Bound to the Ruthless Billionaire

The Contract The rain poured relentlessly over the city as Ami hurried through the crowded streets, clutching the folder that held every hope she had left. At twenty-two, life had become a constant battle. Her mother's hospital bills were piling up, the landlord had given her three days to pay the rent, and every job interview ended with the same disappointing words. "We'll call you." They never did. Stopping outside one of the tallest buildings in the city, Ami looked up at the glass tower that seemed to touch the clouds. The enormous sign read Evans Group International. Everyone knew its owner—Evans Kingston, the youngest billionaire in the country. Brilliant, feared, and completely ruthless, he had built his empire from nothing. People whispered that he trusted no one and that emotions were a weakness he couldn't afford. Ami had no idea why his company had suddenly invited her for an interview. Taking a deep breath, she stepped inside. The receptionist led her to the top floor, where silence filled the luxurious hallway. After a gentle knock, a deep voice spoke from inside. "Come in." Ami opened the door. Behind a massive mahogany desk sat Evans. Dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit, his sharp grey eyes studied her without a hint of warmth. His expression was unreadable, making him look more like a king passing judgment than a businessman. "So," he said calmly, "you're Ami." She nodded nervously. "Yes... sir." He pushed a document across the desk. "I don't have time for interviews. I have a proposal instead." Confused, Ami glanced at the papers. The bold title nearly stopped her heart. Marriage Contract. Her eyes shot back to him. "There has to be some mistake." "There isn't," Evans replied coldly. "Marry me for one year, and I'll pay every debt you have. Your mother's treatment will be covered, and you'll never have to worry about money again." Ami stared at him in disbelief. "Why would a billionaire need a fake wife?" For the first time, the corner of Evans' lips lifted into the faintest smile—but it held no warmth. "Because my enemies are watching... and I always get what I want." The room fell silent. Ami knew she should walk away. But as she looked at the hospital bills peeking out of her folder, she realized something terrifying. She wasn't sure she could.