CLAUSE SIX

3- NICHOLAS

She wore red…that was my favourite colour. My façade almost cracked a little when our eyes met, I didn’t want that. I maintained my stoic expression for the rest of the meeting.

The lawyer continued, “This is a strategic partnership that benefits both parties.” He opened a black folder and slid two documents across the table. “This is the formal agreement, read through the clauses for clarity.”

I picked it up and scanned the document, it was just our signatures that were left.

'This marriage contract between the Olsen and White families is a legally binding agreement designed to solidify a strategic corporate alliance through marital union between Nicholas Olsen and Evelyn White. As a part of the deal, both families gain significant stakes in each other’s enterprises. The couple is required to present a united public image, cohabit in a mutually approved residence, and attend major events together. A strict non-disclosure clause prevents either party from revealing the contractual nature of their union, with severe legal and financial consequences for breach.

“This indeed is a promising arrangement.” Evelyn’s father spoke up, my grandfather nodded in agreement. Evelyn, on the other hand, remained quiet as she read through the document.

“If there are no objections, you may both sign.” The lawyer finished. I looked at my grandfather and he gave me a pushing nod. I picked up the pen that laid next to the document and scribbled my signature. I looked back at Evelyn; she was staring directly at the dotted lines. As if she sensed my stare, she signed. And that was it, we were bound together.

My gaze went from the document on the table to her face…her red lips complimented her skin. I stood up abruptly and walked out of the boardroom, leaving her behind. I couldn’t let myself succumb to the opportunity to get to know someone who wasn’t Renee. I groaned out loud as I entered my office slamming the door behind me.

I pulled out my phone and checked if she had replied me, I had texted her earlier,

I wish I had the right words, I’m sorry Renee, I’m hurting as much as you are. I love you to death.

I cursed under my breath when I read the text message again, I was really feeling vulnerable when I sent it. She hadn’t replied yet, so I decided to delete the message altogether. She doesn’t need any more hurt from me. I reached for the bottle of gin I had stashed inside one of the drawers of my table. I raised it to my lips to take a sip when I heard a knock on the door.

I took a swig and felt it burn my throat, “I’m busy,” I yelled at the door. The door opened and my grandfather strutted in with Evelyn behind him. I rose an eyebrow, “You know, it’s polite to wait to be invited in,” I said as I took another swig at the gin. Evelyn grimaced at that action.

I was quick to point out, “Do you have a problem with me drinking?” She was shocked that I directed the question to her. I watched as she struggled to answer, “Not that I care,” She finally said, I was taken aback. “Good.” I retorted. My grandfather sighed and turned to Evelyn and whispered something to her. He turned to me and narrowed his eyes, “Behave.” Then, he left.

I scoffed after he left and asked, “Why are you here?” She looked around and took a seat before replying, “He said that we should work together to plan the marriage.” I looked at her for a long time before asking, “Are you happy about this?” She stared at the painting that Renee made for me, “No, I just found out about it today.” I didn’t think I could ever hate her for being in this situation because now I knew that we were both forced into this.

“You plan it, a court marriage is fine.” I said as I opened my laptop to get some work done. “Date?” She asked already standing up, it was as if she didn’t want to be in the same place with me. That disturbed me…a bit. I brushed the feeling off, “This Saturday is fine.” She nodded and started to walk out, but she paused, “That’s tomorrow?”

I looked at her, “Yep, is that a problem?” She shook her head and left. I stared at the closed door for the longest time. I was actually getting married, it still felt unreal, even after meeting her. I snapped out of it and started to work, after all, that was what mattered the most.