An Unbelievable Proposal
489 Words
The sleek black Rolls-Royce came to a stop in front of the towering Blackwood Group headquarters.
Ariana stared up at the glass skyscraper, her heart pounding. It was one of the most powerful companies in the country.
She took a deep breath and stepped out of the car.
Inside, employees greeted her with respectful smiles before leading her to a private elevator.
“Mr. Blackwood is waiting for you on the top floor,” the receptionist said politely.
The elevator doors opened.
The office before her was larger than her entire apartment.
Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooked the city skyline.
Standing with his back to her was a tall man in a perfectly tailored black suit.
Even from behind, his commanding presence filled the room.
Without turning around, he spoke.
“You’re late.”
Ariana frowned.
“I arrived exactly on time.”
A faint smile appeared on his lips before he slowly turned to face her.
His sharp jawline, piercing gray eyes, and calm expression made him look more like a king than a businessman.
So this was Damien Blackwood.
The billionaire every magazine called untouchable.
“You wanted to see me?” Ariana asked.
He studied her quietly before walking toward his desk.
“I’ve read your company’s financial reports.”
Ariana stiffened.
“Then you already know I’m in trouble.”
“I do.”
“And?”
“I can save your company.”
Hope flashed across her face before she quickly hid it.
“No one helps for free, Mr. Blackwood.”
“For someone drowning in debt, you’re surprisingly smart.”
She folded her arms.
“What do you want?”
Damien opened a drawer and placed a document on the desk between them.
A contract.
He looked directly into her eyes.
“Marry me.”
Silence filled the office.
Ariana blinked.
“…What?”
“A one-year contract marriage.”
She let out a short laugh.
“This isn’t funny.”
“I’m not joking.”
He slid the contract closer.
“In return, I’ll clear every debt Bennett Holdings owes, protect your company, and ensure your employees keep their jobs.”
Her smile disappeared.
“You don’t even know me.”
“I know enough.”
“And what do you gain from this?”
“My reasons are none of your concern.”
Ariana stared at him, searching his face for any sign that this was some elaborate prank.
There was none.
He was completely serious.
Her phone buzzed.
It was a message from the bank.
FINAL NOTICE: Your company’s assets will be seized tomorrow morning if payment is not received.
Her heart sank.
Damien spoke again.
“You have twenty-four hours to decide.”
He stood and walked toward the window.
“You can walk away now…”
He paused.
“…or become Mrs. Blackwood.”
Ariana looked down at the contract.
One signature could save everything.
Or destroy her life.
- Writer
