"Lucy, I want you to marry me."
For a split second, Lucy's mind froze, unable to process what she had just heard. She blinked in disbelief, thinking she must have misheard him. Her voice trembled as she asked him to repeat the words, hoping against hope that she had misunderstood.Noah's expression softened, sensing her confusion. "I mean it, Lucy. I want to marry you."Lucy's mind raced, trying to reconcile what Noah had just said with her understanding of their relationship. Noah was her best friend, and he was gay.“What? Why?.” Stunted Lucy asked.Noah took a deep breath, his eyes filled with a mixture of vulnerability and determination. He knew he needed to explain his reasons to Lucy, to help her understand the complexity of his decision. He wanted her to know the depth of his emotions and the weight of his responsibilities."Lucy, I want to marry you because... because I'm the second son of Alpha Alfred," Noah began, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "My family holds a prominent position in the werewolf world, and there are expectations placed upon us that sometimes feel suffocating."Lucy's eyes widened with surprise, her gaze fixed on Noah. She had always known he came from a powerful lineage, but the gravity of his words struck her deeply. He had always tried to explain the werewolf stuff to her ever since he told her his identity of being a werewolf but she never cared. All she knows is that he comes from a powerful lineage."My family's reputation and the business we've built over the years... they're important to us," Noah continued, his voice laden with both affection and concern. "But being gay in our society is still not fully accepted. If people were to find out about my true identity, it could have far-reaching consequences for my family, our standing, and even our business."Lucy's brows furrowed as she absorbed Noah's words. The weight of his responsibilities and the societal pressures he faced became clearer to her. She could sense the pain he carried, hidden behind his unwavering smile. Noah has always been secretive about him being gay. Heck she is the only one that knows. Not that he told her. She had once walked in on him making out with a dude. She immediately fled the scene and later Noah came forward about his sexuality to her. He was afraid of being judged and rejected. But Lucy didn’t treat him any differently than she usually does."And then there's my mother," Noah continued, a hint of weariness in his voice. "She's been asking about my non-existent girlfriend for years, always wanting to see me settled down. It's not just about her expectations; it's the worry she carries for me, for our family's future. Marrying you would allow me to fulfill that expectation and alleviate some of the pressure."Lucy's heart ached for Noah, understanding the weight of his words. She had witnessed the way his family's legacy loomed over him, and the internal struggle he faced between his true identity and the obligations placed upon him."Noah, I can't imagine the burden you've carried," Lucy said softly, reaching across the table to take his hand. "But marriage is a serious commitment, and it shouldn't be entered into under false pretenses. We've always been honest with each other, and I believe that's why our friendship has thrived."Noah nodded, his eyes glistening with gratitude. "You're right, Lucy. Honesty has always been the foundation of our friendship, and I would never want to compromise that. That's why I want you to take your time to consider this. I don't want to pressure you or make you feel obligated. Our friendship will always be invaluable to me, no matter what."Noah hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "I need you to marry me, but only for a year. It will be a temporary arrangement, solely for appearances and to please my parents. After that, we can divorce, and I'll pay you a substantial sum of money. Ten million dollars, to be exact."Lucy's eyes widened in surprise, her mind racing to comprehend the enormity of Noah's request. She felt a mix of emotions—confusion, curiosity, and a tinge of concern. She trusted Noah implicitly, but the idea of entering into a marriage of convenience raised ethical questions and uncertainties within her.Noah continued, his voice steady. "I've thought long and hard about this, Lucy. By marrying you, I can fulfill my family's expectations and protect our business interests, all while ensuring your financial security. It's not an ideal solution, I know, but I believe it's the best way to navigate the delicate balance between my true self and the demands placed upon me."Lucy's brow furrowed, torn between her loyalty to Noah and her own principles. "Noah, I understand your reasons, but this... it feels like a compromise. Marriage should be based on love and honesty, not convenience or financial gain."Noah's eyes pleaded with Lucy, a mix of desperation and vulnerability shining through. "I know it's not ideal, Lucy. But please consider it. This arrangement would be temporary, and we can keep our friendship intact. It would provide you with financial stability, and it would give me the chance to protect my family's legacy."Lucy leaned back in her chair, her mind swirling with conflicting thoughts and emotions. She cared deeply for Noah and wanted to support him, but the notion of entering into a marriage devoid of love and authenticity weighed heavily on her."Noah," Lucy finally spoke, her voice filled with compassion. "I appreciate your honesty and trust in me. But I can't give you an answer right now. This is a significant decision that needs careful consideration. We need to think about the implications and the effects it may have on both of our lives."Noah nodded, understanding the weight of Lucy's words. "You're right, Lucy. This isn't a decision to be made lightly. Take all the time you need, and please know that our friendship will remain paramount, regardless of your response."Silence enveloped them once again as they sat there, grappling with the complex emotions and moral dilemmas that lay before them. Lucy knew that the path ahead would require honest introspection and open communication. That night, when Lucy went home, she kept thinking about Noah's proposal. The more she thinks about it, the more she realizes it is not necessarily a bad idea. Ten million is a lot of money and it will change her life forever. She can quit modeling and open her dream bakery once the divorce is finalized. Lucy had always dreamt of opening a mega bakery which will also have a bookstore and a cafe joint. This is her chance of getting the money to make her dream come through. She might never have another chance. Getting married to Noah wouldn’t be a bad idea at all. Noah was good looking and he was her best friend not a stranger. After much thought and consideration, Lucy finally came to a conclusion. She picked her phone and texted Noah her response before she went to sleep.The next morning, Lucy's phone rang, and she saw Noah's name flashing on the screen. She picked up, her voice filled with curiosity why he was calling her early this morning. "Hey, Noah. What's up?"Noah's voice sounded determined yet somewhat distant. "Lucy, I need you to come to my office as soon as possible. We need to discuss the details and sign a contract to formalize our agreement."Confusion washed over Lucy as she tried to process Noah's words. "What agreement, Noah? What do you mean?"There was a brief pause before Noah responded.“I received your message last night. I thought you would agree with my proposal?.” Noah asked, confused.“O! Yeah! Sorry. Must we sign a contract?.” Lucy asked Noah. She had totally forgotten about their discussion and her response at the end.“Yes it’s necessary. As someone who wants to own a business one day Lucy, you should know that you have to always sign a contract to bind any agreement.” Noah explained to her. Lucy rolled her eyes over the
At precisely 6 pm, there was a knock on the door. Lucy's heart skipped a beat as she hurriedly opened it, revealing Noah standing there, a smile spreading across his face. He was dressed impeccably, a clear indication that he had put thought and effort into this important occasion as well.Noah's eyes widened as he took in Lucy's appearance. His jaw dropped slightly, and for a moment, he was rendered speechless. "Lucy," he finally managed to say, his voice filled with awe, "you look absolutely stunning!"A warm blush crept up Lucy's cheeks as she basked in the genuine admiration in Noah's eyes. She had hoped to make an impression, but his reaction surpassed her expectations. She couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence knowing that she had succeeded in catching his attention.With a gentle smile, Noah reached out and lightly brushed his fingers against the delicate lace of her dress. "If I weren't gay," he said playfully, a mischievous glint in his eye, "I would have fallen head o
As Lucy and Noah entered the grand house, they were greeted warmly by Noah's parents, Alpha Richard and Luna Amelia. The atmosphere was filled with an air of elegance and tradition, making Lucy feel both excited and slightly nervous about the announcement she and Noah were about to make.After exchanging pleasantries, they all settled down at the dining table. A sumptuous meal had been prepared, and the delicious aroma filled the room. As they enjoyed the food and engaged in light-hearted conversation, Lucy couldn't help but notice the close bond between Noah and his parents. It was clear that they shared a deep love and respect for one another.Once the plates were cleared away, Noah cleared his throat, his eyes flickering with a mix of nervousness and excitement. Lucy's heart raced in anticipation as she reached out to grasp Noah's hand for support."Mom, Dad," Noah began, his voice steady yet filled with emotion. "There's something important that Lucy and I would like to share with
Lucy Knew it. Lucy Knew it! This is her life. Always obstacles.Lucy Thought back to the parent-meeting, biting her thumbnail. Lucy Looked outside, but nothing came to her mind at all.“You are always like that when you’re nervous. It hurts,” Noah said, glancing at me in the passenger seat. He took out some gum from the pocket of his suit after making eye contact. “Chew this instead.”Lucy Took the gum from him, but her hand was visibly shaking.Noah looked at her hand in surprise. “It’s not a big deal,” he said.“What?” Lucy Asked. “Didn’t you see his eyes? He looked like he was about to hurt me.”“There’s nothing he can do. Everybody else is with us. What can he do? It’s a done deal. You don’t have to care about just one disagreement,” Noah answered calmly.“Lucydon’t care about that! He’s going to be her family, I’ll see him regularly after the marriage.” Lucy Broke a piece off of the gum in her hand and put it in her mouth, chewing slowly with tearful eyes.“You are scared, huh? A
“Huh?” I asked, confused.Alpha Damien beckoned to me, not caring about my response. He turned around and headed toward a cafe with his brother’s signature long stride.Here to say goodbye to me? Why? I took my phone out of my backpack and hesitantly followed him. Damien suddenly turned around and gave me a cold stare. He noticed my phone and frowned. It was so obvious that I immediately stopped and put my phone away. When he saw my phone completely disappear, he beckoned me again. I gradually started moving toward him.Ah...damn it. Why...? I wanted to believe it was nothing but I felt anxious, like I was walking into the enemy’s tent. If I screamed, would Noah come back from the departure gate? While I was imagining something Damien would do, I made it to the Cafe. Damien was sitting at an empty table. I sat across from him and put my backpack beside me. I looked over at the menu to order, but he crossed his arms and stared at the table.“Um... are you not gonna order anything?” I
I squeezed into the space right next to the toilet in the bathroom to talk to Noah on the phone.“Holy crap! Why is there so much!” I said too loudly. I could hear my voice echoing around the bathroom so I lowered it and covered my mouth so no one would hear me.While I was complaining, there was a knocking sound outside the door. I was paralyzed with fear because of my existing nervousness about this wedding. I was also anxious because I had 100k in my backpack, and I didn’t want anyone to rob me.“Hey, come out,” somebody complained from outside.“Ah, okay. I will come out. Sorry!” I replied. There was no one waiting when I got there but now there were many people in line.[What? Who are you talking to?]“Ah, This is the restroom,” I answered Noah as I stood up.[No way. You’re talking to me on the toilet?]“No, no, not like that...”I opened up the door and went to the exit, covering my mouth again.“He could still be at the airport. He might overhear our conversation. The female
I opened my eyes after I heard the sound of the door closing. When I lifted up my head to look, Damien was already gone. I came out of the bath and put some clothes on in a hurry.Why the hell is he here, why! I threw on some clothes without bothering to dry them off, but I stopped when I grabbed the doorknob. Although I thought he hadn’t seen my whole body, I wasn’t sure. I’d seen his face, the way he was frowning. That was not the face of someone who’d seen nothing.Crazy! I grabbed my wet hair and sat back down. No. It’s okay. So what? I got naked as a model. In front of an audience. Nothing different. This marriage is a play and that man is an audience. It’s just showing my body to an audience as a part of the play.I stood back up to grab the doorknob and took a deep breath. It’s alright, alright, alright. I tried to believe nothing even happened. Well...what? Did anything even happen? I don’t remember? I manipulated my memory and turned the doorknob.When I came out, Damien was
Alpha DamienNo matter what the shameless girl said, I ignored her and went to my older brother’s bedroom to turn on the audio with a remote control. When I played classical music, the noise outside the door was completely buried. I closed my eyes and crossed my arms to calm down, lying on the bed.However, I couldn’t really be calm, so I took out my phone to make a call. When mom picked up, I immediately started to argue.“Mom, tell me something. Noah is not your child, huh?”[What kind of question is that?] she asked.“If he is, how is this even possible? How did you let him get married to a girl like that! My brother doesn’t deserve that!”[He likes her. The person who is going to live with her is Noah. As long as he’s satisfied, that’s all.]“What do you mean? Our family is not like that. We are members of the aristocracy! This is not his own matter. It is a matter of the honor of our family. Mom, are you going to humiliate me like this?”[I’m not going to consider the financial a