“What did you just say?” Elena asked, staring at Alexander as though she had heard him wrong.
“I said exactly what you think I said.” His voice remained calm, almost indifferent. “I’m required to be married within three months, and I’ve decided that you will be my wife.”
Elena blinked.
For a moment, she could only stare at him.
“Is this some kind of joke?” she finally asked. “A prank? Because if it is, it’s not funny.”
“It isn’t a joke.”
The seriousness in his expression made her stomach tighten.
“I don’t understand.” She said, confusion dancing across her face.
“It’s simple.” Alexander leaned back in his chair. “I’m offering you a contract marriage. One that benefits both of us.”
“A contract marriage?” she repeated weakly.
“I need a wife. You need money for your brother’s surger
