Chapter 4

Isabella’s POV

My heels clicked against the polished floor as I followed Noah’s assistant down the hallway. The luxurious surroundings of J-Enterprises were far beyond anything I was used to, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of awe and intimidation but I kept my chin up, determined not to show any vulnerability.

After all, this was my chance.

The assistant stopped outside a large door, knocked lightly, and opened it. “Master Jack is ready to see you now,” she said with a polite smile, stepping aside to let me in.

I squared my shoulders, took a steadying breath, and stepped into the office.

“Noah,” I greeted, my voice steady despite the flurry of nerves in my stomach.

He was already standing, his tall frame exuding authority and confidence as he walked around his desk. His dark eyes met mine, and for a moment, I felt like I was under a microscope. It wasn’t the first time Noah Jack had looked at me like that, but somehow it still made my heart skip a beat.

“Isabella,” he said, his voice warm but laced with something unreadable. He extended a hand, and I shook it briefly. His touch lingered for just a moment longer than necessary before he gestured for me to sit in one of the sleek leather chairs across from his desk.

As I settled in, I couldn’t help but notice how at ease he seemed, like this was just another day for him, while I was fighting to keep my nerves under control.

“Thank you for coming on such short notice,” he began, sitting down and leaning forward slightly, his elbows resting on the desk. “I know you’re a busy woman.”

I tilted my head, a small smile playing on my lips. “I wouldn’t say I’m as busy as the CEO of J-Enterprises, but you’re welcome.”

He chuckled softly, the sound low and rich. “Touché.”

The brief moment of levity passed, and his expression grew more serious. “I wanted to discuss something that I believe could be beneficial for both of us.”

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued but cautious. “I’m listening.”

Noah leaned back in his chair, his dark eyes never leaving mine. “I understand your gallery is struggling. The art world is competitive, and securing the funding and exposure you need can be… challenging.”

My stomach tightened. I hated that he knew about my gallery’s struggles. It wasn’t a secret, but it was still a sore spot for me. “That’s true,” I admitted, keeping my tone neutral.

He nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I want to help you.”

I blinked, taken aback. “You want to help me?”

“Yes.” He leaned forward again, his gaze intent. “I have the resources to turn your gallery into one of the most talked-about spaces in the city. Funding, connections, media coverage—you name it, and I can provide it.”

The offer was tempting. No, it was more than tempting—it was a lifeline. But I knew better than to think someone like Noah Jack would offer something like this out of pure generosity.

“And what do you want in return?” I asked, my voice steady despite the nerves swirling in my chest.

A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips, and he sat back, as if he’d been waiting for that question. “I want you to be my girlfriend.”

My breath hitched, and I stared at him, unsure if I’d heard him correctly. “Your… girlfriend?”

“Yes.” He said the word so casually, like he was discussing the weather. “I need a partner to accompany me to social events, charity galas, and the occasional family dinner. Someone who can handle the spotlight and play the role convincingly.”

I frowned, trying to process his words. “You mean a fake girlfriend.”

Noah’s smile widened slightly, a glint of amusement in his eyes. “You could call it that, but I’d prefer ‘mutually beneficial arrangement.’”

I sat back in my chair, crossing my arms as I studied him. “Why me?”

“You intrigue me,” he said simply. “And you’re not like the people I’m usually surrounded by. You’re genuine, passionate about your work, and smart. Plus”—his lips quirked into a smirk—“you made quite the impression at the gala last night.”

Heat crept up my neck at the memory of last night. I had barely spoken to anyone, let alone made a scene, but somehow Noah had noticed me.

“What happens when the arrangement ends?” I asked, narrowing my eyes.

He shrugged. “We part ways, and you keep the benefits. Your gallery will already be thriving by then.”

I hesitated, torn between the sheer practicality of his offer and the nagging voice in my head telling me this was a terrible idea. “And what about your family? Hennessy?”

His expression darkened at the mention of Hennessy, and for the first time, I saw a flicker of irritation in his otherwise composed demeanor. “I’ll handle my family. You don’t need to worry about them.”

It wasn’t the most reassuring answer, but I decided not to push.

“What if people find out it’s not real?” I asked, my voice quieter now.

“They won’t,” he said confidently. “But even if they do, it won’t matter. By that time, your gallery will be untouchable.”

His certainty was almost convincing. Almost.

I chewed on my lower lip, weighing the pros and cons. On one hand, this could save my gallery and give me a chance to make a name for myself in the art world. On the other hand, getting involved with someone like Noah Jack—even in a fake relationship—was bound to complicate my life.

“Do I get time to think about it?” I finally asked.

His eyes softened, and he nodded. “Take all the time you need. But I’d prefer an answer sooner rather than later. The longer we wait, the harder it will be to keep the media and my family off my back.”

I nodded slowly, my mind already racing with possibilities. “Okay. I’ll think about it.”

“Good.” He stood, walking around the desk to open the door for me. “Let my assistant know when you’ve made your decision.”

I stood as well, smoothing my dress as I walked toward the door. Just before stepping out, I turned back to look at him.

“Noah,” I said, my voice firm.

“Yes?”

“If I agree to this, I want one thing to be clear.”

He raised an eyebrow, waiting.

“This is strictly business. No feelings, no complications.”

A faint smile played on his lips, and he nodded. “Strictly business. Understood.”

But as I left his office, I couldn’t shake the feeling that nothing about this arrangement would stay that simple.