I want to make a deal with you

10 weeks prior to the wedding

It was a busy day in the city, with a lot of people going back and forth. The subway station is teeming with people, and the bus stop is no exception. Anna looked down at her watch, which read twelve in the afternoon. She sighed softly because she despises getting tangled up in the crowd. She would rather spend more time on her campus than be in the crowd. She took a step back and decided to remain in the faculty lounge. She pulled out her iPad and sketchbook. To keep busy, she scrawls in her sketchbook while listening to music.

Art is not only something she enjoys, but it is also her passion. Where words fail to explain, art speaks. Furthermore, art is not what you see but what you make others see. Drawing is one of her specialties. She is a senior in high school. Although she is a gifted student, she despises going to class, especially in the morning. She may have passed the exam with flying colors, but her tardiness in class lowered her final record. This is the primary reason she has yet to graduate.

Scratches after scratches were beautifully carved with her pencil in her sketchbook. She enjoys doodle cartoons the most because they are cute and adorable. She checked her watch after a while and discovered that an hour had passed. She quickly packed her belongings into her backpack and exited the faculty building. She was walking towards the subway station when a man in a tailored suit abruptly stopped her.

"Anna Rae?" He asked. She's as clueless as this guy. She frowned and drew her gaze to him. How could a complete stranger know her name?

"Are you Anna Rae?" He inquired once more. He alternately looked at Anna and a photograph in his hand.

Anna rolled her eyes in irritation. she wondered, irked when she saw him holding a photo of her.

Anna was perplexed when the man bowed to her. She thought to herself this man is ridiculous. She chose to ignore it and attempted to walk away. Her steps were halted, however, when she heard a name from the man's lips.

"My boss told me to find you because he wants to meet you."

Anna averted her gaze from him. “Boss?” She doesn't understand.

"Mr. Saunders is waiting for us and he is a very punctual person." That man responded.

Anna laughed. She is becoming increasingly irritated, heightening the tension. He was referring to Ibrahim. "I'm not leaving. He could be your boss rather than mine. He has no right to order me to do anything." She tried everything she could to get out of that man's sight, but he didn't seem to want to let her go. He tried to stop her by grabbing onto her arm when she walked away. Anna was quick to dodge from him and freed her arm.

"Don't touch me," she said, raising her voice and staring at him.

“Miss. Please. Please help me." He begged. He was well aware of the implications if he failed to complete the task assigned by his boss. "If I can't bring you to Mr. Saunders, he'll kill me."

Anna's expression softened as she saw how desperate the man in front of her was. She had no idea how merciless Ibrahim could be until his man was so helpless right now. “Why would he need to see me?”

The gentleman shook his head. "Aside from bringing you to him, he didn't say anything to me. Please help me because I do not want to lose my job." He took another look at his watch and exhaled sharply. "If we don't leave now, we'll be late, and he hates waiting." He continued, but actually sounded helpless.

The last thing she wanted to do was forget that she was going to marry Ibrahim. She is determined not to see him. She is not yet prepared. She does, however, feel pity for the man in front of her. Ibrahim is a complete moron. He couldn't fire his man just because he was late.

She ultimately chose to surrender. It's pointless for her to avoid him because she'll end up facing him. “Okay.” She stated.

When Anna finally agreed, the man's expression brightened. "Thank you; please enter the vehicle." He escorted her to the car.

She followed him and sat in his luxury vehicle. She suddenly remembers, just as the car engine starts, that she has no idea where that man will take her. I should not have said yes. She cursed quietly in her heart. She only hopes she isn't going anywhere unusual.

"Where are we going?" she inquired, her face solemn. What person wouldn't be? A stranger approached you and asked to take you to his boss. This scene sounded like a kidnapping.

"Hotel Le Meurice." He responded, but his gaze remained fixed on the road.

Anna's eyes widened when she heard the word hotel. “Hotel? Are you insane? Stop the car!" she screamed.

"Miss. Rae!" That man is taken aback by her abrupt scream. 

Anna rolled her eyes as she expressed her rage. "I don't give a damn about your boss. If you don't stop the car, I'm going to jump out." She made a threat.

That man has no choice but to bring the car to the side of the road. "Please remain calm. Mr. Saunders simply desired to have lunch with you. He would never hurt you."

"A lunch."

That man began to lose patience. "Yes, it’s in the Le Murices hotel where he's been waiting, and I'm doomed if you don't show up in 10 minutes." He said this and immediately started the car engine without looking at Anna.

Anna, who is just as irritated as that man, remained silent throughout the ride. She kept staring out the window, blankly. What kind of destiny is this?

"We've arrived, Miss. Rae." That man said and it's like a wake-up call from her musing.

Before she could respond, he had gotten out of the car and opened the door for her. "Please follow me," he said, and she simply obeyed.

It's a five-star resort with a European feel. She followed him from behind, her grip on her backpack tightened. She's anxious right now. She's going to meet one of the most renowned young and successful businessmen, who will become her husband. For a split second, she thought it was another Cinderella story. The only difference is that she is marrying him for financial reasons.

When they entered the elevator, that man pressed the 26 buttons. They didn't say anything until they arrived at their destination. Anna explored the venue and noticed that it is a dine-in restaurant. She could feel the Parisian vibes as the light was slightly dimmed. It's ideal for a lover because she can feel the romantic vibes. She'd be overjoyed if she could just come here with Kai.

That man walked in casually, and Anna just followed him. As they walked towards a table in the corner, Anna became nervous. She is certain that the man on the table is Ibrahim Saunders, who is sitting alone and wearing a nice tailored suit that appears to be very expensive. The man came to a halt in front of the table, and Anna could tell he was sweating because he was scared.

He bowed in front of Ibrahim. "Please excuse my delay in bringing Miss. Rae, Mr. Saunders."

Anna is completely taken aback. That man resembled a lamb about to be devoured by a lion. What irritated her even more was that Ibrahim didn't even look at the man, his gaze fixed on the menu.

"You may leave," Ibrahim said, still checking the menu. This arrogant man irritates Anna to no end. How will she spend the rest of her life with him? "Aren't you going to sit down?"

A baritone voice startled her, and their eyes met for the first time. She quickly averted her gaze because it was upsetting her. For some reason, those eyes appeared to be frightening. She now understands why that man is terrified of his boss. She had no idea that a simple stare could be so terrifying. She sat down in front of him. She locked her gaze on him for a brief moment.

She wouldn't deny that Ibrahim's appearance is so appealing that she can see his bulging muscles because his suit is so tight. His combed hair is pushed back, revealing his broad forehead, sharp nose, strong jawline, and Adam apple. His skin is slightly dark, but this only adds to his allure. He appears to be perfect from the outside.

"Am I that appealing that you can't take your eyes off me?" damn his voice is deep.

Despite the fact that his gaze was fixed on the menu book, Anna felt embarrassed and casually took the menu book as well. Her eye widened when she look the price. Everything is so expensive. All of the western menus are foreign to her, and she doesn't understand them. It would be extremely embarrassing if she questioned him about it. He might think she's stupid. She turned the page, but some of the dish’s name are still in French that she doesn't understand. Should she just say no? but before she could say something. Ibrahim called the waiter and began ordering.

"As an appetizer, foie gras. Soup with lobster and charcoal-grilled Australian wagyu steak. I'd like orange sorbet for dessert, and I 'd like sparkling water for my drink." He ordered without looking at the menu book as if he had memorized everything. He looked at Anna, who was still perplexed. "What do you want, Anna?" he inquired.

Anna is completely helpless. "I'd like whatever you ordered" She replied and set the menu down. She no longer wants to look at the complicated words and thus avoid looking stupid in front of him.

Ibrahim smiled. This young lady maintains her dignity. He simply instructed the waiter to prepare two for each of the courses he requested. Ibrahim finally took a closer look at the girl she was about to marry after the waiter left. He refuses to acknowledge that she is stunning. A natural beauty that he couldn't see as often because the girls around him put on so much make-up thinking he'd like it. Her natural wavy hair, round eyes, and slim figure are all attractive. He doesn't want to lie, but her lips are seductive.

He took a deep breath and returned his gaze to her. He couldn't detect any scent on her. He could tell she was an innocent yet ordinary girl based on how she dressed and her cheap backpack. By observing her behavior, he realized how oblivious and puzzled she is. He finds it amusing for some reason. He can tell she's nervous from the way she sat to the way she looked around.

"Why did you bring me here?" Anna spoke up, breaking the silence. Her tone is also unfriendly.

What a fascinating and straightforward person she is, he thought. Normally, girls would be overjoyed if he took them to a luxury fine-dining restaurant. They'll do everything they can to seduce him and make him feel like an obedient kitten, but this girl is different. "We're tying in knots. You should get used to seeing me." He gave a flat response.

Anna rolled her eyes, irritated by his arrogance. "Why does it have to be me? There are a lot of girls out there pursuing you, but why me?" She glared angrily at him. She couldn't accept that she was going to marry a stranger.

Ibrahim gave an evil grin. "I've come to strike a deal with you."

When Anna heard Ibrahim's words and saw his expression, she shivered. What? Deal? What exactly is this person talking about? Isn't there an agreement between her father and him? "What kind of deal is it? How many deals do you require?" she began to grow impatient.

Ibrahim laughed. This girl is fascinating. "Calm down, don't you realize your family's fate is in my hands? You have no idea how badly your father's business has been ruined, and your mother now requires regular physiotherapy due to a joint injury."

Anna took a deep breath and looked down. She was well aware of her family's financial situation. She does, however, find it strange. How could this man appear as a redeemer during her family's most difficult time? Is it merely a coincidence?

Or does he have a secret plan? "What exactly do you want? I have no idea who you are, and you came into our family unexpectedly and wanted to marry me in order to save my father's business. It's far too amusing to be a coincidence." Anna asked, daring to look at the man in front of her.

For a split second, Ibrahim's heart pounded. If she discovers his true motive, his entire plan will be foiled. This girl is very intelligent. He laughed underestimating. "Don't you know your father is selling his company's shares, and no one else is interested except me? I could immediately destroy your father's business, and you dare to accuse me of fabricating a motive?" he tried to sound irritated.

For a while, Anna was speechless. She didn't mean to offend him, but she can't understand why he wants to marry her. "I apologize if I have offended you. spill the beans. What kind of deal do you expect from me?"

Ibrahim smirked. This girl is intelligent, but fortunately, he is far more so. She might not have a choice because he has control over her family. "a marriage agreement." He said it clearly and sharply.

"Such like?" she asked, still trying to appear as if she's not afraid of him or his menaces.

Ibrahim smiled as he saw her give up now. "I have terms and conditions for our marriage, and it will be wonderful if you simply do as I command."

This guy is incredible, and Anna felt like punching him in the face right now. She will not be obedient if you expect her to be. If she'd been an obedient child all along, she wouldn't have had to fight or tussle with people who were trying to mess with her. She is not afraid to use her strength or violence. All of this is evidence that she did cause a lot of problems for her parents, especially during her high school years. "Following your command? Are you looking for a wife or a slave?" she became irritated.

Looking at how she tried to fight back, Ibrahim couldn't be happier. She is not your typical young lady. He didn't make a bad decision. "You really need to learn to control your tantrums."

Anna exhaled a soft sigh. "What do you want?" she asked, her gaze fixed on him.

This person is completely insane. He is not yet her husband, but he appears to want to control everything, including her. This is extremely depressing. Anna pondered. She can, however, conclude that he is a cautious man.

Ibrahim was fascinated by the girl in front of him. He expected another obedient girl, but she turned out to be a headstrong. He had done background checks on her and knew she liked to fight a lot in high school, but he didn't expect her to still be this snarky in front of him. "First, break up with your boyfriend because I need to maintain my image and dignity, and I don't want the press to think I snatched another man's girlfriend. Second, you are not permitted to interfere with my personal life. Third, I am aware of your drinking habits, and I do not want a rowdy wife. Fourth, I'll delegate responsibility for your family, particularly your mother. Fifth, you must obey me, and finally, you must never fall in love with me. I'll remind you right now that you can have my money and my body, but I'm not the type to do ridiculous things like fall in love."

The words that come from his lips feel overwhelmed her. This man is clearly attempting to exert control over her. She is a gentle soul who despises being forced to do things she does not want to do. "Bastard," she said.

Ibrahim's eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait, what did you just say?”

Anna gave him a sly grin. "I said you're a bastard," she said clearly, not forgetting to give him a piercing stare.

Ibrahim exhaled forcefully. This girl is incredibly brave. He had never been called a bastard by a girl in his life. Girls are all after him and have done everything they can to get his attention, but this girl is here calling him a jerk. "You better be careful with your words, little girl. I believe you understand that the future of your father's business is in my hands." He began to become agitated. If she were a man, he would have punched her already, but he still has heart because he doesn't hit women.

Anna spoke hastily. “So? I was well aware of it, and I tried very hard to accept the fact that I'd marry a jerk like you. You don't want me to get involved in your personal life? That's fine, but you can't interfere with mine. One more thing: I'm not going to fall in love with you. Please excuse me because I'm sick to my stomach if I have to sit here and eat with you. I've lost my appetite." Just as the first course arrived, she stood up and grabbed her backpack.

Ibrahim drank his water casually, trying to relax after an intense conversation with her. "The meal has arrived. I don't mind paying, but I despise food getting waste. Finish your meal, and I'll request my man to send you home."

Anna bit her lower lip, unsure whether she should stay or not. She can't lie about how delicious the food is.

"I know you're hungry now that lunch has passed. Just drop your dignity and eat because I pity your small stomach." Without looking at her, he said.

"You're extremely obstinate." He added that when he looked at her, she tried hard not to look at the food even though she was starving.

Anna rolled her eyes before resuming her seat. She examined the bite-sized fig and walnut. It appeared to be appealing. However, as she prepares to pick up a fork, she becomes perplexed. Her table is laden with forks, knives, and spoons. She's never been to a fine dining establishment before, but she's afraid to ask Ibrahim because he'll laugh his head off.

"Use the cutlery from the end and towards the center." Ibrahim informed her. He's a sensitive person that he could tell right away that the girl in front of him is perplexed by fine dining table manners.

Anna followed Ibrahim's instructions and took the fork. "I know." She answered confidently.

They ate in silence, not bothering each other. He isn't interested in talking to her, and she isn't either, because they will start arguing instead. Ibrahim could see a genuine smile finally etched on her lips until the last dessert course arrived. For a split second, he thinks that smile suits her perfectly, but he quickly changes his mind.

"You like dessert that much?" he inquired, his hands busy scooping orange compote.

Anna nodded excitedly without saying anything because she was scooping her sorbet. She adores all types of ice cream. She enjoys sorbet, gelato, frozen yogurt, and shaved ice. He immediately stopped scooping his sorbet and set the glass down. A flash of a girl's face appeared inside his head. She enjoys ice cream as well. He's suddenly lost his appetite for his sorbet and doesn't want to eat it. He requests the bill from the waiter. He gave his card to the waiter and immediately stood up after paying.

"Where are you going?" she inquired as he remained silent but was about to leave.

He didn't bother to respond. "Luke will sent you home." He then walked away.

Anna is beyond irritated. This man really irritates her. "Hey, who is Luke?" she inquired, but received no response other than to notice Ibrahim's back moving away from the restaurant.

Not long after he left, the same man who had sent her here earlier approached Anna and bowed. "Miss. Rae Sir, have directed that I send you home." He stated.

"Are you the Luke he was referring to?" Anna inquired.

Luke simply nodded. "Please allow me to accompany you." He spoke politely. That arrogant man is tearing all of Anna's emotions apart, she exhaled sharply.