BOUNDED BY THE CLAUSE

CHAPTER FOUR:HER FOUR CONDITIONS

Adrian arrived at the café exactly at eight o'clock.

He spotted Amara sitting by the window, a cup of untouched coffee in front of her. The contract lay neatly on the table.

"You chose neutral ground," Adrian said as he took the seat opposite her.

"I didn't want to meet in your office again."

He gave a slight nod.

"I respect that."

For a moment, neither of them spoke.

Finally, Amara pushed the contract toward him.

"I've made my decision."

"And?"

"I'll accept your proposal."

Adrian's expression remained calm, but there was a flicker of relief in his eyes.

"On one condition?" he asked.

"No," she corrected. "On four conditions."

He leaned back in his chair.

"I'm listening."

Amara took a deep breath.

"First, my mother's treatment must begin immediately—before the wedding."

Adrian nodded.

"Done."

"Second, my brother's school fees must be paid anonymously. He can never know this marriage is the reason."

"Agreed."

"Third, when this contract ends, we walk away without trying to ruin each other's lives."

"You have my word."

She hesitated before stating the last condition.

"And finally... treat me with respect. I may be your contract wife, but I won't be your servant."

For the first time since they met, Adrian smiled—a genuine smile.

"I wasn't looking for a servant, Miss Collins."

He extended his hand across the table.

"I was looking for a partner."

After a long pause, Amara shook his hand.

"Then we have an agreement."

Just as their hands parted, Adrian's phone rang.

His expression darkened as he answered.

"What?"

He listened in silence.

"When?"

He stood abruptly.

"I'll be there."

He ended the call and looked at Amara.

"My grandfather has collapsed."

Without another word, he rushed toward the exit.

Amara instinctively followed him.

"I'll come with you."

He looked at her in surprise.

"You don't have to."

"I know," she replied. "But if we're going to convince the world we're married, perhaps this is where it begins."

Together, they hurried to the waiting car.

Neither of them noticed the woman standing across the street, hidden behind dark sunglasses.

She watched them drive away, her hands trembling with anger.

"So," she whispered, "he really chose her."

She pulled out her phone and made a call.

"I want every detail about Amara Collins."

A cold smile spread across her face.

"If she thinks she'll become Mrs. Kingsley, she's about to learn how dangerous this family can be."