The CEO’s Contractual Heart

Chapter 2: The Proposal

Forty-eight hours later, Chloe found herself sitting in the ultra-minimalist, glass-walled office on the top floor of Vance Global Tech. The view of the city skyline was breathtaking, but Chloe felt like she was standing in front of a firing squad.

Mason Vance sat behind his massive mahogany desk, looking every bit the ruthless tech titan he was reputed to be. He didn't offer her a seat immediately, letting her stand for a tense moment before flicking his wrist toward a leather chair opposite him.

"Sit," he commanded.

Chloe bit back a sharp retort, forced her shoulders down, and sat. "Look, Mr. Vance, about the suit—my insurance can cover part of it, or I can pay it off in installments—"

"I don't care about the suit, Miss Hayes," Mason interrupted, folding his hands on the desk. His gray eyes pinned her in place. "I care about solutions. And as it happens, you are in the event planning business, while I am in urgent need of a very specific kind of arrangement."

Chloe narrowed her eyes. "What kind of arrangement?"

"My grandfather is threatening to cut me out of the family board unless I settle down and introduce him to my fiancée by the end of the month," Mason said flatly, his expression as impassive as stone. "I need someone who can play the part convincingly at upcoming high-society functions. In exchange, I will clear your studio’s lease debt in full, plus pay you a substantial retainer."

Chloe stared at him, dumbfounded. "You want to fake date me? Because I ruined your suit?"

"I want a professional solution to an annoying problem," Mason corrected smoothly. "And you happen to need financial salvation. It’s a transaction. Nothing more, nothing less."

Chloe's mind raced. Her studio—her dream—was on the line. But tying herself to a man who looked at people like they were chess pieces felt like dancing on the edge of a volcano.

"Fine," Chloe whispered, her chin lifting defiantly. "We have rules. No real feelings, no crossing lines, and you pay the lease upfront."

Mason’s lips twitched into the ghost of a cold, dangerous smile. "Deal."