocked, Alex.¡± Anderson dropped his cup as well.


    ¡°She woke up to prepare you breakfast. See I told you needed someone like Marissa in your life. I mean there¡¯s something about her that I like and I feel she would be a good fit for you, Alexander.¡±


    Alex waved his hands.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not go there, Anderson. You and I know that everything is fake and will end in three months time.


    And besides, I¡¯m with Jessie. I love Jessie and she loves me¡­.¡±


    Anderson rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah¡­. Jessie this, Jessie that. Look man, as a friend¡­. ady who chooses her career over you, isn¡¯t worth calling a girlfriend and potential wife material.


    I mean¡­. has Jessie ever prepared breakfast for you before¡­?¡± Anderson asked looking at Alexander to get an answer.


    ¡°Well¡­.. um¡­. she¡¯s¡­.. busy¡­ that¡¯s why¡­¡± he stammered, knowing that Anderson was kind of right.


    Anderson leaned back in his chair.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about, Alexander. You deserve someone who cares, someone who¡¯s there for you, like Marissa.


    She¡¯s shown some thoughtfulness recently.¡±


    Alexander was getting annoyed with the conversation.


    ¡°We¡¯re not going there, Anderson. Marissa is just a business partner, nothing more.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, I¡¯ll drop it for now. Just keep your eyes open, my friend. Love and happiness can be where you least expect it.¡±


    Alexander waved him off, returning to their discussion about the legal matters. Deep down, he couldn¡¯t help but think about the unexpected turn his life had taken and the growing connection he felt with Marissa.


    Was he falling for her? He thought to himself.


    But immediately waved it off, that it was just a feeling of appreciation for what Marissa did and nothing more was involved in her action.


    ¡°Jessie called me this morning.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ really? Let me guess¡­ her business trip would take longer than she expected?¡± Anderson said, obviously not surprised by the news.


    ¡°How did you know?¡± Alex asked.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°Dude¡­. dah! That¡¯s the type of person Jessie is. She would always choose work over you.


    I¡¯m praying that one day you¡¯d realize before you decide to put all your heart and mind inside a rtionship that wouldn¡¯tst.¡±


    Alexander sighed. ¡°I know she¡¯s dedicated to her career, but we love each other. It¡¯s just the circumstances we¡¯re in right now. We can work through it.¡±


    Anderson raised an eyebrow. ¡°If you say so, Alexander. Just remember, life is short, and it¡¯s best spent with someone who appreciates and supports you.¡±


    Alexander knew his friend had a point, but he wasn¡¯t ready to face the truth about his rtionship with Jessie. For now, he had a business to run and a fake marriage to maintain.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just stop talking about this and discuss the most pressing matter.¡±


    Anderson lifted his hands as a surrender gesture.


    ¡°If you say so, Alexander. Just know that I only want the best for you as a friend and as yourwyer.¡±


    Alex nodded.


    ¡°Yeah¡­. I heard you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving the office by 2pm so that I can prepare myself for the wedding at the mansion.


    But I think I would have to cancel my meeting by 3pm with my team and schedule it for tomorrow so that we can get this done with.


    The trip to see thepany and sign that contract is next week¡­. and I want everything to be set by then.¡±


    Anderson nodded.


    ¡°Is your suit ready?¡±


    Alexander nced at his calendar. ¡°The suit should be ready by 1pm. I have a fitting scheduled by 2pm so from there I should head to the mansion.¡±


    ¡°Good. We want everything to go smoothly at the mansion, and your appearance ys a part in that.¡±


    Alexander nodded. ¡°I understand the importance, Anderson. Everything will be ready on time.¡±


    Alexander returned to his seat and ced a call to his secretary calling her to his office.


    Alexander¡¯s secretary, Sarah, picked up the call. ¡°Mr. Alexander, how can I assist you?¡±


    ¡°Sarah, pleasee to my office. I need you to help me with something,¡± he requested.


    ¡°Of course, Mr. Alexander. I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    Within a few minutes, Sarah walked into his office and closed the door behind her and walked to Alexander¡¯s table.


    ¡°How may I be of assistance sir?¡±


    Alexander looked up at Sarah and said, ¡°I need you to move the meeting for 3pm to tomorrow.


    I have an important appointmentter today so I won¡¯t be around for the meeting so, cancel it.¡±


    Sarah nodded in understanding. ¡°Certainly, Mr. Alexander. I¡¯ll do that right away.¡±


    ¡°I also need you to schedule a meeting with thepany for that contract we¡¯ve been waiting for.


    I n to travel there next week Monday to get it, so book an appointment with them.¡±


    Sarah jotted down his requests. ¡°Understood, Mr. Alexander. I¡¯ll handle it and keep you updated with any developments.¡±

 The Wedding

    ¡°Thank you, Sarah. Your assistance is much appreciated,¡± he said with a hint of gratitude in his tone.


    Sarah smiled and walked out of his office happy for the new change she had begun to see in her boss.


    Sarah promptly got to work, handling Alexander¡¯s requests with efficiency and professionalism. She rescheduled the meeting for 3 pm to the following day and contacted thepany to arrange an appointment for the uing contract signing.


    As she carried out her tasks, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the recent changes in her boss¡¯s behavior.


    It was a wee surprise, and she hoped it indicated a positive shift in their working rtionship.


    She kept her focus on her responsibilities, aiming to make sure everything went smoothly as Alexander prepared for the contract signing and the uing wedding at the mansion.


    When it was 1pm, Alexander received a call that his suit was ready for pick up.


    ¡°Finally, my suit¡¯s ready. Let¡¯s go pick it up, Anderson.¡±


    ¡°Sure, lead the way.¡± Anderson said, gesturing for Alex to lead the way.


    They both walk out of the office and make their way to the tailor¡¯s shop.


    ¡°I hope it fits perfectly. This wedding is an important step for the business.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it will. You¡¯ve got everything nned out, and thepany is set to benefit from this contract.¡±


    ¡°I hope so. And maybe this whole fake marriage ordeal will turn out better than expected.¡± Alexander said.


    As they got there, they were greeted warmly and Alexander was taken to the fitness room to check out his suit.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait here for you while you do your thing dude.¡± Anderson said, as he sat down and asked for them to serve him coffee.


    ¡°Thanks, Anderson. I¡¯ll be quick.¡±


    Alexander went into the fitting room to try on the suit. The tailor made some minor adjustments to ensure it fit perfectly.


    As he came out, Alexander felt satisfied with the way the suit looked and felt.


    ¡°It fits great, just as I wanted it to.¡±


    ¡°You look sharp, my friend.¡± Andersonplimented. ¡°Yeah¡­ like someone who¡¯s actually getting married for real.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha very funny Anderson.¡± He looked at Anderson with a furrowed expression while still adjusting his suit and staring at the mirror.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head to the mansion before 4pm to set up. But let me call Marissa to know if she¡¯s getting ready.¡± He picked up his phone that was on the table and dialed Marissa¡¯s number.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    It rang a few times before she answered.


    ¡°Hello?¡± Marissa answered.


    ¡°Hey, Marissa. I just wanted to check if you¡¯re getting ready for the event at the mansion. We¡¯ll be heading there before 4 pm to set up.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m getting ready. I¡¯ll make sure everything is in order for the event.¡± she said.


    ¡°Great. My driver wille to pick you up at home and take you there.¡± he informed her.


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s no problem.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­. um¡­ See you there then.¡± he said and ended the call.


    Anderson, who was looking at Alex in a weird way, suddenly smiled.


    ¡°Why are you smiling Anderson? Because I¡¯m sure I didn¡¯t say anything funny.¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡­.. just that you actually look like someone that¡¯s getting married and honestly, it suits you.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°Very funny, Anderson.¡±


    Anderson chuckled.


    ¡°Well, you never know, Alexander. This fake wedding might turn out to be more real than we expected.¡±


    Alexander couldn¡¯t help but smirk at the thought as they continued on their way to the mansion, ready to set up for the event.


    As they drove to the mansion, Alexander thought about the fake wedding and how it had be moreplicated. He couldn¡¯t predict what would happen next.


    He was curious about the event and what might ur between him and Marissa.


    Upon reaching the mansion, Alexander and Anderson got ready to set up for the event, not knowing what surprises and difficultiesy ahead.


    *


    Marissa left the hospital and returned home to pick her dress and every other things she would need for the wedding.


    The doorbell rang and she went out of her room to check and realized that it was the driver.


    She opened the door.


    ¡°Sorry Ma¡¯am, but Mr. Alexander told me toe pick you up.¡± he said with a smile.


    ¡°And also thank you for the breakfast this morning. I really enjoyed it.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ it was nothing. I just wanted to make sure that you had something to eat as well since I¡¯m sure you didn¡¯t have breakfast before you came today.¡± she said.


    The driver nodded appreciatively. ¡°It was a pleasant surprise. You¡¯ve been really kind, Mrs. Alexander.¡±


    Marissa chuckled, correcting him gently,


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m not Mrs. Alexander. We¡¯re just business partners.¡±


    The driver looked a bit puzzled but didn¡¯t press the matter.


    ¡°I see, my apologies, ma¡¯am. Let¡¯s get going to the mansion, shall we?¡±


    Marissa agreed, ready to head to the event and do her part to make sure everything went smoothly, as she didn¡¯t want to disappoint Alexander or her brother.


    Marissa arrived at the mansion for the event, where people were busy setting up decorations and making sure everything was perfect. She felt a mix of nervousness and determination.


    Approaching Alexander and Anderson, she greeted them with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m here and ready to help.¡±


    Alexander smiled back, excited about the event.


    ¡°Great to have you, Marissa. Let¡¯s make this look as real as possible.¡±


    ¡°Mmm-mm.¡± she nodded.


    Alexander signaled somedies toe. As they approached, Alexander turned and faced Marissa.


    ¡°Um.. they will fix you up nicely and prepare you for the wedding¡­so follow them.¡±


    Marissa nodded and followed thedies to a private room. They helped her with her bags.


    Thedies led Marissa to a private room where they began to help her prepare for the wedding. They adjusted her dress and hair, adding the final touches to ensure she looked the part.


    Meanwhile, Alexander and Anderson continued to oversee the event¡¯s preparations.


    They wanted everything to go smoothly, as the sess of their business deal depended on it.


    ¡°I think everything is all set!¡± Alex said.

 A Kiss And Pictures

    ¡°Yep. I think it¡¯s time you go change and prepare for the photoshoot. We have to make it like you guys are actually saying vows in the picture and all.¡± Anderson said. ¡°The photographer is waiting for you guys¡­. so chap chap!¡± Anderson added pping his hand to hurry Alexander.


    Alexander nodded in agreement and headed to the changing room to prepare for the photoshoot.


    He knew that this event was essential for their business deal and had to go off without a hitch.


    As he changed into his wedding attire, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but reflect on how far they hade since the beginning of this fake marriage arrangement.


    The situation was still unusual, but he couldn¡¯t deny the benefits it had brought to their professional lives.


    With a deep breath, he walked out of the changing room, ready for the photoshoot that would, for a brief moment, make their fake wedding look real.


    While they were there waiting for Marissa, Alexander and Anderson were standing and discussing with the photographer.


    Just then, Marissa entered and Alexander turned to see her. He was shocked by what he saw.


    As Marissa entered the room, all eyes turned towards her, including Alexander¡¯s. He was surprised by what he saw.


    ¡°Wow,¡± he eximed, his eyes widening. ¡°You look¡­ amazing.¡±


    Marissa smiled, a hint of blush on her cheeks. ¡°Thank you. I wanted to make sure it looked real, just as you said.¡±


    Anderson chimed in, ¡°You two look fantastic together. Let¡¯s get this photoshoot going. Remember, we need to make this look as real as possible.¡±


    The photographer began giving them instructions, and Alexander and Marissa stood side by side, both feeling a mix of surprise and anticipation as they posed for the photos that would further cement the illusion of their fake wedding.


    Then the photographer instructed them on the final step of the whole fake wedding thing.


    ¡°You guys have to kiss.¡± he informed them.


    ¡°Kiss?!¡± Alexander and Marissa eximed in surprise as they looked at the photographer.


    The photographer nodded, unfazed by their reactions.


    ¡°Yes, a kiss will make it look more convincing. Just a quick one. It¡¯s the final touch we need for the photos.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­. not a good idea.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Sir, we would need to make this as convincing as possible. All you guys have to do is join your lips together.¡± The photographer said.


    ¡°Yeah, dude. It¡¯s no big deal. You are not going to kiss each other¡­. it¡¯s just like a peck on the lips.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°It¡¯s actually¡­. the same¡­ thing¡­.¡± Marissa stammered, clearly ufortable with that.


    ¡°C¡¯mon guys, it will only take a few seconds and then the picture will be taken and everyone¡¯s happy.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander and Marissa exchanged a hesitant nce, and then, with a shared nod, they leaned in for a quick, staged kiss, their lips touching for a fleeting moment toplete the illusion of their fake wedding.


    As Alexander and Marissa pulled away from each other after the staged kiss, Alexander felt his heart racing.


    He was taken aback by the unexpected rush of emotions he felt in that brief moment.


    He wondered if it was because it had been a while since he had been kissed, or if there was something more to it.


    The idea that he might have developed feelings for Marissa crossed his mind, and it left him feeling both confused and intrigued.


    He tried to push those thoughts aside, chalking it up to the unusual circumstances they found themselves in.


    Yet, deep down, he couldn¡¯t help but wonder if there was something more to their connection than just a business arrangement.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    While when Marissa and Alexander pulled away from their staged kiss, Marissa noticed the unexpected flutter of emotions stirring within her.


    Her heart raced faster than she had anticipated, and she knew she needed to refocus on the main goal of their arrangement ¨C getting the financial help for her brother¡¯s treatment.


    But for both of them, these personal thoughts had to be pushed aside. Their business deal and the well-being of Marissa¡¯s brother were the priorities.


    There was no room for personal emotions in this fake marriage.


    ¡°Congrattions guys! You are now fake married!¡± Anderson pped his hands together with a smile on his face.


    ¡°Yeah¡­. I guess we are.¡± Alex said as he looked at Marissa who stared at him briefly and moved her eyes away.


    ¡°So when will the pictures be ready?¡± Alex asked the photographer.


    ¡°Um¡­ next week,¡± he informed him.


    ¡°I need it by Friday.¡± Alexander orders.


    ¡°Friday sir? It¡¯s not gonna be easy to get it done by that time.¡± the photographer said.


    Alexander looked at him, clearly angry at the statement the photographer just said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care how you do it, but I need it done and sent to my office sealed and properly covered. I don¡¯t want the staffs to see it.


    Or better still, Anderson would pick it up and take it to my apartment on Friday.¡±


    ¡°But sir¡­. that Friday is too early¡­.¡± the photographer said.


    Alexander¡¯s frustration was evident. He leaned in closer to the photographer and said, ¡°I don¡¯t think you understand, Mr. Photographer. This is a critical part of our business deal, and I need those photos by Friday. If you can¡¯t make it happen, I¡¯m sure we can find someone who can.¡±


    The photographer, realizing the gravity of the situation, nodded quickly. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best, sir. You¡¯ll have those photos by Friday, I promise.¡±


    ¡°Good. That¡¯s what I like to hear.¡± Alex said as he walked out of the mansion.


    Marissa, who knew how rude and arrogant Alexander was, turned and faced the photographer.


    ¡°Please, try to have it ready by Friday, it would really help us a lot and thank you for your effort today.¡± she smiled.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best ma¡¯am.¡± the photographer said.


    Unknown to her, Anderson was watching from afar and smiled at how nice and kind Marissa was towards everyone around her.


    ¡°I really don¡¯t get why he still chooses Jessie over Marissa. I mean Marissa is what he needs and not what he wants. But that dumb ass would never know until someone helps him realize that Marissa could be a very good asset to him and his career.¡± Anderson said to himself as he watched on.

 Marriage Of Convenience

    Marissa went back into the private room and changed back to her former wear and thanked thedies for the makeover.


    Sheter joined Alexander outside.


    Anderson walked towards them and smiled.


    ¡°Well¡­. I guess you guys are officially married for three months¡­. so enjoy it while itsts.¡± he smiled at them and walked away waving his hand behind him.


    There was silence for a few moments before Marissa broke the silence.


    ¡°So¡­. what¡¯s next¡­?¡±


    ¡°We¡­. return back to the house and act like we are married I guess.¡± he said, clearly showing how ufortable he was.


    ¡°Okay¡­.¡± Marissa nodded.


    ¡°And Um¡­. we are traveling next Monday for the business trip I told you about.¡± he informed her, trying to change the awkwardness that was in their midst.


    ¡°Oh¡­ alright¡­what time is it on Monday?¡± she asked.


    ¡°By evening¡­ I have some stuff to take care of before we goter that day.¡± he said.


    ¡°Where are we going exactly?¡± she asked.


    Alexander looked at Marissa and said, ¡°We¡¯re going to Switzend for a business meeting. It¡¯s a beautiful ce with amazing views. Be ready to leave in the evening, and we¡¯ll sort out everything together.¡±


    Marissa nodded, understanding that this fake marriage might bring more surprises in the future.


    She was willing to face whatever challengesy ahead, all for her brother¡¯s treatment.


    They headed back to the house, feeling a bit uneasy and unsure about what awaited them in Switzend.


    While inside the car, they said absolutely nothing as both of them were deeply lost in their thoughts.


    As they sat in the car, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but think about how her life had taken an unexpected turn.


    She pondered the seriousness of her situation, the fake marriage, her brother¡¯s illness, and her desire to help him.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    She wondered if the path she had chosen was the right one and if hermitment to this unusual partnership was worth it.


    Deep down, she hoped that everything would work out, and her brother¡¯s health would improve.


    Alexander, on the other hand, couldn¡¯t ignore the peculiar sensation he had felt when they shared that staged kiss during the photoshoot.


    He had been in a real rtionship with Jessie, and he cared about her deeply. But the fleeting moment with Marissa had stirred emotions he hadn¡¯t experienced in a while.


    He questioned whether it was the circumstances or something deeper that was causing these feelings. Nevertheless, he pushed these thoughts aside, reminding himself that it was all part of the act.


    They both sat in silence, each lost in their respective thoughts, as the car continued its journey back to their shared residence.


    Upon their return to the shared apartment, Marissa and Alexander found themselves standing in the slightly dark apartment, the weight of the day¡¯s events heavy in the air.


    The tension in the room was high, and it was hard to ignore the sparks of emotion that seemed to flow between them.


    Marissa hesitated, looking into Alexander¡¯s eyes, a hint of uncertainty flickering in her gaze.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s been quite a day, hasn¡¯t it?¡±


    Alexander nodded, his voice softer than usual.


    ¡°Yes, it has. But I appreciate your help with everything, Marissa.¡±


    A moment of silence hung between them, neither quite knowing how to proceed.


    The atmosphere felt charged with unspoken words and unexplored feelings.


    Marissa¡¯s heart raced, and she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if her initial n to remain detached was slipping away.


    Alexander took a step closer, his eyes searching hers.


    ¡°You know, Marissa, I never thought I¡¯d find myself in a situation like this. But you¡¯ve been an unexpected source of support.¡±


    Marissa felt her cheeks flush, and she took a small step toward him.


    ¡°I¡­ I feel the same way, Alexander. It¡¯s been a unique experience, and I appreciate your understanding.¡±


    The distance between them closed further, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still.


    Alexander¡¯s hand gently cupped Marissa¡¯s cheek, his thumb brushing her skin. The warmth of his touch sent shivers down her spine.


    ¡°Marissa,¡± he whispered, his voice barely more than a breath. ¡°I don¡¯t know what the future holds, but I want you to know that I¡¯m grateful for your presence in my life.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s heart pounded in her chest, and she couldn¡¯t deny the maic pull between them.


    Her fingers lightly grazed his as she replied, ¡°Alexander, I feel the same way. You¡¯ve shown a side of yourself I didn¡¯t expect.¡±


    Realizing what they were about to do, Marissa and Alexander shared a knowing look.


    They both took a small step back, deciding to change the topic and part ways for the night.


    Alexander cleared his throat, his tone slightly moreposed.


    ¡°We¡¯ve had quite a day, and I should probably get some rest. We have a busy day tomorrow with preparations for our uing trip.¡±


    Marissa nodded, relieved that they had managed to divert the situation.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯ll also need to get ready. Goodnight, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight, Marissa,¡± he replied with a hint of a smile before turning to head to his room.


    Marissa watched him go, her heart still racing from the almost-kiss. She knew that their journey was far from over, and it was best to maintain a professional facade for the time being.


    She headed to her own room, thoughts of the day¡¯s events swirling in her mind as she prepared for another day of their fake marriage.


    Alexander slumped on his bed, his mind still racing from the kiss at the photoshoot and the almost-kiss just now.


    ¡°What was that?¡± he muttered to himself.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a business deal, Alexander, nothing more. You¡¯re in love with Jessie. Focus on that.¡±


    Just as he tried to convince himself, a voice in his head chimed in. ¡°Yeah, but Jessie¡¯s not here, and Marissa¡¯s right there.¡±


    He got up and removed his shirt.


    Alexander shook his head, as if trying to shake away his thoughts.


    ¡°No, no, no. I¡¯m not falling for Marissa. It¡¯s just a marriage of convenience.¡±


    His inner voice seemed determined to tease him.

 Going To Switzerland

    ¡°Sure, Alex, just a business deal with a dash of romantic tension and a sprinkle of unexpected feelings.¡±


    ¡°Stop it,¡± he muttered, running a hand through his hair.


    Alexander paced around his room, unable to escape the battle in his head. He tried to convince himself by listing the reasons why he shouldn¡¯t be falling for Marissa.


    ¡°First of all,¡± he began, ¡°I¡¯ve known Jessie for years. I can¡¯t just throw that away.¡±


    But his inner voice retorted, ¡°True, but she¡¯s not here, and Marissa is.¡±


    Alexander pinched the bridge of his nose and continued,


    ¡°Secondly, this whole marriage thing is just for business. That¡¯s it!¡±


    His inner voice countered,


    ¡°Business, with a hint of flirtation, and a dash of undeniable chemistry.¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± he eximed out loud. ¡°I can¡¯t let my thoughts run away like this.¡±


    As he tried to regain hisposure, he grabbed a pillow and covered his face, as if it could help him stop his feelings.


    But the pillow, of course, remained unimpressed by his internal struggle.


    In a muffled voice, he argued with himself,


    ¡°I won¡¯t let this fake marriage turn into something real. It¡¯s just not happening.¡±


    ¡°My goal is to get the contract and not lose it to that asshole Fernado and my rtionship with Jessie.¡±


    With a final deep breath, he tossed the pillow aside andy down, determined to bury his feelings and focus on the deal with Marissa, no matter how challenging it might be.


    Meanwhile, Marissa was in her room, pacing back and forth.


    ¡°What was I thinking? That kiss during the photoshoot was just for show. It means nothing,¡± she told herself.


    Another voice in her head had a different idea. ¡°But it did feel something, didn¡¯t it?¡±


    She groaned, trying to fight off the way her heart raced during that moment. ¡°I can¡¯t really be falling for Alexander. This is just a deal to help my brother.¡±


    Her inner voice had a little fun. ¡°A business deal with a side of heart-fluttering emotions and a hint of unexpected attraction.¡±


    Marissa let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°Focus, Marissa. This is not real. It¡¯s just a fake marriage.¡±


    ¡°And besides, he¡¯s in love with Jessie and I don¡¯t see myself fitting into the picture.¡± she told herself.


    Marissa reminded herself that Alexander was in love with Jessie. She couldn¡¯t see herself fitting into that picture.


    It was Jessie whom Alexander loved, not her. She needed to focus on the task at hand ¨C helping her brother and honoring their business agreement.


    With a renewed sense of purpose, Marissa pushed her confusing feelings aside and turned her attention back to the ns for their uing business trip to Switzend.


    This adventure was far from over, and her brother¡¯s health depended on its sess.


    In the days leading up to their trip to Switzend, Alexander and Marissa found themselves busier than ever.


    They had to get everything ready for their business venture abroad.


    They worked together to organize their schedules, make travel ns, and ensure all the necessary arrangements were in ce.


    Their focus was entirely on preparing for the uing journey.


    As the departure day neared, they gathered their bags, made sure they had all their travel documents, and set off for the airport.


    The trip to Switzend marked a new phase in their fake marriage, one that promised more surprises and challenges as they moved forward together.


    As they boarded the ne to Switzend, Marissa couldn¡¯t hide her excitement, but also her nervousness.


    This was her first time flying, and the prospect of the journey left her feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety.


    Meanwhile, she had informed her brother that she was going for a job that would take a while before she returned so that she could get enough money to pay his hospital bills.


    ¡°Where are you actually going, sister?¡± Samuel asked, staring into his sister¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Um¡­. it¡¯s a job that¡­. I can¡¯t disclose because I don¡¯t want you to worry.¡± she replied.


    Samuel, who was suspecting that his sister was not telling him some things, spoke.


    ¡°You know¡­. you have been hiding something from me, sister.¡±


    Marissa, who knew her brother was right, had to cover it up so that her brother wouldn¡¯t suspect her more since he had the ability of reading people and knows when they are hiding something.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°No¡­ of course not brother. I¡¯m not hiding anything from you¡­.. and besides this job is really good and it would help us pay our bills.¡±


    ¡°Hmm-mm. Then why do I have a feeling that the reason you can¡¯t tell me is because you know I won¡¯t approve of it.¡± he said.


    Marissa tried to maintain her calmposure, even as her brother¡¯s questions pushed at the truth she was hiding.


    ¡°Samuel, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust your judgment. It¡¯s just that I don¡¯t want you to be burdened with worrying about me,¡± she exined, doing her best to keep her secret.


    But her brother¡¯s intuition and familiarity with her made him insist,


    ¡°Marissa, you¡¯ve always been the one looking out for me. I don¡¯t want you to do anything that might put you in a difficult situation.¡±


    Marissa squeezed her brother¡¯s hand gently, grateful for his concern but determined to protect him.


    ¡°Samuel, please trust me. This job is an opportunity I can¡¯t pass up. I promise, everything will be okay.¡±


    Though her words reassured her brother, she couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of the secret she was carrying for their sake.


    A tap on her shoulder brought her back to reality as she realized that she was actually inside the ne.


    She had been thinking deeply of her discussion with her brother.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Alexander asked, as he observed that she had been lost in thought ever since she entered and sat down on her seat inside the ne.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah¡­ I¡¯m fine¡­ just thinking about something, but I¡¯m fine.¡± she assured.


    ¡°Okay¡­.¡± he knew that something was up with her but he couldn¡¯t figure out what it could be.

 Intrigued By Her

    And besides, since they decided not to talk about personal matters, he decided that he shouldn¡¯t push the matter further so as not to make her ufortable.


    He decided to change the topic to a more interesting andfortable conversation.


    ¡°Have you ever been to Switzend before?¡± he asked her.


    Marissa shook her head.


    ¡°Nah¡­ this is actually my first time. Like my first time ever traveling and leaving the country.¡±


    ¡°Looks like we¡¯re embarking on this adventure together,¡± he said.


    Marissa nodded.


    ¡°What about you? Is this your first time traveling to Switzend?¡±


    ¡°Nop¡­. I have traveled there a lot when I was growing up.¡± he said.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind¡­. can you tell me more about it?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Alexander replied. ¡°Switzend is a beautiful country known for its stunningndscapes.


    The mountains,kes, and picturesque viges are a sight to behold. The Swiss Alps offer some of the most breathtaking views you can imagine. We¡¯ll have a chance to see all of that.¡±


    As he spoke, Marissa listened with genuine interest, eager to learn more about the ce they were traveling to.


    ¡°Switzend is also famous for its chocte and watches.


    The chocte is exquisite, and the craftsmanship that goes into Swiss watches is renowned worldwide. You might want to bring some back as souvenirs.¡±


    Marissa smiled, feeling more excited about the trip as she absorbed the information.


    ¡°I will definitely like to take some souvenirs back home.¡±


    ¡°Where are we going to be staying?¡± she asked.


    Alexander exined, ¡°We¡¯ll be staying in a lovely chalet in the Swiss Alps, which should provide an authentic and cozy experience.


    The views from there are truly spectacr, especially when you wake up and look outside.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s eyes lit up with anticipation. ¡°That sounds incredible. I can¡¯t wait to see it.¡±


    ¡°I assure you, you will love it.¡± he said.


    She smiled and he returned the smile.


    As Marissa looked away looking through the ne window at the sky, Alexander admired her.


    He found himself drawn to Marissa¡¯s smile, appreciating herpany and the light-hearted conversation they were sharing.


    While their journey had started as a business deal, there was no denying the unique connection that was forming between them.


    As the ne flew toward Switzend, Marissa¡¯s worry turned into excitement. She started to look forward to the beautiful sights and the new adventure. Alexander also began to like having Marissa as his travelpanion.


    Both of them were beginning to see that this trip would bring more than just business opportunities. It might bring new feelings and experiences they didn¡¯t expect.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but notice how kind and different Alexander was during this trip,pared to their initial arrangement. She found herself wondering about the possibilities thaty ahead.


    She thought that the person she thought was annoying and selfish could be kind and considerate.


    ¡°I guess one shouldn¡¯t judge a book by its cover huh?¡± she told herself as she looked at him with a smile and quickly looked away before he would notice her staring at him.


    Just then the air hostess arrived at her seat and greeted her warmly.


    ¡°What would you like to have before wend, Ma¡¯am?¡±


    She looked at Alexander who was busy going through some files and then looked at the hostess.


    ¡°What¡¯s on your menu?¡± she asked the air hostess.


    The air hostess presented the menu with a smile. ¡°We have a variety of options, Ma¡¯am.


    You can choose from chicken, beef, or vegetarian dishes. We also have some light sds if you prefer that.


    And for dessert, we have chocte cake or fruit sd.¡±


    Marissa nced at the menu and then at Alexander.


    ¡°What would you like, Alexander?¡±


    He looked up from his files and smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll go with the chicken, please.¡±


    She turned back to the air hostess. ¡°I¡¯ll have the chicken too, thank you.¡±


    The air hostess noted down their choices and assured them that the meal would be served shortly.


    As she moved to the next row of seats, Marissa felt a growing sense of anticipation about the journey and the unexpected connection she was forming with her fake husband.


    As the ne began its descent into Switzend, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel excited about the adventure that awaited them.


    She was still keeping her true motive for this fake marriage a secret, but she was starting to believe that this journey might bring some unexpected changes to her life.


    The nended at Zurich Airport, and as they disembarked, Marissa was in awe of the stunning surroundings.


    The crisp Swiss air, the majestic Alps in the distance, and the charming city of Zurich weed them to this new chapter of their fake marriage.


    Alexander, with a confident smile, turned to Marissa.


    ¡°Wee to Switzend, Marissa. Our business journey and this temporary marriage have officially begun.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but return his smile, her heart full of hope for the opportunities and challenges thaty ahead in this beautiful country.


    As they left the airport and headed to their ride, Marissa enjoyed the beautiful scenery in Switzend.


    The mountains, covered in snow, looked majestic, and the crystal-clearkes mirrored the blue sky. It was a stark contrast to the city¡¯s hustle and bustle she was used to.


    Alexander, too, was taken by the stunning views. The vibrant colors of Switzend breathed new life into him.


    He felt a renewed sense of determination for their business deal and their unique fake marriage.


    Marissa looked at him and spoke.


    ¡°I think this adventure will be unforgettable, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°This ce is so beautiful.¡± she smiled as she admired the surroundings.


    ¡°You ain¡¯t seen nothing yet. After the business deal, we couldter on go and explore the town. If you want.¡± he said.


    ¡°If I want? Hell yeah I want to!¡± She said, excitement in her voice.


    ¡°I love adventure.¡±


    Alexander smiled as he stared at Marissa. He couldn¡¯t help but feel intrigued about what was in store for their faux-marital escapade (Which means a false or fake marriage)¡­.N?velDrama.Org content.

 Sharing A Room

    They entered their ride to where they were going to stay for the night. Marissa enjoyed the views as she looked out the window.


    Switzend was a ce of beauty and she couldn¡¯t wait to explore the beautiful country.


    ¡°This ce is really beautiful.¡± she said, smiling as she looked out the window.


    Alexander, who was going through some papers, looked up and stared at her as she admired the beautiful country.


    ¡°Yeah¡­. it is. Wait till night then you would see how much beauty this country is.¡± he said, smiling back and then focused again on his paperwork.


    Their journey continued as they made their way to the ce they would be staying for the night.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the picturesque Swissndscapes, and her excitement grew with each passing moment.


    Alexander couldn¡¯t help but notice her genuine admiration for the country. He couldn¡¯t resist chiming in,


    ¡°Switzend is known for its natural beauty, and the night sky here is a sight to behold. You¡¯ll love it.¡±


    As their journey continued, Marissa¡¯s sense of wonder only deepened, and she felt a sense of adventure building within her.


    The scenery outside the window continued to unfold, and Marissa was truly captivated by the stunning Swissndscapes.


    She couldn¡¯t help but think about how this unexpected adventure had taken her from her ordinary life to a ce of such natural beauty.


    As they approached their destination, Alexander and Marissa exchanged a few more words about their uing ns.


    Alexander exined, ¡°We¡¯ll stay the night here, and tomorrow, we have some meetings scheduled with our business partners in Switzend.


    Then, we¡¯ll head to the office to sign the contract.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­ what time is the meeting tomorrow?¡± Marissa asked.


    Alexander checked his wristwatch and then spoke.


    ¡°Um¡­ by 10am.¡±


    ¡°Am I going with you to the business meeting?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ you are¡­¡± he said.


    ¡°You see, the reason I did all these is for them to think I¡¯m married so that I could be offered this contract instead of someone I know.¡±


    She looked at him with a confused expression.


    ¡°Who¡¯s the other person that¡¯s interested in the same contract as you?¡±


    ¡°His name is Jaime Fernado and he¡¯s downright annoying. He always wants to steal every project I do and always tries to steal my potential client from me.¡±


    ¡°But why did thepany have to give such a criteria for you to get a contract from them?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­. I guess they wanted to see how responsible I am in handling their business.


    You know manypanies believe a man who has family to take care of, would do anything to provide for them. So they believe that a man who has responsibilities would not handle their projects anyhow. So that¡¯s why theyid out such criteria.¡± Alex exined.


    She moved closer to him and leaned in to whisper so that the driver won¡¯t hear their conversation.


    ¡°Do you think that Jaime also did what we did to also secure this contract?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ I don¡¯t know actually, but by tomorrow we would know, because we are meeting the potential client by 10am for breakfast at the most expensive restaurant here in Switzend.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°So we are heading to our hotel right?¡± Marissa asked.


    Alex nodded and focused his mind on the paperwork.


    Marissa nodded, still taking in the breathtaking views that surrounded them. She couldn¡¯t believe how quickly her life had changed, all for the sake of helping her brother.


    Their adventure had only just begun, and Marissa couldn¡¯t wait to see whaty ahead in this stunning Swissndscape and the business endeavors that awaited her and Alexander.


    As they arrived at the ce they would be staying. Marissa gazed at the remarkable surroundings around her.


    The ce was so beautiful and she felt like she was dreaming. She never expected her life would ever turn out like this.


    Having a fake marriage with a millionaire to secure a big contract for three months and in those three months, she gets to live a life of luxury.


    To her, it was a dreame true the one she only watched in movies.


    ¡°So let¡¯s settle for the night and then we move to the restaurant tomorrow morning.


    My secretary has booked that restaurant for our meeting tomorrow, and she had informed me that the client would be avable by that time tomorrow¡­.


    So let¡¯s rest early so we can wake up on time and get there early shall we?¡±


    ¡°Sure, it¡¯s not a problem. I wake up very early anyways.¡± she said.


    ¡°And besides I don¡¯t think I would be able to sleep with this beautiful view I¡¯m seeing. It¡¯s gonna be a very long night.¡±


    Alexander smiled, cing his hands into his pocket.


    Marissa looked around their lodge and realized that the room was just one.


    ¡°Why is there only one room here?¡± she asked herself.


    ¡°Is he expecting that we are going to share the same room?


    Oh hell no! That just ain¡¯t gonna happen.¡± she told herself as she looked at the room.


    She entered the room and sat down on the bed, but noticed how soft the bed was¡­


    ¡°Is this ce for a honeymoon or what?


    Why is the bed so soft like a water bed?¡± she wondered.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but have a chuckle at her own thoughts. ¡°Is Alexander expecting us to share this room for the night? Well, that¡¯s just not happening, buddy.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    She decided to approach the situation directly and asked, ¡°Um, Alexander, is there a separate room for me? I¡¯m not sure sharing is the best idea.¡±


    Alexander, who had been sifting through his documents, looked up with a puzzled expression. ¡°Oh, the lodge provided us with only one room. It¡¯s not something I anticipated.¡±


    Marissa rolled her eyes yfully. ¡°Well, that¡¯s unfortunate, isn¡¯t it? But I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll manage for one night.¡±


    Alexander grinned. ¡°Indeed, we¡¯ll manage. It¡¯s just one night, after all. It waste¡­ so we couldn¡¯t go to the ce I booked yet¡­ but after the meeting tomorrow, our luggages would be moved to the ce we would stay for at least three days.¡±

 Going For The Meeting

    ¡°Oh¡­. um¡­ that¡¯s fine.¡± she said, but she was still feeling ufortable with the sleeping arrangement.


    How could she possibly share the same bed with him?


    Ugh!


    This was definitely not what she signed up for.


    Alexander, who noticed her difort, spoke to ease the unease in the room.


    ¡°Well¡­. I.. um¡­ could sleep on the couch if you are feeling ufortable sharing the same bed with me.¡± he suggested.


    Marissa appreciated Alexander¡¯s gesture.


    ¡°Oh, that would be great, thank you. I mean, it¡¯s a bit awkward sharing a bed with someone you just met.¡±


    Alexander smiled.


    ¡°Well¡­. I¡¯m not someone you just met. I¡¯m your fake husband so¡­ there¡¯s a difference.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I know¡­ but¡­. you know we agreed not to sleep in the same room throughout our contract agreement.¡± she said.


    ¡°I know Marissa. That¡¯s why I offered to sleep on the couch while you enjoy the coziness of the bed.¡± he said.


    She sat down and looked at him with an amusing look on her face. Alexander wondered why she was looking at him that way and decided to ask.


    ¡°Why are you staring at me like that? Did I say something wrong?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Nope! It¡¯s just that¡­. you have really changed, Alexander.¡± she confessed, raising her hand up.


    ¡°Like you have literally changed into someone I never thought you could be.¡±


    ¡°Well there¡¯s a saying that Never judge a book by it¡¯s cover huh.¡± he said


    Marissa chuckled,


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Alexander. And I appreciate your willingness to make things morefortable for both of us.¡±


    As they prepared for bed, Marissa changed into somefortable nightwear while Alexander made himself a makeshift bed on the couch.


    As she settled into the soft, inviting bed, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but appreciate the changes she had seen in him.


    The Alexander she had first met was arrogant and self-centered, but now he appeared to be considerate and understanding. It was almost like he was a different person.


    The room was plunged into darkness, and the only sound was the asional rustle of Alexander adjusting on the couch.


    Alexander, with a faint smile, settled on the couch, realizing that their faux-marital escapade was challenging his preconceptions as well.


    He couldn¡¯t deny the changes that had started to ur between them.


    While she was lying in the soft, luxurious bed, couldn¡¯t help but think about the oddity of her situation.


    A fake marriage, sharing a hotel room with a billionaire, and the excitement of theing business breakfast ¨C it was all so surreal.


    But with a sense of determination, she reminded herself why she was here. It was for her brother, for his treatment, and his future.


    This strange arrangement might be her ticket to securing the funds they needed.


    With that thought, she drifted off to sleep, ready for the adventures that awaited in the beautiful Swissndscape.


    And in the darkness, Alexander, lying on the couch, tried to suppress his thoughts and remember that it was just a business deal. His feelings, whatever they were, had no ce here.


    The next morning, Marissa woke up early as she usually did at home. She yawned and stretched and got out of bed.


    She tiptoed to her door and gently opened it to check if Alexander was awake, but he was still fast asleep.


    She smiled and then closed the door gently so as not to wake him up. She took her box and opened it to bring out the outfit she would wear for the breakfast meeting with Alexander¡¯s potential business partners.


    She checked the time and realized that it was 7 in the morning and decided to look out the window to admire the beautiful country again she though she might never see in her lifetime.


    Marissa set aside some time to take a refreshing shower, appreciating the warm water as it washed away the sleep from her body.


    She used her favorite shower gel, savoring its familiar scent, a smallfort in this new and unfamiliar adventure.


    After the shower, she wrapped herself in a fluffy white towel and began selecting her attire for the business breakfast.


    She decided on a ssic navy blue pantsuit that made her feel confident and professional.


    She meticulouslybed her hair, applied light makeup, and added a touch of her favorite perfume.


    Marissa took onest look in the mirror, making sure everything was perfect.


    She felt ready to face the challenges of the day and make a positive impression at the important meeting.


    She walked out of the room thinking that Alexander was still sleeping, but he was already awake going through his files.


    ¡°Good morning.¡± She greeted him.


    ¡°Good morning, Marissa,¡± Alexander replied, looking up from his files with a warm smile.


    ¡°You look great. Ready for the big meeting?¡±


    Marissa smiled back, feeling a bit more at ease with the new Alexander she was getting to know.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m ready. I hope I can make a good impression.¡±


    Alexander nodded.


    ¡°You¡¯ll do great, I¡¯m sure of it. These guys are serious business partners, but they appreciate professionalism.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°What do you think they¡¯re going to be like?¡±


    Alexander leaned back in his chair, considering the question.


    ¡°Well, they¡¯re sessful businessmen. They can be a bit intimidating, but they also know how to make a good deal.


    Just be yourself, and remember, you¡¯re there representing ourpany. Confidence is key.¡±


    She appreciated his advice and nodded.


    ¡°Thank you. It¡¯s just¡­ I haven¡¯t done this before, you know? All this business stuff.¡±


    Alexander gave her an encouraging pat on the shoulder.


    ¡°No worries. You¡¯re a quick learner, and I¡¯ll be there with you. If anything, we make a great team.¡±


    Marissa was touched by his supportive words.


    ¡°Thank you, Alexander. I appreciate your help and advice.¡±


    ¡°Anytime.¡± he said, as he stretched and got up.


    ¡°Let me get ready for the meeting.¡±


    He walked into the room and closed the door behind him.


    ¡°Are we gonna eat something before we go or¡­ we are gonna wait till 10am to have breakfast?¡± she asked him.

 Breakfast And Waiting

    He opened the door a little and poked his head out.


    ¡°Well¡­. you know that I¡¯m used to eatingte so that time seems okay with me, but if you are hungry and can¡¯t wait till 10, you could order room service and eat anything you want.¡±


    He poked his head back inside the room and closed the door behind him.


    Marissa nodded.


    ¡°Maybe I should just wait since I¡¯m all dressed up for the meeting. I don¡¯t want to ruin my perfect makeup.¡±


    Marissa decided to wait for their scheduled breakfast meeting and, as she did so, she turned on the TV to pass the time.


    While she watched the morning news, she could hear the faint sound of the shower running from the bathroom, indicating that Alexander was getting ready as well.


    The soothing sound of the water helped calm her nerves, and she took a few deep breaths to steady herself for the uing meeting.


    As the minutes ticked away, she focused on the TV, eager to stay distracted while she waited for Alexander to finish his shower.


    As Marissa watched the TV, she couldn¡¯t help but think about the strange turn her life had taken. Just a short time ago, she was dealing with the stress of her brother¡¯s medical bills, and now she was in Switzend, preparing for an important business meeting as part of her faux-marital escapade with Alexander.


    The noise from the shower started to fade, and soon Alexander emerged from the bathroom, looking refreshed and confident.


    ¡°Ready for our meeting?¡± he asked, drying his hair with a towel.


    Marissa looked at him with a shocked expression and quickly turned her gaze away.


    ¡°Woah! Put some clothes on.¡±


    Alexander who was drying his hair with a towel smiled


    ¡°You like what you see?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ no. Please could you just go in there and put some clothes on.¡± she said, her gaze still away not wanting to look at him as he was standing there drying his hair.


    Alexander chuckled.


    ¡°Why are you ufortable with me wearing a towel around my waist and you see my sexy chest huh?¡±


    Marissa rolled her eyes in disgust.


    ¡°Trust me, Alexander, you¡¯re not the reason I¡¯m blushing,¡± she said.


    ¡°Now, could you please get dressed so we can head to our meeting? We don¡¯t have time for this.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s face turned bright red as she stood her ground, refusing to give in to Alexander¡¯s teasing.


    Alexander couldn¡¯t help butugh at Marissa¡¯s flustered state. He quickly put on a shirt, still grinning mischievously.


    ¡°Alright, alright, no need to be so serious. I¡¯m dressed and ready to go.¡±


    After a few minutes, Alexander was set and ready to go. He looked dashing in his white shirt and blue jeans.


    Alexander emerged from the room looking sharp in a crisp white shirt and well-fitted blue jeans.


    He appeared effortlessly stylish, and Marissa couldn¡¯t help but notice the charm in his casual yet elegant attire.


    As she took in his appearance, Marissa had a brief moment of internal panic. The casual attire that would pass easily in the bustling city back home felt almost too rxed for Switzend¡¯s elegance.


    She snapped out of her thoughts with a mental shake, reminding herself to focus on the business aspect of the trip.


    ¡°Ready to go?¡± Alexander asked with a confident smile.


    Marissa quickly nodded, still feeling flustered but determined to maintain her professionalism, pushing aside the momentary crazy feelings that had crept into her mind.


    With that, they left their room and headed to the important business meeting, putting their personal feelings and yful teasing aside for the time being.


    They got to the most expensive restaurant in Switzend.


    When they entered the fancy restaurant in Switzend, Marissa was amazed by its beauty.


    The ce was filled with beautiful decorations, like sparkling chandeliers and elegant furniture. Everything about it spoke luxury.


    The restaurant staff greeted them warmly and showed them to their reserved table.


    As they sat down at the restaurant, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but admire the elegant surroundings.


    She leaned in towards Alexander and said, ¡°This ce is so luxurious, Alexander. I feel like I¡¯m in a fancy movie or something.¡±


    Alexander smiled,


    ¡°It¡¯s one of the finest restaurants in Switzend. We have to make asting impression today.


    So, what do you think of the menu? Any Swiss dishes you want to try?¡±


    Marissa looked at the menu, a bit overwhelmed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t even know where to start. What¡¯s a must-try Swiss dish?¡±


    Alexander chuckled,


    ¡°How about trying some traditional Swiss fondue? It¡¯s a cheese-lover¡¯s dream.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s eyes lit up, ¡°Fondue it is! And what about you? Do you have any special preferences for today¡¯s meeting?¡±


    Alexander nced around the restaurant thoughtfully,


    ¡°I think I¡¯ll go for a ssic Swiss dish, maybe a Zurich-style veal dish. It¡¯s known for its rich vors.¡±


    ¡°That would look yum.¡± she said.


    While they waited for their business partner. Alexander excused himself.


    ¡°Sorry, I have to make a few calls. I¡¯ll be right back.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Marissa nodded and smiled as she watched Alexander walk out to make a phone call.


    She was alone and kept looking around the beautiful restaurant.


    ¡°I feel like I¡¯m living a fairy tale life that I don¡¯t want to leave.¡± she told herself.


    As Marissa sat alone in the elegant restaurant, her mind drifted to the events of the past few days. She couldn¡¯t believe how quickly her life had taken a dramatic turn.


    ¡°I was just a struggling woman, doing everything I could to support my brother¡¯s medical bills,¡± she thought to herself.


    ¡°And now, here I am, pretending to be married to a millionaire and attending high-stakes business meetings.¡±


    The thought of her brother, who was counting on her to secure the contract, weighed heavily on her mind. She was determined to do whatever it took to ensure his well-being, even if it meant navigating this unconventional situation.


    She couldn¡¯t deny that the lifestyle and surroundings were far from what she was ustomed to.


    The luxury and extravagance of the restaurant and the trip itself seemed like something out of a movie.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but wonder about Alexander. His transformation from a seemingly indifferent and cold businessman into someone who was making an effort to be considerate and caring had caught her off guard.


    She found herself thinking about the moments they had shared, especially the unexpected closeness in their shared living space.


    But she quickly reminded herself of their agreement and the purpose of their arrangement.


    This wasn¡¯t about personal feelings; it was about securing a contract that could change the course of her brother¡¯s life.


    With a sigh, Marissa focused on the present, waiting for Alexander to return from his phone call and for their potential business partners to arrive.

 Moving The Big Meeting

    A waiter walked to their table and greeted her warmly.


    ¡°Hello ma¡¯am. Are you ready to order?¡± he asked, a smile on his face.


    Marissa returned the waiter¡¯s smile and nodded.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m ready. I¡¯ll have the Zurich-style veal dish that Alexander mentioned earlier. It sounds delicious.¡±


    The waiter noted down her order and turned his attention to Alexander, who had just returned to the table.


    ¡°Wee back, sir. Are you ready to order as well?¡± the waiter inquired.


    Alexander nced at the menu once more before making his decision. ¡°I¡¯ll have the Swiss fondue, please.


    And bring us a bottle of your finest Swiss white wine toplement the meal.¡±


    The waiter acknowledged the order and gave a slight bow before departing.


    As they waited for their food to arrive, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but appreciate the attentive service and the exquisite surroundings of the restaurant.


    It was a stark contrast to her usual experiences, and she marveled at the beauty of the Swissndscape outside the restaurant¡¯s windows.


    Alexander leaned in and struck up a conversation.


    ¡°I must say, Marissa, this restaurant is truly remarkable. Switzend has a unique charm, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    Marissa agreed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    ¡°It¡¯s absolutely breathtaking. I¡¯ve never seen anything quite like it. I feel like I¡¯m in a dream.¡±


    ¡°So are our potential business partnersing?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Um¡­ no.¡± he revealed.


    ¡°Why? Did something happen?¡± she asked, wondering what could have possibly happened to change their potential client¡¯s mind.


    ¡°They couldn¡¯te because they were busy with a few things, but they invited us to dinner in the grand hall at the finest hotel in Swiss.¡± he said, as he took a ss of water.


    ¡°Today?¡± she asked.


    Alexander dropped the ss of water and nodded.


    ¡°Yep.¡±


    ¡°So what are we going to do today then?¡± she asked.


    Alexander took a moment to consider their options for the day.


    ¡°Well, we have a bit of free time until the dinner tonight. Switzend has some incredible ces to explore, and I thought we might make the most of it.


    How about we visit the historic old town of Zurich and enjoy some of the local culture and sights?¡±


    Marissa¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. ¡°That sounds like a fantastic idea. I¡¯d love to explore the old town.¡±


    ¡°Good. Then it¡¯s settled.¡± he said, he made a phone call.


    Just then their meal came and the waiter set it on the table.


    ¡°Here are your meals. Enjoy.¡± he said, a smile on his face as he bows and leaves them to enjoy their meal.


    Alexander ended the call and ced his phone on the table.


    ¡°Our hotel room has been changed so, the driver who would take us would be here in the next 30 minutes so let¡¯s eat up and leave.¡±


    Marissa, who ced a white cloth on herp, nodded as they prepared for their meal.


    While they were eating, Marissa decided to strike a conversation to not make everything too quiet.


    ¡°Alexander, you must have been to many ces like this for business,¡± Marissa remarked.


    Alexander smiled, taking a sip of his wine.


    ¡°Oh, you have no idea. I¡¯ve been to countless restaurants and hotels for business meetings. Sometimes it feels like I¡¯m living out of a suitcase.¡±


    Marissa chuckled.


    ¡°And here I was, thinking I was the lucky one to experience this.¡±


    He nodded.


    ¡°Well, the view here is indeed spectacr, but after a while, they all start to look the same.


    The only thing that makes each trip unique is the people you meet and the deals you make.¡±


    Marissa raised her eyebrows, intrigued.


    ¡°So, any interesting stories or memorable experiences from your travels?¡±


    Alexander thought for a moment.


    ¡°Well um¡­., there was this one time in Tokyo when I had to give a presentation to a potential client.


    Everything was going well until I realized I had left my presentation slides at the hotel. I had to improvise for an hour, and somehow, we still closed the deal.¡±


    Marissaughed.


    ¡°That must have been a nerve-wracking experience!¡±


    ¡°It was, but it taught me to always double-check my presentation materials before a meeting.


    And it¡¯s a story I often share with my colleagues to remind them of the importance of being adaptable in business.¡±


    ¡°May I ask this personal question?¡± she asked, as she took a sip of her wine.


    Alexander nodded.


    ¡°Of course, feel free to ask,¡± Alexander replied.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Marissa took a deep breath. ¡°I hope I¡¯m not prying too much, but I¡¯m genuinely curious.


    How long have you and Jessie been together, and how did you meet? It must be challenging to bnce a busy career with a personal life. What made you decide you wanted to be with her, especially when it seems she loves her career so much?¡±


    Alexander leaned back in his chair, contemting her questions.


    ¡°Jessie and I have been together for nearly four years. We met at a charity g where we both were guest speakers. I was drawn to her passion for her work and how she used her influence to make a positive impact. But you¡¯re right; it¡¯s not always easy. We¡¯ve had our ups and downs, especially when our careers demanded so much of our time. However, we¡¯ve learned to prioritize our rtionship, and it¡¯s made us stronger. It¡¯s all about finding a bnce, Marissa.¡±


    Marissa nodded, appreciating his honest response. ¡°It sounds like you both value each other and what you bring to the rtionship. It¡¯s inspiring.¡±


    Alexander smiled warmly. ¡°Thank you, Marissa. It¡¯s not always smooth sailing, but we make it work because we understand and support each other¡¯s dreams. It¡¯s important to have someone who believes in you.¡±


    ¡°But why did she not agree to marry you when you asked her and she turned you down?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Well¡­.. Jessie is very ambitious as I said. But she isn¡¯t ready tomit into a serious rtionship just yet, but she will ¡­ eventually.¡± He bit his lips as he made that statement.

 Business Clients

    Marissa looked at him with a serious expression.


    ¡°But don¡¯t you think that if she prioritize her career more than she does your rtionship isn¡¯t that a bad sign?¡± she asked.


    Alexander paused for a moment, his smile fading slightly as he considered Marissa¡¯s question. It was clear that the conversation was starting to veer into ufortable territory, and he didn¡¯t want to reveal too much about his personal life.


    ¡°Marissa, I appreciate your curiosity, but I think we¡¯ve delved into personal matters quite a bit. Let¡¯s not go too deep into that realm,¡± he gently suggested.


    Marissa immediately sensed the shift in the conversation¡¯s tone and felt somewhat embarrassed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Alexander. I didn¡¯t mean to overstep. It won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Alexander quickly reassured her.


    ¡°No need to apologize, Marissa. It¡¯s just that some things are more private than others.


    Let¡¯s enjoy our meal and focus on our business endeavors.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s question about Jessie lingered in Alexander¡¯s mind as he continued to eat.


    He couldn¡¯t help but mull over her words, and part of him wondered if there was some truth to what she had said.


    After a few bites, he suddenly put his fork down and stared off into the distance, lost in thought.


    The conversation reyed in his mind, and he questioned if he had been too idealistic about Jessie¡¯s career-oriented mindset.


    Marissa, noticing his distant expression, asked, ¡°Is everything alright, Alexander?¡±


    He slowly brought his focus back to the present, offering a faint smile.


    ¡°Yes, Marissa, everything¡¯s fine. Just lost in thought for a moment. Let¡¯s continue our meal.¡±


    Although he continued with their meal, her words had definitely given him something to think about, and it stirred up a sense of doubt he had never experienced before.


    What¡¯s this feeling of unease? Am I beginning to see that Jessie¡¯s career is affecting our rtionship?


    He thought about it as he kept eating.


    After their meal, Alexander paid for the meal with his card and then he received a call from the driver that he was present and currently outside the restaurant waiting for them.


    ¡°The driver is here. So let¡¯s go.¡± he said.


    Marissa nodded and she got up and they both left the restaurant and entered the car that would take them to their new suites.


    While inside the car, Marissa looked at Alexander and then turned as their was silence between the both of them.


    She felt she must have said something that had changed his mood drastically and didn¡¯t know how to liven the atmosphere.


    As they sat in the car, the silence between them was palpable. Marissa could sense that her earlier questions about Alexander¡¯s rtionship with Jessie had created a somewhat ufortable atmosphere, and she feltpelled to change that.


    She leaned forward and asked the driver, ¡°Is there a nice ce to hang out, maybe a theater or a cultural spot, that¡¯s worth exploring in the area?¡±


    The driver, who had been listening to their conversation, turned and smiled at Marissa.


    ¡°Certainly, ma¡¯am. We have a beautiful theater nearby where you can enjoy a y, and there¡¯s also a charming art gallery not too far from there.¡±


    Marissa nodded and then turned her attention to Alexander, attempting to break the ice.


    ¡°What do you think, Alexander? A bit of local culture and entertainment, perhaps?¡±


    He nced at her and offered a small smile, appreciating her effort to lighten the mood.


    ¡°Sounds like a great idea, Marissa. Let¡¯s check it out.¡±N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°Okay, to the theater we go!¡± she eximed.


    She was happy that she could make him smile. Even though she knew that they could only be business partners for three months. She was happy that she could make him smile.


    After the theater that day, it was almost time for their dinner meeting with their potential client.


    The driver took them to their hotel and they prepared for the dinner they were invited to.


    Marissa wore a light coloured pink gown and left her hair down and applied light makeup topliment the color of her dress.


    When Alexander saw her, he couldn¡¯t help himself and heplimented her dressing.


    ¡°You look¡­. gorgeous.¡±


    Marissa blushed at Alexander¡¯spliment. She hadn¡¯t expected such a response, and it momentarily threw her off bnce.


    ¡°Thank¡­¡­ you¡­..,¡± she stammered, her heart racing as she felt a warmth spread through her.


    Despite her earlier determination to focus solely on their business deal, the emotions between them seemed to have a life of their own.


    Alexander, looking dashing in his suit, offered his arm to Marissa, and she took it, her heart still fluttering.


    ¡°So shall we go get that business deal?¡±


    Marissa smiled and then nodded.


    ¡°Yes! Let¡¯s go!¡±


    They both left their hotel room and headed to the grand hall for the dinner meeting with their potential client.


    As they entered the grand hall, Alexander immediately saw his potential client and then alerted Marissa who saw them as well.


    They moved towards the table where they were and greeted the clients warmly.


    As they approached the potential clients, Alexander extended a hand and greeted them warmly. The clients returned the gesture, and Alexander took a moment to introduce Marissa.


    ¡°May I present to you my beautiful wife, Marissa. She¡¯s been instrumental in our recent sesses.¡±


    Marissa smiled and shook hands with the clients, conveying confidence and professionalism. The clients were immediately intrigued by her.


    ¡°Oh¡­ you are married? We didn¡¯t know.¡± one of the clients named Fredrick.


    ¡°Yes, I am married to this beautiful woman, but it was just a private wedding, nothing too loud. You know what I mean?¡± Alexander said.


    They allughed and sat down.


    One of them, a middle-aged woman named Sophie, couldn¡¯t help but be curious.


    ¡°It¡¯s lovely to meet you, Marissa. How did you and Alexander meet?¡±


    Marissa kept her cool, recalling their rehearsed story. ¡°We met through mutual friends at a charity event. It was an instant connection.¡±


    Another client, Robert, chimed in, ¡°You must be a remarkable woman to win Alexander¡¯s heart.¡±


    Marissa gave a modest chuckle. ¡°Well¡­, I believe weplement each other quite well, and we¡¯ve achieved a lot together.¡±

 Speechless And Surprised

    ¡°That¡¯s good. But we have heard stories about how arrogant and annoying he is towards people. How were you able to cope with that?¡± Mr. Robert asked.


    ¡°Um¡­. you know the saying that no one is perfect and honestly, I am not too. I guess we both understand that we have weaknesses and we both try everyday to ovee our weaknesses.


    Like recently, he has changed and he doesn¡¯t talk rudely to his staff and he treats them pretty well.¡±


    Marissa noticed that they must have been informed by someone about Alexander¡¯s attitude and so wanted to ask more about him before they decide to give him the contract.


    Mr. Robert looked at Alexander and Marissa and then decided to ask a very tough question and he asked Marissa and not Alexander.


    ¡°Marissa, why do you think that your husband is a good fit for this contract?¡±


    Marissa maintained herposed demeanor as she answered,


    ¡°Hmmm¡­. I believe my husband, Alexander, is the perfect fit for this contract for several reasons.


    First and foremost, he has a proven track record of excellence in this industry. His expertise and dedication have consistently led to sessful oues in previous projects.¡±


    They nodded as Marissa spoke.


    Alexander on the other hand was impressed. He never thought that Marissa could know so much about business and about him.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Sophie, one of the clients, nodded in agreement and chimed in,


    ¡°That¡¯s impressive. It¡¯s clear he¡¯s passionate about his work.¡±


    Marissa continued, ¡°Yes, passion andmitment are just a couple of his many qualities.


    He¡¯s not only a skilled professional but also a leader who fosters a positive work environment.


    Recently, he¡¯s transformed our workce, treating our staff with respect and kindness, which, in turn, enhances their productivity and job satisfaction.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ really? That¡¯s impressive.¡± Robert said.


    ¡°We had heard a lot of stories tha Mr. Alexander wasn¡¯t a very kind person and he always threatens to fire anyone who doesn¡¯t deliver their best in the job.¡±


    Alexander was about to speak when Marissa decided to continue.


    ¡°Well, everyone has weaknesses and I believe no one is perfect. Even a white cloth has a little stain, but when you wash the shirt, the stain removes.


    So I believe that Mr. Alexander here is like the shirt and he¡¯s working on himself to be a stainless shirt so that everyone around him can be happy.¡±


    Mr. Robert smiled as he was impressed by Marissa¡¯s illustration to exin how an imperfect person can be perfect if given a chance.


    ¡°So you believe that if we award Mr. Alexander the contract, he would not only deliver but he would appreciate everyone who works hard and widely to bring out the end result?¡±


    Marissa nodded and spoke.


    Marissa exined,


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that if you choose Mr. Alexander for the contract, he will do a great job and treat his team well. I¡¯ve seen how he¡¯s working on improving himself, and I think he can create a positive work environment.¡±


    One of the clients, Sophie, chimed in,


    ¡°It¡¯s nice to see such a good partnership. Marissa, your trust in Alexander¡¯s leadership is impressive.¡±


    The clients were pleased with Marissa¡¯s straightforward and thoughtful answers. Her presence helped them feel more confident in Alexander¡¯s abilities and consider the contract more seriously.


    ¡°You¡¯ve chosen a remarkable partner, Alexander. Her insights and your dedication make apelling case for this coboration.¡± Mr. Robert said.


    ¡°Yes sir¡­. I sure did pick the right partner¡­¡± he said as he stared at Marissa. He didn¡¯t know when he held her hand.


    Marissa, who was speaking, stopped and looked into his eyes.


    She didn¡¯t know what was going on in his mind but it was obvious that he was impressed by how she exined so much with confidence.


    She smiled at him and he smiled back, both obviously lost in their world forgetting that they were not alone.


    ¡°Alright, Mr. Alexander. We will award you the contract, because your wife here did a really great job in convincing us that you are indeed a different man.


    And we admire her confidence.¡± Mrs. Sophie.


    Mr. Robert agreed and chimed in.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget to mention beauty.¡±


    Hahahaha.


    Marissa blushed, feeling a bit flustered by the unexpected praise. She nodded in appreciation.


    ¡°Thank you so much for your trust,¡± she said.


    Alexander was still holding her hand, and he gave it a gentle squeeze.


    ¡°We won¡¯t disappoint you,¡± he assured them.


    The clients seemed satisfied with their decision, and they continued their dinner, discussing further details of the uing contract.


    After the dinner, Marissa and Alexander left the grand hall feeling a sense of aplishment. The night had taken an unexpected turn, and it looked like their faux-marital escapade was off to a good start.


    While they were in the car, Alexander couldn¡¯t hide it, but he was really impressed by Marissa¡¯s ability to handle things in there.


    He had thought she would just be a way of convincing his client that he was married to get the contract, but Marissa surprised him with the way she spoke that she became an asset who helped him secure the contract he had worked for months to secure.


    ¡°Marissa, you did a really great job today¡­. I honestly didn¡¯t believe-¡± she cut him off.


    ¡°Believe that I could pull this off without your help.¡±


    He nodded.


    ¡°Well¡­. you don¡¯t judge a book by it¡¯s cover.¡± she said.


    ¡°Before we came on this trip, I did some reading about yourpany and your biography of the things you have aplished in the years as a single business millionaire.


    So I just used the information to convince the clients about how good you were and that they could trust their project with you and that you would deliver.¡±


    Alexander staring into her eyes spoke.


    ¡°I was so impressed and I¡¯m sure they were more impressed more than they said.


    I never thought you could talk like that.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­. surprise!¡± she said, as she smiled.


    ¡°Thank you, Marissa¡­. I really am grateful for helping me pull this off.

 Growing Feelings

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t have done it without you.¡± he said


    Marissa smiled.


    ¡°Is this the same Alexander who was a jerk before? You must be his doppelganger.¡± she teased.


    ¡°Hahaha very funny Marissa.¡± he rolled his eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, Alexander¡­.. you¡¯ve changed a little. I always thought you were arrogant and self seeking and don¡¯t care about anyone around you and you don¡¯t say thank you and sorry.


    But for the past few weeks, you have changed and honestly¡­.. it¡¯s a good change.¡± she said.


    Alexander smiled, and there was a genuine warmth in his eyes as he looked at Marissa. ¡°Well, Marissa, I guess you bring out the best in me,¡± he admitted.


    She chuckled. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s all an act, just to secure this contract.¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°No, I promise you, it¡¯s not an act. You¡¯ve shown me a different perspective, and I¡¯m starting to see things in a new light.¡±


    ¡°Oh really?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Hmm-mmm¡­ really,¡± he replied.


    ¡°How so?¡± she asked.


    Alexander paused, thinking for a moment, and then he said, ¡°I¡¯ve been so focused on work, on sess, that I lost sight of the human aspect of it all.


    You¡¯ve reminded me that people matter, their feelings matter. It¡¯s not just about making money or winning deals.


    It¡¯s about connecting with others and making a positive impact on their lives.¡±


    Marissa smiled, touched by his words.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that, Alexander. It¡¯s important to find a bnce between ambition and empathy. I hope this change isn¡¯t just temporary.¡±


    He nodded earnestly. ¡°It won¡¯t be. You have my word.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Alexander. I¡¯ll take your word for it.¡± she said.


    Just then, Alexander¡¯s phone began to ring and he checked the caller and saw that it was Jessie.


    There was a silence between himself and Marissa.


    ¡°I think you should pick that up.¡± she said, as she smiled and then turned her gaze towards the window in the car.


    Alexander paused for a second and then took a deep breath and then picked the call.


    ¡°Hello, Jessie.¡± he answered.


    ¡°Alexander, where are you? You¡¯re not home,¡± Jessie¡¯s voice sounded concerned on the other end of the line.


    ¡°And the maid informed me that you haven¡¯t been at your apartment for a while now. What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t inform you earlier. I¡¯m currently in Switzend,¡± Alexander replied.


    ¡°Switzend? Why are you there?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a business trip. We have an important project here.¡±


    There was a pause on the other end. ¡°You left without telling me? And who went with you?¡±


    ¡°I know, and I apologize for that. It was a sudden decision, and I wanted to discuss it with you, but I didn¡¯t get the chance.¡±


    ¡°Who went with you?¡± she asked again.


    ¡°Um¡­ just me and some of my team.¡± he said, as he looked at Marissa who was looking away from him and staring outside the window.


    Jessie sighed. ¡°Alright, but next time, please keep me in the loop. I worry when I don¡¯t know where you are.¡±


    ¡°I promise, I will.¡±


    Marissa listened to Alexander¡¯s side of the conversation, feeling like an intruder in their personal matters, yet unable topletely ignore the conversation. She stared out the window, giving them privacy.


    ¡°Thank you for understanding, Jessie,¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Are you alone there, or is someone with you?¡±


    Marissa turned her gaze back to the conversation, wondering how Alexander would answer this question.


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, ncing at Marissa. He didn¡¯t want to lie to Jessie, but he also didn¡¯t want to reveal the true nature of their trip.


    ¡°Actually, I¡¯m here with a colleague. We¡¯re working on this project together,¡± he exined, choosing his words carefully.


    ¡°Oh, I see. Well, don¡¯t work too hard. And let me know when you¡¯reing back.¡±


    ¡°I will, Jessie. I miss you.¡±


    ¡°I miss you too, Alexander. Take care.¡±


    They exchanged a few more words before ending the call.


    Alexander put his phone away and turned to Marissa. ¡°I¡¯m sorry about that.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Alexander. Your personal life is your business,¡± Marissa replied with a reassuring smile.


    He appreciated her understanding and nodded. The rest of the car ride was rtively quiet, and they both seemed lost in their thoughts as they headed back to the hotel.


    On one hand, Marissa wasn¡¯t happy to be referred to as a colleague from work, but she realized that she was actually his business partner and nothing more.


    Marissa thought to herself,


    ¡°So I¡¯m just his colleague in front of Jessie, not his fake wife.¡±


    She sighed inwardly, recognizing the need for professionalism,N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°Guess that¡¯s how it should be, to avoid moreplications.¡±


    As Marissa looked out of the car window, her thoughts continued to race.


    ¡°I¡¯ve done my part in securing the contract. It¡¯s all business, just like we agreed.


    But what about the personal side of this charade? Where does that leave us? What¡¯s next for Alexander and me?¡±


    As Marissa looked out of the car window, her thoughts continued to race.


    I¡¯ve done my part in securing the contract. It¡¯s all business, just like we agreed. But what about the personal side of this charade? Where does that leave us? What¡¯s next for Alexander and me?


    She remembered the lingering emotions from their staged kiss during the photoshoot and how their interactions had be more intimate.


    ¡°It¡¯s too early for any of this.¡± she reasoned with herself, unsure about how to handle the unexpected feelings she had been developing for Alexander.


    ¡°Jessie¡± she thought


    ¡°¡­ what role does she y in his life? And what about my brother? He¡¯s the reason I got into this faux-marital escapade, to begin with.¡±


    Marissa was left pondering the fine line between their fabricated marriage and the genuine connection that was forming.


    As they returned to the hotel, she realized that her journey alongside Alexander was far moreplex than a simple business deal and that feelings were growing from her end and she was beginning to think about how bad this idea was bing¡­..

 Growing Feelings (2)

    As they entered their room, Alexander slumped on the couch exhausted. While Marissa entered the room to change.


    Alexander realized that she was quieter than usual and wondered why she was like that. He wanted to ask her, but felt they had agreed not to talk about personal matters, but they had been discussing personal stufftely which isn¡¯t part of the contract.


    So he decided to ask hoping she would tell him.


    He got up from the couch and walked towards the door and knocked.


    Alexander knocked on the door to Marissa¡¯s room, and she opened it, wearing afortable sweater and jeans.


    ¡°Hey,¡± he said with a soft smile, ¡°You seem a bit distant. Is there something on your mind?¡±


    Marissa hesitated for a moment before giving a small shrug.


    ¡°It¡¯s just been a long day, you know? Meetings, conversations, and all. I guess I¡¯m just tired.¡±


    Alexander studied her for a moment, his gaze thoughtful.


    ¡°Okay, I understand. But remember, we¡¯re in this together. If you ever want to talk or need anything, just let me know.¡±


    She nodded and managed a smile.


    ¡°Thanks, Alexander. I appreciate it. But for now, I think I¡¯ll just rx and get some rest.¡±


    ¡°Alright, take your time. We¡¯ve got another busy day tomorrow,¡± he replied before heading back to his own room, still wondering what might be bothering her but respecting her need for space.


    As Marissa closed the door, she stayed behind the door and took a deep breath and then walked towards her bed and sat down.


    ¡°Why am I feeling this way? Why was I offended when Alex called me his colleague on the phone to Jessie?¡± she asked herself. ¡°After all, we were business partners who signed a contract to work together for three months as husband and wife to secure the contract and now the contract will be signed the next day. So why am I feeling this way?¡± she sighed and rested her body on her bed looking at the ceiling.


    ¡°Alexander doesn¡¯t clearly see me in any way romantic, but sees me as a business partner and that¡¯s all?¡±


    ¡°Or do I want something more from him?¡± she asked herself as she ced her hand on her head, scattering her hair.


    ¡°Why am I feeling like this?¡± she wondered, still unable to put her finger on it. ¡°Is it because he referred to me as a colleague on the phone with Jessie?


    But that¡¯s what we are, right? Business partners¡­¡±


    She propped herself up on her elbow, deep in thought. ¡°It¡¯s just a contract, a facade¡­


    But why do I feel like there¡¯s something more, something unspoken between us?¡±


    As she stared at the ceiling, Marissa realized that maybe, just maybe, she had begun to wish for something beyond the contract.


    ¡°Could it be that I want more from him?¡± she whispered to herself.


    The unanswered questions lingered in the air as she tried to make sense of theplex feelings she was developing for the man who had started as a mere business partner in this borate charade.


    She then got up from the bed and pped herself on the face.


    ¡°Marissa get your mind out of it. Alexander is your fake husband and this is a business deal and nothing more, alright?¡± she told herself as she kept pping herself gently on her face.


    Marissa tried to shake off the swirling thoughts by speaking aloud to herself.


    ¡°Alright, Marissa, you¡¯ve got to get a grip. This is just a business arrangement, a partnership, nothing else.


    No room for romance or any of those sappy feelings,¡± she muttered.


    She continued, her voice growing more animated, ¡°I mean,e on!


    This is Alexander we¡¯re talking about. Mr. Arrogance turned into Mr. Politeness, and maybe that¡¯s all there is to it.¡±


    Marissa gave herself a final, more determined p on the cheek and chuckled at the absurdity of it all.


    ¡°There! Now, let¡¯s focus on the contract and forget about any crazy, unrealistic ideas, okay?¡±


    She stood up and paced about talking to herself that she and Alexander can never have anything together and that it was just a contract and nothing more.


    Marissa continued to pace and mutter to herself, her inner monologue growing more humorous by the moment.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s right. Alexander is like a fine wine that I just need to let age on his own¡­ in his own fancy bottle.¡±


    She chuckled at her own analogy, shaking her head.


    ¡°Why even consider the idea that he might look at me with those¡­ wait, no, stop! That¡¯s not what¡¯s happening here!¡±


    Marissa stopped and pointed her finger at herself as if scolding her own imagination.


    ¡°Keep it professional, Marissa. This is a business deal, not a fairy tale. So, let¡¯s get back to the real world, shall we?¡±


    With a final nod to herself, she decided to push her feelings aside and concentrate on the impending contract signing, even though her heart seemed to have its own agenda.


    A knock on the door brought her back to reality. She walked up to the door and opened it slightly.


    It was Alexander again.


    ¡°What does he want again?¡± she asked herself as she looked at him.


    ¡°Uh¡­. do you want to take a walk and get something to drink and stroll around the city with me?¡± he offered.


    Marissa hesitated for a moment, her inner turmoil briefly showing on her face. She had just been chastising herself for having romantic thoughts, and now here was Alexander suggesting a walk through the city. She needed to make a decision.


    ¡°Sure, why not?¡± she replied with a friendly smile, surprising even herself.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Alexander seemed pleased with her response. ¡°Great! Let¡¯s enjoy the beautiful city together.¡±


    ¡°Sure, let me get my coat.¡± Marissa said and closed the door while Alexander waited in the sitting room for her toe out.


    ¡°What are you doing Alexander?¡± he asked himself as he was standing and waiting for Marissa.


    ¡°Why are you trying to get too close to your fake wife? You know this is a contract marriage and if you get too close, it might not end well?¡±


    He paced back and forth while waiting for Marissa and was talking to himself.

 A Walk and Family

    ¡°This is nothing¡­. we are just two business partners who have sessfullypleted a task and just want to stroll around the country that¡¯s all. There¡¯s nothing more to it.¡± he told himself.


    Marissa came out and smiled.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± she said.


    Alexander nodded and they both left the hotel to take a walk round the city that night.


    While they were walking, there was silence between them as they were battling their own thoughts within.


    But Alexander decided to break the silence between them and started a conversation.


    ¡°So Marissa, tell me more about your family. Any siblings?¡±


    ¡°I thought you said we shouldn¡¯t pry into our personal lives. So why are you asking such a personal question?¡± she asked him as she ced her hand inside her pocket.


    ¡°Yes I know I said that, but I don¡¯t know what to discuss with you about and I don¡¯t want us to be all awkward around ourselves since we are going to be hanging out together till the contract expires.


    So why don¡¯t we just share little things about ourselves. What do you say?¡± he asked.


    Marissa paused for a while contemting if she should expose her personal life to Alexander because she was scared to get her hopes up that maybe something might grow between them.


    She decided to give in to his request and decided to answer his question.


    ¡°Alright, just a little. I¡¯ll tell you a little about myself and that¡¯s it.¡±


    Alexander nodded with a smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s better,¡± he said.


    ¡°So about my question earlier¡­..¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ yes, I have a younger brother named Samuel Preah. He¡¯s actually the reason I got into this whole charade.¡±


    Alexander looked at her with a confused expression.


    ¡°Oh, How so?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­. um¡­ he needed financial support for his health. He needed money for his surgery or he would die so that day you almost killed me with your car.


    I was thinking how I was gonna get the money for his surgery. That was how we met.


    But I wasn¡¯t gonna sell my dignity to someone who was arrogant, selfish and inconsiderate so I turned it down.


    But when the situation was getting worse and I was given 48 hours toe up with the money I had no choice but to agree to your demands even when I found you annoying and unbearable.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­.. I didn¡¯t know¡­.¡± he said.


    ¡°I actually thought maybe you needed the money to buy yourself nice clothes and all to look rich and all, but I guess I misjudged you.


    That was actually very noble of you. Family means a lot.¡±


    Marissa smiled.


    ¡°Well¡­ there¡¯s a saying that never judge a book by its cover but get to open the book and read what¡¯s inside before you judge the book.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­. my bad.¡± he said, cing his hand on his hair, obviously embarrassed for judging her.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine¡­. I also judged you. I thought you were an arrogant prick who doesn¡¯t deserve any human love, but you ain¡¯t that bad.¡± she said.


    He looked at her and smiled.


    ¡°See¡­ I guess you also did what I did.¡±


    Marissa lifted her hands up in surrender.


    ¡°I admit my crimes¡­. I did judge you, but you are alright.¡±


    She noticed that Alexander was blushing by her words.


    ¡°So¡­. what about your family? Do you have siblings?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ yeah. I have an older sister. She¡¯s quite the opposite of me, veryid back and easy going.¡±


    ¡°What about your parents?¡± she asked.


    ¡°My parents died when we were in college and so I had to train myself to take over the family business,¡± he answered.


    ¡°Oh¡­. I¡¯m so sorry about that.¡± her expression sad.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine¡­. it¡¯s a long time ago. I¡¯ve gotten used to it.¡±


    ¡°It must not have been easy for you¡­. handling your family business alone¡­. I guess that was why you became a workaholic and never had time to social and build a good character.¡± she said.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°Well you can say that I had a lot of mouths to feed in my father¡¯spany so I had to be hard and difficult for them to take me serious and also I had to prove myself to the board that I am well capable of handling my family¡¯s business.¡± he said, as they kept on strolling down the street.


    ¡°So where is your sister now?¡± she asked.


    ¡°My sister¡­¡± he said, trailing off. ¡°She¡¯s living in Paris now with her husband and kids. I see her once or twice a year when I go to Europe for work.¡±


    I could see that the topic of his sister was a difficult one for him to talk about. He seemed to tense up and his face looked more serious.


    ¡°I can understand why you might not want to talk about her,¡± I said, trying to lighten the mood.


    ¡°But I think it¡¯s important for you to know that I¡¯m not judging you or thinking badly of you.¡±


    He smiled.


    ¡°I never thought of such a thing.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ good then.¡±


    ¡°So you mentioned a past rtionship before. Care to share?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Ah, you caught that, huh?¡± Well, it didn¡¯t work out because my ex couldn¡¯t handle my workmitments.¡± he said.


    ¡°Bncing work and personal life can be challenging.¡± she said.


    ¡°Hmm-mm.¡± he nodded and then sited a coffee shop nearby.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we grab a cup of coffee while we are at it.¡± he offered.


    Marissa nodded.


    ¡°Sure.


    We found a cozy little coffee shop and went inside. The smell of fresh-brewed coffee and baked goods filled the air.


    We ordered our drinks and sat down at a table in the corner.


    ¡°So how are you enjoying your trip here in Switzend?¡± he asked, sipping his tea.


    ¡°Um¡­Adventurous?¡± she said.


    ¡°Adventurous?¡± he said, an eyebrow raised in amusement. ¡°That¡¯s a good way to put it. What¡¯s been the most adventurous thing you¡¯ve done so far?¡±


    she considered for a moment. ¡°I think the most adventurous thing has been meeting you,¡± she said.


    ¡°I never expected to meet someone like you ever in my life.¡±


    Heughed.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m ttered to be considered adventurous,¡± he said, a twinkle in his eye.

 More Talks

    ¡°I hope I¡¯m living up to that expectation.¡±


    ¡°You are,¡± she said.


    ¡°That¡¯s high praise,¡± he said, smiling at me.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to be making such a good impression. But what makes me so adventurous, I wonder?¡±


    She thought for a moment. ¡°It¡¯s not just one thing,¡± she said.


    ¡°It¡¯s abination of things: your willingness to try new things, your determination to get what you want even if the means isn¡¯t the best way to achieve your goal. I must say, I¡¯m impressed.¡±


    He was quiet for a moment, considering my words.


    ¡°I like that description,¡± he said, as he took another sip of his tea.


    ¡°I know that this whole fake marriage contract thing for three months isn¡¯t the best idea, but I was desperate to get this contract and I didn¡¯t want to lose it to Jaimie Fernado.¡±


    ¡°Who is this guy you¡¯ve been mentioning a lot?¡± she asked.


    ¡°He¡¯s an asshole and I feel he doesn¡¯t deserve to take on this project. He¡¯s the CEO of Markwell¡¯spany. My rival.¡± he exined.


    ¡°Wow¡­ you have a rival huh?¡± she asked.


    He nodded.


    ¡°Hmm-mmm.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like to think of him as a rival,¡± he said, ¡°but rather as someone who is always trying to one-up me.


    He¡¯s always trying to outdo me, and it¡¯s really frustrating. But I try not to let it get to me. I just focus on doing my best work and trying to make the world a better ce.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a good attitude to have,¡± she said. ¡°You can¡¯t control what other people do, but you can control your own actions and how you react to things.¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± he said. ¡°So when I asked Jessie to marry me so I could secure the contract, Jessie told me that she wasn¡¯t ready to get married.


    Because of her job and she was pursuing a big promotion.¡± he exined.


    ¡°I understand that you didn¡¯t have a choice, but what if she finds out that you are fake married to someone just to secure a contract. Don¡¯t you think she would be angry?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­. she would but I had no choice. If I had to make that decision, I will make it again and honestly¡­ I would choose you over and over again.¡± he said, and took a sip of his coffee.


    Marissa blushed at his words.


    ¡°Why did you say that?¡±


    ¡°Because you helped me secure the contract. I mean I thought you would just need to be there to prove to them that we were married even though it¡¯s fake but they don¡¯t know that.


    But I never thought they would throw all the questions at you and you answered them so brilliantly.¡± he said.


    ¡°I appreciate your confidence in me,¡± she said, ¡°but I think you should give yourself more credit.


    You were the one who put in all the work, and you were the one who made the winning pitch.


    All I did was show up and answer some questions. You did all the hard work.¡±


    ¡°But you were the one who helped me rx and made me less nervous, and that helped me give a better presentation,¡± he said.


    ¡°And your support means the world to me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re very sweet,¡± she said.


    ¡°I never believed that you would be this nice.¡±


    ¡°Hmm-mmm¡­ see you judged me.¡± he said.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°Hahahaha¡­. I admit I did a lot of times.¡± she admitted.


    He smiled back and sighed looking out the window.


    ¡°This country is so beautiful and rxing¡­. I guess I needed the break from all the work.¡± he said.


    ¡°I guess you do. You can¡¯t always work and work. You need to rest and rx sometime.¡± she said.


    ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, but it¡¯s important to take some time to slow down and appreciate the little things.


    I think I¡¯ve lost sight of that over the past few years, but being here with you has helped me to remember what¡¯s really important in life.¡±


    She smiled at him and reached out to squeeze his hand. ¡°I¡¯m d you feel that way. And I¡¯m d we¡¯re here together.¡±


    He looked at her, his eyes softening. ¡°I am too,¡± he said.


    Just then Marissa snapped back and realized what she did and immediately removed her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­. I shouldn¡¯t have done that.¡± she said.


    Things were a bit awkward between them, as there was silence as they both sipped their tea in silence.


    Marissa wondered if Alexander was beginning to feel what she was feeling as well.


    She was falling for her fake husband and wondered if he was already falling for her as well.


    ¡°So are you going to tell Jessie about our fake marriage when we get back to New York?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a tough question,¡± he said, ¡°and I haven¡¯t really thought about it. Jessie¡¯s my girlfriend and I don¡¯t want to hurt her, but I also don¡¯t want to lie to her.


    It¡¯s a difficult situation, but I¡¯ll have to figure out what to do when we get back.¡±


    Marissa could tell he was conflicted, and she felt sorry for putting him in this position.


    ¡°I understand,¡± she said. ¡°Just know that whatever you decide to do, I¡¯ll support you.¡±


    He looked at her, a grateful smile on his face.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to lie to her anymore¡­. I know that if she finds out, she will be angry with me¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I can imagine that would be a difficult conversation,¡± she said.


    ¡°Do you think she¡¯ll be able to understand why you did it? I mean, you didn¡¯t want to lie to her, but you were put in a tough situation.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°I hope so,¡± he said. ¡°But I know it¡¯s going to be hard for her to hear.


    She¡¯s always been a straight-shooter, and I don¡¯t think she¡¯ll appreciate that I¡¯ve been keeping secrets from her.¡±


    ¡°Well, honesty is always the best policy,¡± she said.

 Not A Jerk

    ¡°Yeah¡­ it is,¡± he said.


    She yawned and he smiled.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s time we head back to the hotel¡­. you¡¯re tired.¡± he said.


    She nodded.


    ¡°I guess I am.¡±


    They gathered their things and headed out of the coffee shop, the cool evening air hitting their faces as they walked down the street.


    ¡°This city is really beautiful at night,¡± Marissa said. ¡°The lights are so magical.¡±


    ¡°They really are,¡± he agreed. ¡°It¡¯s like something out of a movie.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe that this is real life,¡± she said. ¡°It all feels so dreamlike.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know what you mean,¡± he said. ¡°But I guess that¡¯s the beauty of travel.


    It has the ability to transport us to a whole new world, even if it¡¯s just for a little while. Sometimes that little while is enough to give us a new perspective on life.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± she said. ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve learned so much on this trip already, and we¡¯re not even done yet.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the power of experiences,¡± he said. ¡°They have the ability to shape us in ways we never could have imagined. And sometimes it¡¯s the unexpected experiences that have the most impact.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s very true,¡± she said.


    ¡°Like the other day, when we were lost in that maze of a marketce and then found that amazing little cafe that served the best gto either of us had ever tasted,¡± he said.


    ¡°Or when we got on the wrong bus and ended up in that tiny little vige, where we saw that incredible sunset.¡± she said.


    ¡°Thank you, Alexander. Because of you, I get to have such an amazing adventure even if it was for three months.¡±


    He smiled.


    ¡°I¡¯m d¡­ and thank you for agreeing to do this with me even though I know it wasn¡¯t easy for you to put up with such an annoying jerk like me and pretend to be my wife for three months.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha¡­. well I¡¯m d that you appreciate me. I appreciate you as well.¡± she said. ¡°You¡¯re definitely not a jerk, and it¡¯s been an absolute pleasure spending time with you,¡± she added.


    ¡°I¡¯m so d that we decided to do this together. It¡¯s been so much fun, and I feel like I¡¯ve gotten to know you so much better.¡± he said


    ¡°I feel the same way.¡± she said. ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve gotten to know a whole new side of you. You¡¯re a lot more than just a businessman. You¡¯re a kind, thoughtful, and caring person, and I¡¯m so d I got to see that side of you.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­. is that apliment there?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Hahaha¡­ you¡¯re funny.¡± she said.


    ¡°You know, I think you¡¯re pretty funny too,¡± he said with a grin. ¡°You¡¯ve made meugh more times than I can count, and I think your sense of humor is one of the things I like best about you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop,¡± she said, blushing. ¡°You¡¯re going to make my head too big.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s possible,¡± he said. ¡°You¡¯re pretty much perfect just the way you are.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the sweetest,¡± she said, feeling her face grow warm. ¡°I really appreciate you saying that.¡±


    ¡°C¡¯mon let¡¯s get a cab to the hotel or should we walk back as we did before?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Let¡¯s walk,¡± she said. ¡°The weather is so nice, and I feel like we¡¯re both a bit full of gto and crepes and could use the exercise.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re probably right,¡± he said, standing up from the table. ¡°Let¡¯s take the long way back, and I¡¯ll show you some of my favorite spots in the city.¡±


    ¡°That sounds perfect,¡± she said, joining him on the sidewalk.


    As they strolled through the city, he pointed out a few of his favorite shops and restaurants.


    As they walked, they chatted about everything and nothing at the same time. They talked about the ces they¡¯d traveled and the people they¡¯d met. They discussed music and books and movies. They told stories about growing up and about their families and friends. It was like they¡¯d known each other for years, and the conversation flowed easily between them.


    At one point, they paused to admire the view of the river, and she felt a pang of sadness as she realized that their time together was almost at an end.


    After three months, she would be back to her former life and everything that felt so like a dream would be nothing more than a dream.


    She was growing feelings for Alexander and she knew she shouldn¡¯t but she was seeing a whole new side of him that she had never seen before, but she knew it was a business deal for both of them to get what they want.


    She needed his money to pay for her brother¡¯s surgery and he needed her to be his fake wife to secure a big contract so them being together was purely business and not anything else.


    She became quiet and he noticed it.


    ¡°Is everything alright with you Marissa?¡± he asked.


    She looked up at him and nodded her head.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ everything is fine¡­. I guess I¡¯m getting more tired and should head back to the hotel.¡±


    He studied her face, sensing that there was more to it than just fatigue. ¡°Are you sure everything is okay? You know you can talk to me, right?¡±


    She sighed and looked down at her hands. ¡°I know, but it¡¯s nothing important,¡± she said. ¡°It¡¯s just a lot of pressure to be here and to be who you need me to be.¡±


    He reached out and gently took her hand in his. ¡°You don¡¯t have to be anything but yourself,¡± he said. ¡°I don¡¯t expect anything from you that you¡¯re notfortable with.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful for your help, and I want you to know that I value our friendship. Whether this deal goes through or not, I hope we can stay in touch and be friends. I¡¯ve really enjoyed getting to know you,¡± he said.


    She looked up at him, her eyes shining with emotion. ¡°I¡¯ve enjoyed getting to know you too, Alexander,¡± she said.

 Unspoken Feelings

    ¡°I know that this is just a business arrangement, but I¡¯m d we¡¯ve been able to connect on a personal level. You¡¯re a good man.¡±


    He smiled, his heart swelling with warmth.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you think so,¡± he said. ¡°And I appreciate your honesty. I know this must be a strange situation for you, and I want you to know that I value yourfort and your well-being. I¡¯ll never ask you to do anything you¡¯re notfortable with. You can always be honest with me, and I¡¯ll respect your boundaries. I hope you know that.¡±


    She was touched by his sincerity. ¡°I do know that, and I appreciate it more than you know,¡± she said. ¡°I know that this is a business arrangement, but I feel like I can trust you.¡±


    ¡°I want you to be able to trust me,¡± he said. ¡°We¡¯re in this together, and I want to make sure we¡¯re bothfortable with the situation. I don¡¯t want you to feel like you¡¯re just a prop or a pawn in this game. You¡¯re a real person, and I respect that.¡±


    She let out a breath, feeling a weight lift from her shoulders. ¡°That¡¯s really refreshing to hear,¡± she said. ¡°I feel like so many people in my life have treated me like a means to an end, but you don¡¯t. You did at first, but you started appreciating my help and honestly, it felt good.¡±


    He nodded. ¡°I wasn¡¯t trying to take advantage of you or anything,¡± he said. ¡°When we started this arrangement, I just saw it as a way to get what I wanted. But as we¡¯ve gotten to know each other, I¡¯vee to value your insights and advice. You¡¯ve given me a lot of great ideas and helped me see things in a new light. I really appreciate that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± she said. ¡°I enjoy helping you and I like seeing the progress you¡¯ve made. It¡¯s like we¡¯re a team, and I¡¯m invested in your sess.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Marissa.¡± He said as he stared into her eyes.


    There was silence between them as they looked into each other¡¯s eyes.


    Marissa¡¯s mind was in shambles as she thought maybe something was already growing between them.


    Just then, Alexander broke the unusual silence.


    ¡°C¡¯mon let¡¯s go back to the hotel and prepare to sign the contract with our client tomorrow.¡± He said.


    Marissa snapped back to reality, and her heart was racing. She knew they had to focus on the business at hand, but she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if there was something more than just friendship developing between them.


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s go back to the hotel,¡± she said. ¡°We need to be prepared and well-rested for tomorrow.¡±


    They started to walk back to the hotel, thefortable silence between them broken only by the sound of their footsteps on the pavement.


    As they entered the hotel, they both knew that this moment had been special, and that something had shifted between them.


    As they rode the elevator up to their floor, Marissa turned to Alexander.


    ¡°Thank you for being such a good friend and business partner,¡± she said. ¡°You¡¯ve been so supportive and helpful, and I really appreciate it.¡±


    Alexander looked at her and smiled. ¡°You¡¯re very wee,¡± he said. ¡°I feel the same way about you. I¡¯m d we¡¯ve been able to work together and get to know each other.¡±


    They reached their floor, and Marissa realized that they had reached a turning point in their rtionship.


    ¡°Well, goodnight,¡± she said.


    ¡°Goodnight.¡± He replied as she entered her room and closed the door.


    Marissa sat on her bed, her mind still racing from the conversation they had just had. She knew that there was something special between them, but she wasn¡¯t sure what it was.


    Did she have feelings for Alexander? Or was it just the excitement of the trip and the sess of the business deal?


    She wasn¡¯t sure, but she knew that she needed to clear her head before she could sleep.


    She took a long, hot shower and changed into her pajamas. As sheid down in bed, she tried to calm her mind and focus on her breathing.


    After a few minutes of deep breathing, Marissa felt her body start to rx. She closed her eyes and thought about the day she had just had.


    Despite the stress of the business deal, she felt a sense of aplishment and satisfaction. She had done a good job, and she knew that she had made a difference.


    She also thought about Alexander. He was a good man, and she appreciated his honesty and support. She wondered if there could be something more between them, but she didn¡¯t want to get ahead of herself.


    Marissa knew that she needed to take things slowly and not rush into anything. She didn¡¯t want to ruin the friendship that they had built. But she also couldn¡¯t deny that there was a spark between them.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    As she drifted off to sleep, she thought about Alexander and the future thaty ahead. She didn¡¯t know what would happen, but she knew that she was excited to find out.


    And with that thought, Marissa finally fell asleep, dreaming of the possibilities thaty ahead.


    ~~


    While Alexander slumped on the couch, he thought about the night he had with Marissa.


    He knew that he was in love with Jessie, but what was this funny feeling he was feeling towards Marissa.


    She was his fake wife, but why was he feeling he wanted it to be real?


    Alexander felt a sense of guilt wash over him. He knew that he should be focusing on his rtionship with Jessie, but he couldn¡¯t deny the connection he felt with Marissa.


    He thought about their conversations and the way theyughed together. He felt a warmth in his heart that he hadn¡¯t felt before.


    But he also knew that he had to be careful. He didn¡¯t want to ruin his rtionship with Jessie, and he didn¡¯t want to hurt Marissa either.

 The Ball In Your Court

    Heid back and closed his eyes, hoping to get some sleep.


    As he drifted off to sleep, he thought about what he should do. Should he continue with the fake marriage and keep his rtionship with Jessie, or should he risk everything and pursue a rtionship with Marissa?


    He wasn¡¯t sure what to do, but he knew that he had to make a decision soon. He couldn¡¯t keep living in this limbo state.


    He finally fell asleep, his mind still swirling with thoughts of Jessie and Marissa.


    When Alexander woke up the next morning, he knew that he needed to talk to someone about what he was feeling. He decided to call hiswyer, Anderson


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s up?¡± Anderson said when he answered the phone.


    ¡°Hey, I need to talk to you about something,¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°We got the contract.¡± He said.


    ¡°Oh! Congrattions Alex.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, but that¡¯s not what I want to talk to you about,¡± Alexander said. ¡°There¡¯s something else that¡¯s been on my mind.¡±


    ¡°Of course, what is it?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts. ¡°It¡¯s about Marissa,¡± he said. ¡°We¡¯ve gotten close over thest few weeks, and I¡¯m starting to have feelings for her.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Anderson said, sounding surprised. ¡°That¡¯s definitely a development.


    ¡°I know it¡¯splicated,¡± Alexander said. ¡°I have a girlfriend, and I don¡¯t want to hurt her. But I can¡¯t deny the connection I feel with Marissa.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s definitely a tricky situation,¡± Anderson said. ¡°You need to be honest with yourself and with Jessie about what you¡¯re feeling. It¡¯s not fair to string either of them along.¡±


    Alexander knew that Anderson was right, but he still felt conflicted. ¡°I know, but it¡¯s not easy,¡± he said.


    ¡°I understand that it¡¯s not easy,¡± Anderson said. ¡°But if you care about both of them, you need to be honest. It might be hard in the short term, but it¡¯s the right thing to do in the long run.¡±


    Alexander sighed, knowing that Anderson was right. ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± he said. ¡°I need to figure out what to do.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯m here to help you figure it out,¡± Anderson said. ¡°I¡¯m always here to listen, and to give you honest advice.¡±


    Alexander felt grateful for his friend¡¯s support.


    ¡°You know I have always liked Marissa. I feel shepliments you more than Jessie but I know you are still in love with Jessie.


    But you need to make a decision soon because Marissa is just a contract and Jessie is your actual girlfriend. So the ball is in your court Alex.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander sat in silence, trying to process everything Anderson had just said. He knew that his friend was right, and that he needed to make a decision soon.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± he said. ¡°I need to figure this out, and I need to do it quickly.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit,¡± Anderson said. ¡°And I¡¯m here to help you in any way I can. But ultimately, this is your decision to make.¡±


    Alexander took a deep breath, knowing that the next few days would be difficult.


    ¡°Dude I gotta go. Will talk to youter.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°Okay, take care of yourself,¡± Anderson said. ¡°And remember, I¡¯m here if you need me.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Thanks, man,¡± Alexander said, and then hung up the phone.


    He sat on the couch, feeling a mix of emotions. He was grateful for Anderson¡¯s support, but he was also overwhelmed by the decision he had to make.


    He closed his eyes, trying to clear his mind and focus on what to do next.


    Just then Marissa opened her room door still wearing her pajamas.


    She smiled and greeted Alexander.


    ¡°Good morning.¡±


    ¡°Good morning,¡± Alexander said, returning her smile. ¡°Sorry if I woke you.¡±


    ¡°No, don¡¯t worry about it,¡± Marissa said. ¡°I was already awake.¡±


    There was an awkward pause, as the two of them stood there, not knowing what to say next.


    ¡°Um, I was just about to order some breakfast,¡± Alexander said, breaking the silence.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a good idea,¡± Marissa said. ¡°I¡¯m getting kind of hungry, too. What do you feel like having?¡±


    ¡°Well, I was thinking maybe some eggs and toast,¡± Alexander said. ¡°But if you have any other ideas, I¡¯m open to suggestions.¡±


    ¡°Eggs and toast sounds good,¡± Marissa said. ¡°I was also thinking about getting a cup of coffee.


    ¡°The meeting is at 11:00 a. m.,¡± Alexander said. ¡°But we should probably leave for the restaurant around 10:00 so we have plenty of time to get there.¡±


    ¡°That sounds like a good n,¡± Marissa said. ¡°And we can have breakfast first, so we¡¯re not rushing.¡±


    ¡°Definitely,¡± Alexander said. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be stressed out when we get there.¡±


    ¡°Plus, I think it¡¯ll be nice to have a chance to rx before the signing.¡± She said,


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    ¡°Let me call so they would send our breakfast to our suite.¡± He said


    Alexander picked up the phone and dialed the number for room service.


    ¡°Good morning,¡± he said when the person on the other end picked up. ¡°I¡¯d like to ce an order for breakfast.¡±


    After cing the order, he hung up the phone and turned back to Marissa.


    ¡°Okay, breakfast will be here in about 30 minutes,¡± he said.


    ¡°Great, that¡¯ll give us a chance to get ready,¡± Marissa said. ¡°I¡¯m going to go take a quick shower and get dressed.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like a n,¡± Alexander said. ¡°I¡¯ll get ready, too.¡±


    After Marissa went to take her shower, Alexander went into the bathroom to freshen up. As he was getting ready, he couldn¡¯t help but think about how much had changed in the past few days.


    A few weeks ago, he had been a man who was single but now he was fake married even though it all started with hate, he was beginning to feel that something special was growing between them but doesn¡¯t quite understand what yet.


    He didn¡¯t know what the future held, but he was looking forward to finding out.

 The Marissa Fever

    As they got out of the hotel to get to the same restaurant they had dinner with those potential clients, they hailed a cab and entered.


    On their way, there was silence between the two of them as no one knew what to say.


    Marissa was deep in thought as she thought about the whole idea of fake marriage and howplicated it¡¯s getting too since she realized that she was beginning to develop feelings for Alexander.


    She spoke to herself to snap out of it for Alexander was never gonna fall in love with a pauper like her and leave Jessie who is rich, sessful and beautiful. She was the perfectdy for Alexander and she was¡­.


    She looked at herself and sighed.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way Alexander can fall in love with me.¡± she told herself.


    Marissa¡¯s thoughts continued as they rode in the taxi towards the restaurant.


    ¡°It¡¯s just the contract, Marissa. Remember why you started this in the first ce.¡±


    She sighed and leaned against the window, stealing nces at Alexander, who seemed lost in thought himself.


    ¡°He¡¯s probably not thinking about me at all. I should focus on our mission.¡±


    As they arrived at the restaurant and got out of the cab, Marissa hoped that her feelings would notplicate their alreadyplex situation. She was determined to keep things professional, reminding herself that this was all part of the n to help her brother.


    But deep down, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder what the future held for her and Alexander beyond this fake marriage.


    Meanwhile, Alexander was also conflicted as he thought about Marissa and his growing feelings for her.


    He realized that part of him wants to be with her and the other part is fighting against his feelings as he knows it would affect his rtionship with Jessie.


    ¡°What am I gonna do about Jessie and Marissa? I think I¡¯m beginning to develop feelings for Marissa and I don¡¯t want to hurt Jessie. What should I do?¡± he asked himself as they rode to the restaurant.


    He stole nces at Marissa who as well was deep in thought.


    ¡°She obviously doesn¡¯t like me, because she says i¡¯m arrogant, self seeking and a jerk.


    There¡¯s no way she would be in love with someone like me.¡±


    As they headed to the restaurant, Alexander¡¯s thoughts were like a rollercoaster ride he couldn¡¯t control. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder about theplex web of emotions that had entangled him.


    ¡°Feelings for Marissa? What¡¯s happening to me? I used to be Mr. Ice, and now I¡¯m all mixed up. I¡¯m not a love guru, but am I¡­ in love?


    Wait, no, I can¡¯t be. I have Jessie. And she¡¯s practically perfect in every way. But there¡¯s something about Marissa¡­ her smile, the way she talks. Nah, this is ridiculous.¡±


    He attempted to shake off these unsettling feelings and decided to lighten the mood with humor.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s just indigestion from all that Swiss food. Or perhaps I¡¯ming down with a rare Swiss ailment ¨C The Marissa Fever.¡¯ Yes, that¡¯s it! A fever that makes you want to stroll around the city with your business partner and share deep conversations about life and Swiss cheese.¡±


    Despite his humorous attempts to mask his inner turmoil, there was no denying that his heart was a battleground of emotions.


    ¡°But what if it¡¯s more than indigestion or ¡®The Marissa Fever¡¯?


    What if it¡¯s¡­ oh no, I can¡¯t even say it! Love?


    Impossible!


    I need to snap out of it. Tonight, it¡¯s back to business. We have a contract to secure, and I can¡¯t let my feelings get in the way.¡±


    Alexander stepped out of the cab with Marissa and entered the restaurant with a smile on his face, he wasn¡¯t ready to show his emotions and make it obvious to her or anyone that he was developing feelings for Marissa.


    At the restaurant, Marissa and Alexander greeted the clients who seemed eager to sign the contract. Marissa was impressed by Alexander¡¯s professionalism.


    ¡°We¡¯re excited to move forward. Can you address our concerns about the contract?¡± Sarah asked, looking at Alexander to get an answer.


    ¡°Of course, we¡¯ve prepared for this. Let¡¯s go through your questions.¡± Alexander said.


    Sarah, one of the clients, leaned forward, her brows furrowed with concern.


    ¡°We want to ensure that the terms of the contract are clear and fair to both parties. How will disputes be resolved?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Great question. We¡¯ve included a dispute resolution use in the contract that outlines a mediation process. Uh¡­This ensures both parties have a say in resolving any issues before legal action is considered. We aim for fairness and openmunication.¡±


    Tom chimed in.


    ¡°What about confidentiality? Our business data is sensitive.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely, Tom. We¡¯ve incorporated stringent confidentiality uses to protect your data. Unauthorized sharing of sensitive information will have legal consequences.¡±


    Marissa was pleased with how confidently Alexander addressed the concerns.


    ¡°What¡¯s the timeline for this project? We need to have clear deadlines.¡± another client asked, curious.


    ¡°We¡¯ve established a detailed project schedule in the contract, including milestones and delivery dates. We understand the importance of timeliness in your industry.¡±


    As they discussed each concern, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but admire Alexander¡¯s professionalism and their thorough preparation. It was evident that their hard work had paid off, and the clients seemed satisfied with the answers.


    The meeting continued with a review of the contract terms and a discussion of future ns.


    Marissa observed Alexander, proud of how far he hade since the beginning of their fake marriage.


    They expertly addressed the clients¡¯ concerns, showcasing their expertise.


    ¡°We¡¯re satisfied with the terms. We¡¯re ready to sign.¡± Sarah said, bringing her pen out of her purse.


    Alexander sighed and a look of relief on his face. He was worried at first that they might have had a change of heart about signing the contract.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but admire Alexander¡¯s transformation from an arrogant man to a capable partner.


    ¡°He¡¯s changed for the better.¡± she told herself, smiling at Alexander who was signing the contract with the client.


    Alexander exchanged a meaningful nce with her.


    With the contract secured, they raised their sses for a toast.


    ¡°To a sessful partnership!¡±


    The atmosphere lightened, and they discussed project ns.


    Marissa smiled, proud of their achievement.


    The evening continued withughter and fun, and Marissa and Alexander celebrated their sessful teamwork in securing the contract. Just then an unexpected visitor walked to their table to greet them¡­.

 An Unexpected Visitor

    ¡°I never expected you woulde here and sign the contract with the clients, but you did. I must say that I am impressed by your determination Alexander.¡± A voice spoke.


    Marissa and Alexander looked up to see Jaimie Fernado.


    Alexander rolled his eyes immediately.


    ¡°What are you doing here, Fernado?¡±


    Jaime scoffed.


    ¡°Same thing you  are here for, Alexander. To get the contract, but I see that you beat me to it and got it again. But it¡¯s not the end of it.¡±


    Jaime turned and looked at Marissa who was confused as who the individual was.


    ¡°And who would this lovely beauty be?¡± he asked.


    Marissa gave Jaime a polite smile, trying to maintain herposure.


    ¡°I¡¯m Marissa, a business partner.¡±


    Jaime raised an eyebrow, seemingly intrigued.


    ¡°A business partner? You certainly seem more than that. Well, it¡¯s a pleasure to meet you, Marissa.¡±


    Alexander didn¡¯t appreciate Jaime¡¯s attention toward Marissa.


    ¡°Cut to the chase, Jaime. What do you want?¡±


    Jaime leaned in, his voice low.


    ¡°I have my own offer for the clients, Alexander. A tempting one. I just wanted to see mypetition.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of unease as she watched the exchange between the two men.


    ¡°It¡¯s no use, Jaime. They have signed the contract with us and you know they can¡¯t breach it unless they want to be sued and forced to pay a huge amount of money for damage and breaching of contract.¡± Alexander said.


    Jaime scoffed and looked at Marissa.


    ¡°But my curiosity is how you were able to convince them when you¡¯re not married because I remember very well that you had to be married to secure the contract as they don¡¯t trust a single man with their money.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s none of your goddamn business Jaime.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Actually, I¡¯m getting intrigued and curious about this lovelydy who happens to be your business partner. Who is she really to you?¡± Jaime asked as he assessed Marissa which made her ufortable and Alexander mad.


    Marissa felt ufortable under Jaime¡¯s gaze but tried to maintain herposure.


    ¡°Marissa is my wife.¡± Alex revealed which surprised Marissa. ¡°And I would really appreciate it if you don¡¯t stare at her like that for she¡¯s mine.¡±


    Jaime¡¯s raised an eyebrow in surprise, clearly not expecting that response.


    ¡°Your wife? Well, that¡¯s quite the twist, Alexander. I had no idea you had such a charming wife.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s deration took Marissa by surprise, and for a moment, her mind raced, trying to catch up with the new development.


    She had thought that they were keeping this whole fake marriage thing a secret from everyone else aside from the business clients but now , he introduced her as his wife to this person.


    It felt like one moreyer ofplication in their already intricate situation.


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but wonder why Alexander had chosen to reveal this to Jaime, a man who was, apparently, a rival in the business world.


    There was tension in the air as the three of them continued to exchange nces.


    ¡°Now, if you¡¯ll excuse us, Jaime, we have important business matters to attend to.¡± Alexander said as he turned to face Marissa.


    ¡°Of course, Alexander. I¡¯ll leave you to it. But this won¡¯t be thest you hear from me.¡± he said and then turned to face Marissa.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure meeting you, Marissa. I hope we meet again.¡±


    Marissa nodded and with that Jaime walked away, leaving Marissa and Alexander with a mixture of relief and lingering questions about the unforeseen consequences of this new development.


    As they continued eating, Marissa couldn¡¯t help but turn to Alexander with a curious look.


    ¡°Why did you tell him I¡¯m your wife?¡± she asked. ¡°I thought we agreed to keep the whole marriage thing a secret from others except the clients so that they would give you the contract?¡±


    ¡°It was a spur-of-the-moment decision to keep him from probing further. We need to avoid unnecessaryplications. And I know that Jaime is one curious son of a bitch. He won¡¯t stop asking questions, so I had to do that.¡± he said, while ying with his food.


    ¡°But what if Jessie finds out about us? What would happen?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not think about that for now okay¡­? let¡¯s just enjoy the victories we have won and prepare to return back.¡± he said.


    Marissa nodded, still processing the abrupt change in their rtionship description.


    ¡°I understand, but it just added anotheryer to our charade.¡±


    ¡°I know, Marissa. We¡¯ll deal with it. Let¡¯s focus on our goals.¡±


    Marissa nodded, realizing that their web of deception had just be even more serious.


    After they had finished their food, Alexander paid and they left the restaurant.


    ¡°Since today would be ourst day here, why don¡¯t we go somewhere nice and site see. What do you think?¡± he asked, waiting for Marissa¡¯s reply.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­. that sounds like fun.¡± she replied, with a wide smile on her face. She wanted to spend more time with Alexander and site see more ces in Switzend for she might not get such an opportunity again.


    Alexander¡¯s suggestion brought a sense of relief, a chance to escape the seriousness of their charade.


    Marissa appreciated the idea of enjoying the beautiful surroundings and creating somesting memories of their time in Switzend.


    Alexander hailed a cab, and they headed to a famous nearbyndmark. The scenic beauty of Switzend was a balm to their thoughts, helping them momentarily forget the issues they had started to cause.


    They strolled around, taking in the breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. Marissa couldn¡¯t help but be captivated by the natural beauty, and she even tried to capture some photos to cherish the moment.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    As they walked and talked, Marissa felt a sense of connection with Alexander beyond their fake marriage, a genuine friendship that had developed over the course of their shared experiences.


    It was aforting feeling, a reminder that even amidst the deception, there were authentic moments.


    The day passed by in a pleasant blur, and they explored variousndmarks, from historic sites to picturesque gardens.


    It was a much-needed break from the weight of their charade, and Marissa couldn¡¯t help but appreciate Alexander¡¯spany and the unexpected feelings that had grown between them.


    As the sun began to set over the Swissndscape, they found themselves at a cozy caf¨¦, enjoying some Swiss chocte and coffee.


    It was a moment of respite, and both Marissa and Alexander felt a sense of contentment as they watched the colors of the sky change.


    ¡°I¡¯m d we took this day to unwind a bit. It¡¯s been quite the journey.¡±Alexander said, while sipping his coffee.


    ¡°Yes, it has. And it¡¯s been¡­ interesting.¡± Marissa responded.


    Alexander smiled warmly, and for a moment, Marissa realized that amidst theplexity of their fake marriage, they had both found a genuine connection, one she couldn¡¯t quite define but certainly appreciated.


    As the evening drew to a close, they headed back to their hotel, but as they were going, Alexander felt that someone was following them¡­.

 Feelings Of Being Followed

    ¡°Someone is following us.¡± Alexander alerted Marissa.


    ¡°Who do you think IS following us?¡± Marissa asked, as she tried to look back.


    Alexander turned her gaze to himself in order for her not to make it obvious that they were aware that someone was following them.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look,¡± he said, holding her by her shoulder. ¡°You don¡¯t want to make it obvious that you know they are following us. Do we?¡±


    Marissa shook her head.


    ¡°But who are they?¡±


    ¡°My guess is Jaime. He might have hired some people to try to follow us to our hotel room to steal the contract from us or maybe to know if we really are married.¡± he said.


    Marissa was filled with worry as she didn¡¯t know what to do.


    ¡°So what do we do about them?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°Well¡­. um¡­ we act like we really are married to get them to report to Jaime and then he would call his men off. He wants to get evidence that we are not married so that he could use it to get the contract from us. We have to be very careful and act like we are really married. Can you do that for me, Marissa?¡± he asked her, looking into her eyes.


    Marissa took a deep breath and nodded.


    ¡°Yeah, I can.¡± she said.


    Alexander nodded relieved.


    ¡°So let¡¯s make them believe we are married then,¡± he said.


    ¡°But how?¡± she asked.


    Alexander thought about their situation for a moment before answering,


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to show them what they expect to see ¨C a happily married couple. It¡¯s all about appearances.¡±


    Marissa nodded, realizing that their charade was about to be even moreplex.


    ¡°So, how do we start?¡±


    ¡°First, we should be affectionate with each other. Hold hands, maybe even a quick kiss when they¡¯re watching. We need to create an image of a loving couple.¡±


    Marissa felt her cheeks redden at the thought but understood the necessity.


    ¡°You want us to kiss, again?¡±


    ¡°Hmm-mm. That¡¯s the only way they would believe us because they are going to be taking pictures of us, so we need to be as real as we can.¡± he said.


    Marissa wasn¡¯tfortable with the idea as she wasn¡¯t ready to be intimate let alone intimate with a fake husband.


    She was silent for a while as she thought about the whole situation.


    ¡°Can¡¯t it be a peck on the cheek or on the forehead?¡± she asked.


    Alexander shook his head.


    ¡°No, it has to be a lip kiss. A deep one that would show that we are really married and not just business partners or a fake couple.¡±


    Marissa sighed and epted.


    ¡°Okay¡­¡­ what else?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­.. I guess after that, they should leave and then we go into our hotel room for the night and prepare to return back to New York.¡± he said.


    She nodded.


    ¡°So¡­ are you ready for this, Marissa?¡± he asked.


    Marissa nodded.


    ¡°As ready as I can be, I suppose. Let¡¯s do this.¡±


    Marissa closed her eyes as Alexander leaned closer and kissed her on the lips deeply.


    At first she was ufortable, but as they continued to kiss, she began to respond and she wrapped her arms around him and he did likewise and the continued kissing forgetting the people who were following them.


    They were lost in their own world of passion. Alexander¡¯s lips were soft and Marissa couldn¡¯t stop herself as she allowed him to devour her lips.


    After a few minutes, Alexander pulled away from her lips and opened his eyes gently, likewise Marissa and both of them stared into each other¡¯s eyes , obviously expressing their feelings through their eyes.


    Then Alexander turned his gaze and looked and realized that the men following them had disappeared.


    ¡°I guess they have stopped following us,¡± he said.


    But Marissa was still in a daze as she never expected to get lost in that moment when it was all an act and not real.


    Alexander noticed that she wasn¡¯t responding and tapped her gently to bring her back to reality.


    She blinked gently, trying to clear her thoughts. The kiss had been so intense, so unlike anything she had expected in their fake marriage.


    It was a momentarypse into genuine emotion, and it left her feeling disoriented.


    ¡°Sorry, I got carried away,¡± Marissa said, her cheeks flushed. She couldn¡¯t meet Alexander¡¯s eyes.


    Alexander chuckled softly,


    ¡°No need to apologize. I guess we really got into the act, didn¡¯t we?¡±


    Marissa nodded, grateful for his understanding. They had taken their performance to a new level, one that had even surprised them.


    But it had served its purpose; Jaime¡¯s men were nowhere in sight.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get back to the hotel,¡± Alexander suggested.


    ¡°We¡¯ve got a contract to secure.¡±


    Marissa nodded again, grateful for the return to the charade. As they made their way back to the hotel, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the unexpected passion that had red between them.


    As they got into their room, Marissa went straight to her room and closed the door behind.


    She was obviously still shaken by the kiss. She slumped on the bed and sighed.


    ¡°What the hell was that?¡± she asked herself, as she touched her lips.


    ¡°Was that an act or was it real? Did he kiss me to show that we were married or did he kiss me because he liked me?¡±


    She got up from her bed and took a deep breath.


    ¡°Does he like me too?¡± she asked herself.


    Marissa¡¯s mind raced with questions and uncertainties. She couldn¡¯t help but ponder theplexity of their situation, mixed with a touch of humor to lighten the mood.


    ¡°Kiss or no kiss, Marissa, you can¡¯t just go on asking yourself these questions. It¡¯s not like there¡¯s a ¡®How to Fake Marriage¡¯ manual out there to consult,¡± she mused.


    She flopped back onto her bed, staring up at the ceiling, her thoughts still swirling.


    ¡°Could he actually like me? But then again, he¡¯s got Jessie, the sessful, morous woman who could probably buy this entire hotel with her pocket change.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at the idea of Jessie purchasing luxury hotels casually.


    ¡°And what was that with ¡®The Marissa Fever¡¯? That doesn¡¯t sound like a real thing, but it¡¯s just ridiculous enough to make me giggle. At least we¡¯ve got a sense of humor in the midst of all this mess.¡±


    With a sigh and a shake of her head, Marissa finally decided to push her overthinking aside.


    They had a contract to secure, and no amount of daydreaming would make that any easier. But one thing was clear, their fake marriage had gotten far moreplicated than she ever imagined¡­.

 Reassuring Jessie

    Marissa tried to sleep, but the thought of what they did still lingered in her memory.


    ¡°Why am I dwelling on this feelings when he clearly doesn¡¯t see me that way?¡± She asked herself.


    She sighed heavily.


    ¡°He only has eyes for Jessie and would never look at me or feel for me that way.¡±


    She decided to take a shower and rest for the night.


    While resting, she heard Alexander on the phone and got up to check who he was possibly talking to on the phone.


    Meanwhile, Alexander had been tired from all the whole work of the day and signing of the contract.


    He decided to rest and the thoughts of Marissa shed into his mind. They had kissed and it felt so real. It wasn¡¯t an act, but it felt so real.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Does she feel the same way for me?¡± He asked himself as he touched his lips.


    ¡°I mean that kiss felt so real and the way it was so deep and she didn¡¯t hesitate¡­ Could it be she feels the way I do for her?¡±


    He shook his head denying his thought.


    ¡°No¡­ Marissa cannot like someone as arrogant as me.¡± He told himself as he tried to get what they did out of his mind.


    Just then Jessie¡¯s call came in and when he saw it, he was reluctant at first to pick up, but eventually did.


    ¡°Hey babe,¡± Jessie said.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Alexander replied, his voice sounding distant and distracted.


    ¡°What¡¯s up? Are you okay?¡± Jessie asked, sensing something was off.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m fine. Just a long day.¡± Alexander replied, hoping she wouldn¡¯t probe further.


    ¡°Okay¡­ Well, I just wanted to check in. I miss you.¡± Jessie said, her voice soft and sweet.


    Dave¡¯s heart felt heavy as he struggled with what to say. He knew he should be happy to hear from her, but he couldn¡¯t shake the thoughts of Marissa from his mind.


    ¡°I¡­ Miss you too.¡± He replied.


    ¡°When are youing home babe?¡± Jessie asked.


    There was a pause before Alexander responded.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ Things are still pretty busy here.¡± He said, the words feeling hollow as he spoke them.


    ¡°I understand¡­ Just know that I¡¯m here for you, no matter what. And I¡¯ll always be waiting for you when you¡¯re ready toe home.¡± Jessie replied, her words filled with love and support.


    Alexander¡¯s heart ached as he tried to process everything. On one hand, he had Jessie, a woman who loved and supported him.


    But also she wasn¡¯t ready to get married and only thought of her career was more important than their rtionship.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you know when I get back.¡± He informed her.


    ¡°Well¡­ I¡¯m actually at your ce waiting for you¡­.¡± She said,


    ¡°Oh¡­ You are now.¡± He said.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ But it looks like you haven¡¯t been at your apartment in months¡­. Have you been sleeping elsewhere?¡± She asked.


    He didn¡¯t want to tell her that he had another apartment where he shares with Marissa who is his fake wife to secure a contract.


    So he decided to lie.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re at my ce now?¡± Alexander said, trying to sound surprised.


    ¡°Yes¡­ I was hoping to surprise you, but it seems like I¡¯m the one who¡¯s been surprised.¡± She said.


    Alexander felt a knot forming in his stomach as he realized he had been caught in a lie.


    ¡°I¡­ Uh¡­ I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve just been really busy and haven¡¯t had time toe by.¡± He said, hoping she would buy his exnation.


    But the way she responded told him she didn¡¯t believe him.


    ¡°Alexander, I¡¯m not an idiot. You¡¯ve been distant and now you¡¯re lying to me. What¡¯s going on?¡± Jessie asked, her voice cracking.


    Alexander felt his heart racing as he tried to think of an exnation that would make sense. But the truth was tooplicated and would only make things worse. So he decided to y dumb.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what you mean. I just have a lot on my te right now. Please understand.¡± He said, trying to sound sincere.


    But Jessie could hear theck of conviction in his voice.


    ¡°Stop it. Stop pretending like nothing is wrong, because we both know something is up. And it¡¯s killing me not knowing what it is.¡± Jessie said, her voice trembling.


    Alexander¡¯s stomach felt like it was in a knot as he realized he was losing the trust of the person he cared about the most. He had to find a way to fix things, but he didn¡¯t know where to start.


    ¡°Please just tell me what¡¯s going on. I can handle it, whatever it is.¡± She said, her voice pleading.


    Alexander took a deep breath and gathered his thoughts.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing bad really¡­ I¡¯ve just been super busy with securing this contract that I neglected other things and mostly slept in the office.¡± He lied.


    He had no choice. If she knew about his fake marriage with Marissa to get the contract, she would be devastated.


    But he also remembered that he asked her but she told him she wasn¡¯t ready for such amitment and asked him to look for another way.


    ¡°Oh¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­ I got carried away because you seemed distant and I felt maybe you don¡¯t feel the same way you feel about me anymore.¡± She said.


    Alexander felt a wave of guilt wash over him. He didn¡¯t want her to feel like she wasn¡¯t enough for him. But he also didn¡¯t want to tell her the truth. He was stuck in a horrible dilemma.


    ¡°I understand how you could feel that way, and I¡¯m so sorry for making you feel that way. It¡¯s not true. I love you and I¡¯m here for you no matter what.¡± He said, hoping that his words wouldfort her.


    But he could sense the skepticism in her tone when she responded.


    ¡°I appreciate that you¡¯re trying to reassure me, but I can¡¯t shake the feeling that something else is going on¡­.

 Hurt

    ¡°I¡¯ve trusted you and believed in you for so long, and now I¡¯m just not sure what to believe anymore.¡± She said, her voice cracking with emotion.


    Alexander¡¯s heart ached as he heard the pain in her voice. He wanted to tell her the truth, but he knew it would only make things worse. He had to find a way to prove himself to her without revealing his secret.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯ll being back to New York tomorrow so we can spend some time alone. What do you think?¡± He asked her


    There was a long pause before she responded.


    ¡°I think¡­ I¡¯d like that. But please don¡¯t lie to me. I need you to be honest with me if we¡¯re going to make this work.¡± She said, her voice soft but firm.


    Alexander felt a mixture of relief and dread. He was relieved that she wanted to spend time with him, but he dreaded the thought of spending time with her while keeping such a huge secret from her.


    Meanwhile, Marissa had heard their conversation and wasn¡¯t happy.


    She gently closed the door so that he wouldn¡¯t know that she eavesdropped on their conversation after all it wasn¡¯t her business.


    Her rtionship with Alexander was a business deal and nothing more.


    She went andy on her bed covering herself with the duvet she felt a sting of pain in her heart.


    Was she feeling hurt by the words he said to Jessie on the phone?


    But why? After all, it wasn¡¯t like they were married and he was cheating on her.


    They were fake married which would be over in two months.


    Despite trying to convince herself that she didn¡¯t care about Alexander, she couldn¡¯t deny the truth: she was developing feelings for him. And as much as she tried to fight it, she couldn¡¯t help the way she felt.


    As sheid on her bed, she found herself thinking back to the time they spent together.


    At first she did find him annoying and hated his guts, but when she began spending time with him, she saw a different man.


    She saw that he wasn¡¯t who she thought he was. He was different and nice.


    And as they worked together, she began to grow feelings for him.


    She began to look forward to seeing him every day, and dreaded the thought of the day when their fake marriage would end.


    She knew that what she was feeling was wrong. After all, she was just supposed to be helping him get a business contract and that was it. She wasn¡¯t supposed to develop feelings for him.


    But no matter how hard she tried to convince herself otherwise, she couldn¡¯t deny the truth. She was falling for him.


    She knew that she needed to stop it before it went too far, but she didn¡¯t know how.


    She felt like she was trapped in a never-ending cycle of emotions, and she didn¡¯t know how to get out.


    ¡°Marissa snapped out of it!¡± She hit her cheek trying to snap herself from feeling anything for Alexander. ¡°He¡¯s not into you at all. So just drop the feelings and move on. You have your brother and other things to worry about. You shouldn¡¯t be thinking about a man. A man who isn¡¯t yours for that matter. His heart belongs to someone and not yours.¡± She told herself.


    She tried to convince herself that she was right, but a small part of her knew that she wasn¡¯t. No matter how hard she tried to deny it, she couldn¡¯t deny the feelings she was developing for Alexander.


    She knew that he wasn¡¯t hers and that she shouldn¡¯t be feeling this way, but she couldn¡¯t help it.


    She tried to bury her feelings, but they kept resurfacing no matter how hard she tried to push them down.


    She felt trapped, like she was caught in a never-ending cycle of emotions.


    She decided to sleep and forget all about what she was feeling.


    Meanwhile, Alexander after he ended the call with Jessie he wasn¡¯t happy about everything.


    But he couldn¡¯t deny his new feelings for Marissa.


    So after he ended the call, he decided to call Anderson, checking if it was alright to, because of the time difference here in Switzend and in New York.


    The time was around 10pm and wondered what the time would be in New York.


    But he decided to call anyway to tell hiswyer turned friend about what happened today.


    Anderson answered the phone and Alexander could hear the confusion in his voice.


    ¡°Alexander? Why are you calling sote? Is everything alright?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander took a deep breath and told Anderson about what had happened earlier that day.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it. I thought it was going to be easy and now everything is a mess.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°C¡¯mon man, talk to me. What¡¯s going on?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander sighed heavily.


    ¡°I kissed Marissa today.¡±


    ¡°You did what?!¡± Anderson yelled on the phone, surprised.


    ¡°Yeah, I kissed Marissa today, but it wasn¡¯t like that. Jaime is around Anderson. He came to discuss the deal with the client but realized we were one step ahead of him and had signed the contract. He wasn¡¯t happy. So when he walked to our table, he saw me with Marissa and you know how inquisitive he can be. He asked who she was to me and I had to tell him she was my wife. Because if I told him  that she was my business partner, he would realize that I had fooled those clients into signing the contract and they would be pissed and sue me for deceiving them. So I had no choice but to do that.¡± Alexander exined.


    Anderson sighed on the phone and Alexander could tell that he wasn¡¯t happy about the development between myself and Marissa.


    ¡°So what happened next?¡± he asked after much hesitation on the phone.


    ¡°Well, after we left the restaurant, and went sightseeing which was so fun by the way, we decided that we should head back to the hotel room to rest because we had an early morning flight to catch. So while walking towards the hotel, we saw some men following us. I just guessed that it was Jaime who sent them everywhere we went. We saw them following us¡­

 Telling Anderson

    ¡°I knew that he must be trying to find out if we were really telling the truth so that he could use that to make us give up on the contract. So I had no choice but for us to look like we were actually married and intimate.¡±


    ¡°Woah man¡­¡­. That¡¯s messed up¡­¡­¡± Anderson said, then sighed.


    ¡°What did Marissa say after the um¡­ um¡­you know¡±


    Alexander ced his hand on his head and was silent for a second before he responded to Anderson¡¯s question.


    ¡°Uhm¡­. she surprisingly acted quite professional. She didn¡¯t act up at all, but I guess it¡¯s because she doesn¡¯t feel anything for me to have butterflies in her stomach right?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Alex, may I remind you that what you and Marissa have is just fake. She is your fake wife and you are fake married. So I don¡¯t want you to have any idea alright. Don¡¯t make her start growing feelings for you, Alex. We both know what would happen if she does and if you do as well.¡± Anderson exined. ¡°You know you love Jessie and she¡¯s all that matters to you aside from yourpany. So don¡¯t drive Marissa on with all those kind gestures alright Alex¡­ It would only confuse her. And I know that you don¡¯t want her to get hurt do you now?¡±


    ¡°No¡­ Of course I don¡¯t want to hurt Marissa. She¡¯s been so great to me and mypany. I know I can¡¯t keep leading her on like this, but I also don¡¯t want to make things weird. I don¡¯t know how to tell her that I don¡¯t have feelings for her without hurting her.¡± Alexander said, his voice heavy with guilt.


    Anderson could hear the pain in Alexander¡¯s voice and knew that he was struggling with what to do next.


    ¡°Alexander, it¡¯s going to be tough, but you need to be honest with her.


    You need to redefine your fake marriage thingy that it¡¯s just a business deal and nothing more.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander nodded. He knew Anderson was right.


    ¡°Do you think you could have that conversation with her? Do you think you could tell her that you see her as a friend and business partner and not as a romantic interest?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander took a deep breath and thought about it.


    ¡°I think I can do it. I¡¯m just worried about how she¡¯ll react. I don¡¯t want to make her feel like she¡¯s not good enough or anything like that. I don¡¯t want to hurt her feelings.¡± Alexander said, his voice full of concern.


    ¡°I know that¡¯s thest thing you want to do. So that she won¡¯t get her hopes up because of that  um¡­ K¡­¡± Anderson stammered.


    ¡°I was going to say, maybe we shoulde up with a script for that conversation. That way you¡¯ll know exactly what to say and how to say it. We could practice the conversation so that you feel morefortable with it. Does that sound like something that would help?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander considered it for a moment. He had to admit, it sounded like a good idea.


    ¡°Yeah, I think that might help. I just don¡¯t want to hurt her. I really value her as a person and as a business partner. I don¡¯t want to lose that rtionship.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Maybe you could start the conversation by saying something like, ¡®Marissa, I really value our friendship and our business partnership. But I want to be clear that I don¡¯t have any romantic feelings for you. I want to make sure that we¡¯re both on the same page so that we can continue to have a great working rtionship.¡¯ Does that sound like a good way to start?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander thought about it and agreed that it sounded like a good way to start.


    ¡°Yeah, that sounds like a good way to start.


    ¡°Do you think that you could say something like, ¡®You¡¯re an amazing person and I really value our friendship. I just want to be clear that I see us as friends and nothing more.¡¯ Do you think that would help make your point without hurting her feelings?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander felt a weight lifting off his shoulders. It was as if Anderson was helping him find the right words.


    ¡°Yes, I think that would help. I really appreciate your help with this.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to help. It can be really difficult to have these kinds of conversations, but it¡¯s important to be honest and clear about your feelings. It will save both of you from any unnecessary pain or confusion down the road.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander nodded, understanding what Anderson was saying. It was true, it was better to be honest and clear from the start.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I don¡¯t want to hurt her and I don¡¯t want to lead her on either. I just want to be her friend and nothing more.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to help. It can be really difficult to have these kinds of conversations, but it¡¯s important to be honest and clear about your feelings. It will save both of you from any unnecessary pain or confusion down the road.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander nodded, understanding what Anderson was saying. It was true, it was better to be honest and clear from the start.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I don¡¯t want to hurt her and I don¡¯t want to lead her on either. I just want to be her friend and nothing more.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°So when are youing back dude?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alexander rxed on the couch.


    ¡°Um¡­ tomorrow.¡± Alexander replied.


    ¡°Since we are done here, I think we should return back to reality. Don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ You both need to not be spending time together.


    It would onlyplicate things.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Anyways, I gotta go.¡± Anderson yawned.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. I think it¡¯s best if we don¡¯t keep living in this fantasy world. Reality can be hard, but it¡¯s important to deal with it head on.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Exactly, and I¡¯m d you¡¯re being rational about all of this. It¡¯s good to know you¡¯re not letting your emotions take over.¡± Anderson said.


    Alexander smiled, feeling grateful for Anderson¡¯s support.


    ¡°Thanks man. I really appreciate you helping me through this.¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°Anytime. I¡¯m always here for you.

 Clearing The Air

    After Alexander ended the call, hey down on the couch and rested for the night wondering if he would be able to get the feelings he was beginning to have for Marissa under control and just ept the fact that he and her are just business partners.


    The next morning, Alexander woke up feeling a little less anxious about the situation. As he went through his morning routine, he resolved to stay professional and not allow his feelings to get into the way of their deal.


    He also knew that he had to redefine their agreement so that Marissa won¡¯t take his current action as him expressing his feelings.


    As he got ready for their departure to the airport, he thought about how he would approach the conversation.


    He wanted to be clear and direct, but also gentle andpassionate. He didn¡¯t want to hurt her, but he also didn¡¯t want to lead her on or give her false hope.


    As they drove to the airport, he thought about all the ways he could exin his side of things without hurting Marissa¡¯s feelings. He knew that this was a delicate situation and that he had to tread carefully.


    When they arrived at the airport, they went to the counter to check in and get their boarding pass.


    As they waited in line, he couldn¡¯t help but feel nervous. He was worried about how Marissa would react when he exined everything to her.


    He just hoped that she would understand and that they could still have a professional rtionship.


    Since they were flying first ss, they entered before others and sat down. He noticed that Marissa was silent all through and wondered why.


    ¡°Should he ask her? Or he should just mind his own business?¡± he asked himself as he stared at her.


    As he debated with himself about whether to speak up or not, Marissa suddenly spoke up.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± she asked, her voice soft and concerned.


    Alexander was taken aback by her question. He hadn¡¯t expected her to be the one to start the conversation.


    ¡°Uh¡­ yeah, I¡¯m fine. Are you okay?¡± he responded, trying to sound casual.


    Marissa hesitated for a moment before responding.


    ¡°I¡¯m a bit worried about our business arrangement and where it¡¯s headed,¡± she said, her voice betraying her anxiety.


    Alexander¡¯s heart sank as he realized that Marissa had picked up on his change in behavior. He knew that he had to be honest with her, even if it meant risking their business rtionship.


    ¡°I¡¯m worried about that too,¡± he admitted. ¡°I know that I¡¯ve been distanttely and I want to exin why.¡±


    Marissa turned to face him, her expression serious but understanding.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m listening.¡± she said.


    Alexander took a deep breath and then spoke.


    ¡°You see, Marissa, what we have going on between us is just a business partner rtionship and nothing more. I¡¯m sorry about the kiss but it meant nothing but an act to show those men Jaime sent that we were a couple even though we were fake. I¡¯m so sorry if I have put you in a difficult situation.¡± He apologized.


    Marissa was quiet at first as she processed everything Alexander had said.


    ¡°I appreciate your honesty,¡± she finally said. ¡°And I understand that this whole situation isplicated. But I think it¡¯s important that we¡¯re both clear about what we want and what we¡¯refortable with.¡±


    Alexander nodded. ¡°I agree. And I want to make it clear that I respect you and value our working rtionship. I don¡¯t want to do anything to jeopardize that.¡±


    Marissa smiled. ¡°I appreciate that. And I want you to know that I¡¯m here for you, as a friend and a business partner. We can get through this together.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Alexander was happy that she took those words well. He had thought she would be angry and not speak to him, but she handled everything in such a professional and mature manner which made him respect her the more.


    He couldn¡¯t stop staring as he admired her person and how beautiful she was both inside and out.


    Her dress also was stunning.


    Alexander¡¯s thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the ne boarding.


    ¡°We should probably board now,¡± he said, looking down at his ticket.


    Marissa nodded and they both stood up. As they walked towards the gate, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but feel a little bit of regret.


    Regret that he had let his feelings get in the way of their business rtionship.


    He knew that he had to focus on the task at hand and not let his emotions get in the way.


    But even as he tried to focus on the task at hand, Alexander couldn¡¯t help but notice how stunning Marissa looked as she walked ahead of him.


    Her long, dark hair cascaded down her back, and she carried herself with a confidence that was both alluring and intimidating.


    He knew that he had to keep his head in the game, but he couldn¡¯t help but feel drawn to her in a way he couldn¡¯t exin.


    As they boarded the ne, they took their seats and prepared for takeoff.


    Alexander tried to put Marissa out of his mind, but it was no use.


    He couldn¡¯t stop thinking about her and the way she had handled the situation with such grace and maturity.


    He had never met anyone like her before and he found himself wanting to know more about her.


    As the ne took off, he tried to focus on the work that awaited him, but his thoughts kept drifting back to Marissa.


    He wondered if she was feeling the same way, but he knew that it was unlikely.


    After all, she was just his business partner, nothing more.


    The nended with a bump, jolting Alexander out of his thoughts.


    He gathered his things and followed Marissa off the ne.


    They made their way to the baggage im area and waited for their luggage.


    As they stood there, Alexander was struck by the silence between them.


    It was afortable silence, but it was still strange.


    He couldn¡¯t remember thest time he had spent so much time with someone without talking.


    Finally, Alexander couldn¡¯t take it anymore. He had to break the silence. Just then he heard a familiar voice behind him.


    ¡°Alex?¡±


    Alexander turned around and saw Jessie, looking at him with a mix of surprise and delight.


    ¡°Jessie! What are you doing here?¡± he asked, not quite believing that she was really there¡­..

 Returnig Back And Jessie

    ¡°Well, I called Anderson and he informed me that you were returning today so I decided to surprise you,¡± Jessie said, excitement in her voice. ¡°Why? Aren¡¯t you happy to see me?¡±


    Alexander shook his head.


    ¡°No, no. It¡¯s just that I wasn¡¯t expecting it so¡­ You caught me off guard.¡± He exined.


    Jessie moved closer to him and kissed him on the lips.


    ¡°Well¡­. I want to be doing things that catch you off guard like this.¡± She said.


    Marissa was watching all this and honestly, she wasn¡¯tfortable so decided to speak and excuse herself.


    ¡°I¡­ um¡­ Think I will excuse you two.¡± She said,


    Jessie faced her and smiled.


    ¡°And you must be his colleague he talked about.¡±


    Marissa nodded and smiled a little.


    ¡°Thank you for¡­ Wait a minute¡­ Aren¡¯t you Alexander¡¯s friend in high school¡­? We met at a restaurant a month ago, right?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Yeah we did,¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°Oh¡­ That¡¯s great, but I¡¯m surprised that you became his colleague at work and went on a business trip together.¡± She said,


    Alexander had to interfere before she became more suspicious.


    ¡°She works in mypany now, Jessie.¡± He revealed.


    Jessie seemed to process this information for a moment, then she smiled and said, ¡°Oh, I see! So you guys are colleagues and friends from high school. How nice. That¡¯s a great connection to have in the workce.¡±


    Marissa nodded and smiled back at Jessie. ¡°It¡¯s been great so far. Alex has been a great mentor and friend at work.¡±


    Jessie turned to Alexander. ¡°I¡¯m d you have someone like Marissa looking out for you at work. You guys seem to have a great working rtionship.¡±


    Alexander felt a bit relieved that Jessie was being so epting of the situation


    ¡°So I think we should leave the Airport and go have some fun. Are you guys hungry? There¡¯s a very nice restaurant close by here, we should check it out.¡± Jessie offered.


    Marissa, notfortable with it, decided against it.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I leave you two love birds to catch up after all you have missed each other.¡± She said as she grabbed her luggage and left them.


    They were dating and she was a fake wife that has only a month and two weeks remaining before this whole thing ends.


    And besides, Alexander is in love with Jessie and can¡¯t be with someone like me who is poor and has no job or ss.


    She got outside and hailed a cab to take her to her brother¡¯s hospital. She needed to see how her brother is doing.


    As the cab took her to the hospital, Marissa thought about thest time she saw her brother. It was a few weeks ago when she had visited him in the hospital. He was still recovering from the surgery and it was hard to see him in so much pain.


    But despite everything, he was still the same loving and caring brother she knew.


    She entered his ward and saw him reading.


    ¡°Hey, buddy.¡± She said as she entered his room.


    He looked up from his book and smiled.


    ¡°Hey, sister. When did you get back from your trip?¡± He asked with excitement in his voice.


    ¡°Just a few minutes ago. Have missed you brother.¡± She said as the two hugged.


    ¡°How are you feeling? What are the doctors saying about your recovery? Are they going to discharge you soon or what?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Uhmmm¡­ I think the doctor would be in the position of telling you.¡± He said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry brother. Everything would be okay.¡± She encouraged as she hugged him more.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°I know¡­. I appreciate your concern. I¡¯m doing better, the doctors say I¡¯m progressing well and I might be discharged soon. I¡¯m just a bit frustrated because I have to stay in this room all day, and I can¡¯t go out. I¡¯m getting a bit restless.¡± He said.


    Marissa could understand where he wasing from. ¡°I get it. It must be hard being here.


    Hmmm¡­ Why don¡¯t we take a walk outside the hospital garden?


    It could be fun and rxing?¡± She suggested an idea.


    ¡°Yeah, sister. I¡¯ d love that.¡± Samuel said, happy with the idea.


    So they headed out to the hospital garden. The weather was beautiful, the sun was shining and there was a gentle breeze in the air.


    They walked around the garden, admiring the flowers and trees, enjoying the fresh air and each other¡¯spany.


    ¡°This is nice, I feel like I¡¯m not in a hospital anymore,¡± Samuel said, smiling.


    ¡°I know right? Nature has a way of healing us. You should be doing this more often.¡± Marissa said, feeling happy to see her brother enjoying himself.


    They kept walking and talking, enjoying the weather.


    ¡°So how was the job you traveled to another country for?


    Did it go well?¡± He asked as she pulled his wheelchair.


    ¡°Well¡­ It went um¡­. well¡­¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°That¡¯s great! So does it mean like they are gonna give you a permanent job there?¡± her brother asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet, Sam, but hopefully.¡± she replied to him.


    But deep down, Marissa knew that the chances of that happening were slim to none. She wasn¡¯t sure she wanted to continue the whole contract marriage thing with Alexander but she knew that an agreement is an agreement and that if she broke it, she would have to pay for damages and for breaching the contract and that was a huge sum of money which she clearly doesn¡¯t have at the moment.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sure you did your best. And that¡¯s all that matters, right?¡± Samuel said, trying to boost her spirits.


    ¡°I guess so,¡± Marissa replied, not really sure how she felt. On the one hand, she felt grateful for the experience and the chance to learn and grow. But on the other hand, she felt disappointed in herself for ever thinking that maybe something special coulde out of their trip.


    They got to the garden and enjoyed the view. The breeze was cool and the smell of flowers was breath taking.


    ¡°It¡¯s really beautiful out here,¡± Samuel said, taking in the sights and sounds. ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe that we¡¯re still in the city.¡±


    Marissa nodded in agreement. ¡°It¡¯s like an oasis in the middle of the urban jungle.¡±


    They kept walking and talking, enjoying the peaceful moment. But in the back of Marissa¡¯s mind, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if she and Alexander would ever have something special.


    She had grown feelings for him but he had defined their rtionship as strictly business and nothing more. Of course she understood but part of her felt bad because she felt she felt a different vibe around him that made her feel he liked her as well, but she guessed she was wrong.


    She pushed the negative thoughts aside and tried to focus on the present.

 Tried

    Meanwhile Alexander and Jessie got to his apartment and he slumped on the couch exhausted from the journey.


    ¡°Oh baby, you must be really tired and hungry. Why don¡¯t I order something for us to eat? Something like pizza or should we go to a restaurant and eat some pasta or something?¡± she asked.


    Alexander tired sighed deeply and replied.


    ¡°No¡­ I¡¯m not hungry. I think I should go in and shower and rest for the night. I have an early morning meeting so I need to rest and wake up to prepare for it.¡±


    Jessie was a bit surprised by Alexander¡¯s reply. He had never turned down food before, and he always seemed to have an appetite. But she respected his decision and smiled.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll leave you to it then. If you need anything, just let me know.¡±


    Alexander nodded and headed into the bedroom, while Jessie stayed in the living room. She thought about how strange it was that he wasn¡¯t hungry, and she couldn¡¯t help but worry about him. Maybe he was just tired, or maybe something else was going on.


    She decided to give him some space and let him rest. After about half an hour, she heard the sound of running watering from the bathroom, indicating that Alexander was showering.


    She tried to focus on something else, but her mind kept going back to him. Was he really just tired, or was something else bothering him?


    She stood up and walked to the door of the bathroom, debating whether or not to knock. She didn¡¯t want to intrude, but she also wanted to make sure he was okay.


    Finally, she decided to take a chance and knocked gently on the door.


    ¡°Alexander, is everything okay?¡± she asked, her voice full of concern


    There was no response from the other side of the door, and for a moment, Jessie worried that he might not have heard her. She was about to knock again when she heard a faint reply.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯ll be out in a minute.¡±


    His voice sounded a bit hoarse, and she wondered if he was sick. But she didn¡¯t want to push him, so she simply said, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be here when you¡¯re done.¡±


    She walked back to the living room and sat down on the couch, trying to distract herself with a book she had brought with her.


    As the minutes passed, she found herself growing more and more anxious. It had been over an hour since Alexander had gone into the bathroom, and she was beginning to worry that something might be wrong. Finally, she couldn¡¯t take it anymore and knocked on the door again.


    ¡°Alexander, are you okay? It¡¯s been a long time, I¡¯m getting worried.¡±


    There was a long pause, and then she heard the sound of the water being turned off. A few momentster, the door opened and Alexander stood in front of her, wearing only a towel around his waist.


    He looked tired and a bit pale, but he gave her a small smile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I took so long, I just needed a moment to clear my head.¡±


    There was a worried look in Jessie¡¯s eyes. ¡°Is everything okay, Alexander? You don¡¯t seem like yourself.¡±


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, then let out a deep sigh. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ I¡¯m not feeling great ever since I returned from the trip. I don¡¯t know why but I¡¯m just really tired. I thought a shower would help, but I guess it didn¡¯t really do the trick.¡±


    ¡°Oh my. I guess you are just jetgged by all the traveling but you should be fine after you rest. Let me make you some lemon tea, I think it should help you.¡± she said.


    ¡°That sounds great, thank you. And I¡¯m sure you¡¯re right about jetg. I just hope it doesn¡¯t take too long to get back to normal.¡±


    Jessie gave him a reassuring smile. ¡°You¡¯ll be fine, Alexander. Just give yourself some time to adjust and take it easy for a while. I know you¡¯re a hard worker, but it¡¯s okay to take a break sometimes.¡±


    Alexander gave a small nod. ¡°You¡¯re right, I need to learn to slow down sometimes¡±


    So Jessie went to the kitchen to make the lemon tea for Alex while he got dressed for the night to rest.


    Alexander walked into his bedroom and changed into a pair offortable sweatpants and a t-shirt.


    He sat down on the edge of his bed and took a few deep breaths, trying to calm his mind and body. It had been a long day, and he felt exhausted both physically and emotionally.


    He heard the kettle whistle in the kitchen, and a few minutester, Jessie came in with a mug of hot lemon tea.


    ¡°Here you go, Alexander. This should help you rx and get a good night¡¯s sleep.¡± she said with a smile.


    He took the mug from her and sipped the hot liquid, feeling the warmth spread through his body. ¡°This is perfect, thank you. You¡¯re really a lifesaver, you know that?¡± he said, giving her a grateful look.


    ¡°Aw, you¡¯re wee. It¡¯s the least I can do for you boo.¡± she said.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Alexander was surprised by Jessie sudden change in her attitude and why she was free and not busy with work.


    He decided to ask her.


    ¡°Jessie, why are you around?¡± she was taken aback by the question.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean, you are around and spending time with me and not working. It is unusual of you which I appreciate a lot but it just feels¡­. I don¡¯t know¡­¡± he stammered.


    ¡°Weird?¡± she finished his words.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± he nodded.


    ¡°Well¡­. um.. I¡¯m not actually. I just feel we should spend some time together when you get back, since I had been away on a business trip too. I just felt we should be together.


    Before, he would be so happy to spend time with Jessie and all, but why was he feeling like he wanted to be alone and not have her around? Was something wrong with him?


    ¡°Why did you ask, my love? Aren¡¯t you happy to see me and have me here?¡± she asked, as she observed his countenance on his face.


    Alexander hesitated, not sure how to answer her question. He wanted to say yes, but the truth was, he wasn¡¯t sure if he really wanted her here. He felt guilty and a bit confused, and he didn¡¯t want to hurt her feelings.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to see you, of course. I just feel a little off, like something is different. I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s me or what, but I feel like I can¡¯t quite rx the way I used to.¡± he admitted, looking down at his hands.


    ¡°But I guess maybe it¡¯s because I¡¯m tired from all the traveling. A good night¡¯s sleep should do the trick.¡± he said as he ced the mug close to the side of his bed andy on his bed to sleep.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you sleep now.¡± she said and walked out of his room.

 Messed Up

    Why wasn¡¯t he happy to see Jessie who he imed he loved so much? Why was he thinking about Marissa and felt he missed her so much?


    ¡°Alex what the hell are you thinking huh? Why are you thinking about another woman when you have a great woman? Are you falling out of love for Jessie and falling in love with Marissa?¡± he asked himself as he rolled around on his bed as sleep refused toe.


    The night dragged on and Alexander tossed and turned, unable to sleep. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Marissa and what she meant to him.


    He knew it was wrong to feel this way, especially since he was in a rtionship with Jessie. But he couldn¡¯t help it. He felt a connection with Marissa that he couldn¡¯t exin.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    It was like she understood him in a way that Jessie never could. He feltfortable around her, like he could be himself without judgement. But how could he tell Jessie any of this? She would be heartbroken, and he didn¡¯t want to hurt her. He felt so conflicted and confused, like he was stuck between two worlds.


    As hey there, he tried to close his eyes hoping he would fall asleep, but he couldn¡¯t as he thought about Marissa staying alone in that big apartment that night.


    He took out his phone and wanted to call her, but changed his mind when he checked the time and realized that it was reallyte.


    He ced his phone back on the side table close to his bed andy himself on the bed to sleep.


    Being married to Marissa even though it¡¯s fake, he actually was enjoying it as she was nice, caring and understanding.


    He thought about how easy it was to talk to her about anything, even the most personal things. She always listened and offered her honest opinion, even if it wasn¡¯t what he wanted to hear.


    And somehow, that made him feel even closer to her. He knew that he could trust her with anything. But what did that mean for his rtionship with Jessie? He felt torn between two very different women.


    As hey there, his mind started to wander and he found himself thinking about what it would be like to be married to Marissa for real. To wake up next to her every morning, to share meals


    and experiences with her. To build a life together, to face the ups and downs of life together. And as he thought about it, he realized that he couldn¡¯t deny how much he was drawn to her. He couldn¡¯t deny the chemistry that they had.


    But then, his thoughts drifted back to Jessie. He remembered how he had felt when they first started dating, the excitement and passion that he had felt. But now, he couldn¡¯t deny that something had changed.


    He still cared about her, but it felt like the spark was gone. He felt guilty for feeling this way, but at the same time, he couldn¡¯t help it. He wondered if maybe it was just the distance, the fact that he hadn¡¯t seen her in person for so long. Or maybe it was something else, something deeper. He wasn¡¯t sure, and it was all so confusing.


    As heid there, lost in his thoughts, the door to his room opened and Marissa walked in. He sat up and looked at her, a million questions running through his mind. She just looked at him and smiled, her eyes warm and full of understanding.


    ¡°I thought you might be having a hard time sleeping.¡± she said, her voice soft and soothing. ¡°Do you want to talk about it?¡±


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, not sure if he should say anything. But then he realized that Marissa was the one person he could bepletely honest with, without fear of judgment.


    So he opened up, pouring out all of his thoughts and feelings. He told her about how he felt about her, about how confused he was about everything. And as he talked, he felt a weight lifting off his shoulders.


    When he finished, Marissa was quiet for a moment, and then she spoke.


    ¡°So you are in love with anotherdy, Alexander?¡±


    He looked and realized that he had been imagining and that it wasn¡¯t Marissa who was sitting beside him but Jessie.


    ¡°Oh my god! What am I gonna do to tell her it was not what she thinks?¡± he asked himself as he stood up from his bed.


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think, Jessie.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to tell me that you weren¡¯t just imagining another woman instead of me, right?¡± Jessie asked, her voice shaky and hurt.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that! I was just daydreaming and she is not who I think of, you are the only woman in my life.¡± he tried to exin.


    ¡°So you were just thinking of someone else, someone that is not me, when I¡¯m here with you. Am I not good enough for you or what?¡±


    Alexander felt his heart sink. He had never seen her like this, and he hated himself for hurting her like this. He tried to reach out to her, but she stepped back.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to hurt you. I just¡­¡± he trailed off, not sure how to exin what was going on in his head.


    ¡°Just what? Just what? You were thinking of another woman, someone who is not me, someone who doesn¡¯t even exist? I can¡¯t believe it.¡± Jessie said, her voice breaking.


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think Jessie. I love you and only you. Just believe me.¡± he said.


    Jessie looked at him, her eyes searching his for some sign of truth. Finally, she spoke.


    ¡°I want to believe you, but I¡¯m not sure I can. It hurts so much to hear you say that you were imagining another woman. How am I supposed to trust you after that?¡±


    Alexander felt his heart break into a million pieces. He had never wanted to hurt her, and now he had done just that. He didn¡¯t know what to say to make it right.


    ¡°Please give me a chance to exin. I know I messed up, but it¡¯s not what you think Jessie.¡±

 Overwhelmed

    She was quiet and then she eventually nodded.


    ¡°Alright, if you say so. I¡¯ll believe your words then.¡±


    Alex smiled and then closed his eyes to sleep again, but he breathed a sigh of relief that he didn¡¯t mention Marissa¡¯s name. If he had, he would be in serious shit!


    ****


    Marissa had left the hospital and returned to the apartment with her luggage. She was exhausted from the trip and decided to shower and rest for the night.


    As she undressed and got in the shower, her mind began to wander. She thought about Alex and wondered if he was resting or¡­


    She shook her head trying to get him off her mind as she had decided that she wasn¡¯t going to think about him again since they were just married on paper and it was just a fake marriage to get the contract they traveled to get.


    But try as she might, she couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Alex. She thought about the moment they had first met,  how arrogant he was and looked and how he brought the idea of them getting married for a contract for three months.


    She had thought he was an arrogant and selfish person, but when she began to know him more, he wasn¡¯t all that bad.


    She remembered the way his eyes lit up when he talked about his passion for robotics, and the way he would always be there to listen when she needed to talk.


    She had never felt so connected to anyone before, and she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if there was something more to their rtionship than just a fake marriage.


    She turned off the shower and stepped out, wrapping herself in a towel. As she looked at herself in the mirror, she suddenly felt overwhelmed by all the thoughts and emotions swirling through her head.


    She took a deep breath and tried to focus on the present moment. There was no use dwelling on the past or the future, she told herself. All she could do was live in the present and take things one day at a time.


    She changed into her pajamas and crawled into bed, her mind still racing. After a while, she finally fell into a restless sleep, dreams of Alex and their pretend marriage swirling through her subconscious.


    She woke up the next day and checked the time and realized that it was still early. Then she thought that Alexander had said he had a very important meeting today and that he needed to be there early.


    An idea came up: what if she made him breakfast and sent his driver to deliver it to him since she knew that he never used to have breakfast that early when he leaves his house.


    She got out of bed and headed to the kitchen, pulling out the ingredients to make his favorite breakfast. As she mixed the batter and preheated the oven, she couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    Cooking had always been one of her favorite pastimes, and it felt good to be doing something productive. Plus, she knew that Alex would appreciate the gesture.


    When the muffins were done, she carefully wrapped them up and called for his driver.


    She exined that she had prepared breakfast for Alex and asked him to deliver it to his office.


    She also made some for the driver  since she knew he wouldn¡¯t have taken anything as well. The driver smiled and thanked her for it and took the package driving off to deliver it.


    ~~~


    Meanwhile, Alexander, who was already used to eating breakfast in the morning thanks to Marissa, woke up thinking he was gonna meet Jessie in the kitchen preparing breakfast, but as he got to the kitchen, no one was there.


    Jessie was still in her room not sleeping but working.


    ¡°Hey babe. Good morning.¡± he greeted her walking towards her bed and kissed her.


    ¡°Hey you. Did you sleep well?¡± she asked, responding to his kiss.


    ¡°Yes, I did.¡± he replied as he adjusted his tie.


    ¡°Off to work already?¡± she asked.


    He nodded.


    ¡°Yeah, I have an early meeting as I informed you yesterday night.¡±


    ¡°Oh yes, you did. Alright babe. Will see you when you get back.¡± she said and faced herputer as she was doing something on it.


    Alexander was not so surprised after all she had never cooked for him before, let alone prepared breakfast so¡­ it was stupid of him to think she would do such a thing like prepare breakfast for him.


    He received a call from his driver informing him that he was downstairs at the parking lot waiting for him.


    He took his bag and headed out the door. As he got to the parking lot, his driver greeted him and then he entered the car.


    While they were on their way to the office. Alexander started to smell a nice aromaing from the seat beside him. He looked and saw a package and picked it up.


    It was warm and soft.


    ¡°What is this?¡± he asked the driver.


    The driver looked over at him and said, ¡°It¡¯s a package for you, sir. Ms Marissa told me to give it to you as she knew you wouldn¡¯t have had breakfast.¡±


    Alexander smiled as he opened the package and saw a nice soft hot muffin and a coffee sk with a note.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    The note read:


    ¡°I hope this will help you have a good start of your day.


    Marissa¡±


    Alexander felt his heart melt as he read the note. He couldn¡¯t believe that Marissa had gone out of her way to do this for him. It was the sweetest and most thoughtful thing anyone had ever done for him.


    As he took a bite of the muffin, he couldn¡¯t help but think about how much he cared for Marissa.


    He had never felt this way about anyone before, and he wasn¡¯t sure what to do about it. But he knew he had to figure it out, because he couldn¡¯t keep pretending that he didn¡¯t have feelings for her.


    She was exactly thedy he needed and not what he thought he wanted¡­..

 Jessie Doubts

    Jessie, who wasn¡¯t convinced that Alexander was not seeing anyone, decided to call Anderson since she knew Anderson and Alex were close.


    After Alexander left for work, she took out her phone and called Anderson.


    ¡°Hi, Jessie! What¡¯s up?¡± Anderson answered.


    ¡°Hey Anderson, how are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing great! How are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing fine. Listen, I want to ask you something and I really need you to be honest with me.¡±


    ¡°Of course! I¡¯m an open book, Jessie. What is it?¡±


    ¡°Is Alex seeing someone?¡±


    There was a pause on the other end of the line.


    ¡°Hello.¡± she called out.


    ¡°Anderson, are you there?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­. I am. Look, Jessie, Alexander isn¡¯t seeing anyone alright. He¡¯s just being super busy with this new contract he was trying to secure. So don¡¯t get all worked up about it alright.¡± Anderson said on the phone.


    ¡°Butst night.. he was talking in his sleep and expressing himself to someone because I know that it ain¡¯t me¡­ so who is she?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Jessie, he isn¡¯t dating or has feelings for anyone alright. He must be dreaming and that has nothing to do with his feelings for you changing.¡± Anderson assured her.


    Jessie sighed on the phone and then spoke.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t know what to think anymore. We¡¯ve been together for a long time, and I¡¯ve always trusted him. Buttely, something just feels off.¡±


    Anderson paused, then said, ¡°I think you might be overthinking things, Jessie. You know Alex and you know how much he values your rtionship. Don¡¯t let your doubts get the better of you.¡±


    ¡°But what if something has changed? What if he really does have feelings for someone else? I just don¡¯t know what to do.¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s hard to deal with the uncertainty, but I think you need to talk to Alex about how you¡¯re feeling. The best way to know for sure is to have an honest conversation with him. Do you think you can do that?¡±


    Jessie took a deep breath and thought for a moment. ¡°I can try. But what if he denies it, even if it¡¯s true? What if he just brushes it off and doesn¡¯t take it seriously?¡±


    Anderson replied, ¡°That¡¯s always a possibility, but you can¡¯t control what he says or does. All you can do is be honest about how you¡¯re feeling. I think if you approach the conversation with openness and respect, there¡¯s a good chance he¡¯ll do the same. And if he doesn¡¯t, well, that¡¯s on him. But at least you¡¯ll know where you stand.¡±


    Jessie nodded, even though Anderson couldn¡¯t see her. ¡°You¡¯re right. I need to be honest with him and see what happens. It¡¯s better than just wondering and worrying about it. I know it¡¯s scary, but you¡¯re strong and capable of having this conversation. Just be yourself and trust your instincts.¡±


    Jessie took a deep breath. ¡°Thank you, Anderson. You always know just what to say to make me feel better. I¡¯m really grateful to have you as a friend.¡±


    ¡°Aww, you¡¯re wee. I¡¯m always here for you, no matter what. You know that, right?¡±


    ¡°I do. And I¡¯m here for you too. Always. No matter what.¡±


    Jessie smiled, and a weight seemed to lift off of her shoulders. ¡°I guess I¡¯ll have to find time to talk to Alex. I¡¯m just not sure when the best time would be.¡±


    ¡°I think the sooner the better. The longer you wait, the more it¡¯ll eat away at you. I know it¡¯s not easy, but it¡¯s important to take care of yourself. Do you think you can do it soon?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll try. Maybe I¡¯ll call him tonight, after dinner. That way we can have some privacy and won¡¯t be interrupted. Does that sound like a good n?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely. I think it¡¯s a great n. Just make sure you¡¯re in a calm headspace when you make the call, okay? Try to rx beforehand, maybe take a bath or read a book. Anything that helps you feel centered.¡±


    ¡°I will. I¡¯ll try to do some deep breathing and meditate before I call him. Thanks for the advice . You¡¯re so good at helping me figure things out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m happy to help. That¡¯s what friends are for, right? I¡¯ll be here for you, cheering you on from the sidelines. You¡¯ve got this, I just know it.¡±


    Jessie felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. ¡°Thank you so much, Anderson. I¡¯m so lucky to have you as a friend. You¡¯re the best.¡±


    ¡°Aww, you¡¯re making me blush!


    Now, I¡¯ve got to ask ¨C are you feeling a little more ready to have that talk with Alex?¡±


    ¡°I do. I think I¡¯m as ready as I¡¯ll ever be. I just hope I can get through it without getting too emotional. It¡¯s hard to talk about this stuff.¡±


    ¡°It is hard, but remember to be kind to yourself. It¡¯s okay to feel emotional about something that¡¯s important to you. Just take your time and take deep breaths if you need to.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Anderson. I¡¯m grateful.¡± she said and ended the call.


    ~~~


    After Anderson ended the call he sighed knowing that Jessie was beginning to suspect that Alexander was growing feelings for Marissa even though she doesn¡¯t know her yet.


    He knew he needed to talk to Alexander and let him try to reassure Jessie that he only had eyes for her and no one else.


    He got dressed and instead of going to his office he headed straight to Alex¡¯s office.


    He knocked and then entered seeing Alexander so caught up with work.


    ¡°Hey Alex, we need to talk.¡± Anderson said firmly, his face serious.


    Alexander looked up from hisputer, concern etched on his face. ¡°Is everything okay? You look pretty serious.¡±


    ¡°I am serious. This is about Jessie, and it¡¯s important.¡±


    Alexander felt his heart sink. He had a feeling he knew what this was about. ¡°What about her? Is everything okay?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I need to talk to you about. It¡¯s not that she¡¯s not okay, it¡¯s more about how she¡¯s feeling. She¡¯s been having doubts, Alex. She¡¯s starting to feel like you might have feelings for someone else.¡±

 Alexander

    Alexander¡¯s stomach dropped. He knew this wasing, but it still hurt to hear it out loud. ¡°I can assure you that¡¯s not the case. Jessie is the only person I have feelings for. I don¡¯t know where she¡¯s getting these ideas from.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s because she¡¯s noticed that you¡¯ve been distractedtely. You haven¡¯t been giving her the same level of attention that you used to. She feels like you¡¯re pulling away from her.¡±


    Alexander was silent for a moment, thinking about what Anderson said. He knew he had been distanttely, but he hadn¡¯t realized how much it was affecting Jessie. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize it was that bad. I¡¯ve just been busy with work. I¡¯m sorry if it¡¯s made her feel like I don¡¯t care about her¡­¡± Alex said.


    Anderson leaned closer.


    ¡°Have you redefined your rtionship with Marissa? That what you guys have is just fake and not real. The fake marriage was a deal you guys made to get what you both want and not get any feelings involved.¡±


    Alex nodded.


    ¡°Yeah, I did. I told her that we are nothing more than a fake couple and that our fake marriage would end after three months and we would go back to our individual lives.¡±


    ¡°Good! That¡¯s better.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°But weren¡¯t you the one who told me that you liked Marissa more than Jessie? That Jessie would always choose her job over me. Why are you changing your words, Anderson?¡± Alex asked.


    ¡°Because the truth is that you¡¯re in a serious rtionship with Jessie and Marissa and you are just business partners and not like you saw her and fell in love with her at first sight, but you came together to do a business and that¡¯s what it should be. Business.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°But what if I want more from this business deal, Andy? What if I want to be with Marissa? Am I a jerk for feeling that way?¡±  he asked, looking at Anderson for answers.


    ¡°I mean this morning, she kind of knew that I wouldn¡¯t have had breakfast because of my early morning meetings with the board, she woke up and made breakfast for me and called my driver to deliver them to me and she even went all the way to make for my driver as well.


    I call that care which I honestly don¡¯t get from Jessie. She was awake when I woke up and showered this morning but she never thought of making breakfast for me.¡± Alex said.


    Anderson was quiet as he didn¡¯t know what to say about it.


    ¡°It sounds like Marissa went out of her way to do something nice for you, and I think that speaks volumes about the kind of person she is. But I also think it¡¯s important to remember that you and Jessie have a history together, and she may show her affection in different ways. Just because she didn¡¯t make you breakfast doesn¡¯t mean she doesn¡¯t care about you.¡±


    Alex nodded, considering Anderson¡¯s words. ¡°I know what you¡¯re saying, but I also don¡¯t want to hurt Marissa if she ends up developing feelings for me. I wouldn¡¯t want to lead her on or break her heart.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s important to be honest with both Marissa and Jessie about your feelings. If you¡¯re not interested in pursuing a rtionship with Marissa, it¡¯s best to be upfront about that so she doesn¡¯t get the wrong idea.


    And you should also talk to Jessie about how you feel and see if there¡¯s a way to work through any issues you may be having in your rtionship. Communication is key in any rtionship, whether it¡¯s romantic or tonic.¡± Anderson said gently.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re right, but I¡¯m scared to have those conversations. I don¡¯t want to lose either of them. They both mean so much to me.¡± Alex admitted, looking down at his hands.


    Anderson reached out and ced a hand on Alex¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I know it¡¯s scary, but sometimes the hardest conversations are the most important. And if you don¡¯t have them, you may end up losing both Marissa and Jessie anyway. It¡¯s better to take a chance on being honest and risk losing them, than to keep the status quo and lose them both anyway. Do you understand what I¡¯m saying?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I think so. But I don¡¯t know how to even start those conversations. What if I say the wrong thing and mess everything up?¡± Alex asked, looking up at Anderson with wide eyes.


    Anderson gave Alex a sympathetic smile. ¡°Well, the best way to start is by saying how you feel. Just be honest about what you¡¯re thinking and feeling, and let them respond. It may be ufortable at first, but it¡¯s the only way to figure out how to move forward.


    And remember, you can¡¯t control how they feel or react, but you can control how you handle the situation. If youe from a ce of honesty and respect, I think that will go a long way.¡±


    Alex nodded, taking a deep breath. ¡°You¡¯re right. I need to do this, even if it¡¯s hard. It¡¯s the only way to move forward and make sure everyone is on the same page.¡±


    ¡°Exactly . It may be painful, but it¡¯s the only way to ensure that you¡¯re all on the same page and that there¡¯s no confusion about how anyone feels. Do you feel a little better about it now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I do. Thanks for listening and for the advice. I feel like I can actually do this now, instead of just feeling overwhelmed and paralyzed.¡± Alex said, a smile forming on his lips.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s what friends are for! I¡¯m d I could help. And just know that no matter what happens, you¡¯re not alone in this. I¡¯ll be here for you every step of the way.¡± Anderson said, giving Alex a reassuring smile.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Anderson. I don¡¯t know what I would do without you as a friend. You¡¯re the best.¡± Alex said, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders.


    ¡°Anytime, Alex.¡±

 Confused

    ¡°But I¡¯m shocked at your sudden change of attitude, Alexander,¡± Anderson said as his secretary walked in with a tray of tea and biscuits.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Alex said to his secretary who smiled and left the office.


    Anderson opened his mouth wide, surprised at Alexander¡¯s sudden change in behavior.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what happened to you that changed you, but I like the new you, Alex,¡± Anderson said as he took a cup and sipped.


    ¡°Hmmm.. Nice coffee.¡±


    ¡°This is always the way I am dude,¡± Alex said.


    ¡°Nope, this isn¡¯t the way you were dude. You have changed and honestly, it¡¯s a really good thing.¡±


    Alexander smiled at Anderson¡¯spliment. ¡°So I have decided that I¡¯m going to talk to Jessie about Marissa and our fake marriage to secure the contract and end everything with Marissa.¡±


    Anderson nodded pleased.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I think that would be better. She needs to know the truth and not be kept in the dark any longer. Because if she found out the truth elsewhere, she might blow chunks man, and you and I both know it wouldn¡¯t be good.¡± Anderson said, resting on the chair.


    Alex sighed deeply and then ced his hand on his lips thinking.


    ¡°But I will tell her after the dinner party we have next week.¡±


    Anderson¡¯s brow furrowed as he looked at Alex.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to tell her before then. What if she finds out before then man? What are you gonna do?¡±


    Alex sighed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure she doesn¡¯t find out.¡±N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ This is a bad idea, Alex.¡± Anderson shook his head not in support of his friend¡¯s decision.


    ¡°I understand that this is a difficult situation, but Keeping something like this a secret isn¡¯t the best idea, and could end up causing even more problems down the line. Maybe you should reconsider your approach.¡±


    Alex sat there in silence for a moment and then spoke up.


    ¡°I know I probably should, but I¡¯m scared of what will happen if she finds out. What if she gets angry and decides to end the rtionship? I don¡¯t want to risk losing her.¡± Alex said, clearly conflicted.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to lose Jessie or Marissa?¡±


    ¡°Both of them, man,¡± Alex said in confusion.


    ¡°You¡¯re one confused man right now, Alex and you need to find out who you want between them and make a decision that wouldn¡¯t affect them as well,¡± Anderson advised.


    Alex leaned on his chair and ced his hand on his hair.


    ¡°I love Jessie and I like Marissa.¡±


    Anderson dropped his cup and shook his head in disapproval.


    ¡°No dude, you need to choose one and you need to do that fast.¡±


    ¡°How am I gonna do that man? I¡¯m confused here.¡± Alex said


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s see if we can break this down. What is it that you love about Jessie? Is it the rtionship, or is it something deeper than that? And when ites to Marissa, what makes you feel like you like her? These are important questions to consider.¡± Anderson said calmly.


    Alex took a few moments to think.


    ¡°I love Jessie because she has always been there for me through thick and thin. She¡¯s always had my back, and I know I can always count on her. But with Marissa, it¡¯s like she¡¯s always been someone I can talk to about anything, without any judgment. We¡¯ve always been able to be honest and open with each other, and I really value that. And on top of that, she¡¯s always been a lot of fun to be around, and I feel like I can truly be myself around her. So I guess I just feel a connection to both of them in different ways.¡± Alex exined.


    ¡°That¡¯s really insightful, Alex. So it sounds like you¡¯re saying that your rtionship with Jessie is based on trust and support, whereas your rtionship with Marissa is more about having fun and feelingfortable being yourself. So the question now bes, which of those things is more important to you? Do you want a rtionship based on trust and support, or do you want a rtionship where you feelfortable being yourself and having fun?¡± Anderson asked.


    Alex thought about this, and then finally spoke up.


    ¡°I guess I would have to say that trust and support are really important to me. I want someone who I can rely on through anything. But at the same time, I also want to be able to enjoy spending time with that person and not feel like I have to be a certain way to impress them.¡±


    ¡°So, it sounds like you¡¯re looking for someone who has the qualities of both Jessie and Marissa, is that right?¡± Anderson asked, making sure he was understanding Alex correctly.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s pretty much it. I want someone who I can trust and rely on, but also someone who I can feelfortable being myself around. Is that even possible?¡± Alex asked, feeling a little discouraged.


    ¡°Alex, it¡¯s possible but, you need to realize that there aren¡¯t perfectdies out there as there aren¡¯t perfect guys out there, but what makes people decide to be together is that they have just a few things inmon and they love each other enough to want to be with each other.¡±


    ¡°Wow, Anderson. I didn¡¯t know you had this much knowledge up your sleeves.¡± Alex teased.


    ¡°Ha ha ha! I¡¯m ttered by your surprise, but it¡¯s all part of the job description as awyer.


    I¡¯m here to help you navigate life, and that includes answering tough questions like these. So, what do you think you¡¯re going to do now? Are you going to talk to Jessie about your concerns, or keep trying to figure out how you feel on your own?¡± Anderson responded with a joke and then a serious question.


    ¡°I think I¡¯m going to talk to Jessie. I need to be honest with her about how I¡¯m feeling, and hopefully we can figure out a way to move forward that works for both of us.

 James Fernando

    ¡°I know it¡¯s going to be a tough conversation, but it¡¯s the right thing to do.¡±


    ¡°Do you feel ready for that conversation?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°I think I am. I just don¡¯t want to hurt her feelings, but I also know that I need to be honest. I¡¯m just nervous about how it will go. What if she gets upset and doesn¡¯t want to be with me anymore?¡± Alex said, his voice full of worry.


    ¡°I understand that you¡¯re worried about Jessie¡¯s reaction, but it¡¯s important to remember that you can¡¯t control how she feels or how she reacts.


    All you can do is be honest and hope that she understands where you¡¯reing from. And even if she does get upset, it doesn¡¯t mean that your rtionship is over. Sometimes people just need some time to process their feelings before they can talk about them. You¡¯ll be fine dude.¡± Anderson said to Alex.


    Just then his office phone rings and he picks up.


    ¡°Sir, Jaime Fernando is here to see you.¡±


    Alexander rolled his eyes as Jaime was thest person he wanted to see right now.


    Should he tell her that she should tell him that he is busy?


    ¡°Sir?¡± His secretary called out since there was no response from him.


    After a short moment of hesitation, Alex spoke.


    ¡°Let him in.¡±


    ¡°Alright sir.¡± His secretary said and then the call ended.


    ¡°Who is that?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°Someone I hate to see.¡± Alex replied.


    Anderson nodded in understanding as he knew who Alex was talking about.


    ¡°Jaime Fernado right?¡±


    Alex nodded.


    A few minutester, the door to Alex¡¯s office opened and Jaime entered. He had a confident smile on his face, as if he knew something Alex didn¡¯t.


    ¡°Hello, Jaime. What brings you here today?¡± Alex asked, keeping his tone neutral.


    ¡°I just wanted to stop by and say hello, and also to check in on you and your lovely wife, Marissa. How are you two doing?¡± Jaime asked, sounding genuinely curious.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Alex felt his anger rise at the mention of Marissa¡¯s  name. He knew that Jaime was just trying to get a rise out of him, and he wasn¡¯t going to give him the satisfaction. He took a deep breath and calmed himself down before responding.


    ¡°We¡¯re doing well, Jaime. Thanks for asking.¡± Alex replied, keeping his tone polite.


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. I¡¯m d you two are doing well. I saw how cozy you guys were with each other in Switzend and honestly, I was a little jealous.¡± Jaime said as he sat on the couch and crossed his legs.


    ¡°What about um¡­ What¡¯s her name¡­ Jessie?¡± He asked


    ¡°I thought you guys were still together before, but finding out suddenly that you are married not to her but to someone else¡­ Well, I was surprised¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have better things to do with your time thaning here to torment me?¡± Alex said, frustration in his voice.


    Jaime leaned closer.


    ¡°Well¡­ I have a meeting to get to, I just stopped by to say hi. Please extend my greetings to your lovely wife Marissa.¡± He said and got up to leave, cing his hands in his pocket.


    When he got close to the door, he turned and spoke.


    ¡°Oh! Before I forget, I wanted to say congrattions on securing the contract.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Jaime.¡± Alex said his face serious.


    ¡°I will take my leave now.¡±  Jaime said as he opened the door and closed it from behind.


    Alex leaned back in his chair and let out a deep sigh. He couldn¡¯t believe how shameless Jaime was,ing to his office just to taunt him. It was obvious that Jaime was trying to get a reaction out of him, and Alex refused to give him the satisfaction.


    But Jaime¡¯s words still lingered in his mind. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off about the way Jaime kept mentioning Marissa¡¯s name. It was almost as if he was trying to provoke Alex by bringing her up.


    ¡°I think Jaime suspects that you and Marissa¡¯s marriage is fake because he knew about you and Jessie,¡± Anderson revealed.


    Alex¡¯s heart started beating seriously.


    ¡°What if he meets Jessie and tells her about me being married to Marissa?¡± He asked.


    ¡°It could destroy all that we have worked for. Because if that client finds out about it, they will never trust me with any contract again and also they would never refer me to otherpanies. What should I do, Anderson?¡±


    Anderson was quiet as he thought deeply about what Alex just said.


    ¡°I understand your concern, Alex. But I think you¡¯re overreacting a little bit. There¡¯s no way for Jaime to prove that you and Marissa¡¯s marriage is fake, even if he met Jessie. And even if he did try to tell people about it, I don¡¯t think they would believe him without any proof. I think you¡¯re worrying too much about a situation that may never happen.¡± Anderson said, trying to reassure Alex.


    ¡°You¡¯re probably right. I¡¯m just paranoid because I¡¯ve worked so hard to get to where I am today, and I don¡¯t want anything to jeopardize it. But if he meets up with Jessie before I tell her. What do you think would happen?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know dude. That¡¯s why I said you should tell her before she finds out herself.¡± Anderson advised.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s not easy, but it¡¯s the right thing to do. Jessie deserves to know the truth, and the longer you wait to tell her, the harder it will be. I know you¡¯re worried about the consequences, but I think it¡¯s better to be honest and upfront with her. You¡¯ve always been a man of integrity, Alex. Don¡¯t let that change now.¡± Anderson said, looking directly at Alex.


    Alex knew that Anderson was right. He couldn¡¯t keep living a lie, and he couldn¡¯t keep putting off the inevitable conversation with Jessie. He took a deep breath and nodded.

 Jessie Sudden Trip

    Anderson left the office as Alexander had other important meetings to attend to.


    During the meeting, he couldn¡¯t concentrate as he thought about what Jessie would do when she finds out that he had to do a fake marriage to secure a very important contract.


    He was worried about her reaction and how it would affect their rtionship. Would she be upset? Would she be angry? Would she feel betrayed?


    There were so many unanswered questions, and he didn¡¯t know how to handle the situation. All he knew was that he had to be honest with her, no matter how difficult it might be.


    After the meeting, he went to his office and sat down at his desk. He took a few deep breaths to try to calm himself down before picking up the phone and dialing Jessie¡¯s number.


    As the phone rang, his heart was pounding in his chest. He wondered what he would say when she answered. After a few seconds, the phone was picked up on the other end.


    ¡°Hello, Alex. What¡¯s up?¡± Jessie¡¯s voice was calm and friendly, which only served to make Alex even more nervous.


    ¡°Hey, Jessie. I need to talk to you about something important. Are you free to meet upter today?¡± Alex asked, trying to sound asposed as possible.


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m free any time. What¡¯s this about? Are you okay?¡± Jessie asked, her voice now concerned.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, but I need to talk to you about something that¡¯s been weighing on me. I hope you don¡¯t mind if I meet you at your ce. Is that okay?¡± Alex asked, hoping she would say yes.


    ¡°Of course, Alex. My door is always open to you. What time do you want toe over?¡± Jessie asked, her voice still tinged with worry.


    ¡°How about 6pm? Would that work for you?¡± Alex asked, hoping it would be a good time for her.


    ¡°That¡¯s perfect. I¡¯ll be looking forward to seeing you then. Should I make dinner or would you rather go out to eat?¡± Jessie asked, her voice now light and hopeful.


    Alex thought for a moment. Going out to eat would be easier, but he didn¡¯t want to make things too casual. This conversation was going to be difficult enough as it was, and he wanted to make sure they were in afortable, private ce.


    ¡°Would it be okay if we ate at your ce? I think it would be better to talk in a more private setting.¡± Alex said


    There was a brief silence on the other end of the line. When Jessie spoke again, her voice was a bit hesitant.


    ¡°Of course. I understand. I¡¯ll have dinner ready when you get here. Is there anything in particr you¡¯d like to eat?¡± Jessie asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll eat anything you make. I¡¯m not picky.¡± Alex said, trying to sound upbeat.


    ¡°Great. I¡¯ll make something special then. I¡¯ll see you at 6pm. And, Alex¡­ thank you for wanting to be honest with me. I really appreciate that.


    Alex felt a wave of relief wash over him. It was good to know that Jessie appreciated his honesty, even if the conversation ahead was going to be difficult.


    ¡°Thank you, Jessie. I¡¯m d we¡¯re close enough that we can talk about these things. I¡¯ll see you at 6.¡± Alex said, feeling a little less nervous now.


    ¡°See you then. Drive safe!¡± Jessie said, her voice full of warmth.


    As Alex hung up the phone, he felt a little bit better. He knew the conversation ahead would be difficult, but he also knew that it was necessary. He knew that he had to be honest with Jessie, no matter how hard it might be.


    When 6pm rolled around, Alex decided to call Jessie to inform her that he was about to leave his office to get to her ce.


    The phone rings and Jessie picks up.


    ¡°Hey, Babe. I¡¯m about heading out of the office now just trying to wear my coat. Are you home?¡±


    There was silence in as Jessie didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°Hello, Babe, are you there?¡± He asked, putting on his coat.


    ¡°Babe, I¡¯m sorry, but can we reschedule?¡± she asked as she sighed on the phone.


    ¡°Why what¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked as he sat down on his chair.


    ¡°Um¡­. nothing really, just that my boss called me that he wants me to meet up with a client in China tomorrow morning and so I have to take the next flight there tonight. So I¡¯m actually on my way to the airport.¡± she informed him.


    ¡°But you just came back from Singapore recently and now you¡¯re going for another trip.¡± he said, his voice unhappy.


    ¡°I know, I know. I¡¯m really sorry about this. I know we¡¯ve been looking forward to spending time together but it¡¯s really important that I go on this trip. Please understand.¡± she said, her voice pleading.


    ¡°Are you sure you have to go tonight? Why can¡¯t you go tomorrow instead?¡± he asked, trying to find a solution.


    ¡°I wish I could, but this is something that my boss wants me to do. I wish I had a choice but this is work.¡± she said, her voice apologetic.


    ¡°I know, I know. But it¡¯s just that I was looking forward to spending time with you. I know we¡¯ve both been busy with work and haven¡¯t had the time to just sit down and talk.¡± he said, his voice sad.


    ¡°I know, I know and I¡¯m sorry. But you know that this is important. I promise you that I¡¯ll make it up to you when I get back. I promise.¡± she said, her voice soft.


    He was silent for a few moments before he spoke again.


    ¡°I understand. It¡¯s just that I miss you. I know we¡¯ve been talking on the phone but it¡¯s just not the same. I want to spend time with you in person.¡± he said, his voice a little wistful.


    ¡°I know, I know. I miss you too.¡±N?velDrama.Org content.

 Marissa August Visitor

    ¡°I promise that when I get back, we¡¯ll spend some quality time together. Just you and me. No work, no distractions, just us.¡± she said, her voice filled with love.


    ¡°I¡¯d like that. I¡¯d like that a lot. I promise to be patient until then. I just want you to know that I miss you and I wish I could be with you right now.¡± he said, his voice sounding a little forlorn.


    ¡°I know. And I wish the same thing too. Just know that I¡¯m thinking of you and that I¡¯m looking forward to seeing you soon. I promise.¡± she said, her voice reassuring.


    ¡°Okay. I believe you.


    I¡¯ll try to make this trip as short as possible. And when I get back, we can spend some quality time together and just enjoy each other¡¯spany. I¡¯ll even cook you a nice meal. How does that sound?¡± she asked, her voice hopeful.


    ¡°That sounds wonderful. I¡¯ll look forward to that. And you know I¡¯ll help you out with the cooking.¡± he said, a smile on his face.


    ¡°I gotta go babe. I¡¯ll call you when I get there okay?¡± she said.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Of course, just be safe and don¡¯t work too hard. Take care of yourself. I love you.¡± he said, feeling a little sad that they had to end the call.


    ¡°I love you too. I¡¯ll talk to you soon. Bye, Alex.¡± she said, sounding a little reluctant to hang up.


    ¡°Bye, Jessie. Talk to you soon.¡± he said, hanging up the phone. He sat there for a moment, thinking about how much he missed her and how much he was looking forward to seeing her again.


    After the call ended he thought about how whenever he tried to be honest with Jessie, something just stood in his way.


    Was it a sign that he shouldn¡¯t tell her?


    Just then he received a message from Marissa asking him if he wasing over today or if he was spending the night with Jessie.


    ¡°Hey, are youing home tonight or are you nning on staying over with Jessie?¡± Marissa asked via text.


    Alex looked at his phone and felt a wave of guilt wash over him. He didn¡¯t know how to respond. He felt like he was caught in a difficult position, and he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Should he be honest with Marissa, or should he lie to her?


    After a few moments of hesitation, he decided to reply to her text that he wasing over.


    ¡°Hey, Marissa. Yeah, I should be home soon. I just closed from the office.¡±


    A few minutester, Marissa replied, ¡°That¡¯s great to hear. I guess I¡¯d see you soon then¡­¡± she said via text.


    Alexander read it and leaned on his chair and sighed deeply.


    Should he cancel and just return to his apartment or should he go?


    He ced his hand on his hair as he thought about what to do. He was at a crossroad. He loved Jessie but he likes Marissa but right now he doesn¡¯t know what to do about Marissa.


    He guesses that this whole fake marriage thingy has caused a lot of issues for him even though he was the one who brought up the idea.


    What if Jaime finds out about it? He wouldn¡¯t hesitate to inform the client about it and make them cancel the contract and he would have to pay for damages as well as breaching the agreement.


    ~~~~


    Meanwhile, Marissa returned to the apartment after she had spent some time with her younger brother Samuel Preah.


    She checked the time and realized that it was almost time for Alexander to close and return home.


    She wondered if he was going toe over today or stay at his other apartment to spend time with Jessie.


    ¡°Should I call him?¡± she asked herself while staring at her phone.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I should. Maybe he has ns with Jessie. Why should I call him after all he isn¡¯t my boyfriend or husband.¡± she told herself.


    She shook her head and decided it wasn¡¯t the best idea to call him and make him feel ufortable after all he had redefined their rtionship as strictly business and nothing more so why was she raising her hope up.


    She decided to get herself busy with house chores to keep herself from thinking about Alexander and his other life.


    She started by cooking a light dinner for herself. She loved cooking as it had always been a hobby of hers since she was a teenager. She didn¡¯t mind doing the cooking herself when she was living alone. In fact, she preferred to do it herself so she could control what she ate.


    Once she was done with dinner, she checked the time and realized that Alexander would have closed from work.


    So after much hesitation she decided to text him and he replied that he would be avable. She couldn¡¯t exin it but part of her was happy that he wasing over.


    She guessed that maybe Jessie was busy with work and so they couldn¡¯t hang out together that day.


    An hourter, she heard a knock on the door and opened the door and  was surprised to see Jessie in front of the door.


    ¡°Jessie? What are you doing here?¡± Marissa asked surprised as she didn¡¯t expect Jessie.


    Jessie didn¡¯t respond and just entered. Marissa could tell by the look on her face that she was angry.


    Jessie walked in and sat down on the couch and ced her bag on the chair and crossed her leg.


    Marissa walked over to where she was and spoke.


    ¡°Do you want a cup of coffee?¡± she asked Jessie, but Jessie didn¡¯t respond.


    ¡°Okay¡­ I guess you don¡¯t want coffee¡­.¡± she said and sat down. There was silence in the air as everywhere was filled with tension.


    ¡°What are you supposed to be to Alexander?¡± she asked Marissa after a while of silence.


    ¡°I¡­um¡­ don¡¯t know what you mean¡­.¡± Marissa said.

 Finding Out The Truth

    ¡°So you¡¯re married to Alexander and you pretended to be his high school friend huh?¡± Jessie said, her voice filled with anger.


    Marissa swallowed her spittle as she didn¡¯t know how to respond or what to say to her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s my ce to discuss this¡­. probably when Alexanderes, you guys should talk.¡±


    Jessie brow furrowed.


    ¡°I knew something was off about you from the very first day I saw you, but I just decided to wave it aside and trust my boyfriend that he wouldn¡¯t do something like that to hurt me. But I guess I was wrong. Men would always cheat no matter what you do to keep the rtionship.¡±


    Marissa wanted to speak when the door opened and Alexander entered the house and was surprised to find Jessie in the house.


    ¡°Jessie! What are you doing here? I¡­ thought you were on your way to China¡­¡± he stammered.


    ¡°Well, as you can see, I¡¯m still here. I didn¡¯t go anywhere,¡± she said, her voice cold and angry.


    He removed his coat and dropped his bag. Marissa got up and walked up to him and whispered to his ear informing him that Jessie had found out about their rtionship.


    Alexander looked surprised. He never expected that the truth was gonnae out like this.


    He walked up to her and sat close to her while Marissa excused herself so they could talk alone.


    There was silence in the room as Alexander didn¡¯t know how to start or what to say, but before he could speak, Jessie spoke first.


    ¡°I found out that you had gotten married and you didn¡¯t tell me about it huh! You¡¯re a cheating bastard.¡± she yelled, her voice filled with anger.


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think Jessie¡­. there was a reason for it, but it¡¯s not a real marriage.¡± he exined.


    Jessie looked at him like he was speaking a differentnguage.


    ¡°What do you mean it¡¯s not a real marriage? How is that possible? You got married, didn¡¯t you? What do you mean it¡¯s not a real marriage?¡±


    Alexander took a deep breath before exining to her that it was a business deal that she got caught up in and it was just for business.


    Jessie stared at him. She looked like she was still trying to wrap her head around the fact that the man she loved had gone and gotten married to someone else.


    ¡°So you¡¯re telling me that this marriage you got into was just for the sake of business? You¡¯re telling me that there¡¯s no romantic rtionship between you and this woman you got married to?¡± she asked, her voice incredulous.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s what I¡¯m telling you. I never lied about my feelings for you, Jessie. You know that I love you. I would never cheat on you.¡± he said, reaching out to hold her hand.


    Jessie pulled her hand away from his. She still didn¡¯t understand what he was telling her.


    ¡°Why would you do something like this? Why would you get married to someone else for the sake of business? Why couldn¡¯t you have just told me about it, Alexander? Do you know how much this hurts me?¡± she asked, her voice breaking.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Jessie. I really am. I should have told you about it, but I didn¡¯t have a choice, babe. I proposed to you that we should get married, but you said you were not ready to get married because of your job and that you were working on a promotion. So I had to think of something and this was the only option, babe.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s your excuse huh.¡± she said, her voice angry.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s not a good excuse. I know I messed up and I¡¯m really sorry. I never meant to hurt you,¡± he said, trying to look her in the eye.


    ¡°But you did hurt me,¡± she said, her eyes filling with tears.


    ¡°I know, I¡¯m so sorry. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me? I promise to never lie to you or keep anything from you again.¡± he said, his voice sincere.


    Jessie looked at him, trying to decide what to do. She loved him, there was no doubt about that. She could forgive him, but she didn¡¯t know if she could forget what he had done.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can forgive you right now. I¡¯m really hurt by all of this. I need some time to think about things.¡± she said, her voice soft.


    ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll give you the time you need. I just want you to know that I¡¯m really sorry and that I love you more than anything. I¡¯ll do anything to make things right.¡± he said, reaching out to hold her hand.


    Jessie looked at him, the pain in her eyes evident. She knew that he was being sincere, but she wasn¡¯t sure if she could forgive him right away.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°I just need some time to think,¡± she said, her voice breaking.


    Alexander nodded and got up from the couch. He walked over to her and gave her a hug. He held her tight and whispered ¡°I love you¡± in her ear.


    Jessie felt the tears start to fall as he held her close. She wasn¡¯t sure what to do or what to say. She was still processing everything that had happened.


    After a few moments, she pulled away from him and looked him in the eye. ¡°I¡¯m not saying that we¡¯re over. I just need some time to think about things. I promise I¡¯ll talk to you soon.¡±


    ¡°I understand, and I¡¯ll respect your decision. I¡¯ll be here whenever you¡¯re ready to talk.¡± he said, giving her a small smile.


    Jessie walked towards the door. She turned and faced him and spoke.


    ¡°I want her out of the house before tomorrow afternoon, Alexander and I also want you to end the marriage agreement you had with her by tomorrow. Then I will consider not breaking up with you.¡± she said, and walked out the door closing the door behind her.

 Leaving

    Alexander stood there, reeling from what had just happened. He knew that he had messed up big time, and he wasn¡¯t sure if there was anying back from this. He wondered if he had ruined everything with Jessie, and if it was even possible to fix things between them.


    He walked to the window and looked out at the rain that was still pouring down. The storm was reflecting how he felt inside. He felt lost, and he wasn¡¯t sure what to do next.


    Marissa who heard everything walked over to where he was.


    ¡°I think she is right, Alexander. I should leave.¡± she said, with a sad face. ¡°I don¡¯t want you and Jessie to break up because of me. Maybe I should go home and we can terminate the contract tomorrow morning.¡±


    Alexander turned and face Marissa, his face looking displeased.


    ¡°No, you can stay here Marissa. I¡¯m sorry that you had to go through something I created myself.


    I¡¯m really sorry.¡±


    Marissa shook her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Alex. You needed the contract so much, and I¡¯m sure you must have thought it through before you agreed to do this. So I understand.


    What you need to do now is convince Jessie that you don¡¯t love me or anything and that what we have is just a business rtionship and nothing more.¡±


    Alexander ced his hand on his head, thinking. Was it really just a business rtionship he had with Marissa? Or he wanted more than just a business rtionship?


    Marissa seemed more understanding than his girlfriend Jessie.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just sleep on it and tomorrow I¡¯ll know what to do.¡± he said as he walked to the sitting room.


    Marissa, who was still standing there, turned and spoke.


    ¡°No, I think I should go home tonight. I don¡¯t want Jessie to break up with you because of me.¡±


    Marissa walked into her room and grabbed her bags to leave.


    Alexander wanted to stop her from leaving. Part of him didn¡¯t want her to go, but he knew that she was right. If she stayed, it would only make things worse. He couldn¡¯t afford to lose Jessie, and he knew that Marissa was right to leave.


    As he stood there, he heard a car horn outside. Marissa had called a taxi and it was waiting for her. He heard the front door open and close as she left. He stood there, alone in the house, thinking about everything that had happened.


    He felt lost and confused. He didn¡¯t know what to do next. He decided to try to get some sleep, hoping that things would be clearer in the morning.


    He went to bed and closed his eyes, but sleep wouldn¡¯te. Thoughts of Jessie and Marissa kept spinning through his head. He tossed and turned, but nothing he did could quiet his mind.


    As hey there, he thought about what he wanted. Did he want to be with Marissa? Or did he want to be with Jessie? He wasn¡¯t sure, and the more he thought about it, the more confused he became.


    Finally, after what felt like hours, he drifted off to sleep.


    When he woke up the next morning, the sun was shining through the window. He got out of bed and went to the kitchen to make some coffee. As he stood there, waiting for the coffee to brew, he thought about what he was going to do next.


    He knew that he had to talk to Jessie and clear the air. He didn¡¯t want to lose her. But he also knew that he couldn¡¯t just forget about Marissa. He had to figure out what he wanted, and he had to do it quickly.


    He decided to jog around his neighborhood since it was the weekend to think.


    As he walked, he thought about what his life would be like with each woman. With Marissa, he knew that things would be exciting and new. They could travel the world together and experience all sorts of new things.


    And Marissa understood him more than Jessie. But he also knew that it wouldn¡¯t be easy to maintain a rtionship with her because of their social background. But what does that have to do with his happiness?


    With Jessie, he knew that they had a history together and that they shared many memories. But he also knew that things had been strained between themtely and that there was a lot of hurt and anger that needed to be resolved.


    He kept walking, trying to sort out his thoughts and feelings. He wanted to make the right decision, but he was finding it difficult to know what that was.


    As he walked, he saw a park and decided to sit on a bench and just rx for a while. He needed to clear his head and try to think things through more clearly.


    As he sat there, he noticed a little girl ying in the park with her parents. The girl was running around andughing, and it brought a smile to his face. He watched the girl y for a while and it helped him to clear his head.


    After a few minutes, he got up and started to walk again. He felt a little bit calmer and more focused, and he knew that he had to make a decision. He had to decide who he wanted to be with, and he had to do it soon.


    As he walked, he thought about what his life would be like with each woman in the long term. Would he be happy with Marissa in five years? Would he still be happy with Jessie in ten years? He knew that it was impossible to know for sure, but he needed to make a decision based on what he thought was best for him.


    After walking for a while, he finally reached a decision. He knew that it was going to be difficult and that there would be consequences, but he felt that it was the right thing to do. He had to talk to both women and be honest with them about his decision.


    He decided to go home and call Marissa. He wanted to tell her his decision as soon as possible. As he walked home, he thought about what he would say to her. He knew that it wouldn¡¯t be easy, but he knew that it was the right thing to do.N?velDrama.Org content.


    He arrived home and went inside. He took a deep breath and picked up the phone and dialed Marissa¡¯s number. As he waited for her to answer, he felt a mix of emotions. He was nervous, but he also felt a sense of relief that he had finally made a decision.


    After a few rings, Marissa answered the phone. ¡°Hello?¡± she said.


    He took a deep breath and spoke. ¡°Hi, Marissa. I need to talk to you about something.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± she said. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±

 Her Decision

    Marissa who after she entered the Cab wasn¡¯t quite happy about everything but she knew that it was a business arrangement and not that she and Alexander were actually married.


    It was a fake marriage. But why is she feeling so sad that everything was about to end? Was she happy that she was in this whole fake marriage with Alexander?


    She shook herself reminding herself not to be greedy and seek what doesn¡¯t belong to her.


    Alexander was never hers from the beginning. They started as business partners and nothing more until her feelings started growing for him.


    Now she realized that her being with Alexander has almost cost him his rtionship with Jessie for they were on the verge of breaking up.


    What could she do to fix things? She knew that Alexander loved Jessie and it wouldn¡¯t be good of her to separate the two of them to get what she wants.


    Then she decided to not go home but go to the hospital and spend the night with her brother Samuel.


    As the cab got to the hospital, Marissa alighted and entered the hospital. She greeted the nurse on duty and entered her brother¡¯s ward.


    Her brother was not sleeping as he was watching a movie on his bed.


    ¡°Hey, stranger.¡± she said, a small smile on her face.


    ¡°Sis! What are you doing here? I thought you were noting until tomorrow?¡± he said, surprised at his sister¡¯s sudden unexpected visit.


    Marissa smiled at her brother. ¡°I just had toe see you. I wanted to make sure you¡¯re okay. How are you feeling?¡±


    Samuel smiled back at her. ¡°I¡¯m doing okay. I¡¯m just a bit bored, but the nurses here have been really nice and they¡¯ve kept me entertained.¡±


    Marissa sat down on the chair next to his bed. ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. I¡¯m d you¡¯re in good hands. What have they been doing to keep you entertained?¡±


    ¡°Well, they¡¯ve been bringing me books to read, they¡¯ve been letting me watch TV and movies, and they¡¯ve even been letting me y video games! It¡¯s been great,¡± Samuel said with a grin.


    Marissa smiled. ¡°That¡¯s awesome! I¡¯m so d they¡¯re taking good care of you. How are you feeling about everything that happened?¡± she asked gently.


    Samuel¡¯s smile faded slightly. ¡°It¡¯s been a lot to take in. I¡¯m still processing everything. It¡¯s weird to think that I could have died.¡±


    Marissa took her brother¡¯s hand and squeezed it gently. ¡°I know it must be really difficult to deal with. I¡¯m so d you¡¯re okay. I can¡¯t even imagine how I would feel if something had happened to you.¡±


    Samuel smiled at her. ¡°Thanks, sis. It means a lot to me that you¡¯re here for me.¡±


    Marissa smiled back. ¡°Of course, Sam. You ¡®re my brother, and I¡¯ll always be here for you, no matter what.¡±


    Samuel looked down at his hands, which were resting on the bed. ¡°It¡¯s just been so hard to think about how different everything could have been. If I hadn¡¯t been sick, things would be so different.


    I¡¯d still be able to y baseball,  or study for exams and do other cool fun things in school. ¡±


    Marissa listened to her brother, her heart breaking


    ¡°I know that this is really hard on you, Sam. But you have to remember that you¡¯re still you.


    Just because your body is different now doesn¡¯t mean that who you are has changed. You¡¯re still the same person, and you can still do great things.¡±


    Samuel looked at his sister, his eyes filling with tears. ¡°But I can¡¯t do all the things I used to be able to do.


    I¡¯ll never be able to y baseball again. That was my passion. And now it¡¯s gone.¡±


    Marissa could see the pain in her brother¡¯s eyes. ¡°I know that losing something you love is really hard. But I also know that you¡¯re resilient and strong. You¡¯re going to find new passions and things you love. And even though you won¡¯t be able to y baseball, you can still be a part of the sport. You can be a coach, or a mentor, or a manager. There are so many ways you can still be involved in the game you love.¡±


    Samuel looked at his sister, with a sad face.


    ¡°How sis? Look at me, I feel like I might never leave this hospital because everyday, I¡¯d have to depend on drugs and surgery to survive.


    It¡¯s hard and sometimes I feel like giving up sister.¡± he expressed himself as tears flowed down his face.


    Marissa felt her heart break at her brother¡¯s words. She walked over to him and pulled him into a tight hug.


    ¡°I know this is hard, and it¡¯s okay to feel sad and upset. But I also want you to know that you are not alone. You have me and I care about you. I am here for you, no matter what.


    And we will be here for you through every step of your journey.¡±


    Samuel hugged his sister tightly, feeling the love and support she was giving him. He realized that even though things were difficult, he had his sister in his life who cared about him and wanted him to seed.


    He might not be able to y baseball anymore, but he could find new passions and interests that would bring him joy.


    He thought about all the things he could do, even though he couldn¡¯t y baseball.


    He could still be involved in the sport by coaching or bing a sportsmentator.


    He could even go back to school and get a degree in sports management. There were so many possibilities, and he felt a little bit excited about the future.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Marissa could see a change in her brother Samuel¡¯s eyes were no longer downcast, but instead they were bright and hopeful. His shoulders were no longer slumped, but instead they were straight and tall.


    His face was no longer sad, but instead it was full of possibilities. Marissa knew that her brother was on the road to healing and that he would be okay.


    ¡°I¡¯m d we had this talk, sis. I feel a lot better now.¡± Samuel said, giving her a big smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m d we talked too. You can alwayse to me if you need to talk, okay?¡± Marissa replied. ¡°I¡¯m here for you, no matter what.¡±


    Samuel nodded, feeling a new sense of strength and determination. ¡°I¡¯m going to take some time to figure out what I want to do next. But I know that I¡¯ll be okay. Thanks again for everything, sis.¡±


    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s what family is for. Now, go get some rest.¡± Marissa said, giving him a hug and then covered him to sleep and put off the tv and slept next to him on the floor.


    Just then she made a decision to call Jessie and straighten things out for her and Alexander.

 Calling Jessie

    The next morning after she woke up, she helped her brother clean up and watched him eat and took his drugs before she left the hospital. When she got home.


    As she entered her apartment, she realized how small the apartment had been since but didn¡¯t realize it until she changed the environment.


    She went to her room and slumped on her bed thinking about how to start a conversation with Jessie.


    She was definitely thest person that Jessie wanted to have a conversation with. But she knew she had to do this to fix Alexander and Jessie¡¯s rtionship.


    So she called Anderson to get Jessie¡¯s contact.


    ¡°Anderson, it¡¯s Marissa.¡±


    ¡°Hey Marissa, how are you doing?¡± Anderson asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing good, I need you to help me with something. I need Jessie¡¯s contact.¡± Marissa said, hoping Anderson will oblige.


    ¡°Sure, but why do you need her contact?¡± he asked her.


    Marissa hesitated for a moment, unsure how to answer Anderson¡¯s question. Should she be honest and tell him that she was trying to repair the rtionship between Alexander and Jessie? Or should she lie and say that she needed to talk to Jessie about something else?


    She decided to be honest.


    ¡°I know that things have been tense between Alexander and Jessie, and I want to try to help fix things. I think I can talk to Jessie and get her to see things from Alexander¡¯s perspective.


    I know that she might not want to talk to me and I understand how she feels but I want to try anyway. So please help me, Anderson with her contact.¡± Marissa exined.


    Anderson paused for a moment, thinking over what Marissa had said. He knew that Jessie was still upset about the whole situation, but he also knew that Marissa was a good person and that she had Alexander¡¯s best interests at heart.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if I should do that, Marissa. Jessie is very upset and I don¡¯t want to make things worse.¡± Anderson said, ¡°But at the same time, I know that you really want to help and that you care about Alexander. So I¡¯ll think about it and get back to you.¡±


    Marissa was relieved that Anderson was at least considering it. ¡°Thank you, Anderson. I really appreciate it. I know that you have Jessie¡¯s best interests at heart too, and I understand why you¡¯re hesitant. But I really think that I can help make things better for everyone involved.¡±


    ¡°I know you do, Marissa. I¡¯ll think about it and let you know what I decide. In the meantime, I¡¯d suggest giving Jessie some time and space. She might just need a little while to cool off.¡± Anderson said.


    Marissa nodded, understanding what Anderson was saying. ¡°You¡¯re right, I don¡¯t want to push her. I just want to help.¡±


    ¡°I know, and I appreciate that. Just give her some time, okay?¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°I will. Thank you again, Anderson. I really appreciate it.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem. I¡¯m always here if you need to talk. And I hope things work out for everyone involved.¡± Anderson said with a smile.


    Marissa returned the smile. ¡°I hope so too. Thank you for everything. I¡¯ll talk to you soon.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, Marissa. Take care and have a great day.¡± Anderson said, signing off.


    Marissa hung up the phone, feeling a little bit better than before. She knew that she couldn¡¯t force Jessie to talk to her, but she knew she had to do this to help Alexander not get affected, especially the contract he had worked so hard for.


    Few minutester, her phone beeped informing her that she had received a message from someone and picked up the phone and realized that Anderson had sent her Jessie¡¯s contact.


    So she replied to him to say thank you for sending Jessie¡¯s contact.


    Then she took a deep breath as she dialed Jessie¡¯s number. She was nervous, but she had to do this for Alexander.


    ¡°Hello?¡± a female voice said on the other end of the line.


    Marissa paused for a moment before speaking. ¡°Hi, Jessie. It¡¯s Marissa.¡±


    There was a long pause before Jessie responded. ¡°Hi, Marissa.¡± Her tone was cold and distant.


    Marissa swallowed hard, trying to stay calm. ¡°I wanted to call and apologize for everything, but I think it¡¯s better we do this in person than on the phone. What do you say?¡±


    There was another long pause before Jessie responded.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Marissa. I¡¯m still pretty upset.¡±


    Marissa took a deep breath. ¡°I understand, and I don¡¯t me you. But I just want to clear the air and make things right. Can we meet for coffee or something?¡±


    Jessie was silent for a moment, and Marissa could hear her breathing on the other end of the line. Finally, she spoke. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll meet you for coffee. But I¡¯m not making any promises about forgiving you or anything like that.¡±


    Marissa felt a wave of relief wash over her. At least she would have a chance to talk to Jessie in person. ¡°That¡¯s okay. I just want to talk to you and try to make things right.¡±


    They decided to meet at a coffee shop near Jessie¡¯s apartment in the next one hour.


    Marissa spent the rest of the day trying to think of what she would say to Jessie. She wanted to make sure she said the right things and didn¡¯t make things worse.


    Just then, a another call came in to her phone and she checked and realized that it was Alexander calling.


    She took a deep breath and picked up.


    ¡°Hello.¡± she said.


    ¡°Hi, Marissa. I need to talk to you about something.¡± he said.


    ¡°Sure, what do you have in mind?¡± she replied.


    ¡°I¡­um¡­ wanted to inform you that I have decided to terminate our contract marriage after the dinner meeting on Monday evening. I know we agreed that after three months, but with the situation of things and Jessie finding out like this, I don¡¯t want to cause more issues than it had already caused.


    I hope you understand.¡± he said.


    Marissa felt her heart sink as she listened to Alexander¡¯s words. She had known that this might happen, but it still hurt to hear him say it out loud.


    ¡°I understand,¡± she said, trying to keep her voice from cracking.


    ¡°You need to make things with Jessie work out and not destroy your rtionship because of me.¡±


    ¡°No, Marissa. This isn¡¯t because of you. None of this is your fault alright. I did this and so I have to fix it so that no one gets hurt in the end.¡± Alex exined.


    ¡°I appreciate you understanding me, Marissa.  You really are a good person, Marissa¡­.¡±he said.


    There was silence from both ends as they both didn¡¯t know what to say to each other.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°I have to go now. Take care Marissa.¡± he said and hung up.


    Marissa took a deep breath and left her apartment to meet Jessie as she had promised.

 I鈥檓 Sorry

    As she drove to the coffee shop, her mind raced with thoughts. She kept thinking about what Alex had said.


    She knew that he was right. This whole situation was a mess, and it was better for everyone if they ended the marriage now. But she couldn¡¯t help but feel sad. She had grown to care about Alex, and it would be hard to say goodbye to him.


    She arrived at the coffee shop and saw Jessie sitting at a table near the window. She took a deep breath and walked over to her.


    ¡°Hey,¡± she said, trying to sound cheerful.


    Jessie looked up from her coffee, and Marissa could see the hurt and anger in her eyes. She took a deep breath and braced herself for the conversation.


    ¡°Hi, Marissa,¡± she said coolly. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°I wanted to talk to you about what¡¯s been going on,¡± Marissa said, trying to sound calm and reasonable. ¡°I know you¡¯re upset, and I understand why. But I want to make things right, if I can.¡±


    Jessie just stared at her without saying anything for a moment. Then she said,


    ¡°What do you want to say, Marissa? That this was all a big misunderstanding? That you¡¯re not in love with Alexander and that it was me just misunderstanding the whole thing?¡±


    Marissa felt her heart sink. She knew that there was no easy way to fix this, but she had to try.


    ¡°I know that I can¡¯t take back what happened, and I know that I¡¯ve hurt you. And I¡¯m sorry for that. But I didn¡¯t mean to hurt you, it was not Alexander¡¯s fault as well.


    He wanted the contract badly and so when they told him that the only way for him to get the contract was for him to be married.


    He wanted to propose to you, but you were not ready at that time and so he had toe up with something and so that was how he came up with the idea of a fake marriage to secure the contract and after three months we would end the contract.


    But I promise you, that everything has been strictly professional and nothing else.¡± she exined.


    Jessie looked at her trying to read her words, but realized that Marissa was speaking the truth.


    ¡°So you staying together under the same roof is all part of the contract marriage agreement and you guys kissing in Switzend was all part of the contract marriage agreement huh?¡±


    Marissa wanted to reply but paused as she wondered how Jessie knew that Alex and her kissed in Switzend.


    No one knew about that except her, Alexander, Anderson and¡­¡­ she sighed and realized that it must have been Jaime Alexander¡¯s rival who wanted the contract badly and was ready to do anything to make sure that Alexander doesn¡¯t get it.


    So he told Jessie about their rtionship? Because she knew Anderson won¡¯t tell her anything.


    ¡°Wait a minute, Jessie. Did Jaime tell you about what happened in Switzend? And what¡¯s your rtionship with Jaime?¡± Marissa asked.


    Jessie didn¡¯t say anything and just took a sip of her coffee and dropped her cup and folded her arms together.


    ¡°What does that have to do with what we are discussing right now?¡± she asked.


    ¡°It has everything to do with what we¡¯re discussing,¡± Marissa said, her voice rising. ¡°If Jaime is the one who told you about what happened, then he¡¯s trying to drive a wedge between you and Alex. He doesn¡¯t want Alex to have the contract, and he¡¯s using you to get what he wants. Don¡¯t you see that?¡±


    Jessie still didn¡¯t say anything, and Marissa could see the conflict on her face. On one hand, she was angry at Marissa, but on the other hand she was starting to doubt whether she could really trust Jaime.


    ¡°Jessie, I know that I¡¯ve messed up, and I¡¯m trying to fix it. But please don¡¯t let Jaime manipte you like this. He¡¯s not your friend, and he¡¯s not looking out for your best interests. He¡¯s just using you to get what he wants. Please, don¡¯t let him do that to you.¡± Marissa pleaded.


    Jessie sighed and shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to believe anymore.


    You say that Jaime is using me, thinking I was a fool and he could manipte me into getting what he wants, but the truth is that you and Alex have been the ones making me look like a fool.


    And it hurts that Alexander made such a decision to do a contract marriage with you. He doesn¡¯t know how to get what he wants without telling me about it.¡± she expressed pain in her voice.


    ¡°Jessie, Alex tried to tell you, but you were always so busy and didn¡¯t give him a chance to tell you. So he decided that after everything, he was gonnae clean and exin everything to you.


    But he didn¡¯t mean for you to find out like this, believe me.¡± Marissa exined.


    ¡°But why didn¡¯t he tell me in the first ce? He could have told me what was going on instead of keeping it a secret. I¡¯m his girlfriend, for crying out loud!


    And then youe along and mess everything up, pretending to be this nice person when you¡¯re not.¡± Jessie snapped.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Marissa¡¯s heart was breaking. She knew that she had messed up badly, but she didn¡¯t realize just how badly until now. She had never wanted to hurt anyone, least of all Jessie who meant the world to Alexander.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Jessie. But please I ask that you don¡¯t get involved with Jaime. He¡¯s a really bad person and doesn¡¯t want what¡¯s good for Alexander, believe me.¡±


    Jessie scoffed. ¡°Oh please, you¡¯re just saying that because you don¡¯t want me to interfere with your contract marriage with my boyfriend. I know that you¡¯re just trying to cover your own tracks and make me the bad guy here.¡±


    Marissa could see that she was getting nowhere with Jessie. She felt defeated and hopeless.


    ¡°Look, I know that you¡¯re angry with me, and I don¡¯t me you. But please just believe me when I say that Jaime is a really bad person.¡± she exined.


    But Jessie wasn¡¯t ready to listen.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe you. You¡¯re just trying to manipte me into not trusting Jaime. I¡¯m going to do what I think is best for myself, and I don¡¯t need you to tell me what to do.¡±


    ¡°Jessie, please just hear me out,¡± Marissa pleaded. ¡°I know that you¡¯re angry and hurt, and I understand why. But I need you to understand that I¡¯m not trying to manipte you. I¡¯m just trying to tell you the truth about Jaime.


    Just then, Jaime walked into the cafe and stood before Jessie and Marissa.


    ¡°Wow¡­ if it isn¡¯t Alexander¡¯s wife and his girlfriend.¡±

 Getting Suspicious And A Plan

    Marissa looked up and saw Jaime standing in front of them with a sly smile on his face.


    ¡°Jaime, what are you doing here?¡± she asked him.


    He took a deep breath and then sat down beside Jessie.


    ¡°Well, Jessie happens to work in the same organization as I and so I see her a lot, but I guess she didn¡¯t tell her boyfriend or should I say ex boyfriend since he¡¯s married now¡­¡± he said and faced Jessie who was angry and looked really pissed at Marissa. Staring at Marissa like she could strangle her.


    Marissa nodded as she put the pieces of the puzzle together.


    ¡°So you guys are colleagues¡­ no wonder he knew about your rtionship with Alexander.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯ll still say what I want to say to you Jessie. Don¡¯t trust any words thate out of his mouth and just trust your man.


    I have to go. See youter, Jessie.¡± Marissa said and stood up and walked out of the coffee shop and hailed a cab.


    While inside the cab she thought deeply about how close was Jessie and Jaime for him to discuss such personal matters with her. What was their rtionship?


    She told the cab to take her to Alexander¡¯s apartment address. She needed to see him and inform him of what was going on.


    When Marissa arrived at Alexander¡¯s apartment, she knocked on the door. A few momentster, Alexander answered the door. His expression changed from surprise to confusion when he saw Marissa standing there.


    ¡°Marissa, what are you doing here?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I need to talk to you, Alexander. Can Ie in?¡± Marissa asked.


    Alexander hesitated for a moment, but then stepped aside to let her in.


    ¡°Of course,e in,¡± he said, his voice tight.


    Marissa could tell that he was already on edge, and she didn¡¯t want to make things worse. But she knew that she had to tell him what she had learned.


    ¡°Alexander, I just had a very strange conversation with Jessie,¡± she said, choosing her words carefully. ¡°She told me that she¡¯s working on a big project with a man named Jaime. And that Jaime is the one who told her about our contract marriage.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s expression turned to one of shock. ¡°What? How could he possibly know about that?¡± he asked, his voice rising in panic.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how he knows, but I¡¯m worried about what else he might know. And I¡¯m worried about what else he might tell Jessie.¡±


    Alexander paced back and forth in the small living room, clearly agitated. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this is happening. How could he possibly know? Was he following and investigating us this whole time?¡±


    ¡°I honestly don¡¯t know, but I think there¡¯s something we don¡¯t know about. I think Jessie and Jaime are somehow involved in something I don¡¯t know.¡±  Marissa informed Alexander.


    Alexander paused his pacing and looked at Marissa with a horrified expression. ¡°What do you mean? What could they possibly be involved in?¡±


    Marissa bit her lip. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. But I think we need to figure it out. I think there¡¯s something going on.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s face was pale as he considered Marissa¡¯s words. ¡°You¡¯re right. We need to get to the bottom of this. But I don¡¯t know where to start.¡±


    ¡°I think I know.¡± Marissa said.


    ¡°There must be a reason why he has spoken to you about what he¡¯s found. He might be trying to use Jessie against you so that you let go of the contract and hand it over to him.¡±


    Alexander looked at Marissa with a confused look on his face.


    ¡°Because he knows that Jessie is your weakness. He knows how much you love Jessie and would do anything for her. So he¡¯s using Jessie as bait to get you to give up on the contract, but I don¡¯t think you should.


    Don¡¯t make him win, Alexander. Don¡¯t give him the satisfaction.¡± Marissa said.


    Alexander ced his hand on his hair frustrated by everything.


    ¡°So what should I do? How should I not let him win when he already knows everything?¡±


    Marissa didn¡¯t say anything and just pondered about what Alexander just asked, thinking about what she could say that could fix everything.


    ¡°Uhmmm¡­ how about we continue and attend the dinner as nned?¡±


    Alexander looked at her confused.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­ we could go and pretend like we don¡¯t know that he knows.¡± she exined.


    ¡°And how would that work? He knows we must have known that we know about the contract marriage between us. So how should we go to the dinner and act like we don¡¯t know?¡± he asked Marissa.


    Marissa hesitated for a moment, trying to figure out what to say. ¡°I know it sounds crazy, but hear me out. We go to dinner and we act like everything is normal. We try to learn as much as we can about what he knows and what he¡¯s up to. We can y along until we figure out a way to get him to tell us the truth. Then we can decide what to do next.¡±


    Alexander looked skeptical. ¡°I¡¯m not sure that¡¯s a good idea. What if he gets suspicious and starts asking questions? Or worse, reveal everything at the dinner? What are we gonna do then?¡±


    Marissa thought for a moment. ¡°I know it¡¯s risky, but I think it¡¯s our best chance to get the information we need.


    We can be cautious and make sure we don¡¯t give him any reason to suspect that we¡¯re not being honest.


    And if he does try to reveal anything at the dinner, we can y dumb and act like we don¡¯t understand what he¡¯s talking about.¡±


    Alexander was still uncertain. ¡°I¡¯m not sure I¡¯mfortable with that n. What If he has proof that our marriage is fake and reveals it there? Do you know what it would do to me and mypany?


    Not to talk of the contract I signed with those investors. They would sue me for damages and breach of contract because I lied that I was married when I lied and faked everything to get what I wanted.


    I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea, Marissa.¡± he said.


    Marissa walked up to him. ¡°Then what should we do? You know how maniptive and cunning Jaime is?¡±


    Alexander paused for a while thinking about what to do about the whole situation while Marissa waited for him to make a decision.


    Just then, Alexander snapped his finger.


    ¡°Have got an idea and I don¡¯t think they would expect it.¡±


    Marissa looked at him confused.


    ¡°And what¡¯s the idea?¡± she asked him.


    ¡°Come closer, let me whisper it into your ear.¡± he said, as Marissa moved closer and leaned her ear closer to hear what idea he had.


    Alexander leaned closer to her ear and whispered some words into her ear. Marissa opened her eyes wide in surprise and yelled.


    ¡°You want us to do what?!¡±


    Alexanderughed. ¡°Yeah, I know it¡¯s crazy, but it just might work. You know they won¡¯t see iting, and it will get us out of this situation.¡±


    Marissa looked at him and shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can do that. It¡¯s risky and could backfire. And besides, what if I don¡¯t want to do that?¡±


    Alexander looked at her with a serious expression. ¡°I know it¡¯s not an ideal solution, but I really think it¡±s our best option. If you don¡¯t want to do it, I won¡¯t force you. But we need to find another way to get out of this. Do you have any ideas?¡±


    Marissa thought for a moment. ¡°I might have an idea, but I¡¯m not sure if you¡¯ll like it. It¡¯s going to be risky, but I think it¡¯s worth trying. Are you ready to hear it?¡±N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Alexander nodded. ¡°I¡¯m ready. What is it?¡±

 Being Threatened

    The next day, while Alexander was at work and going through some papers, his secretary called him through the office phone informing him of a visitor.


    ¡°Sir, there¡¯s someone here to see you.¡± She informed him on the phone.


    Alexander was a bit taken aback. He hadn¡¯t been expecting any visitors, and he was quite busy.


    ¡°And what¡¯s the visitor¡¯s name?¡±


    ¡°His name is Jaime Fernado sir, he has been to your office a few times.¡±


    Alexander was silent for a few seconds as he knew what Jaime came for. He hesitated for a while not sure if he would want him to enter his office.


    After thinking for a while, he replied to her.


    ¡°Let him in.¡±


    Alexander sat behind his desk, watching the door with anticipation. He wasn¡¯t sure what to expect, but he knew that Jaime was probably here to talk about something important.


    A few momentster, Jaime walked into the room. He was tall and well-dressed, with a confident air about him. He extended his hand to shake Alexander¡¯s, and Alexander reluctantly took it.


    ¡°What can I do for you, Jaime?¡± Alexander asked, trying to keep his voice steady.


    ¡°I have something I need to discuss with you, something important.¡± Jaime said, his eyes fixed on Alexander¡¯s.


    ¡°And what might that be?¡± He asked.


    ¡°I know about your fake contract with what¡¯s her name again¡­. Ha! Marissa.¡± Jaime said, his voice low and intense.


    Alexander said nothing as he looked at Jaime talking.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been suspicious for a while now, and I finally have the proof I need.¡±


    Alexander felt the blood drain from his face. He tried to deny it, but the words wouldn¡¯te out. He knew he¡¯d been caught.


    ¡°Why?¡± He finally managed to ask. ¡°Why are you telling me this?¡±


    ¡°Why am I telling you this you say? I¡¯m telling you this that if you don¡¯t want me to expose your fake rtionship with her,  hand over the contract to me.¡± Jaime revealed.


    ¡°How do you want me to do that?¡± Alexander asked as he sat up straight on his chair and ced his hands on the table.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ You figure that out. All I want is that during the party tomorrow, I want you to inform them that you no longer need the contract or find out any excuse you can use to get them to hand the contract over to me. Understood?¡± Jaime said, his eyes still fixed on Alexander.


    ¡°And I want you to know that I know the truth.¡±


    So if you think I¡¯m bluffing then you can go ahead and act like my threat means nothing to you, but trust me when I say, I have evidence and I will reveal it.¡±


    Alexander felt a knot in his stomach. He knew that Jaime was serious, and he knew that he had to do something about it. But what? He couldn¡¯t give up the contract ¨C it was worth too much to him. But he also couldn¡¯t risk having his affair exposed. He was trapped, and he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    ¡°I¡­ I can¡¯t do that.¡± He finally said, his voice shaky. ¡°The contract is too important to me. I can¡¯t just give it up.¡±


    ¡°Then I guess we have a problem.¡± Jaime said, his eyes narrowing. ¡°Because I¡¯m ¡­ not going to let this go.


    I¡¯m going to expose your affair, and the contract will be mine. It¡¯s the only way to make things right.¡±


    Alexander felt like the walls were closing in on him. He couldn¡¯t lose the contract, but he also couldn¡¯t risk having his affair exposed. He was caught between a rock and a hard ce, and he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    ¡°So you came here to threaten me to quit so that you¡¯d have a better shot, is that it?¡± Alexander asked.


    ¡°Well¡­ maybe. You know that you¡¯re not worthy to have this contract so it¡¯s fair to hand it over to apetent and trustworthy individual  who will not do a fake marriage to get the contract.¡± he teased Alex as he sat down on the couch.


    Alexander was fuming, but he tried to keep his cool. He knew that if he could just keep his emotions in check, he might be able toe up with a way to salvage this situation.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s just say I did hand over the contract to you. What¡¯s to stop me from taking legal action against you for all the threats you¡¯ve made?¡± He asked, trying to keep his voice steady.


    ¡°Oh, please.¡± Jaime said with augh. ¡°You think I don¡¯t have any legal protection? I know what I¡¯m doing, and I know the consequences of my actions.


    ¡°Really? Was that why you went and told Jessie and made us have issues so that she can threaten me to hand the contract over to you because of my rtionship with her?¡± Alex asked.


    ¡°Uhmmm¡­ maybe¡­. You see there are some secrets that you also need to know as well. But I won¡¯t tell you yet until you hand over the contract to me.¡± He said.


    Alex looked at him and wondered what he meant by some secret. Was there something Jaime was hiding?


    ¡°What are you talking about, Jaime?¡± Alex decided to ask as he studied Jaime¡¯s bodynguage and words carefully.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ should I just tell you or just keep it hidden? I don¡¯t even know¡­.¡± He smirked as he looked at Alex.


    ¡°Just that your beautiful Jessie is keeping a deep secret from you as well and you see I know about the secret and I can reveal it as well that day if you don¡¯t hand over the contract.¡± He threatened.


    Alex¡¯s mind was racing. What could Jessie possibly be keeping from him? He knew that she had a dark past, but he never imagined that she would be hiding something from him. He wondered if he should believe Jaime or not. But one thing was certain ¨C he didn¡¯t want to lose the contract.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to just hand over the contract to you based on some vague threat.¡± He said, trying to sound confident. ¡°You¡¯ll need to give me more information if you want me to even consider it.¡±


    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Jaimeughed as he got up from the couch and walked towards Alexander¡¯s table and leaned on the table and looked at Alex straight in the eyes.


    ¡°I think you should ask your special and precious girlfriend yourself. I don¡¯t want to be the person that spreads bad news or dark secrets.¡± Jaime said.


    ¡°So you have now till the time of the speech during the dinner to hand over the contract. If you don¡¯t do that, I will reveal all your secrets and you will not only lose the contract but other investors trust. And I don¡¯t think you want that, Alex, so think about it carefully.¡± He said and smiled and turned to leave Alex¡¯s office.

 Jaime And Jessie

    Alex was stunned. He couldn¡¯t believe what he was hearing. Could it be true? Could Jessie be keeping something from him? He knew he had to find out, but he didn¡¯t know how. And he didn¡¯t have much time. The speech was in just a few hours. He felt like he was trapped, and he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Just then, his phone buzzed. It was a text from Jessie.


    ¡°Hey Alex, I know this is a bad time, but I just wanted to say I¡¯m really sorry about all this. I promise I¡¯ll exin everything to youter.


    ¡°Could it be true? Could what Jaime said about Jessie having a deep dark secret be true? There¡¯s only one way to find out.¡±


    Alex¡¯s mind was racing as he paced back and forth in his office. He had to find out the truth, but he didn¡¯t know where to start. He didn¡¯t want to confront Jessie directly, but he knew he had to find out what was going on.


    Alex decided to call Anderson and discuss with him what he should do in the situation he is in.


    Anderson picked up on the first ring. ¡°Hello, Alex. What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in a bit of a bind, Anderson,¡± Alex said, trying to keep the panic out of his voice. ¡°I¡¯m not sure what to do. I need your advice.¡±


    ¡°Of course, you can tell me anything,¡± Anderson replied, his voice reassuring. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a bitplicated,¡± Alex began,unching into an exnation of the situation with Jaime and Jessie. As he spoke, he could feel the tension building in his body. He hoped Anderson would have some words.


    But Anderson was silent for a moment and Alex had to ask if he was still on the phone because his heart was racing because of what to do about the whole situation.


    ¡°Are you still there, Anderson?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m still here, Alex,¡± Anderson finally said. ¡°Just taking in all this information. ¡±


    Alex sighed.


    ¡°What do you think I should do, Anderson? I¡¯m in a bick of a peak here.¡±


    ¡°Uhmm¡­ You and I know that Jaime never blurfs, if he said he has evidence to prove his point that you and Marissa are not actually married but fake married, then I guess you shouldn¡¯t take his threat lightly. But what secret could Jessie be keeping that Jaime knows about? I don¡¯t know what to do or say in such a situation, Alexander. Maybe you should just hand over the contract to him so that he won¡¯t destroy your reputation in the business world.¡± Anderson advised.


    Alex ced his hands to cover his face as he took a deep breath thinking deeply about what to do.


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying that I should just hand over everything I have worked for because of Jaime¡¯s threat?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking you to do that, but I don¡¯t know what to do in a situation like this, Alex. I really wanna help, but I just don¡¯t know what to do.¡± he replied.


    Alex could hear the frustration in Anderson¡¯s voice. He knew that Anderson was doing his best to help, but he also knew that this was a difficult situation. He knew that he had to make a decision, and he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Alex knew that if he agreed to do this, Jaime would always threaten him to get what he wanted. He was not going to give him the satisfaction. So he decided that it was best for him to figure out a way to win in both ways.


    He took a deep breath and turned and looked out his gigantic window at the city as vehicles and lights of the city showed down the building.


    ¡°I think I know what I need to do.  Marissa told me that we should announce our divorce, but I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a good idea.¡±


    ¡°So what are you nning to do, Alexander?¡± Anderson asked on the phone.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet, but when I do¡­. I¡¯ll let you know. I gotta go, Anderson.¡±


    ¡°You got it,¡± Anderson said. ¡°Just remember, I¡¯m here if you need me. Take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Anderson. I appreciate that,¡± Alex replied, and then he hung up the phone.


    He stood there for a moment, looking out the window. He felt like he was standing at a crossroads, and he had to make a decision that would change the course of his life. He just hoped that he would make the right choice.


    *


    Meanwhile, Jaime had called Jessie to meet up at a restaurant that night.


    Jessie arrived at the restaurant and sat down, face filled with anger.


    ¡°I told you that you shouldn¡¯t be calling me.¡± she said.


    ¡°Why? Because you don¡¯t want your boyfriend to find out that we have something together.¡± Jaime said.


    ¡°Ssssssshhh! Keep quiet, Jaime or you will get us in trouble!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so wrong about it huh? After all we are both grown adults so I don¡¯t see the big deal in this.¡± Jaime said, as he raised his hand for the waiter walked up to them to take their order.


    ¡°Can I get you something to drink?¡± The waiter asked, interrupting their conversation.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have a ss of wine,¡± Jessie said, her voice tense.


    ¡°And for you, sir?¡± The waiter asked, looking at Jaime.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have the same,¡± Jaime said, his eyes fixed on Jessie.


    The waiter nodded and walked away, leaving them alone at the table.


    ¡°Look, we need to talk about this,¡± Jaime said, his voice low. ¡°I¡¯m not going to let you just ignore me.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to talk about, Jaime. We both don¡¯t have anything to talk about, okay?¡± She looked at him and then looked away.


    Jaime looked at her and smirked.


    ¡°So you don¡¯t want to break up with your boyfriend even after you found out that he got married to someone else that is not you. You must really love him huh?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, I love Alexander. And I knew he did that to get the contract and he has told me that there¡¯s nothing between him and thatdy.¡± she said.


    Jaime scoffed.


    ¡°Do you really think so? Because when I saw the picture of them kissing in Switzend, it was not an acting, Jessie. It felt like they had feelings and were hiding it and so the kiss was pretty intense.¡±


    Jessie shook her head.


    ¡°No, Alexander would never cheat on me with a lowlife like her. Never!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re being na?ve, Jessie,¡± Jaime said, his voice harsh. ¡°Do you really think that someone would do all of this just for a contract? Alexander must have feelings for her. There¡¯s no other exnation.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear it, Jaime!¡± Jessie said, her voice rising. ¡°I know Alexander, and I trust him. He would never betray me like that.¡±


    ¡°Trust is a funny thing, Jessie,¡± Jaime said, his voice softening. ¡°It can be broken in an instant. And once it¡¯s broken, it¡¯s almost impossible to repair. I mean what do you think he would do when he finds out that you and I had sex hmmm. Will you tell him or I should?¡±

 Jamie Threats

    ¡°How dare you?¡± Jessie said, her voice filled with anger. ¡°You¡¯re trying to ckmail me now? You¡¯re a despicable human being.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just trying to make you see the truth, Jessie,¡± Jaime said, his voice calm. ¡°You can¡¯t keep living in denial forever. Sooner orter, the truth wille out, and it¡¯s going to be a lot worse if you don¡¯t face it now.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not in denial, and I¡¯m not going to let you manipte me,¡± Jessie said, standing up from the table. ¡°I¡¯m leaving. I don¡¯t want to talk about it again.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t just walk away from this, Jessie,¡± Jaime said, standing up as well. ¡°It¡¯s not that simple. This is a serious situation, and we need to talk about it.¡±


    ¡°No, we don¡¯t,¡± Jessie said, her voice firm. ¡°I¡¯m done with this conversation. I¡¯m going home.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not letting you leave like this,¡± Jaime said, stepping in front of the door. ¡°Please, just hear me out.¡±


    ¡°Get out of my way, Jaime,¡± Jessie said, her voice shaking. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk to you anymore.¡±


    ¡°Why do you love him and not me huh, Jessie?¡± Jaime asked.


    ¡°Why do you love that asshole, Alexander and not me?!¡±


    Jessie looked at him. ¡°Because he isn¡¯t a maniptive asshole like you that uses one¡¯s secret to ckmail them into doing your own bidding.


    So get the hell out of my way, Jaime.¡±


    Jaime¡¯s face turned red with anger. He took a step toward Jessie, and she flinched. He saw the fear in her eyes, and it made him feel powerful.


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving until you listen to me,¡± he said, his voice low and threatening.


    ¡°Stop it, Jaime,¡± Jessie said, her voice shaking. ¡°You¡¯re scaring me.¡±


    Jaime looked at her, and for a moment, he saw the fear in her eyes. But it only made him want to push her even more. He needed to prove that he was in control.


    ¡°What¡¯s¡­ What¡¯s the matter, Jessie?¡± he asked, his voice taunting.  ¡°Are you afraid of me?¡±


    Jessie swallowed hard, trying to keep herposure. She couldn¡¯t let him see how scared she was.


    ¡°You¡¯re not scaring me,¡± she said, her voice as steady as she could make it. ¡°I just don¡¯t want to talk to you anymore.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to get away that easily,¡± Jaime said, his eyes narrowing. ¡°I¡¯m not giving up on you.¡±


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± Jessie asked, her heart racing.


    He smiled a grin smile.


    ¡°I will make sure youe begging me to take you back if you walk out of this door, because I want to make sure that Alexander loses everything including you, Jessie.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Jessie said, her voice rising. ¡°You can¡¯t do that. You¡¯re beingpletely unreasonable.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not being unreasonable,¡± Jaime said, his voice low and dangerous. ¡°I¡¯m just doing what I need to do to get what I want. And right now, I want you and the contract.¡±


    Jessie felt a wave of panic wash over her. She knew she had to get out of there, but she didn¡¯t know how. She was stuck, and she didn¡¯t know what to do.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving,¡± she said, her voice shaking. ¡°I don¡¯t want anything to do with you anymore. You¡¯re not the person I thought you were.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t mean that,¡± Jaime said, his voice softening. ¡°I know you still have feelings for me. I can see it in your eyes.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re delusional,¡± Jessie said, her anger rising. ¡°You¡¯re not the man I thought you were. You¡¯re maniptive and controlling, and I don¡¯t want anything to do with you anymore.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to give up on you,¡± Jaime said, his eyes boring into hers. ¡°I¡¯m going to fight for you until the end.¡±


    She looked him in the eyes.


    ¡°You will never have me, again Jaime. You might have had your way before, but that was a mistake and would remain a mistake.¡±


    Jaime was silent for a moment, looking at her with a nk expression. Then, he started tough.


    ¡°You really think you can get away from me that easily?¡± he asked, his voice mocking. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere. You¡¯re mine, and you always will be.¡±


    Jessie¡¯s heart sank. She had hoped that he would see reason, but it was clear that he was not going to back down. She was trapped, and she didn¡¯t know how to get out of this situation.


    ¡°What are you going to do?¡± she asked, her voice shaking. ¡°Are you going to force me to stay with you? Are you going to threaten me? Are you going to hurt me?¡±


    ¡°I would never hurt you,¡± Jaime said, his voice suddenly gentle. ¡°I would nevery a hand on you. I just want you to see that we¡¯re meant to be together. We belong with each other. Don¡¯t you feel it?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Jessie shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t feel anything for you anymore,¡± she said, her voice firm. ¡°I¡¯m leaving, and I¡¯m nevering back.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t do that,¡± Jaime said, his voice rising.


    ¡°I will tell your beloved boyfriend of the fact that we had sex when you went on that business trip to Singapore and I just can¡¯t wait to see his expression when I tell him.¡±


    Jessie swallowed hard as she realized the length to which Jaime would go to get what he wanted. He was a maniptive and annoying son of a bitch. What would she do to get out of the mess she had made for herself?


    Should she tell Alex before Jaime does? Should she beg him not to tell Alexander?


    ¡°I think we should return to our seats, you see people are looking at us and we don¡¯t want them getting the wrong impression of us.¡± Jaime said, a smile on his face as he realized his words had gotten to her.


    She looked around at the restaurant and noticed that people sitting at the restaurant were actually staring at them and wondering what was going on.


    She decided to return to their seat.


    The waiter came and poured their wine.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Jaime smiled at the waiter.


    ¡°So can I take your orders now?¡± The waiter asked.


    Jaime looked at Jessie who was still deep in thoughts and was not paying attention to them.


    Jaime smiled and then turned to the waiter to ce their order on her behalf.


    When the waiter had left, Jessie looked up and gave Jaime a cold stare.

 A Story And Her Brother

    Marissa went to the hospital to see her brother and was surprised that he wasn¡¯t in his ward. She rushed to meet the nurse on duty.


    ¡°Hello, please am looking for my brother Samuel Preah, that ward over there was his and I went there but couldn¡¯t find him.


    Where is he?¡± she asked, her heart beating as she was scared something might have happened to her brother.


    The nurse looked up from herputer screen and gave Marissa a reassuring smile. ¡°Oh, Mr. Preah is doing just fine,¡± she said. ¡°The doctor took him upstair for a walk and to get some fresh air, that¡¯s all.¡±


    Marissa breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°Thank goodness,¡± she said. ¡°I was worried that something had happened to him. Where did he take him?¡±


    ¡°He took him to the rooftop garden,¡± the nurse said. ¡°It¡¯s a nice ce for patients to get some fresh air and enjoy the view. Your brother seems to be doing really well, so the doctor thought it would be good for him to get out of his room for a while.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s wonderful to hear,¡± Marissa said. ¡°I¡¯m d he¡¯s doing so well. Can I go see him now?¡±


    ¡°Sure, you can.¡± But I think they would being down any minute, since the doctor has a new patienting in soon. You can just wait a bit, they should be down any minute now.¡± she said.


    Marissa nodded and smiled as she waited. She was scared that something had happened to her brother. Her brother¡¯s illness was the reason she entered into this mess and now she doesn¡¯t know how to end the mess.


    She had fallen head over heels in love with Alexander but she can¡¯t tell him because they were business partners and not a real couple.


    And besides, he¡¯s in love with Jessie and can never be in love with someone like her. While she waited, she kept sighing without knowing that the nurse wondered  what could be wrong.


    She walked up to her and handed her a cup of coffee. Marissa looked up and grabbed the cup with a smile on her face.


    ¡°You look like a lot is in your mind. But don¡¯t think too much about your brother¡¯s health. The doctor said, he¡¯s doing really well and his body is recovering faster than we anticipated, I guess maybe because he¡¯s still young, but that¡¯s a good sign isn¡¯t it?¡± she exined, sitting down beside me.


    ¡°It¡¯s a very good sign,¡± Marissa said, feeling a little better now that she knew her brother was doing well.


    ¡°I guess I was just worried that something bad had happened to him and how I would live with myself if anything happened to him.


    He¡¯s my only family and my parents entrusted him to my care and so it¡¯s my duty as his sister and only family to take care of him.¡± she said, sipping the coffee.


    The nurse nodded.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s your duty, and you are doing so well. Your brother got this far because you didn¡¯t give up on him. You risked everything I¡¯m sure to provide the money for his surgery and that¡¯s sacrifice, dear.


    So don¡¯t think about anything else and appreciate that your brother is alive and well.¡± the nurse exined.


    She raised her hand and pointed to a young woman who was sitting quietly in the lobby waiting.


    ¡°You see that youngdy over there, her husband has been in aa for three years after an ident.


    When he was brought in, the doctor on duty that day checked his pulse and then his injuries and realized that it wasn¡¯t going to be an easy surgery.


    ording to the doctor¡¯s report he had rib fracture, severe traumatic brain injury, a serious lung injury, spine injury, fractured pelvis, spleen damage and more. He was in a very critical condition and had less than a 20% chance of survival.


    He was rushed to surgery and the surgerysted several hours. Afterwards he was put on life support and was transferred to the ICU for further treatment.


    It was there that his wife came and stayed by his side every day. She would bring in flowers and her favorite music for him, hoping he would hear it.


    It was a long, hard road for her and she never gave up. She always believed that he would wake up.


    Sometimes when he had seizures while in that state and the doctor¡¯s would attend to him, she would go to a corner and cry because she felt she didn¡¯t want him to see her cry.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Then she would wipe her tears, put on a smile on her face and then walk back into her husband¡¯s ward to be with him and she would read and sing to him.¡±


    This story was incredible, and Marissa was in awe of this woman¡¯s strength and resilience. She couldn¡¯t imagine going through something like that, and she had a newfound respect for the woman sitting in the lobby.


    ¡°What happened next?¡± Marissa asked, her voice full of emotion.


    ¡°After three years in the hospital, his condition began to improve. He started to breathe on his own and was taken off life support.


    Then he started to move his limbs and his eyes started to open. Eventually, he started speaking again. It was a long, slow recovery.¡± The nurse exined.


    ¡°But why is she still sitting in the lobby and not inside his ward?¡± Marissa asked.


    ¡°She just sits there sometimes, to think and then she goes back in there and stays with him and they talk.¡±


    Marissa smiled and looked at the young woman sitting in the lobby. Just then she stood up and walked into her husband¡¯s ward.


    Marissa sat there thinking about the woman¡¯s story and what it must have been like for her. She couldn¡¯t imagine the pain and heartbreak that she must have gone through, and she felt a deep sense of respect for her strength and resilience.


    Just then, she heard footsteps behind her and turned to see her brother Samuel with the doctor.

 Getting Better

    When Samuel saw his sister, his face lit up.


    ¡°Sister, what are you doing here? I wasn¡¯t expecting you until tomorrow.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    She smiled and walked towards her brother and hugged him, tears running down her face.


    Her brother was confused as he didn¡¯t understand what was going on with his sister.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Samuel asked, his brow furrowed with concern. ¡°Is everything okay?¡±


    Marissa nodded and wiped her eyes with her sleeve. ¡°Everything¡¯s fine,¡± she said, her voice wavering. ¡°I just¡­ I just heard about the woman in the lobby. What she went through with her husband¡­ it was just so inspiring.¡±


    Samuel¡¯s eyes widened in understanding. ¡°You mean the woman whose husband was in aa for three years?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Marissa said, her voice thick with emotion. ¡°It just really hit home for me, how strong she was, and how much love she must have felt for her husband to never give up on him. I can¡¯t imagine what that must have been like for her.¡±


    Samuel nodded, his eyes shining with empathy. ¡°It¡¯s amazing, the lengths that love can drive someone to,¡± he said. ¡°And it¡¯s amazing that he recovered after all that time. It¡¯s a true testament to the power of love and the human spirit.¡±


    ¡°It really is,¡± Marissa agreed. ¡°I just feel so lucky to have my family and my health, and to have you as a brother. I can¡¯t imagine going through something like that alone.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so d you¡¯re here, sis,¡± Samuel said, putting his arm around her. ¡°I know it¡¯s not easy for you toe home, and I appreciate you taking the time to visit me. And don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not going anywhere ¨C I¡¯m doing great. I¡¯m getting better every day.¡±


    Marissa smiled, her eyes shining with gratitude. ¡°I¡¯m so happy to hear that,¡± she said. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see you up and about. And who knows, maybe soon you¡¯ll be back to your old self, driving me crazy with your antics like you used to.¡±


    They bothughed, the tension in the room dissipating as they shared a moment of lightness and humor. Marissa was d to be able tough with her brother, even in the midst of such difficult circumstances.


    She turned to the doctor to speak, while Samuel walked gently to his ward to rest.


    ¡°Thank you so much doctor, for taking out time out of your busy schedule to take my brother on a walk. I¡¯m grateful.¡±


    The doctor smiled and spoke.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine Marissa,¡± the doctor said, his expression kind. ¡°I¡¯m just doing my job. And besides, I think it¡¯s important for patients to have human contact and connection. It¡¯s good for their health and well being. So don¡¯t thank me, thank your brother for being such a great patient.¡±


    Marissaughed. ¡°I¡¯ll do that,¡± she said. ¡°And I¡¯ll make sure to tell him that you said he was a great patient. I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll appreciate that.¡±


    The doctor smiled and nodded. ¡°I¡¯m sure he will,¡± he said. ¡°Now, I¡¯ll leave you two to catch up. I have other patients to see. But it was nice meeting you, Marissa. I hope to see you again soon.¡±


    ¡°You too, doctor,¡± Marissa said. ¡°Thank you again for everything you¡¯ve done for my brother.¡±


    The doctor nodded and gave her a wave as he walked out of the room. Marissa turned back to her brother, who was still sitting on the bed, looking at her expectantly.


    ¡°So, where were we?¡± she asked, taking a seat next to him. ¡°What¡¯s been going on with you since Ist saw you?¡±


    ¡°And what have you been up to?¡± Samuel asked, eager to catch up on what his sister had been doing. ¡°How¡¯s work? And how¡¯s the dating life?¡±


    Marissa rolled her eyes. ¡°Work is fine,¡± she said. ¡°But the dating life, well, that¡¯s a whole other story¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, I have all the time in the world to listen.¡± he said, still sitting on his bed, looking at her expectantly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry brother, I¡¯ll tell you when the right timees, but for now, you need to sleep.¡± she said, as she helped her brother lower the hospital bed so that he could lie down.


    ¡°All right, all right,¡± Samuel said, feigning annoyance. ¡°You¡¯re no fun.¡± But hey back on the bed, still smiling at her.


    Marissaughed. ¡°I¡¯m just looking out for your health,¡± she said, reaching over to adjust the nket around him. ¡°You need to rest and get better so you cane home soon.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know,¡± Samuel said, closing his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll be good and rest, promise.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Marissa said. ¡°Now, get some sleep. I¡¯ll be here when you wake up.¡±


    A few momentster, Samuel was fast asleep, his chest rising and falling steadily. Marissa sat beside him, watching him sleep, a feeling of contentment washing over her.


    Even though she had only been there for a short time, it was nice to be back there. And even though her brother was sick, it was good to see him and spend time with him.


    She felt like a part of her had been missing while she was away, and now, being back there, she felt whole again.


    She sat there for a while, just enjoying the peace and quiet of the hospital room, the rhythmic beeping of the heart monitor and soothing background noise. After a while, she pulled out a book from her bag and began to read, ncing up every so often to check on her brother.


    The hours passed by quickly, and before she knew it, it was gettingte. The hospital was quiet, with only a few nurses and doctors making their rounds. Marissa realized that she was getting tired and decided to lie down on the small couch in the corner of the room.


    She closed her eyes and let herself drift off to sleep, feeling safe and content in the knowledge that her brother was getting better.

 Take A Chance

    Meanwhile, Alexander returned to the apartment he shared with Marissa. When he entered, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of emptiness that he couldn¡¯t exin.


    Was he missing her or just missed having someone around? He didn¡¯t understand.


    He had been so used to having Marissa around, with her chirpy attitude and gentle nature. Her absence had left a hole in his life, and he was at a loss as to how to fill it. He sat down on the couch and let his thoughts wander.


    As he did, his mind turned to Jessie, and he couldn¡¯t help but wonder what she was doing at that moment.


    Was she thinking about him? Or was she wrapped up in her work, as she always seemed to be? He wished he could see her, to talk to her, to hear her voice. But he knew that was impossible since she gave him time to end his marriage contract with Marissa or they would break up.


    He sighed and twitched his neck to the left and to the right, clearly exhausted from the day¡¯s work.


    He remembered when Marissa was here, she would have prepared dinner and he smiled.


    Thinking about Marissa brought back a wave of nostalgia and mncholy. He remembered all the little things that she did for him, like leaving him a note on the fridge with a funny drawing, or making him breakfast in the morning before he went for an early morning meeting.


    He missed those simple gestures, the little ways she showed her affection and care. He knew that breaking off the contract with Marissa was the right thing to do, but he couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of loss at the thought of never seeing her again.


    Alexander was pulled from his thoughts by the sound of his phone ringing. He looked at the screen and saw that it was a call from Jessie. His heart skipped a beat as he answered the call.


    ¡°Hey, Alex,¡± Jessie¡¯s voice sounded on the other end of the line. ¡°How are you doing?¡±


    Alexander cleared his throat before responding. ¡°I¡¯m doing alright, Jess. How are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing well,¡± she said. ¡°I just wanted to check in and see how you were doing.¡±


    He wanted to ask her what Jaime meant by she had a secret that she was scared to tell him. What could be the secret she was hiding from him?


    There was silence between them as nobody said anything. A lot was obviously going on in their minds.


    Both decided to ask each other questions but scared to.


    ¡°Um¡­ is Marissa still living with you in the apartment?¡± she asked, breaking the silence between them on the phone.


    Alexander felt a sh of anxiety at the question. He knew that his answer would determine how the rest of the conversation would go. He took a deep breath before answering.


    ¡°No, Marissa is no longer living with me,¡± he said, trying to keep his voice even. ¡°She moved out a few days ago.¡±


    There was a long pause on the other end of the line, and Alexander could practically hear Jessie thinking. Finally, she spoke again.


    ¡°So¡­ are you and Marissa¡­ I mean, are you still¡­ together?¡± she asked hesitantly.


    Alexander felt his heart pound in his chest. This was the moment of truth. He took a deep breath and chose his words carefully.


    ¡°Jess, I think we need to talk about some things,¡± he said, trying to keep his voice steady. ¡°And I think it would be best if we did that in person. Can we meet up soon?¡±


    There was another long pause, and Alexander felt like an eternity was passing before Jessie finally responded.


    ¡°Yes, I think that would be a good idea,¡± she said. ¡°I¡¯ll text youter to figure out a time and ce.¡±


    Alexander felt a wave of relief wash over him. At least she hadn¡¯t hung up on him. They had a chance to talk things through.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he said, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. ¡°I look forward to hearing from you.¡±


    ¡°Me too,¡± Jessie said, her voice sounding a bit lighter. ¡°And¡­ I¡¯m d you¡¯re doing okay, Alex. I know this must be hard for you.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Jess,¡± he said, grateful for her understanding. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to you soon.¡±


    ¡°Bye, Alex,¡± she said. ¡°Take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Bye, Jess,¡± he said. ¡°You too. And thanks again.¡±


    After he hung up, he sat there for a moment, taking in what had just happened. He was grateful that he and Jessie were still on good terms, and that they would have a chance to talk through everything. But he couldn¡¯t help but feel anxious about what the future would hold. He had a feeling that things were about to change, and he wasn¡¯t sure if he was ready for that.


    He leaned back on the couch and closed his eyes, letting the events of the day wash over him. He knew that whatever happened next, he would have to face it head on. And he was determined to do just that. He just hoped that he would have the strength to get through it all.


    As he sat there, lost in thought, he heard a knock on the door. He opened his eyes and got up to answer it, wondering who it could be.


    He opened the door and Anderson walked in.


    ¡°What are you doing here Anderson? It¡¯ste.¡±


    ¡°Sorry to just show up unannounced,¡± Anderson said, looking a bit sheepish. ¡°But I wanted to talk to you about something. It¡¯s important.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Alexander said, beckoning his friend inside. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking a lot about our conversation the other day,¡± Anderson said, looking serious. ¡°And I think that you should go ahead with your n of not giving Jaime the contract.¡±


    Alexander looked at Anderson with a confused expression.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean, you should take a chance with Marissa.¡± Anderson said.

 Giving It A Thought

    ¡°You should end the contract, and give your rtionship a chance,¡± he continued. ¡°I know it¡¯s a big risk, but I think it¡¯s one that¡¯s worth taking. You and Marissa have something special, and I think it¡¯s worth fighting for.¡±


    Alexander sat there, taking in what Anderson had said. He knew that his friend was right, that he and Marissa did have something special. But he also knew that it was a risk, and he wasn¡¯t sure if he was ready to take that leap.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Anderson,¡± he said, shaking his head. ¡±


    I¡¯m not sure if I¡¯m ready to give up my life here for something that might not work out. I know that Marissa is a great woman, but I¡¯m not sure if we¡¯re meant to be together. We¡¯re very different people, and I don¡¯t know if we can make it work.¡±


    ¡°I get that,¡± Anderson said, nodding. ¡°But what if you never find out? What if you never take that chance, and you spend the rest of your life wondering ¡®what if?¡¯ You could miss out on something really special.¡±


    Alexander sat there, his mind racing. Anderson¡¯s words resonated with him, and he felt a wave of anxiety wash over him. He knew that Anderson was right, but the thought of taking such a big risk was terrifying.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do,¡± he said, his voice filled with uncertainty. ¡°I¡¯m scared to take a chance, but I¡¯m also scared to not take a chance. I feel like I¡¯m stuck between a rock and a hard ce.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s understandable,¡± Anderson said, putting a hand on his shoulder. ¡°But you have to do what your heart tells you is right. And I think your heart is telling you and I end up regretting it?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s always a risk of failure in life,¡± Anderson said, his voice steady and calm. ¡°But what¡¯s the alternative? Never taking a chance, and never knowing what could have been? I think that¡¯s a worse fate than taking a risk and it not working out. At least if you try, you¡¯ll know that you gave it your best shot.¡±


    Alexander thought about what Anderson was saying, and he realized that he was right. If he didn¡¯t try, he would always wonder what could have been. But if he did try, and it didn¡¯t work out.


    ¡°Wait a minute, why are you advising me all of sudden to give Marissa a chance when you clearly told me not to before. So what changed your mind, big head?¡± Alex asked.


    Anderson chuckled at Alex¡¯s nickname for him and smiled. ¡°You see, what made me change my mind was the fact that I¡¯ve seen how much you¡¯ve grown as a person ever since you met Marissa.


    You¡¯ve be more mature, more responsible and more open to new possibilities. I have watched how your face lights up when you hear or see Marissa and how she brings out the best part in you that was long hidden.


    At first I thought if you stayed with Jessie in your long term rtionship, it would be better since both of you came from the same background and the society won¡¯t judge you.


    I was wrong. Your happiness is what¡¯s important and not what the society wants for you.¡± Anderson exined.


    Alex opened his eyes wide in shock as he had never seen Anderson speak like that to him before. He was advising him to take a chance with Marissa and not with Jessie.


    ¡°And besides, Jessie doesn¡¯t care about you like Marissa does. I mean thedy practically begged me to send her Jessie¡¯s contact so she could discuss with Jessie and plead with her to not judge you and break up with you because she thought you guys had a thing.


    She went over to see Jessie and talked her into believing that nothing was going on between you two.¡± Anderson exined.


    Alex¡¯s mouth dropped open. He couldn¡¯t believe that Marissa would go so far as to beg Anderson to give her Jessie¡¯s contact. He didn¡¯t think Marissa was that brave or would ever do such a thing. But from the way Anderson was talking, it seemed as though he believed Marissa.


    ¡°I still don¡¯t know what to do though.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°It¡¯s simple Alex. Marissa is the one who makes you happy. The one who loves you with all of her being. The one who would do anything for you. The one who stands up for you and would fight for you, even if she has to go against the whole world for you. You don¡¯t find someone like that easily. She¡¯s special.¡± Anderson exined.


    ¡°And what about Jessie?¡± Alex asked.


    ¡°What about her? She¡¯s shallow. She wants what¡¯s best for her. She doesn¡¯t put you first. I mean, just look at the fact that she wouldn¡¯t evene to see you when you were sick and admitted to the hospitalst time, remember that she exined that she had to go on an urgent business trip.


    And now she¡¯s giving you an ultimatum that you should choose her or your contract after knowing how important it was for you to secure that contract.


    Isn¡¯t she a selfish type?¡± Anderson asked.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Alex knew that Anderson was right. He had never thought of it that way before. He had always been too wrapped up in his feelings for Jessie to see the situation for what it really was. But now, he was starting to see things more clearly.


    He still loved Jessie, but he couldn¡¯t deny that she had never put him first. She had always been more concerned with herself and her own needs, and she had never been willing topromise or make sacrifices for him.


    Marissa, on the other hand, had always been there for him. She had been willing to do anything for him, no matter what

 The Event

    The party to celebrate the newunch of Alexander¡¯spany¡¯s new product was that day. Everywhere was busy as the event center was being arranged.


    The staff were running around, making sure that everything was perfect. The decorations were being put up, the food was being prepared, and the band was tuning their instruments. Everything wasing together perfectly.


    Alexander¡¯s secretary was there, overseeing everything and making sure that everything was running smoothly. She worked alongside with the event nner, who was taking her job very seriously. She wanted everything to be perfect for event.


    Alexander, on the other hand, was a bundle of nerves. He was excited about theunch, but he was also anxious about seeing Marissa again. They haven¡¯t seen each other for days now and he wondered how she was doing.


    He hoped she showed up for theunch.


    He was in his hotel room changing into his new and expensive suit and he adjusted his bowtie.


    It was a new shade of ck and gray and had a sleek look to it. He wanted to make a good impression. He looked at himself in the mirror and straightened his tie again.


    A knock on the door startled him. He went over and opened it, revealing his secretary.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Alex,¡± she said, smiling at him. ¡°You look very dashing.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Sarah,¡± he said, returning her smile. ¡°Is everything ready for the event?¡±


    ¡°Everything is going ording to n,¡± she said. ¡°The guests are starting to arrive and the venue is looking spectacr. I think this is going to be a very sessfulunch.¡±


    ¡°I hope so,¡± Alex said, his nerves starting to get the better of him. ¡°I just hope that everything goes smoothly.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it will,¡± Sarah said, trying to reassure him. ¡°You¡¯ve put a lot of time and effort into this, and I know it¡¯s going to pay off. Just try to rx and enjoy the night.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Alex said, taking a deep breath. ¡°I just need to take it one step at a time.¡±


    ¡°That ¡®s the spirit!¡± Sarah said. ¡°Now, let¡¯s get you out there and make a great first impression.¡±


    With that, she led him out of the hotel room and into the venue. The sight that greeted him was truly spectacr. The room was filled with people, and the tables were decorated with beautiful flowers and candles. Everything looked perfect.


    Sarah led him to the front of the room, where a podium was set up for him to make his speech. He took a deep breath and stepped up to the microphone. The room fell silent as everyone looked at him, waiting for him to speak.


    ¡°Good evening, everyone,¡± Alex said, his voice sounding a bit shaky at first, but growing stronger as he continued. ¡°Wee to theunch of our new product. I am honored to have each and every one of you here tonight. I know that some of you have traveled from far and wide to be here, and I am so grateful for your support.¡±


    He went on to talk about the history of thepany, and how they hade to develop this new product. He spoke about the hard work and dedication of the team that had made it all possible. The room waspletely silent, hanging on to his every word.


    He finished his speech with a heartfelt thank you to everyone who had made this possible. The room erupted in apuse, and Alex felt a sense of relief wash over him. He had done it. He had given a sessful speech.


    But as he stepped down from the podium, he felt a wave of exhaustion wash over him. The past few months had been a whirlwind of activity, and he was suddenly hit with how much he had been pushing himself.


    Sarah came over to him and put a hand on his shoulder. ¡°You did a great job,¡± she said. ¡°Now let¡¯s go and enjoy the rest of the evening.¡±


    Alex nodded, grateful for her support. He allowed her to lead him to a table, where he sat down and took a moment to collect himself. The evening went on, and he found himself slowly rxing. He enjoyed chatting with the people around him and sampling the delicious food.


    Just then Jessie walked up to him and tapped him from behind.


    Alex turned around and saw Jessie standing there, looking nervous. ¡°Hi,¡± she said, her voice a bit shaky. ¡°I hope it¡¯s okay that I¡¯m here. I just wanted to talk to you.¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s okay,¡± Alex said, a bit surprised but happy to see her. ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re here. How are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± she said, but her bodynguage said otherwise. She looked tired and a bit stressed. ¡°I just¡­ I wanted to talk to you about everything that¡¯s been going on.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Alex said, gesturing for a seat so they could talk, but before they could talk, Jaime walked up to them and greeted them.


    ¡°Hey, Alexander.¡±


    Alexander looked up and realized that it was Jaime. He wasn¡¯t happy to see him and since he was one of the invitees, he couldn¡¯t ignore him.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I thought you won¡¯te since it¡¯s myunch and not yours.¡±


    Jaime scoffed.


    ¡°Why would I miss this when it¡¯s gonna be the best event for the year?


    Nah¡­ and besides, someone is gonna reveal a very important announcement today, right?¡± he said, looking at Alexander as he had threatened Alexander to hand over the contract to him or he would reveal the fake marriage he had to get the contract.


    Alexander was pissed but had toport himself so he wouldn¡¯t lose his cool since it was his event.


    Jaime went closer to him and leaned in.


    ¡°So be a good boy and do the right thing and give me what rightfully belongs to me okay?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a jerk, Jaime. No one wants you here.¡± Jessie said.


    He looked at Jessie and smiled.


    ¡°Well it depends. You see, Alexander and I have an agreement and I believe he would fulfill his own end of the bargain or else he knows what I¡¯m capable of.¡± he smiled and walked away from them.


    Jessie looked confused and then turned to face Alexander.


    ¡°What¡¯s he talking about?¡±


    Alexander was trying to think what to do when he suddenly saw Marissa walking into the hall looking rather gorgeously dressed.

 Wanting Him

    Marissa¡¯s eyes were locked on him, and he felt his heart skip a beat. He had never seen her look so beautiful.


    ¡°I need to talk to you,¡± she said, her voice sounding urgent. ¡°Can we go somewhere private?¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°Of course,¡± he said, taking her by the hand and leading her outside. He had forgotten that he was with Jessie as she watched them leave her there standing angry and disappointed.


    The night air was cool and crisp, and they found a quiet corner where they could talk.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± he asked, looking at her with concern. ¡°You seem upset.¡±


    ¡°I am,¡± she said, her voice wavering. ¡°Did Jaime ask you to hand over the contract to him or he would reveal our fake marriage to everyone present?¡±


    Alexander was silent.


    ¡°Why would you do such a thing? You have worked so hard to get it and now you want to hand it over to Jaime who doesn¡¯t care about it but just wants to win?¡±


    ¡°What do you want me to do Marissa? If I don¡¯t do that, he would destroy the image and reputation of mypany and I don¡¯t want that and most importantly, he would embarrass you in front of everyone and I don¡¯t want that.¡± Alex exined.


    Marissa shook her head and spoke.


    ¡°I want you to know that you shouldn¡¯t give up on what you have worked so hard for because that annoying jerk threatened to expose our fake marriage.


    And so what if he does, you just say the truth and forget about it and if those investors say they don¡¯t want you to handle the job again, it¡¯s their loss.¡±


    Alexander smiled as Marissa spoke.


    He was so grateful to have her by his side, supporting him and giving him strength. He knew that he couldn¡¯t give up on his dreams, no matter what the cost. He took a deep breath and looked into her eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± he said. ¡°I can¡¯t let him ckmail me into giving up what I¡¯ve worked so hard for. And I certainly can¡¯t let him hurt you.¡±


    ¡°I appreciate that,¡± Marissa said, giving him a small smile. ¡°But there¡¯s something else we need to talk about.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± he asked, feeling a sense of dread rising up in him. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking,¡± Marissa said, taking a deep breath. ¡°And I¡¯ve realized that our marriage, our whole rtionship, it¡¯s not real. It¡¯s just something we decided to do so that we could get the contract so I think that after theunch today we should end it. What do you think? I think it would be the best thing.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s heart sank as he listened to her words. He had known, deep down, that what she was saying was true.


    ¡°I know,¡± he said, his voice thick with emotion. ¡°I think you¡¯re right.


    We will discuss about this after theunch today.¡± he said and smiled and left to attend the event while Marissa stood there and looked outside admiring the view.


    She knew this might be thest time she would attend such an elegant event dressed like a princess, so she took a deep breath and smiled at herself.


    ¡°Well done, Marissa. You¡¯ve done a great job and I think it¡¯s time to wake up back to reality.¡± she told herself.


    Just then she heard a voice from behind and looked and saw Jessie walking towards her.


    ¡°So you came when I was clear that I didn¡¯t want to see you near Alexander.¡±


    ¡°I came to say my goodbyes and besides he invited me and I couldn¡¯t say no to his invitation since it was one of the most important days of his life.


    He has worked so hard for thisunch to be sessful.¡± she exined.


    Jessie rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Well now that you have seen him, I don¡¯t think you should still be here. So please just leave.¡±


    Marissa could feel the tension in the air, and she knew that this could easily turn into a big scene. She didn¡¯t want to cause a scene at Alexander¡¯s party, especially not on such an important day for him. So she decided to take the high road.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, I shouldn¡¯t be here,¡± she said, keeping her voice calm and even. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for intruding on your event. I¡¯ll go now.¡±


    Jessie looked surprised by Marissa¡¯s response. She had clearly been expecting a fight, and she didn¡¯t know what to do now that Marissa was backing  down. But Marissa wasn¡¯t backing down ¨C she was simply choosing to walk away with her head held high.


    As Marissa turned to leave, she felt a hand on her arm. She turned back to see Alexander standing there, looking at her with a look of concern on his face.


    ¡°I get to decide when to leave, Marissa and not anyone else.¡± he said and grabbed her hand and led her to the event hall.


    Jessie was surprised at Alexander¡¯s actions as she didn¡¯t expect he would do such a thing in her presence.


    She could see that he was choosing Marissa over her, and it hurt. But she knew that she had no right to be hurt ¨C she had never really been there for him, but she was kind of angry at him for doing that in her presence.


    He had never treated her like that but now that Marissa was in the picture, she was no longer important to him.


    As Marissa and Alexander walked away, Jessie felt a wave of sadness wash over her.


    As she watched them walk away, she made a decision. She would make sure that she split them up and walked to where Jaime was and spoke.


    ¡°Are you still going to announce that their marriage is fake?¡± she asked Jaime who was sipping his ss of wine.


    ¡°Why are you asking? I thought you wanted to protect your beloved boyfriend.¡± he teased.


    ¡°Just answer the damn question!¡± she yelled at him.


    ¡°Well¡­ it depends¡­ if he hands over the contract, I might not have to.¡± he exined.


    ¡°No! I want you to reveal their fake marriage. I don¡¯t care about the contract. I just want them to split up!¡±

 Revealing

    Jaime looked at her in surprise. ¡°But why?¡± he asked.


    ¡°He thinks he can choose that rat instead of me. He has got somethinging.¡± she said.


    Jaime smiled happily that his ns were working. His ns were to break Jessie and Alexander so that he could have her to himself.


    Meanwhile Alexander held Marissa¡¯s hand and led her towards the podium and then he removed his hands and walked to where the microphone was and called everyone¡¯s attention.


    Jaime smiled that his ns were almostplete and he would have everything he wanted including the contract.


    Everyone in the room turned to look at him, and the room fell silent. Alexander took a deep breath and began to speak.


    ¡°Thank you all foring tonight,¡± he said, his voice strong and confident. ¡°I¡¯m so grateful to have all of you here to celebrate this momentous asion. And before we begin, I just want to say a few words.¡±


    He paused, and the room was silent, waiting for him to continue.


    ¡°The past few months have been some of the most challenging of my life,¡± he said, his voice softer now. ¡°But through it all, there¡¯s been one person who has been there for me every step of the way. She¡¯s been my rock, my support, and my friend. And I want to thank her publicly, in front of all of you, for everything she¡¯s done for me.¡±


    He turned to Marissa, who was standing nearby, a look of surprise and happiness on her face.


    ¡°Marissa, I know that I¡¯ve put you through a lot in the past few months,¡± he said, his voice full of emotion. ¡°But you¡¯ve never wavered in your support of me.


    You¡¯ve always been there for me, no matter what. And I just want you to know how much that means to me. I couldn¡¯t have gotten through this without you, and I want to tell you that I¡¯m so grateful for you. And I want to tell you something else, in front of all of these people.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s eyes widened, and she held her breath. What was he about to say?


    Alexander took a deep breath, and then said the words that would change everything. ¡°I love you, Marissa. And I want to be with you, for the rest of my life The room was silent, and everyone¡¯s eyes were on Alexander and Marissa. They looked at each other, their eyes full of love and emotion.


    Finally, Marissa spoke. ¡°I love you too, Alexander,¡± she said, her voice shaking slightly. ¡°And I want to be with you too. I want to be by your side, through everything. I want to be your partner, your friend, and your support system. I want to be with you, always.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s face broke into a wide grin, and he walked over to Marissa and took her into his arms. The room erupted into apuse, and the couple shared a long, loving embrace.


    Then, Alexander took Marissa¡¯s hand and led her to the front of the room. He got down on one knee, and looked up at her.


    ¡°Will you marry me, Marissa?¡± he asked, his voice full of hope and love.


    Marissa¡¯s eyes filled with tears, and she nodded, unable to speak. Alexander stood up and pulled her into a hug. They stood there, wrapped in each other¡¯s arms, as the apuse and cheers continued around them.


    Then Marissa pulled away from the hug. ¡°But what about the contract? Jaime?¡± she asked.


    Alexander smiled and then turned to face everyone and then revealed a shocking news to everyone.


    ¡°Someone actually threatened me that he would reveal that my marriage to my beloved wife here is fake and so I decided to reveal that myself and Marissa got married in private because we wanted to keep things low key.


    But some felt our wedding was fake and so threatened to reveal it so that they could get the contract that was handed to me by my amazing clients who trusted my work.


    So I¡¯m here to prove that my marriage with Marissa is not fake but real and I decided to make this public proposal in front of you all to show them not to mess with me and my wife.


    And I also know that mypany delivers the best product and would give you all the best and as the new product would beunch in less than 30 minutes, I want you to trust in my judgment and do not let anyone¡¯s words confuse and put your trust in me.¡± Alexander spoke.


    The audience nodded, impressed by his speech.


    Suddenly, Jaime walked up to Alexander holding a document in his hand.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do this,¡± Jaime said, his voice filled with anger. ¡°You know that the contract is mine. I deserve it, not you.¡±N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Alexander looked at Jaime and said ¡°You and I know that I worked hard to get this and youe here to im what you never worked for because you just want to win, but I want to tell you that you will never win.


    No matter the threat you give to me, you can never break me, Jaime.¡± He said and grabbed Marissa¡¯s hand and left the podium as everyone was impressed by Alexander¡¯s bold and confident words.


    He really was what the business world called him. ¡°The Business Titan.¡±


    The man called Jaime stood there, fuming with rage. But he knew that Alexander was right. He had never put in the hard work and dedication that Alexander had, and he would never be able to achieve the same sess. He turned and stormed out of the room, defeated.


    Alexander and Marissa walked back to their seats, feeling a sense of relief. They had faced down their biggest challenge, and they hade out on top. They turned to look at each other, and their eyes met, filled with love and gratitude. They knew that no matter what came their way, they would face it together, as a team. They had each other¡¯s backs, and that was all that mattered.

 A Great Team

    As they walked out of the event hall, Alexander held Marissa¡¯s hand tightly, almost as if he was afraid to let go. He knew that without her by his side, he never would have been able to stand up to Jaime and defend theirpany.


    Marissa looked up at him and smiled, her eyes shining with pride. They had faced their biggest challenge together, and they had emerged victorious.


    They were a team, stronger together than they could ever be apart. And as they walked down the hallway, hand in hand, they knew that no matter what the future held, they would face it together, as a team.


    His driver came out and offered to open the door for Marissa to enter, but Alexander offered himself and told his driver to go home for the night and gave him a tip. His driver smiled and then left Marissa and Alexander alone.


    Alexander entered the car and helped Marissa with her seatbelt.


    ¡°You were amazing in there,¡± Marissa said, as she looked over at him. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen anyone stand up to Jaime like that. You were so brave and confident, and I¡¯m so proud of you.¡±


    Alexander blushed at her praise. ¡°It was all because of you,¡± he said. ¡°You¡¯re the one who gave me the strength and courage to do it. Without you by my side, I never would have been able to do it.¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°We make a great team,¡± Marissa said, as she leaned her head on his shoulder. ¡°A team that can take on anything.¡±


    Alexander leaned in close and whispered in her ear, ¡°I couldn¡¯t have done any of this without you. You¡¯re my inspiration, my rock, and my everything. I don¡¯t know what I would do without you.¡±


    Marissa blushed at his words and smiled. ¡°I feel the same way about you,¡± she said. ¡°We¡¯re a team, and we can take on anything together. Nothing can stop us.¡±


    Alexander took her hand in his and squeezed it gently. ¡°I¡¯m so lucky to have you in my life,¡± he said. ¡°You make me a better person, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you,¡± Alexander said.


    ¡°I want to grow old with you, to see the world with you, and to experience all of life¡¯s joys and sorrows with you by my side. I love you, Marissa, more than I can ever say.¡±


    Tears of joy welled up in Marissa¡¯s eyes as she looked at him. ¡°I love you, too,¡± she said. ¡°And I want to spend the rest of my life with you as well. You¡¯re everything I could ever want and more. I¡¯m so grateful that we found each day.¡±


    They both shared a passionate kiss and this time Marissa knew that it wasn¡¯t an act, but it was real and she felt so good.


    As they pulled away from each other, Alexander stared into Marissa¡¯s eyes and smiled and she smiled back at him and he ignited the car engine and they zoomed off to his apartment.


    The ride home seemed to go by in a blur, as the two of them were lost in their own world, thinking about their future together. When they reached the apartment, Alexander got out and opened the door for Marissa. They walked up the stairs and entered the apartment, still lost in their own little world.


    As they stood in the living room, Marissa looked around and saw that the apartment was beautiful. It was decorated in a simple, yet elegant style, with warm colors andfortable furniture. It felt like a home, and she could imagine herself living there with Alexander.


    ¡°Do you like it.¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s nice, but I kind of still preferred the other apartment that we stayed in together.¡± she smiled as she sat on the couch.


    ¡°You mean the one far away from town?¡± Alexander asked, as he sat down next to her.


    ¡°That was a nice apartment. But I think this one is even better. It¡¯s in a great location, and it¡¯s got everything we need. Plus, it¡¯s got a view of the park, which is really nice.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, it is a nice ce.¡± Marissa said, as she looked out the window. ¡°But the other apartment had so many memories. Like the time we stayed up all night and watched the sun rise, or the time we cooked dinner together and it turned out to be a ¡°disaster.¡± Marissaughed, remembering the night they had tried to make spaghetti and ended up with noodles all over the kitchen. ¡°I¡¯ll never forget that night. Weughed so hard that we almost cried.¡±


    Alexander smiled at the memory. ¡°We did have some good times in that apartment. But I think we can make even more memories in this ce. And who knows, maybe we can make some spaghetti that doesn¡¯t end up on the ceiling.¡±


    Marissa smiled at him. ¡°I¡¯m sure we can.¡± She said, and then leaned in to kiss him. ¡°I¡¯m just d we¡¯re finally home together.¡± She said, as she rested her head on his shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you so much these past few months.¡±


    Alexander pulled her close. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too.¡± He said. ¡°But now we¡¯re finally here, and we can start our life together.¡±


    Marissa closed her eyes, feeling content and happy. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see what the future holds for us.¡± She said softly. ¡°I love you, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, Marissa.¡± Alexander said, as he held her close. ¡°Now, let¡¯s start making some new memories.¡± he said.


    ¡°What about Jessie and Jaime? I don¡¯t know¡­ I have this feeling that something¡¯sing and we need to be prepared for it.


    Because I don¡¯t think Jaime would let you get away with publicly humiliating him.¡± Marissa exined.


    Alexander was silent for a while as he thought about what Marissa had said. He knew that Jessie wasn¡¯t happy about him choosing Marissa over her, but he had his reasons for doing it.

 Look Like A Fool

    ¡°You¡¯re right, I¡¯m sure Jessie won¡¯t be happy.¡± Alexander said. ¡°But she needs to understand that my feelings for her were never as strong as they were for you. I know it¡¯s going to be hard for her to ept, but she has to move on. And I need to focus on us now.¡±


    ¡°I know, I just don¡¯t want you to get hurt.¡± Marissa said, concern evident in her voice. ¡°I care about you too much to see that happen.¡±


    Alexander looked into Marissa¡¯s eyes. ¡°I know you do. And I appreciate that. But I can handle myself. I¡¯m not going to let anyone hurt me, or you. We¡¯re going to be okay, I promise.¡±


    Marissa took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. ¡°I know you¡¯re right.¡± She said, after a moment. ¡°I just can¡¯t help but worry sometimes.¡±


    ¡°I know, it¡¯s only natural.¡± Alexander said, gently. ¡°But we can¡¯t let that worry control our lives. We need to focus on the future, and what we want to do with it. Do you know what I want?¡±


    Marissa smiled. ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°I want to build a life with you.¡± Alexander said, without hesitation. ¡°A life filled with love,ughter, and happiness. A life where we get to experience all the things we¡¯ve ever wanted. And a life where we can make all our dreamse true.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s heart swelled at his words. ¡°That sounds wonderful.¡± She said, her eyes shining with emotion. ¡°I want that too. I want to build a life with you, and make all our dreamse true. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, by my side, no matter what.¡±


    Alexander pulled her into his arms and kissed her. ¡°I love you, Marissa. And I¡¯m so grateful that you feel the same way.¡± He said, when the kiss ended.


    ¡°I want to start our life together right now. We can start making ns and taking steps towards our future. Let¡¯s make all our dreams a reality.¡±


    Marissa nodded.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do it.¡±


    *


    Meanwhile, Jessie entered her apartment and threw her bag on the couch and went to get herself an alcoholic drink.


    She stood there for a moment, a drink in her hand, lost in her thoughts. She couldn¡¯t believe that Alexander had chosen Marissa over her. He had promised her that he would choose her, that they would be together forever. And now he was with Marissa, living the life that Jessie had always dreamed of. It wasn¡¯t fair.


    Jessie took a sip of her drink, feeling the alcohol burn her throat. She wanted to cry, but she refused to let herself. She was stronger than that. She had to be. But she couldn¡¯t help but feel a wave of bitterness and resentment rising up inside.


    ¡°How could he do this to me?¡±


    She scoffed.


    ¡°He chose her over me! He chose that bitch over me!¡± she yelled as she smashed the ss cup on the wall and screamed.


    Ring


    Ring


    She goes over to her bag and picks it up and opens it to pick her phone. It turned out to be Jaime.


    She rolled her eyes, obviously uninterested by his call.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, she answered the call. ¡°What do you want?¡± she asked, her voice cold and uninviting.


    ¡°Let me guess what you¡¯re doing right now¡­. I guess you must be drinking and talking to yourself that Alexander picked a lowlife instead of you. Am I right?¡± he asked on the phone.


    His words stung, and Jessie felt a fresh wave of anger rising within her. ¡°You have no right to judge me!¡± she shouted into the phone. ¡°You have no idea what I¡¯m going through. You don¡¯t know anything about me!¡±


    ¡°Well I know that you¡¯re wasting your time thinking of a guy who doesn¡¯t want to have anything to do with you.


    You should get the clue and move on from this Jessie.¡± he said.


    ¡°Never!¡± she yelled on the phone.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna make him pay for what he did to me and make Marissa pay for stealing my man.¡±


    Jaimeughed seriously on the phone.


    ¡°So what do you want me to do for you?¡± he asked her.


    She was silent for a while as she thought about what to do, then she came up with an idea.


    ¡°I want you to find a way to split them up, Jaime.¡± she informed him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care how you do it or what you do. I just want you to split them up!¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    Jaime couldn¡¯t believe what Jessie was saying. He was thrilled by the idea of hurting Alexander, of getting revenge for all the times he¡¯d been made to feel inferior.


    He wanted to make Alexander pay for also hurting the woman he loved and the fact that she doesn¡¯t love him back but only thinks of Alexander only made him feel worse.


    ¡°I will do it for you, Jessie.¡± he said, his voice firm.


    ¡°I will make Alexander and Marissa pay for hurting you like that, you have my word.¡± he said.


    Jessie felt a thrill of excitement at his words, but also a hint of fear. Jaime seemed different somehow, like a shadow had fallen over him. She was suddenly afraid of what he might do.


    But she wanted Alexander to pay for what he did to her at the event and the fact that he chose a lowlife over her made her feel more worse.


    ¡°You will pay for what you did to me, Alex,¡± she told herself.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see how strong your love is for each other when you face adversary hmm.¡±


    This was not the first time Jessie had felt this way. She often felt like she waspeting with Marissa for Alexander¡¯s attention and affection. It was as if she was the second choice, the one who was always left behind. She had tried to convince herself that it didn¡¯t matter, that Alexander cared for her in his own way, but deep down she knew that it wasn¡¯t true. She was always going to be second best, the one who was never good enough. And that knowledge stung like a thousand needles in her heart.


    She knew that she should walk away, that she should find someone who would truly care about her, but no she wasn¡¯t ready to move on until those two paid for hurting and making her look like a fool.

 Expensive Gift

    The next morning, Marissa woke up early and decided to prepare breakfast since that day was a weekend. She looked at Alexander who was still fast asleep and smiled at him before leaving the room to the kitchen.


    As she walked into the kitchen, she began to gather the ingredients for her favorite breakfast dish: waffles. She was in the middle of cracking an egg when she heard a knock at the door.


    Frowning, she set the egg down and went to answer it. When she opened the door, she was surprised to see a courier standing there, holding a package.


    ¡°I have a delivery for Marissa.¡± the courier said, holding out the package.


    Marissa took the package from him, surprised and curious as to what it could be. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, as she closed the door and returned to the kitchen.


    She set the package down on the counter and examined it. There was no return address, and thebel only had her name and address.


    She didn¡¯t recognize the handwriting, so she had no idea who it could be from. Her curiosity piqued, she decided to open the package. As she did, she realized that it was a small jewelry box.


    She lifted the lid, her heart racing, and inside was a beautiful ne. It was a simple design, with a single diamond suspended from a delicate chain. She gasped at the sight of it, wondering who could have sent it.


    She read the note inside the box.


    It said  ¡°Congrattions¡±.


    She wondered who could have sent it as there was no name and all the sender wrote was congrattions. She sighed as she looked at the jewelry box and then decided not to think any negative thing.


    She dropped the box on the table and returned to the kitchen to prepare waffles and coffee for breakfast before Alexander would wake up.


    As she was whisking the batter, she found herself thinking about the ne. She was sure it must have been an expensive gift, and it was very kind of the person who sent it to her.


    She knew that she should be grateful for the gift, but a small part of her couldn¡¯t help but feel a little bit suspicious.


    Who could have sent it? And why had they sent it anonymously? She shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. There was no point in dwelling on it, she told herself. She would just enjoy the gift and not think about who had sent it.


    As she was whisking the batter, she heard the bedroom door open and turned to see Alexandering into the kitchen. He smiled at her, and she returned the smile.


    ¡°Hey, there you are.¡± he said,ing up behind her and wrapping his arms around her waist. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    She leaned back against him, enjoying the feel of his strong arms around her. ¡°Just making some breakfast.¡± she said. ¡°I hope you¡¯re hungry.¡±


    ¡°I am,¡± he said,


    And then he noticed a package on the table.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± he asked as he moved towards the package.


    He picked up the package and looked at it curiously. ¡°There¡¯s no name or address on it,¡± he said. ¡°Do you know what it is?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I opened it and saw a ne.¡± she said.


    ¡°Someone came to deliver it this morning.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    He opened the box and saw the ne and Alexander let out a low whistle.


    ¡°Wow, this is some fancy piece of jewelry.¡± he said, picking it up and examining it closely. ¡°But who sent it?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± she said. ¡°There was no name, just congrattion.¡±


    ¡°Congrattion?¡± he asked, looking confused. ¡°Congrattion for what?¡±


    ¡°Maybe for our engagement? I don¡¯t know, but I guess whoever sent that gift was present at the event yesterday.¡± she said, shrugging her shoulders. ¡°It¡¯s a mystery.¡±


    Alexander put the ne back in the box and closed the lid. ¡°Well, whoever sent it, it¡¯s a beautiful gift,¡± he said. ¡°But I¡¯m more curious about how they got my address and why they didn¡¯t reveal themselves.¡±


    Marissa could see the wheels turning in his head, as he tried to puzzle out the mystery. She knew that Alexander was always looking for answers, trying to figure out the whys and hows of everything. It was one of the things she loved about him, even if it sometimes drove her crazy.


    ¡°It¡¯s probably just some random act of kindness.¡± she said, trying to reassure him. ¡°Or maybe it¡¯s someone who knows us and is just being shy.¡±


    Alexander sighed. ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right.¡± he said, though he still sounded unconvinced. ¡°But I can¡¯t help but wonder if there¡¯s more to it than that. I mean, they obviously know us well enough to send us a gift like this. What if they¡¯re trying to send us a message? Or what if they¡¯re trying to interfere with our lives somehow?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re being paranoid.¡± she said,ughing. ¡°It¡¯s just a gift. Don¡¯t read too much into it.¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡± he said, but he still looked worried. ¡°But I just don¡¯t like the idea of someone out there who knows us and is keeping themselves hidden.¡±


    ¡°Well, whoever it is, I doubt they¡¯re dangerous or have any malicious intent.¡± she said, trying to reassure him. ¡°It¡¯s probably just someone who wants to be nice and make us happy. That¡¯s it. Nothing more than that.¡±


    Alexander let out a breath, seeming to rx a little. ¡°You¡¯re probably right.¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯m just being paranoid.¡±


    ¡°I know you are.¡± she said, smiling. ¡°You¡¯re always overthinking things. But that¡¯s just who you are, and I love you for it.¡±


    He smiled back at her, a little sheepishly. ¡°I love you, too.¡± he said.


    Just then, his phone rings. He looked at the caller and realized that it was Jessie.


    Then a thought crossed his mind.


    ¡°Could it be Jessie who sent the gift?¡± he asked himself as he looked at the phone ringing.


    ¡°She must be angry about me choosing Marissa over her and sent the gift to dere war.¡± he said to himself.


    He took a deep breath and then picked the call.

 Meeting Jessie

    ¡°Hello?¡± he said, trying to keep his voice calm and neutral.


    ¡°Hi, Alexander.¡± Jessie¡¯s voice came through the phone, trying to sound cheerful and upbeat.


    ¡°How are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing well.¡± he said, trying to match her upbeat tone.


    He knew she wasn¡¯t happy but was pretending to be.


    ¡°.¡­ Can we meet up and talk today?¡± she asked


    ¡°I need to discuss something with you.¡±


    Alexander felt a sudden tension in the air, a nervousness that was palpable even through the phone. He knew that Jessie must have something important to say, and he steeled himself for whatever wasing.


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯d love to meet up.¡± he said, trying to keep his voice steady. ¡°When and where?¡±


    ¡°How about we meet up at the coffee shop near your house?¡± she suggested. ¡°I know it¡¯s your favorite ce to go. Would you be free around 2pm?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I can make that work,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll see you then.¡±


    There was a brief silence on the other end of the line, and then Jessie spoke again.


    ¡°Alexander, I want to apologize for what happened the other day.¡± she said, her voice sounding earnest and sincere. ¡°I know I was out of line, and I¡¯m really sorry for what I said and did.¡±


    Alexander was surprised by her apology. He hadn¡¯t expected her to be so contrite, and he wasn¡¯t sure how to respond.


    ¡°Thank you for apologizing.¡± he said, choosing his words carefully. ¡°I appreciate it.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­. I guess I¡¯ll see you there.¡± she said and ended the call.


    Marissa, who was still making breakfast, asked him who called.


    ¡°Who called?¡± she asked.


    ¡°It was Jessie,¡± he revealed.


    ¡°She asked me that we should meet up at a cafe close to my apartment by 2pm.¡±


    Marissa was quiet, she knew that Jessie asking to meet up with Alexander might not end well.


    ¡°Are you gonna go?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yeah, I should go and see her and set things straight. I¡¯m sure she¡¯s angry at my decision and is wondering why I did what I did, but I¡¯m gonna reveal to her why I did that.¡± he said.


    Marissa brow furrowed as she wondered what he meant by that. She wanted to ask, but decided not to know that he must have a reason.


    ¡°Alright. Do you also want to find out if she was the one who had sent the ne?¡± she asked.


    Alexander considered the question for a moment. He hadn¡¯t even thought about the possibility that Jessie could have sent the ne. But now that Marissa had mentioned it, he couldn¡¯t get the idea out of his head.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure.¡± he said, his voice uncertain. ¡°I don¡¯t want to use her of something she didn¡¯t do, but I also want to know if she was the one who sent it.¡±


    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s possible that she could have done it?¡± Marissa asked, genuinely curious.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± he said, sounding frustrated. ¡°I don¡¯t want to jump to conclusions, but at the same time, it¡¯s hard not to wonder. I guess the only way to know for sure is to ask her.¡±


    ¡°But what if she denies it?¡± Marissa asked. ¡°Even if she did send the ne, she¡¯s not going to admit it, right?¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± he said, sounding resigned. ¡°But I still want to talk to her, to try to exin why I made the choice I did. Maybe if I can make her understand, she¡¯ll let it go and we can all move on.¡±


    Marissa bit her lip, not sure what to say. On the one hand, she understood where Alexander wasing from. He wanted to make things right, to clear the air between himself and Jessie.


    But on the other hand, she was worried that Jessie wouldn¡¯t be willing to listen, that she would only get more angry and hurtful.


    ¡°I just want you to be careful.¡± she said softly. ¡°You¡¯re a good person, Alexander, and you don¡¯t deserve to be treated badly.¡±


    Alexander was touched by her words. He knew that Marissa only wanted the best for him, and he appreciated her concern


    ¡°I will. You don¡¯t need to worry about me hmm.¡± he said, trying to reassure Marissa.


    She smiled and hugged him tightly .


    After he pulled away from her hug, he looked at the table where Marissa had prepared breakfast.


    ¡°Now, let¡¯s enjoy our breakfast. Are you going anywhere today?¡± he asked her, as he walked towards the dinning to sit to eat.


    ¡°Yeah, I want to go check up on my brother at the hospital and know how he¡¯s doing.¡± she informed him.


    ¡°I do like to meet your brother soon, Marissa.¡± he told her.


    Marissa¡¯s face lit up at the thought of introducing Alexander to her brother. She had been hoping that the two of them would hit it off, and she was d that Alexander seemed interested in meeting him.


    ¡°I think you two will get along great.¡± she said, her voice full of excitement. ¡°He¡¯s a really great guy, and he¡¯s been through a lot. I know he¡¯ll appreciate having someone like you in his life.¡±


    ¡°I appreciate that.¡± he said, his face softening.


    When it was time, Alexander got ready and went over to the cafe.


    The cafe was a small, cozy ce with big windows that let in plenty of natural light.


    The smell of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, and the sound of soft jazz music yed in the background. Alexander took a seat at one of the tables, and a waiter came over to take his order.


    He ordered a cappino and a croissant, and he waited patiently for his food to arrive.


    As he waited, he thought about what Marissa had said about her brother. He was curious to meet him, and he hoped that they would get along well. He wondered what kind of person Marissa¡¯s brother was, and what he was like. He hoped that he would be able to make a good impression and that they would be able to connect on some level.N?velDrama.Org content.


    After a few minutes, the waiter returned with his order. Alexander took a sip of his cappino and took a bite of his croissant, savoring the taste. It was a perfect way to start the day, he thought. As he ate, he thought about what he would say to Marissa¡¯s brother when he met him. He wanted to be friendly and approachable, but also respectful and understanding.


    Just then, his phone rings.

 Her Secrets

    ¡°Hello,¡± Anderson spoke.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Anderson?¡± Alex asked.


    ¡°Are you home?¡± He asked Alex.


    ¡°No, I ain¡¯t home man. Jessie said she wanted to see me, so I came to the cafe close to my apartment to see her.¡± He informed him.


    ¡°Oh?¡± Anderson said, sounding surprised. ¡°I wanted to talk to you about Jessie. She told me something the other day that I thought you should know.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Alex said, feeling a bit concerned. ¡°What did she say?¡±


    ¡°Nothing really,  I just want to tell you something but I wanna do that in person,¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°Okay¡­. You know, you can always tell me on the phone.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°Nah¡­ Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll wait for you at your apartment.¡± He said.


    ¡°Alright. I think Marissa should be home. She went to see her brother at the hospital, but she might be home.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°Okay, man. I¡¯ll see you soon I guess.¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    Alex nodded on the phone and spoke.


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    After that Alexander ended the call waiting for Jessie to show up at the cafe.


    He looked out at the street.


    The sun was shining brightly, and the leaves on the trees were a vivid green. He had always loved the view from this cafe, and it was one of the reasons he often came here to rx.


    He took out his phone and started to check his messages, but before he could do anything, he heard a familiar voice behind him.


    ¡°Hey, Alexander.¡± Jessie said, as she walked up to his table.


    He turned around and smiled at her. ¡°Hi, Jessie. How are you?¡±


    But Jessie didn¡¯t smile back and Alexander knew that she wasn¡¯t happy with him and the decision he made.


    ¡°What do you think huh Alex?¡± She asked, her tone angry.


    ¡°Were you expecting that I would say that I am happy for you and that what you did was a good thing?¡±


    Alex sighed and looked at Jessie not uttering a single word.


    ¡°I gave you an ultimatum to either end the whole contract marriage or end our rtionship. You ended our rtionship without thinking about how I would feel. You¡¯re so selfish, Alex. So selfish!¡± She eximed.


    Alex still didn¡¯t utter a word which only made Jessie more angry.


    ¡°Are you going to say something?¡± she asked, raising her voice. ¡°Or are you just going to sit there in silence?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say.¡± Alex said, feeling frustrated. ¡°I never wanted to hurt you, Jessie. I just¡­ I just thought that ending the contract marriage wasn¡¯t the right thing to do.¡±


    ¡°But why?¡± she asked, her eyes filling with tears. ¡°Why did you think that was the right thing to do?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I just felt like it was wrong to keep pretending that I don¡¯t have feelings for Marissa when I clearly do.¡± He said.


    ¡°Then what about me, Alex? Did you ever consider the fact that my happiness matters?


    Did you ever think that your decision was gonna affect me?¡± She asked him.


    Alex sighed and then looked at her.


    ¡°Jessie, I called and told you that I wanted us to get married , but you said no that you don¡¯t want to be held down by marriage and want to focus on work and get promoted. I wasn¡¯t in the picture of your life and goals because if I was, you would consider us getting married.¡± He said, taking a sip of his tea.


    Jessie¡¯s eyes widened as she listened to Alex¡¯s words. She hadn¡¯t realized that her actions had been the reason that their rtionship had never progressed to the next level.


    ¡°I guess I never really thought about it like that.¡± she said, her voice softening. ¡°But Alex, I still care about you. I care about you a lot, and I don¡¯t want to lose you.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± he said, feeling a sense of relief. ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose you either, Jessie. I want us to be friends, no matter what.¡±


    She scoffed.


    ¡°Friends?¡± She rolled her eyes.


    ¡°We can¡¯t be friends, Alexander.¡±


    Alexander folded his arm and looked at her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Jessie but that¡¯s all I can give you.¡± Alex said.


    Jessie looked down at her hands, feeling the sting of rejection. She knew that she couldn¡¯t force Alex to feel something he didn¡¯t, but it still hurt to know that he didn¡¯t want more than friendship.


    ¡°I guess I just thought¡­¡± she said, her voice trailing off. She didn¡¯t know what to say, and she felt lost.


    She reached out and put her hand on his squeezing it gently.


    But Alexander removed his hands and then spoke.


    ¡°I know,¡± he said, his voice cold.


    ¡°You thought that maybe I would forever be yours?


    Well, you thought wrong.¡± He said.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± She asked him. When the waiter walked to take her order.


    ¡°What would you like to have, ma¡¯am?¡± The waiter asked.


    ¡°Well¡­ Um¡­. Can youe backter? We are kinda having a private discussion and we don¡¯t want to be interrupted.


    ¡°Of course, ma¡¯am.¡± the waiter said, looking a bit embarrassed. ¡°I¡¯lle back in a few minutes.¡±


    After the waiter left, Jessie turned back to Alex, waiting for him to continue.


    ¡°You think I didn¡¯t notice that you and Jaime have something together.¡± He said.


    Jessie looked confused.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    Alexander took another sip of his coffee and then ced the cup back on the table and looked at Jessie.


    ¡°After Jaime came over to my office to threaten me to give up the contract that I worked for him. He also told me that there¡¯s something he has on you. So I did some digging and realized that you and him traveled on a business trip together.¡± He exined.


    ¡°That¡¯s ridiculous!¡± Jessie said, her voice raising a bit in anger. ¡°I went on a business trip with him because we work at the samepany! It¡¯s not like we went on a vacation together!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not using you of anything.¡± Alex said, raising his hands in a cating gesture. ¡°I just want you to know that I know about it. I don¡¯t want to make any assumptions, but I just want you to know that I¡¯m aware of it.¡±

 Jessie Shock

    Jessie was silent for a moment, thinking about what Alex had said. Then she spoke.


    ¡°I¡­I understand what is going on. So you used that as an excuse to leave me to marry her.¡±


    ¡°No, you never wanted to get married. I discussed with you that this contract meant so much to me, but you never budged and kept on saying that your promotion meant more to you than anything else. So I improvised and one thing led to the other and we fell in love.¡± He admitted.


    Jessie scoffed.


    ¡°So it¡¯s my fault, right? Is that what you¡¯re saying?¡±


    Alexander shook his head.


    ¡°No one said it¡¯s your fault. I was ready to choose you over her because I didn¡¯t want to hurt you, but you betrayed me, Jessie. You went on a trip and you and Jaime spent the night together.¡± He said, anger in his voice.


    Jessie, looking shocked, tried to speak, but words weren¡¯ting out.


    ¡°You thought I wouldn¡¯t know huh? When the asshole came to my office and revealed himself, that you and he are having fun. I asked Anderson to do an investigation and he found out that you and Jaime were cozy together in Singapore.¡±


    Jessie shook as she realized that Alexander had found out about her affair with Jaime.


    ¡°It¡­. It¡­ Was a¡­ a¡­ um¡­ mistake that shouldn¡¯t have happened.¡± She stammered as her hands kept shaking.


    Alexander¡¯s face was red with anger, and he was having a hard time controlling his emotions. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.


    ¡°You cheated on me,¡± he said, his voice low and dangerous. ¡°You went behind my back and betrayed me. How could you do that to me?¡±


    ¡°I know it was wrong,¡± Jessie said, her voice trembling. ¡°I was wrong, and I¡¯m sorry. I never meant to hurt you.¡±


    Alexander was silent for a moment, and then he spoke.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can forgive you for this.¡±


    There was silence between them as none knew what to say.


    But Jessie broke the silence.


    ¡°So because¡­ I cheated, you decided to choose Marissa over me?¡±


    Alexander stared at her with anger.


    So she wasn¡¯t remorseful for her actions.


    ¡°So you feel that what you did wasn¡¯t wrong huh, Jessie?¡± Alexander said as he clenched his fist in anger.


    ¡°I¡­ told you then that I wasn¡¯t ready to get married but not that I won¡¯t get married, but you made a decision behind my back and you felt it was the right thing to do under normal circumstances.¡± She said as she folded her arms looking at Alexander.


    Alexander shook his head.


    ¡°I see now, that you would never ept that you did wrong.


    I Alexander Shim never betrayed your love or cheated on you. Yes, I grew feelings for her but was ready to forgo it to just be with you, but when Jaime kept shoving your affair down my face, I knew that he wanted to destroy my rtionship with you so that he could be with you.¡± Alex said.


    ¡°Is that really what you think?¡± Jessie asked, her eyes wide with shock. ¡°You think that Jaime has some kind of ulterior motive? That¡¯s crazy!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not crazy.¡± Alexander said. ¡°Jaime has always beenpetitive with me, and he would do anything to get ahead. You know that as well as I do.¡±


    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean that he was trying to ruin our rtionship.¡± Jessie said, still trying to process the idea. ¡°I think you¡¯re just being paranoid.¡±


    Alexander sighed, feeling exasperated.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t understand how you can¡¯t see what¡¯s going on here.¡± he said. ¡°Jaime has always been jealous of me, and he¡¯s been trying to one-up me our entire lives. It¡¯s not paranoia, it¡¯s reality.¡±


    ¡°But why would he want to break us up?¡± Jessie asked, genuinely confused. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what he has to gain from that.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the most important thing in my life.¡± Alexander said, his voice raw with emotion. ¡°If he can¡¯t have you, then he wants to make sure that I can¡¯t have you either. That¡¯s why he told me about your affair. He wanted to create a wedge between us so that he could try to worm his way into your life.¡±


    Jessie looked at Alexander, her brow furrowed in thought.


    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t make sense,¡± she said. ¡°Why would he go to all that trouble just to try to get with me? We¡¯re not even that close.¡±


    Alexander sighed again, running his hand through his hair.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on in his head,¡± he said. ¡°You sleeping with him was the mistake you made and so he knew that when I found out, I would break up with you. So he threatened to reveal my marriage contract if I didn¡¯t hand over the business contract I got in Switzend to him because he wanted to gain you and the contract together to be able to beat me. But I refused to give in to his demands and chose Marissa and chose to make our marriage real instead of a contract and decided that I don¡¯t have to give in to his demands.¡± Alex said.


    Jessie was silent for a moment, taking in what Alexander had said.


    ¡°I had no idea he was so maniptive,¡± she said, sounding a bit lost. ¡°I feel like I was a porn in someone else¡¯s game.¡±


    Alexander didn¡¯t say a word as he looked at Jessie who kept shaking and realized that Jaime used her for his gain.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I guess, you never knew the devil you were sleeping with huh while pretending that you loved me huh?¡± Alex said, his face showing disgust.


    ¡°I¡­. i.. don¡¯t know¡­¡± She stammered as words failed her.


    Alexander stood up and spoke.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we have anything else to discuss. So I will take my leave,¡± he said that and walked out of the cafe leaving Jessie in shock at what she just heard.

 Jamie Other Side

    Jessie sat at the table, her mind reeling. She couldn¡¯t believe that her rtionship with Alexander had ended like this, and that she had been so blind to Jaime¡¯s true intentions. She felt betrayed, and alone.


    As she sat there, lost in thought, she noticed something out of the corner of her eye. It was a small piece of paper, half-hidden under a napkin. She picked it up and unfolded it.


    It was a note from Alexander.


    It read: ¡°Jessie,


    I¡¯m sorry for the way things turned out. I know it¡¯s not what you wanted, and I hate that I was a part of that. But I want you to know that I care about you, and I¡¯m always here for you. I know that you might not believe me right now, but it¡¯s the truth.


    I hope that one day we can be friends again. Until then, take care of yourself. You deserve to be happy.


    Love, Alexander.¡±


    Jessie¡¯s eyes filled with tears as she read the note. She knew that things would never be the same between her and Alexander, but she was grateful for his kind words. It was clear that he still cared about her, even if they couldn¡¯t be together.


    She put the note in her pocket and took a deep breath. She knew that she needed to move on, and that the best way to do that was to focus on herself. She had to find a way to be happy, and to find a life that was meaningful for her.


    As she sat there, she felt tears flowing down her face. The waiter came to her table and noticed she wasn¡¯t okay.


    ¡°Are you alright ma¡¯am?¡± He asked.


    Jessie shook her head and looked at him.


    ¡°I would like to order now¡­.¡± She said as tears kept trying to fall down her face, but she kept it in.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, I had no idea.¡± the waiter said. ¡°What can I get you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have the chicken pasta,¡± she said, her voice barely audible. ¡°And a ss of water, please.¡±


    The waiter nodded and went to ce her order. Jessie sat there, trying topose herself. She took a few deep breaths and tried to focus on her surroundings. The cafe was busy, and she could hear the sound of people talking andughing. It was a bit of a relief to be around other people, even if she didn¡¯t know them.


    As she sat there in the cafe, she felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. She pulled it out and saw that she had a text message from a number she didn¡¯t recognize. She opened it, and was surprised to see that it was from Jaime.


    ¡°Hey Jessie, I need you to meet meter today at that restaurant we metst time. There¡¯s something I want to discuss with you.¡±


    Jessie closed her phone and told herself she doesn¡¯t want to have anything to do with him anymore.


    She med herself for ruining her perfect rtionship. If she hadn¡¯t obsessed herself with her work, she and Alex might still be together.


    Now she cheated and the worse part was with Jaime who she knew that Alex despised.


    She felt a sinking feeling in her stomach. She knew that she couldn¡¯t ignore the text, even though she wanted to. She knew that she had to meet with Jaime and find out what he wanted to say. She didn¡¯t want to, but she knew that she had to.


    She got up from the table and walked out of the cafe, her mind racing. She wasn¡¯t sure what to do, but she knew that she had to face Jaime and find out what he wanted.


    She got in her car and started the engine. As she drove, she couldn¡¯t stop thinking about what had happened. She felt ashamed and guilty, and she couldn¡¯t believe that she had let things get so out of control. She wondered if there was any way to fix things, or if they were beyond repair.


    She pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant and took a deep breath. She knew that she had to face this head-on, and she wasn¡¯t sure if she was ready. But she had to do it, no matter how hard it was.


    She got out of her car and walked into the restaurant. She spotted Jaime sitting at a table in the corner, and her heart started to race.


    As she approached the table, she saw that Jaime had a serious expression on his face. He stood up as she approached.


    ¡°Hi, Jessie,¡± he said, his voice sounding calm.


    ¡°Thank you foring.¡±


    ¡°What do you want, Jaime?¡± she said, her voice cold and unfriendly.


    She didn¡¯t want to show any emotion, and she didn¡¯t want to let him see how much he had hurt her.


    He smirked.


    ¡°I guess Alexander has told you that he has found out about our affair right?¡±


    She looked at him with anger and disgust.


    ¡°So it was your n all along to get me to cheat on Alexander so that you could get me and hurt him huh? You asshole!¡± She yelled.


    Jaime, who folded his arm, smiled.


    ¡°I knew that you would react this way.¡± he said, his voice still calm. ¡°I knew that you would be angry, and I understand that. But I need you to understand that I wanted to hurt Alexander so much.¡±


    ¡°And so I was the way to do that huh?¡± She said, anger in her voice. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I hurt Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Well, what can I say other than, you thought you were gonna get what you wanted but I wasn¡¯t gonna let you go back to him and leave me. Alexander had always got what he wanted and I was always left with nothing. I guess I wanted something for myself and that was when I saw you and told myself that I was gonna split you two up.¡±

 The Devil

    ¡°And ding dong! I seeded!¡± He said and startedughing.


    ¡°You¡¯re a monster!¡± Jessie yelled.


    A dark smile spread across Jaime¡¯s face, and the cruelty in his eyes was unmistakable.


    ¡°Oh, but I¡¯m not a monster, my dear. I¡¯m just a man who knows what he wants and isn¡¯t afraid to take it. And what I wanted was to destroy your rtionship with Alexander, and I did. Isn¡¯t that what you wanted? For him to suffer as much as you did?¡± he asked, a mocking tone in his voice. ¡°But now you know the truth, and it¡¯s not a pretty one, is it?¡±


    Jessie felt sick to her stomach. She wanted to run away, but she was frozen in ce. She couldn¡¯t believe that she actually slept with such a monster.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I slept with you. You¡¯re such a monster!¡±


    Jaime scoffed.


    ¡°So now that I have you, all I need to do is break Alexander until there¡¯s nothing left for him.¡±


    Jessie furrowed.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    Jaime smiled a grim smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to take everything that Alex has and make sure he doesn¡¯t recover from it¡­ I¡¯m gonna destroy his life by taking hispany, contract and that new bride of his.¡± He revealed.


    Jessie couldn¡¯t believe that she was involved with such a monster.


    Jessie felt a wave of panic wash over her. She couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing.


    ¡°What are you going to do?¡± she asked, her voice trembling.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to make Alexander¡¯s life a living hell.¡± Jaime said, his eyes glittering with malice. ¡°I¡¯m going to take everything he has and make sure he never gets it back. And I¡¯m going to do it with your help.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Jessie shouted, her heart racing. ¡°I won¡¯t help you do that to him!¡±


    Jaime¡¯s face twisted into a cruel smile.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have a choice.¡± he said, his voice low and menacing. ¡°You see, I have something on you, and if you don¡¯t do what I say, I¡¯ll make sure everyone finds out about it.¡±


    Jessie felt a knot of fear in her stomach. What could he possibly have on her? She had never done anything wrong, so what could he use against her?


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± she asked, dreading the answer.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say that your little tryst with Jaime wasn¡¯t as secret as you thought it was.¡± he said, his words. ¡°If word got out that you slept with me when you were dating Alexander Shim, you know what they would call you?  A whore! And also, you will lose your job you so desperately wanted a promotion.¡± He revealed.


    Jessie realized that she had slept with the devil without her knowing and now she¡¯s in a lot of mess.


    Jessie felt like the world was closing in on her. She had thought she was so careful, but clearly she had made a mistake. And now it was going to cost her everything. She didn¡¯t know what to do. She felt lost and alone, like there was no one she could turn to.


    *


    Meanwhile, Marissa had just returned from the hospital after she had visited her brother and decided to rx on the couch and watch tv when she heard the doorbell.


    She wondered who it was and decided to ask before she opened the door.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± she called out.


    A familiar voice replied, ¡°It¡¯s me, Anderson.¡±


    Marissa felt a surge of relief at the sound of her friend¡¯s voice. She opened the door, and Anderson walked in,


    ¡°Mr. Anderson, what brings you here?¡± she asked, concerned.


    He sat down on the couch and spoke.


    ¡°I called Alexander and he informed me that you were home, because I told him that I wanted to see him to discuss something.¡± he said.


    ¡°Oh¡­ I hope there¡¯s no problem?¡± she asked, concern on her face.


    ¡°No, not at all. I just wanted to see him and discuss work rted matters. You know since I am hiswyer and all.¡± he said, trying to reassure her, but Marissa felt there was something going on and Anderson didn¡¯t want to tell her.


    ¡°So you are now officially Alexander Shim¡¯s wife since he announced that he wants to make his marriage with you public.¡± Anderson said, trying to change the topic to ease the tension in the air.


    Marissa scratched her hair and blushed. ¡°Yeah¡­ I guess I am.¡±


    Anderson noticed that she blushed and smiled. ¡°Well, I¡¯m d that you¡¯re happy. I actually had liked you from the very first day we met when you spoke the honest truth to Alex. Telling him he was an asshole and a selfish, arrogant prick.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha¡­ yeah, I guess I kinda did.¡± sheughed.N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°Well, thanks to you for speaking out the truth to him. He needed to hear that and I guess that¡¯s what made him change.¡± Anderson said.


    Marissa smiled.


    ¡°What can I get you?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Can I have a cup of coffee?¡± Anderson asked. ¡°Please, and make it strong.¡±


    Marissa smiled and went into the kitchen to make Anderson a cup of coffee. As she filled the pot with water, she thought about the conversation she¡¯d just had with Anderson. She was still a little confused about what was going on with him and Alex, but she was d that Alex seemed to be changing for the better. She hoped that the changes were real, and not just a temporary thing.


    When the coffee was ready, she poured a cup for Anderson and brought it to him. He took a sip and let out a satisfied sigh.


    ¡°This is just what I needed.¡± he said, his eyes closing for a moment. ¡°Thank you, Marissa.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± she said, feeling a bit more at ease. ¡°I¡¯m d I could help.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve helped more than you know.¡± he said, his eyes meeting hers. ¡°Thank you for being a friend and a fake wife to Alexander when he really needed one.¡±

 Anderson Sincerity

    Marissa felt a lump in her throat. She had never expected to hear those words from Anderson, and they touched her deeply. She wasn¡¯t sure what to say, so she decided to change the subject.


    ¡°So how¡¯s work going?¡± she asked, feeling a bit nervous.


    Anderson took another sip of his coffee and smiled. ¡°Work is good. I¡¯m actually in the process of expanding myw firm, and I¡¯m very excited about it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great!¡± Marissa said, feeling a bit relieved that they were on safer ground. ¡°What kind of expansion are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m opening a second location in the city.¡± he said, his eyes sparkling with excitement. ¡°It¡¯s going to be a huge undertaking, but I think it will be well worth it in the end. I¡¯m going to be able to help even more people, and that¡¯s what really matters to me.¡±This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°That¡¯s amazing.¡± Marissa said, feeling a sense of pride and admiration for Anderson. ¡°I know how hard you¡¯ve worked to get to where you are, and it¡¯s great to see you expanding your reach. Do you have a timeline for the expansion?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m hoping to have the new location up and running by the end of the year.¡± he said, taking another sip of his coffee. ¡°It¡¯s going to be a lot of work, but I think it will be worth it in the end. The new location is going to berger than the current one, and I¡¯m going to be able to take on more clients. I¡¯m also going to be able to offer more services, which I think will be a big draw for people. It¡¯s going to be a lot of work, but I¡¯m up for the challenge.¡±


    ¡°That sounds really exciting.¡± Marissa said, genuinely impressed by Anderson¡¯s ns. ¡°It¡¯s great that you¡¯re so passionate about what you do. Not many people can say that about their work.¡±


    Anderson nodded. ¡°I feel very fortunate to be doing what I love, and to be able to help people while I¡¯m doing it. It¡¯s a win-win, really.¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t agree more.¡± Marissa said, feeling more at ease as they continued to chat. ¡°So, what made you decide to expand? Was it something you¡¯ve been thinking about for a while, or was it a more recent decision?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s something I¡¯ve been thinking about for a while.¡± Anderson said, his eyes lighting up as he talked about his ns. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about how I can do more to help people, and I realized that the best way to do that was to expand my reach. I want to be able to help as many people as possible, and this is the best way to do that. I¡¯m also hoping that it will allow me to provide more services to those who need them the most. It¡¯s not just about making money, it¡¯s about making a difference.¡±


    Marissa was struck by Anderson¡¯s sincerity. It was clear that he was passionate about his work, and that he genuinely wanted to make a difference in people¡¯s lives. She felt a sense of admiration and respect for him.


    ¡°I think that it¡¯s amazing that you¡¯re somitted to helping others.¡± she said, her voice full of admiration. ¡°It¡¯s not every day that you meet someone who is so passionate about their work, and it¡¯s refreshing to see. Do you find that your work is rewarding, even when it¡¯s difficult?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely.¡± Anderson said, without hesitation. ¡°Even when things are tough, I know that I¡¯m doing something meaningful. I know that I¡¯m making a difference in people¡¯s lives, and that¡¯s what keeps me going. I feel like I¡¯m doing something worthwhile, and that makes all the difference.¡±


    ¡°I guess you and Alexander have so much inmon. That¡¯s why you guys are friends.¡± she said.


    Anderson nodded and smiled.


    ¡°Well, you see, I met Alexander at an event at thepany where I was handling their legal affairs and he was interested in my work after he heard from one of the invitees that I was apetentwyer and I always do my work well.


    So he walked up to me and offered me a job at hispany. I had also heard about his annoying attitude and how he treated his staff. I didn¡¯t want to work for such an arrogant prick as you called him, but when I started getting to know him, he wasn¡¯t that bad. Yeah, he had his ws but he was kind and innocent. He believed in giving his best at work and making sure that we deliver the best result so that otherpanies, investors can feel rest assured. I guess that¡¯s why he¡¯s the best at what he does.¡± Anderson said.


    Marissa was struck by how much Anderson respected and admired Alexander. It was clear that he saw something in Alexander that others didn¡¯t. It was a side of Alexander that she hadn¡¯t seen before, and it made her wonder if there was more to him than she realized.


    ¡°It sounds like you and Alexander have a strong working rtionship.¡± Marissa said, trying to understand what made their connection so special. ¡°What is it about him that you admire so much?¡±


    Anderson thought for a moment, and then spoke.


    ¡°I admire his drive and his determination.¡± he said, his voice full of admiration.


    ¡°Alexander is always striving to be the best, and he never gives up. Even when things are tough, he keeps pushing through. I admire that resilience and determination. It¡¯s inspiring to see someone who is so passionate about what they do. And on top of that, he¡¯s a really good person. He cares about others and wants to make a difference in the world. I think that¡¯s really admirable.¡±


    Marissa nodded, her mind racing as she considered what Anderson had said. She had never thought of Alexander in that way, but now she could see why Anderson respected him so much. It was clear that Alexander had made an impression on Anderson, and that their rtionship was more than just a professional one.

 Anderson Sincerity (2)

    It was a true friendship, built on mutual respect and admiration.


    ¡°I can see why you admire him so much.¡± Marissa said, her voice soft. ¡°It¡¯s clear that you two have a special connection.¡±


    Anderson smiled, his eyes warm.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I feel lucky to have him as a friend.¡± he said, his voice sincere. ¡°It¡¯s not often that you find someone who you connect with on so many levels. Alexander is a special person, and I¡¯m grateful to have him in my life.¡±


    ¡°How did he meet Jessie? And what did he see in her that made him choose her?¡± she asked.


    Anderson was quiet for a moment before he spoke.


    ¡°Would I say love at first sight?¡± he said thoughtfully.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s fair to say that Alexander was struck by Jessie the moment heid eyes on her. There was just something about her that drew him in. But I think it was more than just her looks.


    Alexander saw something in Jessie that he didn¡¯t see in other women. She had a spark, a fire that he couldn¡¯t resist. And when he got to know her, he realized that she was a kind andpassionate person.


    She had a big heart, and she was always willing to help others. She was a person of integrity, and that¡¯s something that Alexander values.¡±


    Marissa listened


    ¡°But the only w she had was her obsession for her job and needing a promotion at her work ce so badly.


    They were connecting so much and spending time together until her boss informed her that thepany was nning a promotion and so she became obsessed about it and began spending less time with Alexander and she just changed.¡± he exined.


    ¡°Alexander, at first thought maybe it was work stress, but it became frequent and he didn¡¯t know what to do about it.


    They had discussed it and she had promised to make time so that they could spend time together, but she never kept her promise.


    So when this contract Alexander had been waiting for long came, he asked her to marry him, but she rejected him on the phone saying that she wasn¡¯t ready to get married because of her promotion.


    She actually told him that if she gets married, they won¡¯t give her the promotion she had been working so hard to get.¡± he said, as he took another sip of his coffee.


    Marissa sighed.


    ¡°I guess that was why he resorted to contract marriage with me.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and I think that was the best decision he made and honestly, it changed Alex into bing a better man.


    The love you showed him changed him, Marissa. He told me about how you wake up early in the morning and prepare him breakfast when he had an early morning meeting and you also gave some to his driver.


    You showed him love in your little kind gesture and I guess that¡¯s what made him fall in love with you.


    Then when you went to Switzend together to meet the client to sign the contract and when they asked you those questions.


    The way you answered with such great poise, he was impressed by your action and fell in love with you more.¡± he said.


    Marissa blushed as she heard him say those words.


    ¡°That¡¯s why he chose to officially announce you as the woman he wants to marry to the world,¡± he said.


    Then Marissa¡¯s expression changed to a sad one.


    ¡°But what about Jessie? She must be feeling betrayed and hurt by what Alexander did.¡± she said.


    ¡°I think Jessie was aware of the fact that Alexander loved her more than the way she loved him.¡± Anderson said.


    ¡°She knew that she was his girlfriend and I guess she felt that Alex was never gonna leave her. She took him for granted that I must say and did other stuff she shouldn¡¯t have done.¡±


    Marissa looked at him, her eyes wide. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I think Jessie took advantage of the fact that Alexander loved her more than the way she loved him.¡± Anderson said, choosing his words carefully.


    ¡°I think she knew that he wasn¡¯t going to leave her, and so she did things that she wouldn¡¯t have done if she had been more aware of his feelings.¡±


    Marissa listened, her eyes still wide. ¡°Like what?¡± she asked, her voice shaky.


    Anderson took a deep breath. ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say she did some things that she shouldn¡¯t have done and I guess that was what ruined her rtionship with Alexander.¡±


    Marissa¡¯s stomach tightened as she wondered what those things were. She wasn¡¯t sure if she wanted to know, but she couldn¡¯t help but feel curious.


    ¡°Are you sure you want me to tell you?¡± Anderson asked, his tone hesitant. ¡°It¡¯s not a very pleasant story.¡±


    Marissa swallowed hard. ¡°Yes, I want to know.¡± she said, her voice firm.


    Anderson took a deep breath.


    ¡°She slept with Jaime Fernado when she went on thest trip to Singapore and that was why Jaime used it to threaten him along with you and his contract marriage to threaten Alexander. He told Alex that he would reveal everything at theunch event if Alex doesn¡¯t hand over the contract to him, but Alex didn¡¯t and officially broke up with her and chose you.¡±


    Marissa felt somehow and realized that this whole fight wasn¡¯t over and that maybe the person who sent the ne was Jaime dering war against Alex and she feels that Alex might know too but didn¡¯t tell her. But why?


    Marissa felt a wave of nausea wash over her as she listened to Anderson¡¯s story. She couldn¡¯t believe that Jessie had been so reckless, and that her actions had hurt Alex so deeply. She couldn¡¯t imagine what Alex must have been feeling when he found out about her betrayal. She wondered how he had been able to stay strong in the face of such pain.


    Just then, Alex entered.

 The Bad Guy

    Jessie returned to her apartment and threw her bag on the couch. How could she fall for Jaime¡¯s trap and now she¡¯s gonna pay dearly for it, especially her career. If it gets out, she might lose her job or worse would never get promoted at work.


    Jessie¡¯s mind was racing as she thought about the possible consequences of her actions. She felt guilty and ashamed of herself, but she also felt scared about what might happen next. Her career was on the line, and she didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Should she tell Alex what had happened? Or should she keep it to herself and hope that Jaime never told anyone? Either way, she felt like she was in a no-win situation.


    As she sat on the couch, tears started to fall down her face. She was overwhelmed with emotions and didn¡¯t know what to do next.


    Suddenly, there was a knock on her door. She froze, not knowing what to do. Was it Jaime? Or was it someone else? She stood up, her heart pounding in her chest, and made her way to the door. She hesitated for a moment, then slowly opened it.


    Standing in the doorway was Marissa. She looked at her with a worried expression on her face.


    ¡°Jessie, are you okay?¡± she asked.


    Jessie¡¯s stomach dropped. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to meet Marissa¡¯s gaze. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡± she stammered.


    ¡°Can Ie in?¡± Marissa asked.


    Jessie nodded, stepping back to allow Marissa to enter. She closed the door behind her and turned to face Marissa.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Jessie?¡± Marissa asked, her voice full of concern. ¡°You seem upset. Did something happen?¡±


    Jessie hesitated for a moment, not knowing what to say. Finally, she said, ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know. What are you doing here? And how did you find my ce?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Well¡­. um¡­. Anderson told me about this ce and Alexander¡¯s driver dropped me off at the front of your apartment and he¡¯s waiting for me downstairs.¡± she said.


    ¡°So I guess you and Alexander are officially gonna get married and so you are no longer a fake wife but you¡¯re gonna be the real wife.¡± Jessie said, as she sat down on her couch.


    Marissa didn¡¯t say anything at the words Jessie said.


    The room was silent for a moment, the only sound was the ticking of a clock on the wall. Marissa took a deep breath, then spoke.


    ¡°Jessie, I didn¡¯te here to gloat to your face or make you feel terrible.¡±


    Jessie looked at her.


    ¡°Then why did youe?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I came because I was worried about you.¡±


    Jessie scoffed.


    ¡°You¡¯re worried about me? You wanted toe and see if I was drowning myself in alcohol and crying about how I got dumped by my own boyfriend who is now your soon to be husband huh?¡±


    Marissa shook her head. ¡°That¡¯s not why I came, Jessie. I came because I care about you as a person, and I wanted to make sure that you were okay. I don¡¯t want to see you in pain, and I certainly don¡¯t want to see you drown yourself in alcohol or anything else. You¡¯re a good person, and you deserve to be happy.¡±Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Jessie¡¯s expression softened, but her voice was still heavy with sadness. ¡°I¡¯m not happy, Marissa. I feel like my whole world has fallen apart. Everything I thought I knew about myself and my rtionship has been turned upside down, and I don¡¯t know what to do next. I feel so lost.¡±


    Marissa reached out and took Jessie¡¯s hand. ¡°I know it must feel that way right now, but I promise you, you¡¯ll get through this. You¡¯re a strong, intelligent woman, and you¡¯ll find a way to pick up the pieces and move on. It may not be easy, but it will be worth it in the end.¡±


    Jessie looked down at their joined hands. ¡°How can you be so sure?¡± she asked.


    Marissa gave her a small smile. ¡°Because I¡¯ve been there and I know how it feels to lose the one thing that¡¯s precious to you.¡± she expressed.


    ¡°I lost my parents when I was still in high school and so I had to do a lot of things myself which included taking care of my brother and trust me, it wasn¡¯t easy. So when my brother fell ill and I had to take him to the hospital, the doctor informed me that he was gonna die if they didn¡¯t perform surgery for him. I didn¡¯t have any money for the surgery and at that moment, a lot of thoughts were crossing my mind and one of them was maybe I should give up because I had no one to ask for help and I had no means to pay his bills.


    That was when hope came through for me and brought Alexander into my life and so I decided to be his contract wife but only for three months.


    It was never my intention toe in between the two of you.¡± she said.


    Jessie was silent as she took in Marissa¡¯s story. It was a heartbreaking tale, and she could only imagine the pain and fear that Marissa must have felt at that time. She could see the sadness and strength in Marissa¡¯s eyes, and she realized that Marissa had been through a lot in her life.


    ¡°That¡¯s terrible.¡± she said softly. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine how hard that must have been for you. I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    Marissa gave her a small smile. ¡°It was hard, but I made it through. And you will too, Jessie. You¡¯ll get through this.¡± she assured Jessie.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I would be able to forgive myself. And the surprising thing is that Alexander felt that it was his fault I got dragged into this whole issue.¡± Jessie said.


    ¡°I guess, he realized that it wasn¡¯t your fault that everything happened. Jaime is the bad guy here and he used you to get what he wanted.

 Alexander Deal

    ¡°But you¡¯re stronger and better than him and should not let his words or what he said get to you and be brave and stand up to him anytime he stands and threatens to reveal anything.¡± Marissa encouraged.


    Jessie smiled and then got up.


    ¡°Let me get you something to drink.¡± she said, and went to the kitchen to get Marissa something to drink.


    Unknown to her, Jessie ced something in her drink and walked towards Marissa and offered her a drink and waited for Marissa to take it.


    Marissa collected the drink and drank it while Jessie smiled a grim smile.


    A few minutester, Marissa started feeling dizzy and her vision became blurry. She started to feel lightheaded and soon she was unable to stand.


    Jessie watched her closely, a cold smile on her face. She had finally gotten her revenge on Marissa.


    ¡°You never should have trusted me.¡± Jessie said, her voice cold. ¡°You should have known that I was never your friend.¡±


    Marissa could barely make out the words, but she knew that something was wrong. She tried to stand up, but her legs wouldn¡¯t cooperate. She fell to the floor, unable to move.


    Marissa¡¯s mind was racing, trying to make sense of what was happening. Was she having a stroke? Was she dying? She couldn¡¯t move, couldn¡¯t speak. All she could do was lie there and try to breathe.


    Just then she saw when Jessie walked over to her door and open the door allowing a man who when he came closer, she identified as Jaime Fernado.


    He bent over to her and looked at her and smiled.


    ¡°A¡­ look at you all paralyzed and unable to move your body. This should be enough to make Alexander give up the contract to me because he has to save his beloved woman from dying.¡± Jaime said, smiling.


    Marissa¡¯s heart started racing even faster. She couldn¡¯t believe that Jaime had done this to her. She tried to speak, but no words came out. She could only make a small whimpering sound.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to worry, my dear.¡± Jaime said, his tone cruel. ¡°I¡¯ve given you something that will make you feel very sleepy. In a few minutes, you¡¯ll fall into a deep sleep, and then you¡¯ll never wake up again. It will be like a peaceful slumber.¡±


    Tears started to roll down Marissa¡¯s cheeks. She was scared, and she didn¡¯t know what to do. She tried to think of a way to escape, but her body wouldn¡¯t cooperate.


    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡± she managed to croak out. ¡°I never did anything to you.¡±


    Jaime chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong, my dear. You and your fiance took what was mine ¨C the contract with the Switzendpany. You cost me millions of dors. Now it¡¯s time for you to pay the price.¡±N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°Alexander worked so hard to get the contract and so he deserved the contract. You just want to win and don¡¯t care about the contract.


    Jessie, he doesn¡¯t care about you. All he sees you as is a trophy he won from Alexander. Don¡¯t let him win.¡± she said, still on the floor.


    ¡°Shut the fuck up!¡± Jaime yelled as he pped her on the floor.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± Marissa said, her voice shaking.


    ¡°Alexander and I are in love. He cares about me, and I care about him. He¡¯s a good man, and he would never do anything to hurt me. You¡¯re the one who¡¯s trying to win, not him. You¡¯re just trying to take everything away from him, and that¡¯s not right.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about what you think.¡± Jaime said, his voice cold. ¡°You¡¯re nothing but a pawn in this game, and I¡¯m going to win.¡±


    Marissa closed her eyes as a single tear rolled down her cheek. She felt defeated and alone, and she didn¡¯t know how she was going to get out of this situation.


    She had to think of something, anything, to save herself. But as shey there, her mind was nk. She couldn¡¯t think of a single thing to do.


    Suddenly, she heard a noise outside the door. Footsteps. Someone wasing.


    She held her breath, trying to stay quiet. Maybe it was a way out, maybe someone wasing to help her. But as the footsteps grew closer, she realized who it was. It was Alexander.


    Marissa heard Alexander¡¯s voice as he spoke to Jaime. ¡°Get away from her.¡± he said, his voice angry.


    ¡°And why should I do that?¡± Jaime said, sounding amused. ¡°I¡¯m just having a little fun here.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to hurt her.¡± Alexander said, his voice firm. ¡°I won¡¯t let you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re in no position to make demands.¡± Jaime said, his tone mocking. ¡°I¡¯m the one in control here, not you.¡±


    Alexander was silent for a moment, and Marissa could almost hear him thinking. Then he spoke again, his voice calm and measured. ¡°You¡¯re right, I can¡¯t make demands. But I can make a deal.¡±


    ¡°A deal?¡± Jaime said, sounding skeptical. ¡°What kind of deal?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you the contract.¡± Alexander said. ¡°But you have to leave Marissa alone. She¡¯s not involved in this, and she shouldn¡¯t be hurt because of what¡¯s happened between us.¡±


    Marissa held her breath, listening to every word. She couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing. Alexander was offering the contract to Jaime, the very thing he¡¯d been fighting so hard to protect. But she knew why he was doing it. He was doing it for her. He was putting her safety above everything else. It was a selfless, noble thing to do, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel a rush of love for him.


    ¡°You¡¯d give up the contract just like that?¡± Jaime said, his voice disbelieving. ¡°I find that hard to believe.¡±


    ¡°I mean it.¡± Alexander said. ¡°You leave Marissa alone, and the contract is yours.¡±


    There was a long silence, and Marissa could almost imagine the look on Jaime¡¯s face. Finally, he spoke.

 Close Call

    ¡°I¡¯ll take the deal.¡± he said, sounding grudgingly impressed. ¡°But only if you make one more concession.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Alexander asked, his voice wary.


    ¡°I want you to sign over full control of yourpany to me.¡± Jaime said. ¡°I want to be in charge of it, with no interference from you.¡±


    Marissa felt her heart sink. That was too much to ask, wasn¡¯t it? There was no way Alexander would agree to that. But to her surprise, she heard him speak.


    ¡°I ept.¡± he said, his voice steady. ¡°If it means Marissa is safe, I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Marissa felt tears well up in her eyes. She didn¡¯t know whether to feel happy or sad. She was d that Alexander was protecting her, but she hated the thought of him giving up hispany. It was his life¡¯s work, and he¡¯d put so much into it. Was it really worth it to save her?


    Then she realized something. Alexander loved her enough to make that sacrifice. He was willing to give up everything he¡¯d worked for to keep her safe. And that was the most amazing thing she¡¯d ever heard. She felt a rush of love for him, more powerful than anything she¡¯d ever felt before.


    ¡°I love you.¡± she said, the words slipping out before she could stop them.


    There was a moment of silence, and then Alexander spoke. ¡°I love you too.¡± he said, and the words sounded like the most precious thing in the world.


    Marissa felt as if her heart was going to burst. She¡¯d never been so happy in her life.


    ¡°You¡¯ll really sign over yourpany?¡± she asked, still not quite believing it was true.


    ¡°I will.¡± Alexander said. ¡°But there¡¯s one thing I need from you in return.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Marissa asked, a little nervous now. What else could he possibly ask for?


    ¡°I want you to be my wife.¡± Alexander said, his voice soft but full of conviction. ¡°I want you to be my real wife, not just a contract wife. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help but smile. She didn¡¯t need to think about it. She already knew her answer.


    But, Jaime cut their little romantic discussion short.


    ¡°Enough! I need you to call your personal assistant and inform him to do all the paperwork to hand over the contract and thepany to me.¡± Jaime said.


    Just then Jaime felt something hit him from behind and when he turned he realized that Jessie had hit him with a hard object and Jaime was pissed as he touched his head that was bleeding.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°What the hell did you do that for?¡± Jaime demanded, his face twisted in rage. ¡°You¡¯ve just made the biggest mistake of your life.¡±


    ¡°I did what I had to do.¡± Jessie said, her voice quivering but firm. ¡°You were never going to let Alex go, and I couldn¡¯t let you take hispany away from him. He¡¯s worked too hard for it.¡±


    Jaime stepped towards her, his eyes zing. ¡°You stupid girl.¡± he said, his voice low and dangerous. ¡°You think you can stop me? You think you can stand in my way?¡±


    Jessie took a deep breath, trying to keep her fear under control. She had to stand up to him, for Alex¡¯s sake. She couldn¡¯t let him win.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you win.¡± she said, her voice steady. ¡°You may be stronger than me, but I¡¯m not going to give up. I¡¯ll fight you until the end.¡±


    For a moment, Jaime just stared at her, as if he was trying to figure out whether she was serious or not. Then he startedughing, a low, mockingugh that sent a chill down Jessie¡¯s spine.


    ¡°You really think you can stop me?¡± he said, stillughing. ¡°You¡¯re nothing but a weak little girl, trying to y at being a hero. You¡¯re not a hero, Jessie. You¡¯re just a fool who¡¯s going to get herself hurt. And for what? For a man who doesn¡¯t even love you?¡±


    Jessie felt the tears starting to well up in her eyes, but she wouldn¡¯t let them fall. She wouldn¡¯t let him see her cry. She had to stay strong, for Alex¡¯s sake.


    ¡°You¡¯re wrong.¡± she said, her voice steady despite the tears that threatened to spill over ¡°I¡¯m not doing this for Alex. I¡¯m doing it for me. I won¡¯t let you control my life or anyone else¡¯s. You¡¯re a bully and a coward, and I won¡¯t let you win.¡±


    Jaime¡¯s face darkened, and for a moment Jessie thought he was going to hit her. But instead, he just shook his head.


    ¡°You¡¯re more foolish than I thought.¡± he said, his voice full of contempt. ¡°You¡¯ll regret this, Jessie. You¡¯ll regret ever crossing me.¡±


    And with that, he rushed at Jessie, but Alexander rushed at him and punched him and they both started fighting. Jessie rushed over to Marissa and gave her the antidote to help her regain her strength back.


    ¡°We need to call the police.¡± she informed Jessie.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve called the police, they should be here any minute.¡±


    Marissa nodded, feeling a wave of relief wash over her. But that relief was short-lived, as she heard the sound of gunshots from the other room. Jessie and Marissa looked at each other, their eyes wide with fear. They didn¡¯t dare move, frozen in ce by the terror of what they might find if they went to see what had happened.


    Finally, they heard footstepsing towards them, and they both held their breath, not knowing what to expect. But it was the police, who had arrived to break up the fight.


    The officers arrested Jaime and took him away, and Alex and Marissa were both taken to the hospital to be checked out. Jessie was relieved to see that Alex was okay, but she couldn¡¯t help but feel shaken by the whole experience.


    She hade so close to losing everything ¨C her job, her freedom, and even her life.

 Remarry (Epilogue)

    ¡°Thank you.¡± she said to Jessie, who was sitting next to her in the hospital bed. ¡°You saved my life.¡±


    Jessie smiled, her eyes shining with tears. ¡°You would have done the same for me.¡± she said. ¡°We¡¯re friends after all.¡±


    Marissa smiled and nodded.


    ¡°Yes, we are.¡±


    The next few days were a blur for Marissa. She spent most of her time in the hospital, recovering from her ordeal and trying to process everything that had happened. She was grateful to be alive, but she couldn¡¯t help but feel like something had changed inside her.


    Alexander stayed by her side until she was released from the hospital. Jaime was sentenced to jail for assault and attempted murder, and Marissa couldn¡¯t help but feel relieved that he was off the streets and unable to hurt anyone else.


    After she was discharged, she and Alexander decided to go and pay her brother a visit in the hospital.


    When they got there, Marissa introduced Alexander to her brother and her brother to Alexander.


    ¡°Alexander, this is my lovely brother Samuel Preah and Sam, this is Alexander Shim, my fiance.¡± she introduced.


    Marissa¡¯s brother, who was sitting on the hospital bed, smiled and shook Alexander¡¯s hand.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you, Alexander.¡± Sam said, his voice hoarse but full of warmth. ¡°I¡¯ve heard a lot about you from Marissa.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ve heard a lot about you from Marissa.¡± Alexander replied, smiling at the two of them. ¡°She speaks very highly of you.¡±


    Sam chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if that¡¯s a good thing or a bad thing,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯s told you all my embarrassing stories.¡±


    ¡°She has, but I won¡¯t hold them against you.¡± Alexander said,ughing along with him.


    ¡°How¡¯s the recovery going?¡± Alexander asked, turning serious. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    Sam sighed. ¡°It¡¯s been tough, but I¡¯m getting there,¡± he said. ¡°The doctors say I should be out of the hospital in a few weeks.¡±Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°That¡¯s great news.¡± Alexander said, smiling. ¡°It must be nice to know that you¡¯ll be able to go home soon.¡±


    Sam nodded. ¡°It is, and honestly, I can¡¯t wait to return to school and be free to y and be with my school mates again.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit.¡± Alexander said, pping him on the shoulder. ¡°You¡¯re going to be back to your old self in no time.¡±


    Sam grinned. ¡°That¡¯s the n.¡± he said. ¡°And then I¡¯ll beat you at basketball.¡±


    Alexander looked at him with a surprise expression.


    ¡°Yeah, my sister told me that you love basketball and other cool games. So let¡¯s y basketball when I get out of the hospital.¡± Sam said.


    ¡°But I¡¯m sure that I¡¯m gonna beat you.¡±


    Alexanderughed. ¡°You¡¯re on.¡± he said. ¡°But you¡¯ll have to get past me first.¡±


    The two of them bantered back and forth for a while, and Marissa couldn¡¯t help but smile. It was good to see her brother in such good spirits, even though he was still recovering from a serious illness.


    ¡°It¡¯s wonderful to see how well you¡¯re doing, Sam.¡± Marissa said, her eyes shining with pride. ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you.¡±


    Sam ducked his head, suddenly shy. ¡°Thanks, sis.¡± he said, his cheeks turning pink. ¡°I¡¯m d I¡¯m doing well too. And I¡¯m especially d that you¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°Me too.¡± Marissa said, reaching out to squeeze his hand. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want to be anywhere else.¡±


    The three of them sat there for a while, talking andughing. It was a moment of pure joy,


    **


    Few weekster, Marissa was in the dressing room preparing to get married to Alexander.


    Her makeup artist was doing their work on her face as she smiled to herself. She and Alexander had been through so much in the past few months and everything brought them closer together and now they are officially gonna tie the knot in the presence of everyone who was part of their journey to each other.


    Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. Marissa¡¯s heart started pounding in her chest. Could it be him? Was he early?


    ¡°Come in!¡± she called, her voice wavering slightly.


    The door opened and Marissa¡¯s breath caught in her throat. It was him. Alexander stood there, looking at her with such love and adoration that it took her breath away. He was dressed in a sharp suit, and he looked more handsome than she¡¯d ever seen him.


    ¡°Hello, Mrs. Shim.¡± he said, a smile ying on his lips.


    Marissa felt a blush rising to her cheeks. ¡°Don¡¯t call me that yet.¡± she said, her voice a little shaky. ¡°We¡¯re not married until we say our vows.¡±


    Alexanderughed. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± he said. ¡°Forgive me. Hello, soon-to-be Mrs. Shim.¡±


    Marissa couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°You¡¯re incorrigible.¡± she said, shaking her head. ¡°I¡¯m never going to be able to keep you in line.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the way I like it.¡± Alexander said, winking at her.


    Marissa rolled her eyes, but she couldn¡¯t help but smile. She loved his yful side. It was one of the things that had first drawn her to him. He was always making herugh, even in the darkest of times.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± he asked, holding out his hand to her.


    ¡°As ready as I¡¯ll ever be.¡± Marissa said, taking his hand and standing up. Her heart was pounding in her chest, but it wasn¡¯t from fear. It was from excitement. She couldn¡¯t wait to start her life with him.


    The wedding ceremony was beautiful, and Marissa felt like she was floating on air as she said her vows. She looked into Alexander¡¯s eyes as she pledged her love to him, and she saw the same love reflected back at her. They were truly soulmates, destined to be together.


    As they kissed, Marissa felt like the luckiest woman in the world. She couldn¡¯t wait to start their life together. And as they walked down the aisle as husband and wife, Marissa knew that this was just the beginning of their story.


    The end.


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