BOUND BY THE LAW: THE CEO’s PRETEND WIFE

Chapter four

Annabelle's pov.

I feel ashamed that I have to stand in front of this arrogant man once again, consenting to his outrageous offer. When I walked out yesterday, I was certain that I would not return, I was sure that I was never going to see his face again. But here I am, shamelessly saying yes to an offer that could potentially ruin my life.

The evil grin on his face was evidence of his victory over me. He had won, and I had no option but to swallow my pride and lower the head that I had once held high.

I let out a sigh and waited for him to gloat and tell me how he told me so. To be sincere, I hate him, I hate Steve with everything in me, but his cold and domineering aura would not let me express that hate.

“What happened to your dignity?” He laughed and I swallowed the lump in my throat, trying hard to not cry.

I had taken a job at the club yesterday, hoping to raise the money. But I was offered a flimsy salary, something that wouldn't even be enough for a three square meal. Steve's presence at the same club yesterday only made things worse.

I had to make a decision fast, I had to accept his offer, despite how demeaning it was. I had to accept it for the sake of my sister's life. She's my only family, I'd be alone if anything happens to her.

“Can we just get this over with? Let's sign the stupid contract so that I can be on my way.” I played off his question and he chuckled before pulling the document out of his drawer and placing it in front of me.

“Can I read it?” I requested.

“Sure you can, there's no need though, I'm sure you'll be okay with the way things are.” He answered but I still went ahead to read it.

It stated that I was going to be his wife for three years and in those three years, we would do everything that married people do, including having s*x.

“Hold on!” I was stunned.

“I'm not going to have s*x with you!”

“Then there's no point signing the contract, you can leave.” He said bluntly, without lifting his face from his computer.

How does he expect me to sleep with him? I don't even know him, I don't know his background. This is totally unacceptable.

“You'll have to change this part of the contract.” I insisted but he scoffed, finally raising his head to look at me.

“Like I said, if you're not cool with that part, you can drop the contract and leave.”

Biting my lip and forcing back my tears, I reluctantly started signing the contract. When I was done, he yanked it from my hand and put it back where he found it.

I still don't understand why he needs someone to pretend to be his wife. What is he up to? He has refused to explain anything to me, and it's making me nervous. What if I have just made the worst mistake of my life?

“That part is actually my favorite part.” He grinned, referring to the s*x in our contract.

“What?” I scrunch my nose in disgust as his eyes practically stripped me naked. His eyes were fixed on my boobs, forcing me to place my hand above my cleavage in an attempt to cover up.

“I haven't stopped wondering how it would feel to have you naked, underneath me.” His stare grew more intense, making my privates tingle in excitement. I hated myself for letting his words turn me on, but I couldn't help it.

“You're a disgusting man.” I got to my feet immediately, trying to hide my flushed cheeks.

“Where are you going?” He asked.

“Home, of course.” I scoffed.

What? Because we're bound to a marriage contract now, he thinks he can control my life?

“Not yet. Sit down. I have something for you.” He smiled.

“What is it?”

“Don't be impatient, sit your ass down and wait.” He said in a harsh tone and I quickly obeyed.

A few minutes later, his assistant walked into the office, along with a smartly dressed, middle-aged man. He had a briefcase with him, which he placed on the desk.

“Good morning.” He beamed.

“What's going on?” I questioned, staring at everyone in the office. Alexia left almost immediately, leaving me alone with both men.

“He is a clerk. He's here to legalize our marriage.” Steve answered, giving me another shock. He's likely to give me a heart attack before the end of this charade of a marriage!

“What did you think, that this was all a joke?” He chuckled.

“Go into the bathroom, fix your hair and make-up, then we'll go ahead with the proceedings.” He added and I frowned.

“What's wrong with the way I look?”

“I don't want our wedding pictures to come out ugly because of you.” He grinned and I seethed before angrily making my way to his bathroom.

Thankfully, I had a brush and lip gloss with me. I brushed my hair and applied the gloss before going back into the office to join them. He stared at me for a couple of seconds before shrugging.

I took my seat and then the proceedings began. The clerk read out the vows, we repeated and even exchanged rings. I had no idea that he had already bought rings, mine was the most gorgeous diamond ring I have ever seen. He's really going all out for this fake marriage.

“Is there really a point to all of this?” I questioned and he glared at me.

“Be quiet and recite your f*****g vows.” He snapped and I took a deep breath.

It didn't stop me from trying to wrap my head around the reason why he was doing all of this. Is his family even aware that he's getting married in his office to a girl they know nothing about? This man is definitely crazy, that's for sure.

“Now that the vows are complete, please sign the marriage certificate.” The clerk handed me a pen. We signed the certificate and returned it to him to seal with his stamp.

“I now pronounce you, husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

My heart dropped instantly as I turned to look at Steve. He grabbed me without warning and slammed his lips against mine, his tongue ravaging my mouth hungrily.

“You're mine now.” He grinned, breaking the kiss.