Bound by Ink, Freed by Love

Chapter 1: The Proposal The rain poured relentlessly outside Ava Reyes’ small apartment, as if mirroring the chaos in her life. Bills were scattered across her table, overdue notices, final warnings, and the one that hurt the most: foreclosure. Ava pressed her fingers to her temples. “Just a little more time…” she whispered, though she knew time was the one thing she didn’t have. Her phone rang. Unknown number. She hesitated before answering. “Hello?” “Ms. Ava Reyes?” a deep, calm voice spoke. “Yes?” “This is Daniel Cruz, assistant to Mr. Lucas Herrera. He would like to meet you regarding… a proposal.” Ava frowned. “A proposal? I didn’t apply for anything.” “It’s not a job application,” Daniel replied. “But it may solve your financial problems.” Her grip tightened on the phone. --- An hour later, Ava stood in the lobby of one of the most luxurious buildings in the city. Marble floors. Crystal lights. People in suits who looked like they belonged to a different world. And then there was her—wearing her simplest dress, clutching her worn-out bag. She was escorted to the top floor. When the elevator doors opened, she stepped into a sleek office where a man stood by the window, overlooking the city. Lucas Herrera. Even from behind, he radiated authority. When he turned, Ava felt her breath hitch. Sharp features. Cold eyes. Perfect posture. “Sit,” he said, gesturing to the chair. No greeting. No smile. Ava sat slowly. “You wanted to see me?” Lucas walked toward her, placing a folder on the table. “I’ll be direct,” he said. “I need a wife.” Ava blinked. “…Excuse me?” “A contractual marriage,” he clarified. “One year.” Silence filled the room. Ava let out a nervous laugh. “This is a joke, right?” Lucas didn’t laugh. “I will pay all your debts,” he continued calmly. “Your house will be secured. In return, you will marry me and fulfill the role of my wife in public.” Her heart pounded. “How do you even know about my situation?” “I make it my business to know things,” he replied. Ava stood abruptly. “This is insane.” “Is it?” Lucas tilted his head slightly. “Or is it your only option?” Her chest tightened. Because deep down… she knew he was right.