Chapter 2
1053 Words
Logan's POV
My secretary is standing before my desk asking me to marry her. Could this day get any worse?
From one bewildering request to the other.
“What?” I ask irritatingly.
“What if you had a fiancée?” She asked again.
I stared intently at her, pausing as if the very air had thickened between us. “A fiancée?” My tone dripped with disbelief.
“Yes.” She seized the moment, emboldened by a mixture of desperation and ambition.
“I know it sounds crazy, but hear me out. It could work—an engagement for the duration of the deal. "It’s not just a title; it’s an image you need, one that could give the investors the commitment they’re looking for.”
I squinted at her, the incredulity in my expression quickly giving way to contemplation.
“You think a fake engagement could convince them?”
“Why not?” she pressed.
“It’s common in business. A temporary alliance—until you close the deal. I could assist you in securing financial support, and in return, I would have the stability I desperately need right now.”
The words fell into the silence between us, a potential crackling in the air.
“You can’t be serious,” I declared, breaking the silence.
“Why not?” she replied.
“It’s practical. Just imagine it—everyone sees you as the devoted fiancé, and I get the financial security I need. Think of it as a business arrangement. Nothing more. Just until you find someone else.”
My lips quirked up into a hesitant smile, the tension that had enveloped us beginning to dissipate. “Contract marriage for money, huh?”
“If that's what you wish to call it, then it's settled. It is simply a business transaction where we are both getting high returns,” she explained.
“You've said that countless times. No need to repeat yourself over again, I'm not dumb!”
“I'm sorry sir”. She apologizes
Pausing mid-thought, my gaze inadvertently drifted to Miss Smith as she stood by my desk. Her presence was a refreshing contrast to the suffocating tension that often accompanied my high-stakes role at King Tech & Co.
I couldn’t help but admire the way her soft, chestnut hair cascaded in gentle waves over her shoulders, catching the light like spun gold.
It framed her face perfectly—highlighting her delicate cheekbones and the warm, inviting hues of her hazel eyes that sparkled with an enthusiasm that was both infectious and captivating.
Aubrey possessed an undeniable spirit. Her laughter, bright and genuine, had a way of cutting through the office's relentless hum, brightening the otherwise sterile environment.
I recognize the way she could easily engage with both the finance team and the interns, guiding them with a patient grace that showcased not just her intelligence, but her innate ability to connect with others. There was a fire in her—a zest for life that made even the most tedious tasks seem bearable.
But it was her hardworking nature that truly set her apart. Miss Smith is a force of productivity; she navigates the complexities of her work with diligence that leaves little room for error. She has an uncanny ability to anticipate my needs, often having reports ready before she is even asked. It was a combination of her keen intelligence and relentless commitment that made her not just an employee, but an invaluable ally in the tumult of corporate warfare.
Beyond her work ethic and spirited personality, I am acutely aware of her figure—as much as I have tried to focus on business, it was hard not to notice the way her curves shaped her silhouette when she moved.
She has a natural elegance that comes effortlessly, complementing her upbeat demeanor. Whether clad in a fitted blazer or a casual blouse, Miss Smith carried herself with a confidence that was both alluring and professional.
I shook my head slightly, reminding myself to stay focused. I couldn’t afford to let this attraction distort our professional relationship—not when the stakes were so high. Still, as she spoke, animated and passionate, I found my thoughts wandering, drawn to the notion that maybe this unconventional arrangement could have more unexpected depths than I initially anticipated. I couldn’t just shake the feeling that Miss Smith is more than just a secretary; she is a partner in so many senses of the word—if I could just let myself see it that way.
“Mr. Archer??” She pulled me out of my daydream.
“You are one bold fellow, Miss Smith, and I commend you for that. No one has had the guts to speak to me in such a manner.”
“But you know what, Miss Smith, this is highly unprofessional and will give full justification for raised eyebrows concerning my marital status.”
“I can't risk my business name, Miss Smith”
With a stern look, I briefly stated, “You may take your leave.”
“But… but …”
No buts Miss
“I certainly do not take you for one to question my authority!” I snarl.
“Leave before I change my mind about you keeping your job”
“Yes sir! I'm sorry to have invaded your personal space.”
“It's highly unethical to pry into someone's privacy” She apologizes further but doesn't move. She stares deep into my eyes, hoping those hazel eyes will lure me into changing my mind.
Arching my brow at her, she quickly retreated her plight, blinking her eyes frantically and shaking her head profusely.
Clearing her throat, she announced, “I'll take my leave now.”
“Hmph” I scoffed.
Just as she was about to leave the office, Ethan rushed in, panting like he had been chased by a mad dog.
“Logan” He breathed out
“What's the problem, Ethan?”
“There's… there has been an accident” he said shakily.
Accident?? I furrow my brows in confusion. “What do you mean??”
His pale and frightened expression deepened and then my anger began to elevate.
“Talk!” I barked.
Shakily he informed me, “It's…it's your Dad, Logan.”
- Writer
