THE PROPOSAL

“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?”