Chapter 2: Into the Lion's Den
596 Words
Raine arrived at the restaurant feeling like an imposter. The place screamed wealth and exclusivity, with its crystal chandeliers and staff dressed in impeccable suits. She tugged at the hem of her simple black dress, feeling out of place among the glittering elites.
“Reservation under Blackwood,” she said softly to the host.
The man’s demeanor shifted instantly. “Right this way, Miss Solace.”
She followed him through the grand dining hall, her heels clicking against the marble floor. At a secluded table in the far corner, Damien Blackwood sat, sipping what appeared to be an expensive glass of red wine. He looked up as she approached, a slow, approving smile spreading across his face.
“You came,” he said, standing to pull out her chair.
“I almost didn’t,” she admitted, sitting down cautiously. “You have a way of making people curious.”
“Curiosity is a powerful thing,” Damien said, his voice velvety smooth. “It can lead to wonderful discoveries—or devastating mistakes.”
Raine raised an eyebrow. “Is this dinner a discovery or a mistake?”
“Time will tell,” he replied, his gaze never leaving hers.
As the waiter poured her a glass of wine, Raine decided to cut to the chase. “So, what exactly is this proposal you mentioned?”
Damien leaned back in his chair, the faintest hint of a smirk playing on his lips. “I need a wife.”
Raine nearly choked on her drink. “Excuse me?”
“You heard me,” Damien said calmly. “I need a wife. And I want you.”
Her laugh was incredulous. “Is this some kind of joke? You don’t even know me!”
“I know enough,” he said, his expression serious now. “You’re independent, intelligent, and unafraid to speak your mind. Qualities that are rare in my world.”
“And why, exactly, do you need a wife? Can’t you just find some socialite to fill the role?”
Damien’s jaw tightened, and for the first time, Raine saw a c***k in his perfect façade. “Let’s just say it’s a matter of business—and survival.”
Raine’s curiosity deepened. There was clearly more to his story, but she wasn’t sure she wanted to know. “Even if I entertained this idea, why me? I’m just a nobody.”
“You’re not a nobody to me,” Damien said, his voice low and intense.
Raine felt her cheeks flush but quickly pushed the feeling aside. “This is insane. You’re insane.”
“Perhaps,” Damien admitted. “But I can promise you this: if you agree, your life will change in ways you can’t imagine. Financial security, protection, freedom from the mundane.”
“And what’s the catch?”
Damien’s gaze darkened. “There will be risks. My world is dangerous, Raine. But I’ll do everything in my power to keep you safe.”
Raine stared at him, torn between intrigue and apprehension. The offer was outrageous, yet something about Damien made her believe he was serious.
“Take your time to think it over,” Damien said, sliding a small velvet box across the table. “But don’t take too long. The clock is ticking.”
Raine opened the box and gasped. Inside was a diamond ring so large it seemed to shimmer with its own light.
As she left the restaurant that night, her mind swirled with questions. Was she stepping into a fairy tale—or a nightmare?
- Writer
