Chapter 1 Playing with Fire

In the newsroom of The Premier Times, excitement filled the room as the cameras and lights were set, ready to capture another segment of The Untold Story with the fearless investigative news anchor, Alayna Sandra.

She radiated confidence as she adorned herself with elegant earrings, preparing for the reality show alongside a famous and wealthy guest, Lev Halton, who was being pampered by a makeup artist.

As the countdown began, the atmosphere grew tense. "Camera roll on!" signaled the start of the segment.

Alayna greeted her guest with enthusiasm, "Hello, Mr. Lev Halton, it's an honor to have you here."

Lev Halton, known for his charm, replied, "Hello, Miss Alayna Sandra, nice to see the most beautiful news anchor in the US."

Alayna blushed and dismissed his compliment, saying, "You're too much, Mr. Halton."

With the formalities out of the way, Alayna dived into the segment, asking Lev Halton questions about his career and he answered elegantly.

However, in the middle of the discussion, a reporter leaned closer and commented, "Miss Alayna, before we delve into your latest expose, there have been whispers about some personal matters. Care to comment on the rumors regarding your passport?"

Alayna was shocked but resolved to remain calm. She responded firmly, "I'm here to discuss my latest investigative report, not my personal life."

The persistent reporter pressed on. "But as a journalist, integrity is the most important. Can you clarify the authenticity of your passport?"

Alayna felt the weight of the situation but maintained her poise. "What's wrong with my passport?"

The reporter persistent, claimed to have evidence from immigration data, alleging that Alayna had entered the US with a fraudulent passport.

Alayna's eyes darted left and right, searching for the director's intervention, hoping he would cut short this unofficial interview.

Blood rushed to her face as she responded, "I have no idea what you're talking about."

Before the reporter could respond, a familiar voice cut through the tension. Dafa stepped forward. "Excuse me, but I must intervene. Even if there is an issue with her passport, it is not her fault. There might have been a bureaucratic mistake, and she will work to resolve it."

The intrigued reporter asked, "And who might you be? You look familiar."

Dafa stood confidently, introducing himself, "I'm Daffa Eijaz, a colleague and friend. I can assure you that Alayna's dedication to truth and transparency extends to her personal life as well."

The attention in the room shifted from Alayna to Dafa, curiosity brimming about their connection. The reporter seized the opportunity to further probe, "So, Mr. Dafa, are you suggesting that there is more to this story? A fraudulent passport is not an ordinary issue for a news anchor who always stands for justice. It seems hypocritical, as it involves deception and dishonesty towards the public."

Dafa exchanged glances with Alayna and then turned back to the reporter. He gazed into their eyes, firm and resolute, "Alayna is a woman of integrity. I suggest you dig deeper into the facts before passing judgment."

The room fell into a momentary silence as the reporter contemplated Dafa's words. Before they could continue questioning, the atmosphere shifted once again as Lev's voice filled with confidence echoed through the newsroom.

"Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to interrupt. The world deserves the truth," Lev proclaimed the wealthy and influential figure who had a way of commanding attention.

Lev locked eyes with Alayna and said, "My dear Alayna, we have been through so much together. I can't bear to see you face these questions alone."

Alayna and Dafa exchanged surprised glances as Lev stepped forward, taking the spotlight. Baffled, Alayna whispered, "What are you saying, Mr. Lev? We don't even know each other."

Lev just smiled and turned his attention to the reporter. "Allow me to clarify. There will be no issue with Alayna's passport because she and I get married soon. She will obtain a green card through our marriage."

A hush fell over the newsroom as Alayna and Dafa exchanged looks of astonishment and confusion. Time froze as the weight of Lev's unexpected announcement hung in the air.

Alayna's heart raced, and she could feel the collective gaze of her colleagues, waiting for her reaction.

She gathered her thoughts, her voice trembling with a mix of emotions. "Mr. Lev, what are you doing? This is neither the time nor the place for such an announcement!"

Lev responded with a confident smile as if playing a calculated game of chess. "Miss Alayna, you know better than anyone that a tarnished reputation can be harmful to a news anchor's career. The media will question your credibility. I'm offering you a solution. By marrying me, you will not only resolve your visa issues but also gain numerous benefits and security."

Alayna's mind raced, torn between the weight of her career and the unknown possibilities this unexpected proposal presented. She mustered her courage and requested, "At least give me some time to think about it first."

Lev's eyes narrowed slightly. "Time keeps running, Miss Alayna. The word has already started to spread. The longer we wait, the more challenging it will be to control the narrative."

Feeling cornered, Alayna weighed her options. In a tense situation, she needed to think carefully. She gathered her courage and agreed but with conditions. "Fine, but only if I receive the appropriate benefits. I need a guarantee."

Lev nodded, his tone soothing. "Of course, Miss Alayna. We will have an agreement drawn up, clearly outlining the terms and conditions."

Alayna let out a breath, realizing the gravity of her decision. "Deals," she muttered, her voice barely audible.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please refrain from spreading gossip. You will receive a formal invitation from us when the time is right," Lev declared, seeking to settle the reactions that had swallowed the newsroom.

The room exploded with gasps, whispers, and discussions. Journalists rushed to capture every moment of this sensational news, as the shocking reality unfolded. The news anchor, Alayna, was set to marry Lev, the influential shareholder of the company.

"Alayna, is this just a gimmick or a serious thing?" Dafa asked with a concern in his voice.

Alayna sighed, a hint of uncertainty creasing her brow. "I don't even know, Dafa. This whole situation has spiraled out of control."

Dafa's eyes widened with alarm. "Then stop this joke now! You can't let it continue if you're not sure about it!"

Alayna's voice grew stronger, with a hint of ambition. "We can't, Dafa. It's a live show, and the audience expects a story. Besides, I do have an issue with my papers, I don't want to get deported, so I've already agreed to this contract marriage solution."

Dafa's face twisted with concern. "Alayna, you're playing with fire. A marriage contract can have long-lasting repercussions. You barely know this man. He could use that piece of paper to control you, and you'll be jeopardizing your entire future. Please, for your own sake, stop this madness now!"

Alayna leaned forward and said, "He's a famous person, Dafa. He wouldn't dare risk his good name by doing anything malicious to me. I have faith in that."

Dafa went silent, only his gaze spoke with a thousand hidden words.