A Love Born Of Duty

Rachael entered the living room with her usual calm and confident way. “You just called me sir,” she whispered calmly, her soft voice barely audible waiting for his instructions. “You can take a seat.” James replied, his back still facing her, as he gazed out the window, a cup of hot tea in his hands. Her eyes widened in surprise, he had never asked her to sit as he was always clear and direct. Despite her surprise, she sat down slowly, her mind full of questions. “Have I done anything wrong, sir?” The question slipped out, her voice trembling. A small smile played on his lips as he said, “Always striving for perfection.” His back was still facing her. “Don’t worry, you’re not here for work, you can calm down.” He teased, the small smile still on his face. He then turned, placed the cup of tea on the table, and sat in the chair opposite Rachael, his actions calm and deliberate. He then looked at her, his eyes piercing hers with a great intensity and said, “I have been observing you since you started working here, and I have to say I was amazed,” he said confidently, crossing one leg over the other. “Rachel, you are an exceptional cook, the house is always clean and my mum even likes you and your culinary skills, and I have to say it’s new. Ever since you started working here, I’ve not yet seen anything out of space, a single dress folded improperly or even a particle of dust. Your dedication to perfection is impressive.” He continued with a charming tone. “Thank you sir, I really appreciate it.” Rachael replied with a smile drawing on her face. “But that’s not just why I called for you,” James said, his tone turning serious. “I’m sorry for invading your privacy, but I mistakenly overheard your phone call 2 days ago” he continued unfolding his legs. “Your mum is in a critical situation at the hospital and you have difficulties paying for the surgery, right?” His voice softened, filled with empathy. Rachael's expression changed, a deep sadness washed over her face. She murmured a barely audible answer, “yes sir.” Her voice trembled as she fought to hold back her tears. “I apologize, raising the topic was not to hurt you but I have to discuss with you about something. I’d like to propose an agreement to you.” His voice remained serious and direct. With no hint of emotionalism. Rachael's eyes widened. She couldn’t understand why James, a man known for this coldness, would want to propose an agreement to her, a simple household manager. “What kind of agreement sir?” She asked, her curiosity evident in her voice. “A marriage agreement!” He replied with a seriousness that sent shivers down her spine. Rachael's eyes widened as she was trying to process what she just heard. Shock, confusion and surprise had the upper hand, leaving her momentarily stunned. “A marriage sir?” She repeated her voice barely above a whisper, trying to convince herself she was not dreaming. “Yes.” He replied firmly. “But don’t bother, we’ll set conditions if you agree of course.” Still in shock, she struggled to compose herself, determined to maintain a professional behavior. “What are the conditions sir?” She asked calmly. “I’ll be brief. You need financial assistance to save your mother and I need a wife to maintain my image. Here’s the deal: we’ll sign a 2 years contract marriage. I’ll cover your mum’s surgery and related recovery expenses. You’ll enjoy financial security during the agreement and of course you’ll receive a compensation check when the divorce will be signed.” “As my wife, you’ll have to represent me and my family’s name wherever you are. You’ll represent us in public, dressing impeccably and with professionalism. I trust your judgement in this regard, knowing your background.” “One final condition: you’ll have to sign a confidentiality agreement, stipulating that only your mother has to be aware of our agreement. If she shares the information, I’ll take legal action against the two of you.” He concluded with his serious tone. Rachael, stupefied, could not believe she finally had a solution to her problems. “It can only be a blessing from God” she said to herself still trying to process the proposal. A sudden idea popped up in her mind, she had to try her luck. “May I propose an additional condition to the agreement sir?” She whispered calmly, her voice barely audible. James lifted the cup of tea on the table, his eyes locked on hers and said, “go on, Rachael, what do you want to add?” His voice low before raising the cup of tea to his lips. She straightened her shoulders. gathered her courage, lifted her head with determination adopting a resolute tone as she met his gaze. “Will I be able to return to my studies?” She asked, her voice firm and determined. James' eyes widened in stupefaction, his expression softening. “You continue to impress me, more and more, each day” he said, a hint of admiration creeping into his voice. “I had no idea that in the midst of all your hard work, you still harbored the idea to pursue your education.” “Yes sir.” She replied, a soft blush spreading across her cheeks. “My mother couldn’t afford to send me to college, so I had to take on small jobs to make ends meet and provide for our basic needs, like food.” She said proudly “I’ll sponsor your education, even after the divorce.” James said, his words tumbling out with enthusiasm. “Thank you so much sir, I really appreciate it” she said as she fought to hold her tears back. “And, if I may ask, what field of study interest you?” James asked, still in enthusiasm. “Architecture,sir.” She replied with a spark of passion igniting her face. “I’ve always dreamt of designing houses that will bring joy and comfort to others.” “And in the long-run, I envision creating a non-profit organization that provides disaster relief by rebuilding houses for the people in need, who have lost everything due to natural disasters.” “That’s truly admirable.” He said with a warm smile spreading across his face. “I’ve no doubt you’ll make it happen. Your determination and compassion will undoubtedly inspire positive change in people’s lives.” “Thank you so much sir” her face filled with gratitude. “But I do have one last concern…” She lowered her gaze, her hands cradling her face as she whispered, “Will I be required to… fulfill my marital obligations, sir”? James burst in laughter, his eyes crinkling in at the corners and he reassured her. “No, don’t bother… it’s not part of the deal. You’re free to focus on your studies and your future without any… marital expectations” A wave of relief washed over her,and a radiant smile spread over her face as she heard the reassuring words. “Ok sir. Thank you. I accept the deal.” She said with excitement. “Can we discuss the details later? I’d like to go see my mum now.” She asked softly. “Yes, you can go.” James nodded calmly. As she turned to leave, she suddenly turned back, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “But sir, if I may ask… you know my reasons for accepting, but what’s yours? Why do you want to marry me exactly?”