As I stood in front of the mirror, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. The stranger, Dominic, had been kind enough to offer me a handkerchief when I needed it most. I got to know his name from the reservation he made with the host and I was instructed to tell her. Now, I was about to meet him again, and I had no idea what to expect.

I took a deep breath and smoothed out my dress. I wanted to look presentable, not just for him, but for myself. I deserved to feel confident and beautiful, especially after the night I’d had.

When I arrived at Amigo restaurant, the host greeted me with a warm smile. “Reservation under Dominic, please,” I said, trying to sound calm.

She nodded and led me to a secluded area of the restaurant. The VIP section was tastefully decorated, with plush chairs and a stunning view of the city.

As I approached the table, I saw him. Dominic king. He was even more handsome than I remembered. His chiseled jawline, piercing green eyes, and dark hair made him look like a model. His lips were soft and inviting, and I found myself wondering what it would be like to kiss him.

He stood up as I approached, his eyes locking onto mine. “Thank you,” I said, trying to sound composed.

He smiled and pulled out my chair. “Please, sit down. Let’s get straight to the point.”

As I sat down, I couldn’t help but notice the way he looked at me. It was as if he was trying to read me, to understand what made me tick.

“I know I called you out for your handkerchief, but that's not the real purpose I invited you out. I’ve done some research on you,” he said, pulling out a file. “I know about your ex and your sister. I know about the pain they’ve caused you.”

I felt a surge of defensiveness, but he continued before I could interrupt. “I have a proposal for you. One that I think you’ll find interesting.”

He paused, looking at me intently. “I’m looking for a wife. A wife who can help me secure my inheritance.”

I stared at him, unsure of what to say. A proposal? Marriage? It sounded absurd, but at the same time, it felt like a lifeline.

“I know this sounds unconventional,” he said, “but hear me out. As my wife, you’ll have the protection and resources you need to take revenge on your ex and sister. You’ll have the freedom to live your life on your own terms.”

I looked at him, trying to process what he was offering. It was a lot to take in, but a part of me was intrigued.

“Why me?” I asked, trying to sound calm. “Why would you choose me for this proposal?”

He smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement. “You’re smart, Zara. You’re resourceful. And you’re beautiful.”

I felt a flush rise to my cheeks, but I tried to stay focused. “What are the terms of this proposal?” I asked.

“We’ll get married, and we’ll stay married for at least a year,” he said. “During that time, we’ll appear in public together, take pictures, and do all the things that couples do.”

“And what’s in it for you?” I asked, trying to understand his motivations.

“My inheritance,” he said. “My grandfather left it to me, but only if I’m married. If I don’t meet the conditions, it will go to charity.”

I nodded, trying to process the information. It was a lot to take in, but a part of me was tempted.

“What do I get out of this?” I asked, trying to sound pragmatic.

“You get revenge,” he said. “You get protection. And you get a chance to start over.

I looked at him, trying to read his expression. He seemed sincere, but I couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was more to this proposal than met the eye.

“What’s the catch?” I asked, trying to sound cautious.

He smiled again, his eyes glinting with amusement. “There’s always a catch, isn’t there?”

I nodded, waiting for him to continue.

“We’ll have to act like a real couple,” he said. “In public, at least. And there will be certain... expectations.”

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself. “What kind of expectations?”

He leaned forward, his voice taking on a husky tone. “We’ll have to be intimate, Zara. In every way that counts.”

I felt a shiver run down my spine as I met his gaze. What had I just gotten myself into?

"So what do you say Zara, the ball is in your court", he said staring intently at me.