After a night of passion during her celebratory vacation, Cass disappears, leaving Marcus confused. Three years later, she is a top lawyer who gets outsmarted by her treacherous fiance. Losing a case that cost her career, the lawyer finds herself as the personal assistant to her fling. “Marry me” Marcus proposes a contract marriage. He needs to inherit his family's company to keep it out of the hands of his scheming stepbrother, and the only way to do so is to get married. He needed someone he could trust with his secret, and Cassandra was the one. With an offer she could never refuse, Cassandra was all in. After all, who wouldn't wish to know how everything became so messed up in her life? As they navigate their new arrangement, Cass finds herself falling in love with Marcus, but ex-lovers, a crazy bully and a scorned company threaten all that she holds dear.
더 보기“Marry me,” Marcus said
Cass was dumbstruck, Was he mad? He asked her to marry him so casually like he was grocery shopping or ordering for an espresso.
Of course, she didn't dare ask that aloud after all he was her boss and the only one who had the power to hire her after the debacle that happened four months ago.
He had asked to see her about planning his schedule for the week and after ignoring her for five minutes he had dropped this bombshell.
“What are you talking about sir,” Cass said in the softest voice as if she was talking to a child.
“You heard me, Marry me” Marcus reiterated
Marcus could feel the tension building in her as she struggled to keep her tongue in cheek.
This was one of the things that amused him about her.
Women usually fell at his feet, in fact, he had fired several of his personal assistants for trying to seduce him but Cass was always focused on her work and acted professionally even when he occasionally tried to flirt with her.
"I need a no strings attached marriage for three years after which you will be duly compensated," Marcus said
He could see her starting to object and most likely about to call him all the unprintable names she could possibly think of
“Before you speak, These are the terms of the contract” Marcus handed a document to her
TERMS OF CONTRACT
These are the terms of the contract marriage between Mr. Marcus Wells of Wells Holdings and Miss Cass Thorton
We, Mr. Marcus Wells and Miss Cass Thorton, hereby enter into a legally binding contract marriage agreement.
Purpose of the Contract:
The purpose of this contract is to facilitate the inheritance and succession of Wells Holdings, ensuring that the company remains within the control of Mr. Marcus Wells and does not fall into the hands of any external parties, including or not including Mr. Wells's scheming cousin.
Duration of the Contract:
This contract shall be valid and in effect for a period of three years, commencing from the date of signing. After the completion of the three-year term, both parties shall have the option to extend the contract if mutually agreed upon.
Rights and Obligations:
Both parties agree to maintain a public image of a married couple and undertake all necessary actions to present themselves as such.
Mr Marcus Wells shall be responsible for their personal expenses unless otherwise specified.
Both parties shall reside in the same household during the term of the contract and maintain the appearance of a cohesive and loving relationship.
Both parties shall exercise reasonable care and support each other in all matters related to their roles as spouses.
Confidentiality:
Both parties agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding the true nature of their marriage, especially with respect to external parties, including family, friends, and the media.
Termination of the Contract:
This contract may be terminated prior to the completion of the three-year term by mutual agreement between the parties.
In the event of termination, both parties shall agree to a separation process that ensures the least possible disruption to their personal and professional lives.
Financial Compensation
Mr. Marcus agrees to pay the sum of one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000) to Miss Cass as financial compensation for her participation in the contract marriage. This amount shall be paid on a yearly installment of $30,000,000, $30,000,000, and $40,000,000 with the final amount paid upon the completion of the three-year term.
Miss Cass acknowledges and agrees that the financial compensation is contingent upon fulfilling her obligations as outlined in this Agreement.
By signing below, both parties acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms and conditions outlined in this contract marriage agreement.
Signature: Signature: “
Mr. Marcus Wells Miss Cass Thorton
Marcus couldn’t fathom why he was apprehensive, any woman would sign immediately without expecting compensation but Cass had proven herself to be unpredictable.
After all, she was the woman who had run from his bed three years ago in France and even went as far as denying ever meeting him when he hired her as his personal assistant.
Cass was stunned $100,000,000 would change her life but a three-year contract marriage seemed too far-fetched even for her.
"Why me? There are a lot of women pining for you and would do this for free. In fact, you already have a girlfriend, so why not just seal the deal with her?" Cass inquired
Marcus smiled, She was as sharp as ever
"I hate the concept of getting married, I will not have any woman tie me down and use her emotions to manipulate me. That is why I want you, You don't seem to like me that much and neither do I so breaking the marriage will be easy don't you think?" Marcus said with a twinkle in his eyes
"Besides I already broke up with Amber two days ago to make it easier and seamless when I introduce you to my Father in a month" Marcus said lazily
Cass couldn't believe her ears, This man was as incorrigible as they came. This was the reason she knew not to respond when he kept flirting with her despite him making her heart flutter.
Sensing her hesitate, Marcus decided to reveal his hidden ace
“I will look into the Yolanda-RessexPharma case for you and you might be able to get into a law firm again” Marcus knew that was the icing on the cake.
Cass swallowed, She felt like she was making a deal with the devil. He knew how much she had lost because of the case.
In fact, that was why Cass had been unable to get a job in any law firm and had to accept a job as his personal assistant.
Well, What could go wrong?
“I accept your terms sir, can I get a pen?” Cass signed and looked up to see a devilish grin on Marcus’s handsome face.
“What had she gotten herself into?”
Her belly? What was he talking about? Marcus exchanged a quick, puzzled look with Cass before making his way to the living room. As he entered, he was met with an unexpected sight. Amber, his ex-girlfriend, sat on the sofa, a wry smile playing on her lips. "Amber!!! What are you doing here?" He asked with a calmness that betrayed the surprise and shock he felt She stood up gracefully, revealing a bag she had used to cover her belly. The shock on Marcus's face was palpable as he saw her visibly pregnant. Cass, standing behind Marcus, felt a mixture of surprise and discomfort. "Marcus, darling, it's been a while," Amber greeted, her tone dripping with a calculated sweetness "What are you doing here, Amber?" Marcus asked again, struggling to conceal his astonishment. Amber's smile widened as she surveyed Marcus and then turned her gaze to Cass. "I couldn't believe you'd move on so quickly, let alone get married just two months after our breakup." Marcus frowned, his mind racing to
Marcus clenched his jaw as the chauffeur brought the sleek black car to a halt in front of Judge Richards's imposing two-story home. The anger coursed through him like molten lava, threatening to spill over at any moment.Cass glanced at him, her eyes wide with confusion and curiosity, Where are we? What is going on? were the thoughts that passed through her mind.All she wanted to do today was read a book and lounge in the house in preparation for work tomorrow but Marcus had barged in and asked her to get dressed without any explanation as to their destination."Where are we?" She asked but Marcus didn't have the patience to explain."Come on," he growled, practically dragging her out of the vehicle. His long strides carried them quickly up the cobblestone path as Cass struggled to match his steps, past immaculately trimmed hedges and fragrant rose bushes.The heavy oak doors swung open, revealing the anxious face of Judge Richards, whose grey eyes darted between Marcus and Cass lik
Cass groaned, stretched, and cracked her neck. She looked at the clock it was 9 p.m already!!! She had been working for seven hours and the only break she had was when Marcus had brought her a snack board because of her grumbling tummy.She looked at Marcus, he was still hard at work. The crooked way his glasses sat on his face made him look like a sexy librarian, Cass giggled.As if sensing her gaze on him, Cass saw Marcus smile"Take a picture, it would last longer" Marcus smirkedCass rolled her eyes "I was only wondering if it would be polite for me to leave before my Boss" Cass replied sarcastically"Your 'Boss' will be done in five minutes and we can leave together" Marcus said "Five minutes, huh?" Cass teased, leaning on the edge of Marcus's desk. "Are you sure? Because I'm starting to think you enjoy keeping me here for the view"Marcus chuckled, True to his word, Marcus wrapped up his work at exactly five minutes. Once the last document was saved, he stood up and stretched,
Cass followed Marcus into the dimly lit study, her eyes adjusting to the soft glow of lamps that illuminated the room. Her gaze fell upon a new and neatly arranged desk, chair, and drawer filled with files that had been set up in the study for her with her nameplate on the desk."Consider this your new office away from the office," Marcus said with a warm smile, his hands on his waist, his deep voice showing how proud he was of his efforts. "I wanted you to feel comfortable working with me here at home.""Thank you, Marcus." Cass's voice was a mixture of appreciation and surprise. "Wow, I wasn't expecting this" her voice choked up as she walked to and sat on the chair.She let out a startled scream when she saw him bent so close to her, his face just a few inches from hers."I just wanted to show you a file on your computer, What did you think I was going to do? Kiss you? I do deserve a kiss though, for my efforts" Marcus said with a mischievous glint in his eyesCass blushed and hit
The sun's rays dazzled the garden in a symphony of light and shadow. The gentle breeze whispered through the tall grass, swaying them in agreement.Marcus approached the garden where he saw Alex kneeling by a bed of dahlias, their vibrant colors like jewels strewn across the earth.Alex glanced up, catching sight of Marcus, and smiled. He bent down to clip a crimson dahlia, its petals soft and velvety under his touch."Ah, Marcus," Alex said, straightening up and holding the flower out to him. "Congratulations on your acceptance by the board.""Thank you, Alex," Marcus replied warily, taking the offered blossom and standing beside his brother. Something was unsettling in his brother's tone, an ominous undertone that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end."Isn't it curious how flowers bloom?" Alex mused, gazing at the dahlias around them. "They push through the soil, reach for the sky, only to be cut and stopped from growing.""What are you getting at, Alex?" Marcus asked,
Cass and Stacey both turned to see Marcus standing there, eyeing Stacey with his fists clenched as though he was restraining himself. "I am tired of being made a fool of, I let you go the last time with a warning because of the relationship I have with your father but there are only so many chances I can grant" he said threateningly.Stacey stood there with her mouth hung open as she stared at Marcus's face. His eyes were blazing like fire that could make anyone run for their lives. When did he get here, She had been sure Cass was alone.Cass felt her breath hitch as he stood up for her. A swell of relief washed over her as she watched him"I don't want to see you again, you have 2 seconds to walk away NOW or I will not be held accountable for whatever happens" Marcus said in a threatening voice.The whole mall was quiet and everyone was staring at them with their mouths hung open, this was a scene out of a telenovela.Marcus held her hand and looked into her eyes," Are you okay?" He
Cass made her way to the kitchen, trying to calm her shaking hands. She poured herself a glass of water and took a long sip, trying to steady her nerves.She didn't know why she felt so guilty, perhaps because of the tense atmosphere between them.She could hear Marcus being welcomed by the butler as he was making his way through the house. She took a deep breath and composed herself "Oh, here you are, How was your day?" Marcus asked casually like he had not gone incommunicado for a weekCass was angry and she felt like a vein was going to pop in her head but if this was the game he wanted to play, then she could play it too."It was alright. I just puttered around here," she replied nonchalantly as if nothing had happened between them. She kept her gaze away from him and moved to the counter to busy herself with some fruit. Marcus watched her for a few moments in silence, and Cass could feel the tension growing unbearable in the room. Just when it seemed like a scream was going to
Cass gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. The picture frame shook in her other hand as she stared at the familiar face smiling up at her. Miranda Wells. The woman who had swooped into Cass's life after her mother's death like a guardian angel, promising to support her and Scar's education. And she had kept that promise. Cass turned the frame over with trembling fingers, reading the inscription on the back. "To my darling Marcus, Love always, Mom." "Marcus's mom," she whispered. A wave of realization crashed over Cass, and she drew in a sharp breath. What was she doing here, in this lavish villa filled with Miranda's presence? Cass's mind reeled as she tried to make sense of it all, was it fate? Marcus had dropped her here, insisting it was for her safety after their rushed wedding. But now Cass wondered if there was more to it. Did he want her to uncover his family's secrets? The thought left a bitter taste in her mouth. She didn't know this man at all, she realized. Not like she
Cass stood on the edge of the dance floor, her beautiful hazel eyes narrowed in disbelief as Marcus delivered the shocking news. The music swelled around them, but all she could hear was the thunderous beating of her own heart."Your safety is paramount to me, Cass," Marcus insisted, his blue eyes searching her face for understanding. "I wouldn't ask this of you if I didn't think it was necessary.""Of all the times to bring this up, Marcus!" Cass exclaimed, her voice barely audible over the din of the wedding celebration.She glanced around at the smiling faces of their guests, blissfully unaware of the turmoil churning just beneath the surface. "I know it is fake but this is our wedding day, and you want me to pack up and move to your isolated villa? That means I would not be able to come to work too"Marcus gripped her hands gently, trying to convey the seriousness of the situation. "I know it's sudden, but it's the best way to protect you from Alex and his vindictive games. I don'
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