The Spark of Strategy

But the moonlight illuminated his handsome features, and all her confidence vanished. She thought, why would someone so stunning and rich choose me when I have nothing left to offer him. But by then, Theo had noticed Bianca, and their eyes clashed.

Both were unaware how drastically their lives were going to change. Right after this moment, before Bianca could say anything, Theo frowned and said, “That dress is a little thin to protect you, isn't it?”

Bianca was startled. She turned to face him, and Theo noticed how drunk she was.

“I am very much aware of your status in the North Corporation.”

Bianca—what? He knows my name. He also knows about the recent company shuffle. Do rumors travel that fast here? Bianca stared at him in awe.

“Who else would be drowning their sorrows in alcohol on such a happy occasion, except for this daughter?”

Bianca hesitated before speaking.

“Do I make you uncomfortable?”

“No, not particularly. Why would you make me uncomfortable?”

“That’s going to kill you. If you don't stop,” Bianca said, wrinkling her nose at the smell of the cigar.

“Good. It'll speed up the process.”

“Why did you approach me? Do you know who I am?”

“You are Theo Harrington, if I'm not wrong. They say you were going to marry Rebecca. Is that why you are here? To break her engagement?”

“I would rather die than marry her.”

Realizing it was her sister he was insulting, Bianca said, “None taken.” She smiled. She was starting to like this man.

“None of the young women in there shall be my wife. They are all like matching dolls. Upset.”

“I am unlike any of them.”

“You can make me your trophy wife, since I'm no longer Edward’s girlfriend.”

“Edward Smith—you better be careful. He's not the man he pretends to be.”

Bianca wasn't shocked at the revelation. “I know. I just found that out.”

“What choice do I have, Theo? I can't escape my fate unless…”

“Unless what?”

“Unless you were to marry me instead.”

“What?” Theo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “It's only been ten minutes and you already think I'm in love with you.”

“I am not looking for love, Theo. I am looking for a way out.”

“But so are you.”

“Even with surprise, you think you know me that well?”

“Well, I know your grandfather wants you to marry soon, for a man with no interest in romance. I might be your best option.”

“Like a shadow in your home—silent, unseen, tending to your needs. And I promise I'll never love you. No strings attached.”

“How can I trust you?”

“What about a contract?”

She was desperate to convince him it would be the perfect way to get revenge on her evil sister and Edward—a contract marriage.

“A contract marriage?” Theo repeated as he considered Bianca’s tone, skeptical.

“My father has no idea that I'm out here speaking to you, Theo. He won't be pleased to see you here with me.”

Theo studied her for a moment.

“I am not interested in marrying anyone for love. I only wish to leave this place and never look back.”

“Why don't you just run away then?”

“Can a woman remain alone without the protection of a strong man? The world respects power, not independence.”

“I am spoken of as the most eligible bachelor in town,” Theo said mockingly, his words dripping with pride. “Why should I marry you?”

Bianca’s lips curled as she replied, “I do not care for your looks, Theo, nor your money, or anything else others might want. Frankly, I only see you as an escape,” she explained.

“This will be your way out of your problem with your grandfather. A win-win situation for both of us. Is that so?”

Theo said, intrigued, “It isn't hard for me to find an actress to play the role of my wife.”

“If it was so easy, you would have done so already,” Bianca countered, seeing through his bluff.

“Your grandfather is toying with you. Present me to him as your bride, and the tables would turn.”

Theo smirked. “I can't wait to see my grandfather's reaction when he has to bless you by kissing your forehead.”

“He knows everything about what's happening in North Corporation and your falling status in the company. It'll be priceless to watch him squirm like that.”

“So,” Bianca said, “should I consider it a deal?”

Theo watched her for a moment before responding.

“Meet me at a restaurant tomorrow. I'll text you the details. We will further discuss this there, and then I will give you my answer.”

Bianca’s eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't expected him to take her seriously. She quickly offered him her business card.

“I want to see how determined you are.”

“I'm sorry to end our conversation here, but I have stayed at your home longer than I wanted to, Bianca. Hopefully we shall see each other soon.”

Theo said this as he was about to leave when his footsteps were stopped by an announcement.

He entered the party hall again.

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for being here tonight.” Mr. Noah North began scanning the crowd. “This evening is a special occasion for our family.”

Mr. Noah continued, “We are thrilled to announce the return of our eldest daughter, Rebecca North, after many years abroad, and her engagement to the most eligible bachelor, Edward Smith, CEO of the most prestigious Smith Corporation.”

The applause rippled through the crowd.

Across the room, Theo’s jaw tightened, his icy gaze fixed on Rebecca and Edward, a silent tension simmering beneath his composed exterior.

Mrs. North stepped forward, smiling graciously.

“And we are even more delighted to announce that Rebecca is now the heir to the North family fortune.”

The applause grew louder, but Bianca’s stomach twisted as she heard the announcement.

Bianca’s thoughts spiraled.

I thought Grandpa had disowned Rebecca, and now that he's gone, my parents brought her back to this house and gave her a strong position in North Corporation.

There is no point in confronting Mom and Dad. They have already made a decision.

A dangerous thought crept into her mind.

If they can hand over 70% of the company to Rebecca, what's stopping them from seizing everything I have?

My position. My shares. My bank accounts.

They could drain it all.

No. I won't let this happen.

I will fight for my rights.