Love Under Agreement

CHAPTER 3

“MRS. JOSIE ASHFORD”

Josie was surprised to see Soren in her bedroom at that hour. Her towel slipped and fell to the floor. She quickly pulled it back on, feeling embarrassed.

“What are you doing here so late?” Josie asked, curious about his sudden appearance. Soren stood silent, looking at her without saying a word, which made her feel confused.

“Excuse me,” she said, trying to get his attention. “Is there something you need to tell me?”

“Uh…” Soren finally spoke, shaking off his surprise. “I came to remind you to keep our contract private, especially in front of your friends at the party.” He turned to leave but stopped suddenly. “And starting tomorrow, don’t call me ‘sir’ anymore.” He said this calmly before walking out.

As the sun set, Soren adjusted his tie in the mirror. He wore a sharp suit that highlighted his strong build. Tonight was important; it was the grand party to celebrate his new role as the CEO of his father’s company. He had been waiting for this moment since signing his marriage contract with Josie.

Soren felt both excited and nervous. He needed to prove himself as a good CEO, and he needed Josie to make their marriage look real.

Meanwhile, Josie stood in front of her mirror, her heart racing as she put on a stunning black dress. The dress hugged her body perfectly, making her feel beautiful but exposed. Her hair fell in waves around her shoulders, and her makeup looked flawless.

She never expected to be in this situation—attending a high-profile event as the CEO's wife, even if it was just for show. The thought of everyone watching her made her anxious, but she knew she couldn’t let Soren down. They had an agreement: she had to act the part convincingly.

“I believe you’re ready,” Soren said, his eyes brightening as he looked at her. She looked amazing, but he didn’t feel the need to compliment her.

“Yes, I am,” Josie replied, trying to ignore his charming look. They both understood how significant the evening was.

“Don’t expect me to act like I’m in love with you,” Soren said, fastening his cufflinks. “I can play the perfect husband, but let’s keep this professional.”

“Deal,” Josie replied, feeling a bit disappointed.

When they arrived at the office, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. The lobby was full of employees and guests, all dressed nicely. Soren took her hand and led her through the crowd, saying, “Just follow my lead.” She nodded, trying to take it all in.

The party was lively, filled with laughter and conversations. Soren introduced Josie to colleagues and clients, and each handshake and smile were carefully practiced. “This is my wife, Josie,” he would say with pride, and she felt a mix of pride and disbelief.

When it was Soren’s turn to speak, he stood in front of everyone and received applause. He raised his hand for silence. “Thank you, everyone! I’m excited to be your new CEO. I promise to lead this company with integrity.”

Josie stood beside him, smiling brightly as she played her role well.

The night continued with laughter and cheers, but Soren’s mind raced. He needed to connect with people, secure his position, and gain support from his employees. This was his main focus. He spotted Mr. Torrey, one of the board members, standing alone at the bar.

“Excuse me for a moment,” he told Josie as he walked toward the bar. She felt a wave of insecurity.

“Hold on,” Josie whispered, but Soren didn’t turn back.

“Mr. Torrey, thank you for coming,” Soren greeted, shaking his hand. “I appreciate your support.”

“Of course, Soren. Congratulations on your new role. It’s a big responsibility,” Mr. Torrey replied, scrutinizing him. “Your father had high expectations of you.”

“I’m ready to meet those expectations,” Soren said confidently. “I have some ideas I’d love to share with you and the board.”

“Let’s see how you handle your first few months before we discuss plans,” Mr. Torrey said, sipping his drink. “But I’ll be watching closely.”

Soren felt a chill. “I understand. I won’t let you down.”

As he turned to join Josie, he noticed she was no longer where he had left her. Fear washed over him as he wondered where she was.

Soren heard a distressed cry coming from the staff room as he searched for Josie. He rushed in to find her backed into a corner, with three of his friends pressuring her to drink alcohol.

“Marcus!” Soren shouted at one friend holding a glass out to Josie. “What are you doing?”

“Relax, Soren. Your wife is beautiful, and I was just encouraging her to try some wine,” Marcus said, trying to defend himself. “I also wanted to know how you two met.”

“My wife does not drink alcohol,” Soren said firmly, gripping Josie's hand tighter. “If you wanted to know our story, you could have asked me directly. You didn’t need to involve her.” He was visibly angry as he faced the situation.

Marcus and his friends realized they might face consequences for their actions. They tried to hide their worry.

“Why are you so upset over a small mistake, man?” one asked. “We’re friends, and we act like this all the time.”

“This isn’t just messing around,” Soren replied, trying to calm down. “Don’t do this again,” he said, finally steadying himself. “If you want to drink, I’ll join you since this party is for me.” His friends nodded, feeling let down.

“Go wait in the car,” Soren whispered to Josie, using his suit jacket to cover her. She left quickly, still feeling a bit scared.

“Why did you drink so much, Soren?” Josie asked when they got home. “You should have just ignored them or had less,” she said, helping him to his bedroom.

“You made it to bed, Soren; now get some rest,” Josie said as she helped him lie down. Before she could leave, Soren pulled her closer. “You’re drunk, Soren; just sleep,” Josie said, trying to break free.

“I know what I’m doing,” he insisted. “I’m only a bit drunk, and I can prove it.” He leaned in to kiss Josie, but she avoided him and kept pulling away.

Josie wanted the kiss badly, but she didn’t let it show.

“You looked great naked last night. Your curves were perfect,” Soren said, trying to attract her. He pulled her closer again, trying to kiss her once more. Then he paused.