LOVE'S REDEMPTION: A Billionaire's Contract Marriage

The songs of the chirping birds made me smile slowly, appreciating that I was away from the city and its annoying noise. I sipped my hot coffee as thoughts of Daniel crept in. It’s been six months since he left leaving behind a note that barely explains why he ended things between us. It still hurts. The words danced in my memory, making me wish I could give him a piece of my mind. I sighed with my eyes closed remembering how my life was before him. I was a successful writer before he convinced me to try a new path as a marketing executive. He was so proud of me as I climbed the ladder of success with hard work and determination even though deep down, all I wanted to do was write. I could have been able to navigate both paths, but I was too focused on pleasing him, so I dumped my creative part. That’s how much his love consumed me and how perfect life was with him. At least that was what I thought. Sadly, these are now painful memories as my life revolved around him, causing me to lose myself. Well, that’s all about to change. My determination to forget about Danil and most importantly find myself is why I am in this resort. This solo trip is everything I need to start retracing my steps as I have spent the last six months wallowing in self-pity. It’s my second day here and I can’t seem to get over the feeling of peace that washes over me each time I step out. Maybe it’s the lush greenery or the sound of flowing waters, whatever it is, I like it. The view is nothing like what we have in the city. Lost in my thoughts, I didn’t notice the warning sign to steer clear of the ongoing construction zone. I collided with a barrier, causing me to hit the ground. “Damn it.” I winced in pain, gently rubbing my sore elbow. I looked up and saw a man standing with a puzzled expression. He offered his hand, which I took, and he lifted me off the ground. “Are you okay?” He asked and in response, I nodded. I couldn’t help but notice how tall and fine he was with soul-piercing brown eyes that I feared could see right through me. “Are you sure?” He asked again, not convinced by my nodding. “I’m fine, just a little overwhelmed.” Then smiled sheepishly trying to convince him. His lips quirked in a smile that reached his eyes. “Alright then, I’m Lucas, It’s nice to meet you…? “Jenna. I’m Jenna, and I am still embarrassed, but I think I’ll live.” “Trust me, you will. You’re new here right?” “Yes, I arrived just last night.” “Oh, it explains a lot. Guests here know not to come this way.” He pointed at the ‘CONSTRUCTION ZONE’ sign with a hint of tease in his eyes. “This is a bit embarrassing, but I was only trying to locate the cafeteria and somehow, I managed to get lost.” He laughed, revealing his perfect dentition. “It happens. Come, let’s take you to the cafeteria.” The smell of the coffee was out of this world and everyone seemed to love it here. Little chatter here and there, while some others seemed a little too focused on their meal. Lucas bought us breakfast and shared a little history of the resort with me. He knows how to start and hold good conversations and from the look of things, my time here just got better as he even offered to be my personal tour guide. “How long are you here for?” His question brought me back to the present. “Three more weeks, I suppose. You?” “I live here.” “Oh wow, you must have a lot of money to afford that,” I said, taking a bite. “Let’s just say I know the owners,” He said, avoiding my eyes, then there was an awkward silence. “Uhmm, what are your plans for tonight, Jenna?” He asked, folding his arms and resting back on his seat as if studying me. “If I said I had plans, would you believe me?” We both laughed. “So, nope, I honestly have no plans for tonight or any other night.” I managed to joke as it was difficult to not be nervous under his piercing gaze. “Okay… so you plan to let the next three weeks slip by?” He raised his brows in anticipation of my response. “Not at all. I plan to be busy during the day,” I answered, hoping he didn’t ask what my plans were. He did. I answered regardless, unsure of why I felt comfortable to tell him. “Well, that’s interesting. I have some books you could borrow to find some missing touch since it’s been a while since you last wrote.” “Okay? But why would you do that for a stranger?” I asked, surprised by his offer. “Let’s just say, I want to help make your next three weeks here count by making your goal easier to achieve so you can also come out at night and also have all the fun you want. The best things here happen at night.” “Are you this nice to all the strangers that come here?” I asked, meeting his gaze. He scoffed and looked away, sipping his coffee only to see that I was still waiting for an answer. “No. But I can’t help but make an exception for those who tend to miss their way around the resort.” He joked. “I see.” He noticed I didn’t buy his response. “Okay, fine. I just want you to leave here a happier person. From the look in your eye Jenna, you’re not just here for some R&R. So, I’m just trying to help.” My breath caught in my throat, but I managed to quickly respond. “So, you deciphered all this just by looking into my eyes?” “Yes.” He confidently responded and leaned closer. “Most people come here to heal their broken hearts, plus, I know someone with a broken heart when I see one. It’s all in the eyes, Jenna.” “Does that explain why you ‘live’ here?” I fired back. A quick look flashed past his eyes as he clenched his jaw and sighed, saying nothing. I think I hit a nerve which made me curious to know his story. “Jenna. Do enjoy the rest of your meal and have a great day. I’ll see you around.” Then he simply walked away.