CHAPTER ONE
Ava Morales, a 23 years old young lady, had always been driven by her family's needs. After her father's business went bankrupt, she took on multiple jobs to support her mother and younger brother. Despite the struggles, Ava remained determined and resourceful, always looking for ways to improve their situation.
What many didn't know was that Ava's father had been a business associate of Julian Blackwood (28 years old billionaire CEO of Blackwood Capital). Although the connection had been distant, Julian had taken notice of Ava's family struggles after her father's business went bankrupt. He had been impressed by Ava's determination and resourcefulness, and he had been keeping an eye on her from afar.
When Julian found himself in need of a partner to help him secure a crucial business deal and improve his public image, his thoughts turned to Ava Morales. He instructed his assistant to track her down and schedule a meeting.
Ava was surprised to receive the call from Julian's office, requesting a meeting. She was intrigued and a bit apprehensive, but she couldn't afford to pass up any opportunity.
As she sat across from Julian in his sleek office, Ava noticed the sharp lines of his face and the piercing gaze of his eyes. He exuded confidence and power, but Ava sensed a hint of vulnerability beneath the surface.
"Ava, I'm looking for a partner," Julian said, his voice low and smooth. "A partner to help me secure a crucial business deal and improve my public image. I'm willing to offer you a substantial sum of money and a chance to rebuild your family's reputation."
Ava's eyes narrowed. "What kind of partner?" she asked, her voice cautious.
Julian's smile was calculated. "A wife. At least, in public. We'll pretend to be married for two years, attend social events, and present a united front. In return, you'll receive a generous allowance and the opportunity to revive your family's name."
Ava's mind was racing. She thought about her family's struggles, and her mother's health issues. The offer was tempting, but she couldn't shake the feeling that Julian was hiding something.
As Ava listened to Julian's proposal, she couldn't help but notice the way he seemed to be watching her, studying her reactions. It was as if he was trying to gauge her interest and determine whether she was the right fit for his plan.
Ava's instincts told her that Julian's proposal was more complex than it seemed. She sensed that there was more to his motivations than just improving his public image. But she was also drawn to the potential benefits of the deal, and the opportunity to help her family.
"I need time to think," Ava said finally, her voice firm.
Julian nodded, his expression unreadable. "I understand. But I need an answer soon. The deal I'm working on is time-sensitive, and I need to know that I can count on you."
Ava nodded, her mind racing with possibilities.
Ava walked out of the office building, her mind racing with thoughts and questions. She couldn't believe the proposal Julian had offered her. A fake marriage? A generous allowance? A chance to revive her family's name? It all seemed too good to be true.
As she walked down the street, Ava couldn't shake the feeling that Julian was hiding something. She didn't know much about him, except that he was a billionaire with a reputation for being ruthless in business.
Ava decided to do some research on Julian Blackwood. She pulled out her phone and started searching for information about him online. As she scrolled through the results, Ava's eyes widened in surprise. Julian's past was shrouded in mystery, but there were rumors of a scandalous breakup with a high-profile girlfriend.
Ava's curiosity was piqued. What had really happened between Julian and his ex-girlfriend? And how would that affect her decision to accept his proposal?
