Married to the billionaire

Chapter 2 – The Second Condition

Elena sat frozen with the contract in front of her. The paper felt heavier than it should, like it carried the weight of her entire life. Her fingers hovered near the pen but didn’t move.

Damian watched her closely. His face gave away nothing. His eyes were calm, sharp, the kind of gaze that stripped people bare. He wasn’t rushing her. He knew silence worked better than pressure.

Elena spoke first, her voice low.

You act like this is the easiest thing in the world. Do you even realize what you’re asking me to do

Damian leaned back in his chair, folding his arms.

Marriage is a contract. Feelings complicate things. I am giving you something no one else will.

Money. The word lingered in her chest like poison.

And what about me Elena asked. What do I get besides money and a prison cell with your name on it

Damian smirked.

You get my protection. And you get to keep your mother alive.

Elena clenched her jaw.

Don’t you dare use her like that.

I don’t need to use her Damian replied flatly. I’m only stating the truth. You came here because you’re out of options. Don’t pretend otherwise.

Her nails dug into the table.

You think you have me cornered.

I don’t think. I know.

Silence stretched. Elena’s heart thumped loudly in her ears.

Finally she whispered.

Why me Why not anyone else

Damian’s gaze didn’t waver.

Because I need someone who won’t get attached. You’re practical. You’ll take the deal and keep your distance.

She let out a bitter laugh.

So I’m good enough to be your wife on paper but not good enough to be wanted

Wanted is irrelevant to me he said. Useful is what matters.

The words cut deeper than she expected. Still, she forced her face into stone.

And what if I decide to walk out right now

Damian leaned forward.

Then you’ll leave, and tomorrow the hospital will call you. They’ll say your mother’s treatment is on hold. They’ll say the bills weren’t paid. Can you handle that

Elena’s throat tightened. She hated him. She hated the way he spoke with certainty, as if he owned her choices.

She grabbed the pen.

If I do this, you stay out of my life. No touching, no pretending, no games.

Agreed Damian replied smoothly.

And this stays between us. No one else knows.

Of course. Our marriage will be a secret.

Her chest rose and fell sharply. The pen hovered just above the signature line. Sweat gathered on her palm.

Her thoughts screamed. Don’t do it. This man will destroy you.

Her reality whispered. If you don’t, your mother dies.

She pressed the pen down. Slowly, shakily, she signed her first name.

But Damian’s hand shot out, covering the paper before she could finish.

Her head jerked up.

What are you doing

There’s one more thing he said calmly.

Elena’s stomach dropped.

What do you mean one more thing

I won’t marry a woman who doesn’t understand loyalty. You’ll follow my rules. That means no relationships. No secret boyfriends. No one but me, even if this is just on paper.

Elena stared at him, her chest heaving.

You’re insane. You just said this is a business deal.

It is. And in my business, betrayal has consequences.

So what are you saying she demanded.

Damian’s voice was cold and steady.

Before you sign this contract, you need to agree to my second condition. From the moment your name touches this paper, you belong to me.

Elena’s grip on the pen faltered. Her pulse raced so fast she thought it might explode.

Belong to him. Even in a loveless marriage. Even in a secret deal.

She shook her head, whispering under her breath.

What the hell have I gotten myself into

Damian pushed the paper back toward her.

So. Do we have a deal Or should I tear this up and let your world burn

Elena’s heart pounded, her hand trembling over the signature line.

The words echoed in her mind, louder than the silence around them.