Contract marriage with the billionaire heir

CHAPTER THREE: The Proposal

Eva barely slept the night before because her mother's surgery was urgently scheduled, and she came to the office early.

Despite her severe tiredness and worry, she was determined not to allow her dire financial circumstances to interfere with her ability to focus. She heard the faint tones of an intense conversation as she passed Jason's office. Though she couldn't make out the words well, Jason's voice was sharp and intense.

She took a deep breath and got back to her day's work, trying to distract herself from her current situation. The usual morning buzz filled the office when Spencer approached her desk.

"You look off today. Everything alright?" he asked, his eyes reflecting genuine worry.

Eva forced a smile, hoping to ease his concern. "I'm fine. Just a lot going on," she said, trying to sound more composed than she felt.

Spencer's expression softened, but his concern remained. "Are you sure? You can talk to me if something's bothering you. I'm here to help." he said in a soft tone.

"It's just... my mom's in really bad shape," Eva admitted, her voice shaking slightly. "I'm just trying to figure out how to pay for her surgery and all, but I'm managing. No need to worry," she said, forcing a reassuring tone.

Spencer's face grew serious as he listened to her. "I'm really sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked, his voice was filled with pity.

Before Eva could reply, Jason bursted into the office impatiently. "Eva, are the files ready? I need them. Now." he said, in a sharp, commanding tone.

"Yes, sir," Eva replied immediately, trying to keep her tone steady despite the stress she was feeling. Spencer gave her a brief, concerned glance before she gathered the necessary files and handed them over.

Jason took the files from her without a word and headed straight to the boardroom.

Jason struggled to focus as the meeting began. His mind kept going back to what he had discussed with his father the night before. His father had made it crystal clear that he would lose his place as the heir to the family business if he didn't get married in a week.

The memory of the conversation he had overheard between his assistant and Spencer was also on his mind. It seemed that Eva was in serious financial trouble, and he was pondering whether his offer could be a solution to both their problems.

When the meeting finally ended, Jason quickly made his way back to his office. He glanced over at Eva, who was stacking files on her desk. As he reached the door, he turned suddenly.

"Eva, in my office now!" he commanded sharply.

Eva obeyed him, a little confused but followed him inside. After shutting the door, Jason turned to face her, his emotions well in check and his appearance detached and realistic.

"I overheard your conversation with Spencer," Jason said bluntly, his voice devoid of warmth. "You're in financial trouble. I have a proposal."

Eva's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "A proposal?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity and fear.

Jason nodded, his voice remaining cold and professional. "I need to be married within a week, and you need financial support. Here's my offer: a contract marriage," he said, his eyes meeting hers with a firm determination.

Eva's eyes widened in shock. "A contract marriage?" She repeated, struggling to comprehend the seriousness of the offer.

"Only for six months. Just long enough to meet my father's demand. No feelings or anything involved," Jason explained, his face expressionless. "In return, I'll provide you with the financial support you need. After six months, we go our separate ways. It's as simple as that."

Eva stood still, trying to process the offer. "And why should I agree to that?" she asked, with doubt in her voice.

Jason's expression remained calm. "You need the money, don't you?" he said, raising an eyebrow.

Eva found the decision difficult. Although the offer was tempting, it was unsettling to consider being married to Jason Walter, a man she hardly knew and who had a reputation for being ruthless and cold.

"I need some time to think about it," she said, hoping to buy herself a moment of clarity.

"You have until tomorrow. Time is of the essence," Jason said firmly, his voice leaving no room for negotiation.

The tight deadline seemed too soon for Eva. "Tomorrow?" she thought, feeling overwhelmed. She still needed to give the offer some serious thought. The urgency of her mother's medical situation pushed her toward accepting, but living with Jason for six months was just unsettling.

********

Eva met Jackson later that day at their regular location, a small café they visited frequently. A concerned look spread across Jackson's face as she walked in. He had been trying to reach her since yesterday, but she had not responded.

"How are you?" Jackson asked, his voice filled with concern as she sat next to him.

"I'm fine," Eva lied, attempting to maintain a light smile.

Jackson could see right through her, and she knew it. They had been best friends since high school, and it was nearly impossible for her to hide anything from him.

Jackson's face hardened as he continued to look at her. "You don't have to lie to me. How's your mom?" His voice was filled with genuine worry.

Eva forced a strained smile. "She's fine. Just some minor issues, but it's all good now," she said, trying to reassure him even though she knew he wasn't convinced.

Jackson searched her face for any signs of honesty. He knew she wasn't telling him the entire truth but decided not to press further. "Okay," he finally said, giving up on pressing further.

Eva didn't want Jackson to worry about her. He had already done so much for her, that she didn't want to add to his stress. They continued their conversation, but Eva kept the details of Jason's offer to herself. She knew Jackson would likely disapprove and might even suggest paying for the surgery himself, a gesture she was determined to avoid.

The following morning, Eva met with Jason. She had received an urgent call from the hospital, pleading with her to start her mother's surgery immediately. Faced with no other options, she reluctantly agreed to Jason's offer.

A week later, Eva found herself in a luxurious car heading to the Walter Mansion. She had accepted the proposal, and her mother had been transported to the best hospital in the country for her surgery. She felt as though her financial worries had lessened, yet she was still faced with further difficulties.

Their wedding had taken place in an empty church, everything happened fast and smoothly. Eva wore an elegant white dress that Jason had bought for her. They signed the contract that day, which stated that she would be married to Jason for six months and would move in with him immediately after signing.

Eva chose not to inform her mother, her brother, or even her best friend Jackson about her sudden marriage to Jason. The decision weighed heavily on her, but she hoped it would be the right choice in the long run.