A Contract Of Heart

Chapter 4: Paper Hearts and Cold Truths

The next morning, the sun streamed through Rita’s tall windows, but the warmth did little to ease the cold in her chest. Her fingers traced the edge of the velvet robe left neatly folded by the staff — a silent reminder that this wasn’t her world. Not really.

She descended the staircase slowly, half-expecting Richard to be gone. But there he was — sitting at the head of the long marble dining table, scrolling through something on his phone, a black coffee untouched beside him.

“Good morning,” she said softly.

He looked up, surprised. “You’re awake early.”

“I couldn’t sleep.”

He nodded once. “You’ll get used to it.”

Used to what? The silence? The staff that barely made eye contact? The way his presence filled every room but left it colder?

“Are we still attending the business gala tonight?” she asked, forcing a calm tone.

“Yes. You’ll be introduced as my wife. Wear something elegant. Discreet, but expensive.”

So much for normal.

He stood, grabbing his briefcase. As he passed, Rita asked, “Why me?”

He paused at the door.

“What do you mean?”

“Why did you choose me for this... contract? You barely know me.”

He turned slowly, his expression unreadable. “Because you were the only one who didn’t want anything from me.”

And with that, he was gone.

Rita stood frozen, unsure whether to feel flattered... or insulted. She didn’t want his money, his name, or his power. But now, she had all three — and still felt completely invisible.

She turned back toward the staircase, whispering to herself, “Then maybe it’s time I become someone he sees.”

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