Chapter 4 Let's Get Married

　　DAVID'S POV

　　As I contemplated my options, I realized that my grandfather had left me with a challenging test. He wanted me to find happiness and fulfillment in a way that aligned with his values, but I had to decide what truly mattered to me. This meant that I needed more time to give it thorough consideration.

　　After days of soul-searching, I reached a decision. I called a family meeting and shared my thoughts with my cousins and my parents.

　　"I've decided not to marry just for the sake of inheritance," I announced, my voice resolute.

　　My cousins exchanged glances, understanding the implications of my choice. They respected my decision, and it was evident that they didn't want to see me forced into something I didn't want.

　　"I will continue leading my own company, and if Craig Industries ever needs my expertise, I'll be there to help," I continued.

　　My parents looked proud, knowing that I was choosing a path that aligned with my values and desires.

　　As the family solicitor, Mr. Andrew looked on, he nodded in understanding. "I respect your decision, and I will make the necessary arrangements to redistribute the assets as per your wishes."

　　I felt a sense of relief and freedom as I made my choice. I knew my grandfather would have understood, for he had always valued authenticity and living life on one's own terms.

　　In the years that followed, I focused on growing my own company and expanding my business ventures. I honored my grandfather's memory by giving back to the community through philanthropy, just as he had done.

　　While I didn't inherit Craig Industries, I felt content with my decision. I knew that my happiness and fulfillment were not tied to external circumstances or inheritances. I had found my own path and created a life that resonated with my true self.

　　In the end, my grandfather's legacy wasn't about material wealth or possessions; it was about living life with integrity, staying true to oneself, and finding joy in the journey. In that sense, I knew I had made him proud.

　　It was an impossible task and one that I would never consider fulfilling.

　　How could I be married to a woman? All the examples of marriage that I had witnessed weren't worth emulating. Marriage was something I was determined to avoid at all costs.

　　Visiting the family solicitor was the last thing I wanted to do after laying my grandfather to rest. If he were alive, knowing that we were discussing his will instead of mourning his loss, he would undoubtedly display his legendary frown.

　　I acknowledged that my grandfather had been married for over 50 years, but that didn't mean I aspired to follow in his footsteps. His marriage was far from what I considered a successful union. In my eyes, it was a loveless, unhappy existence. His wife was cold and unfeeling, and they spent more time arguing than enjoying each other's company.

　　This was not the type of marriage I wanted for myself. I had no desire to be trapped in a loveless union, going through the motions and pretending to be happy.

　　However, as I walked down the street, still brooding over my grandfather's will, I inadvertently bumped into a woman. I quickly apologized, but then I noticed that she was staring at me with an amused expression on her face. I couldn't help but feel a little intrigued by her, so I asked if she was okay.

　　"I'm fine," she replied, a hint of a smile on her lips. "But are you all right? You look like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders."

　　I laughed, a little surprised by her directness.

　　"It's refreshing to hear someone express such sentiments," I replied, feeling a wave of relief. "It seems like everyone around me is in such a hurry to tie the knot, so it's truly refreshing to encounter someone who is content with their life as it is."

　　She nodded in understanding. "It's a heavy burden you're carrying on your mind. Many people feel pressured to get married, whether it's from their families or society at large. However, I firmly believe in staying true to oneself and not merely conforming to societal expectations."

　　"That's a lovely perspective," I commented appreciatively.

　　"Do you want us to get married?" I asked.

　　"What?!"

　　"Yeah," I said, my expression serious.

　　"You're joking, right?" She asked me.

　　"Nope, I'm dead serious," I said. "Let's get married."

　　"What's your reason? After all, you look like the type of guy who isn't interested in getting married," she inquired.

　　"I need to fulfill my grandfather's wish even though I don't want to, but I don't have a choice, so..." I tried to explain.

　　"Oh... So let me get this straight. You don't want to get married because you want to, but because of an inheritance?" She asked.

　　"Yep," I admitted.

　　"So you want us to be a fake couple so that you can get your inheritance, and then what?" She asked for more clarity.

　　"We can then split up, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for our divorce, and I'll pay you a hefty amount as alimony. What do you say about that?" I asked.