MY CONTRACT HUSBAND IS A RUTHLESS BILLIONAIRE

Chapter 10 - Sign Again

1 month later.

My mother's recovery was going well. Because of him.

And our "marriage"? Still fake. Still cold.

Except for nights like Paris. Like the hospital. Like this morning.

"Board meeting in 1 hour." Alexander said at breakfast. "They want to see us."

"Us?"

"As a couple. To approve the merger." He didn't look at me. "And the contract."

My stomach dropped. "What contract?"

He slid a folder across the table.

`CONTRACT RENEWAL: 1 YEAR EXTENSION`

"1 more year?" I whispered. "But we agreed-"

"Things changed." He finally met my eyes. "The board thinks we're unstable. They want proof we're committed. For 2 years total."

2 years.

"And if I say no?"

"Then the merger fails. 10,000 employees lose their jobs. Including your mother's nurses."

Blackmail. Again.

"You're cruel."

"I know." He stood up. "Meeting is at 10. Wear white. And sign it before we go in."

He walked away.

I stared at the contract. 1 more year of pretending. Of almost-kisses. Of "stay."

Of him.

At 9:55AM, we stood outside the boardroom.

"Are you going to sign?" he asked quietly.

I held up the pen. My hand shook.

"Why do you want me to?"

"Because..." He sighed. "Because it's easier this way."

Easier. Right.

I signed. `Isabella Santos-Virel`

He signed right after. `Alexander Virel`

The moment the ink dried, the door opened.

"Mr. and Mrs. Virel." The board chairman smiled. "Welcome. So glad you could renew your vows... to the company."

Vows.

As we walked in, Alexander's hand found mine.

Held it tight.

In front of everyone.

And whispered: "Thank you."

For the first time...

I didn't know if he was thanking me for the contract.

Or for me.