DREAMS OF GRANDEUR

Morning sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Mia's opulent bedroom, casting a warm glow over the room's elegant furnishings. As she lay in the luxurious king-sized bed, Mia's thoughts wandered back to the previous night's charity event. The praise and admiration she had received were intoxicating, and it sparked a fire within her. She realized she wanted more than just to play the role of a trophy wife for the next two years—she wanted to build a future of her own.

Determined to seize this unique opportunity, Mia decided that she would use her newfound status and resources to achieve something significant. But what exactly did she want to pursue? As a struggling actress, she had always dreamed of making it big in the entertainment industry. But now, with Ethan's connections and her newfound confidence, perhaps she could set her sights even higher.

Mia swung her legs out of bed and stretched, feeling a surge of energy. She glanced at the clock on her nightstand—it was still early. She had plenty of time to think before Ethan would expect her to accompany him to another social function.

Downstairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods filled the air. Mia followed the scent to the kitchen, where Tao Sister was bustling about, preparing breakfast.

"Good morning, Madam," Tao Sister greeted with a warm smile. "Did you sleep well?"

"Good morning, Tao Sister," Mia replied, returning the smile. "I slept wonderfully, thank you."

"Would you like some coffee?" Tao Sister asked, holding up a steaming pot.

"Yes, please," Mia said, sitting down at the kitchen island. "And maybe a croissant too."

Tao Sister poured a cup of coffee and placed a plate with a flaky croissant in front of Mia. As she sipped the rich brew, Mia's mind raced with possibilities. She needed a plan—a concrete goal to work toward during her time in this world.

Just as she was deep in thought, Ethan entered the kitchen, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit. He looked every bit the powerful CEO, and Mia couldn't help but feel a pang of admiration for him.

"Good morning, Mia," he said, his voice smooth and confident. "I hope you rested well."

"Good morning, Ethan," she replied, trying to match his composed demeanor. "I did, thank you. And you?"

"Quite well," he said, taking a seat across from her. "We have another event this evening. A gala at the art museum. I trust you'll be ready?"

"Of course," Mia said with a nod. "I look forward to it."

As they ate breakfast in companionable silence, Mia decided to broach the subject of her ambitions. She needed Ethan's support if she was going to achieve her goals.

"Ethan," she began, setting down her coffee cup. "I've been thinking... I don't want to just coast through these next two years. I want to do something meaningful. Something that can make a real impact."

Ethan raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Oh? And what do you have in mind?"

"I'm not entirely sure yet," Mia admitted. "But I want to explore opportunities in business or philanthropy. Maybe start my own company or a foundation. I want to use the resources and connections available to me to build something lasting."

Ethan studied her for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "That's quite an ambition, Mia. And I must say, I admire your determination. Most people in your position would be content to enjoy the luxury and leave it at that."

"Well, I'm not most people," Mia said with a small smile. "I want to make a difference."

Ethan nodded, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "I believe you can. If there's anything I can do to help, let me know."

"Thank you, Ethan," Mia said, feeling a surge of gratitude. "I appreciate your support."

After breakfast, Mia retreated to her room to begin her research. She spent hours poring over business articles, studying successful entrepreneurs, and brainstorming ideas. The more she read, the more excited she became. There were so many possibilities, so many ways she could leave her mark on the world.

By the time afternoon rolled around, Mia had compiled a list of potential ventures. One idea that particularly stood out was starting a production company. With her background in acting and Ethan's connections in the business world, she could create a platform to support emerging talents and produce groundbreaking content.

Eager to share her ideas, Mia sought out Ethan in his home office. She found him engrossed in a video conference, discussing a merger with some executives. She waited patiently until the meeting concluded, then knocked on the doorframe.

"Ethan, do you have a moment?" she asked.

Ethan looked up from his desk, his expression softening when he saw her. "Of course, come in."

Mia entered the office and sat down across from him, her heart pounding with anticipation. "I've been thinking more about what we discussed this morning. I have a few ideas I'd like to share with you."

"Go ahead," Ethan said, leaning back in his chair, clearly interested.

"I was thinking about starting a production company," Mia began, her eyes shining with excitement. "We could focus on producing high-quality films and TV shows, giving opportunities to new talents and telling stories that matter. With your business acumen and my experience in the industry, I believe we could create something truly special."

Ethan listened intently, his expression thoughtful. "That's an intriguing idea, Mia. And given your background, it makes a lot of sense. What kind of content would you want to produce?"

"I want to focus on stories that are diverse and impactful," Mia said passionately. "Stories that challenge stereotypes and offer fresh perspectives. We could also support independent filmmakers and provide a platform for their voices to be heard."

Ethan nodded, a spark of enthusiasm in his eyes. "I like the sound of that. It's ambitious, but I think it's doable. You'll need a solid business plan and a clear vision for the company's direction."

"I've already started working on that," Mia said, pulling out a notebook filled with notes and ideas. "I'd love to get your input and advice."

Ethan smiled, clearly impressed by her initiative. "I'd be happy to help. Why don't we schedule a meeting with my team? They can provide you with the guidance and resources you'll need to get started."

"That would be amazing," Mia said, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, Ethan. I really appreciate your support."

"You're welcome, Mia," he said, his gaze steady. "I believe in you. And I think this could be the beginning of something incredible."

Over the next few weeks, Mia threw herself into her new project with unbridled enthusiasm. She met with Ethan's team of experts, who helped her refine her business plan and connect with potential investors. She networked with industry professionals, attending meetings and events to pitch her vision and build relationships.

Throughout it all, Ethan remained a constant source of support and encouragement. He attended meetings with her, offered valuable advice, and used his influence to open doors that would have otherwise remained closed.

As the production company began to take shape, Mia felt a deep sense of fulfillment. She was no longer just a pawn in the world of the novel—she was a force to be reckoned with, determined to carve out her own path and make a lasting impact.

And though she knew their contractual marriage had an expiration date, Mia couldn't help but feel a growing connection to Ethan. Despite their unusual circumstances, he had shown her kindness and respect, and she found herself looking forward to their time together.

One evening, after a particularly productive day, Mia and Ethan sat in the living room, enjoying a glass of wine. The fire crackled in the fireplace, casting a warm glow over the room.

"You've come a long way in such a short time," Ethan said, raising his glass in a toast. "I'm proud of you, Mia."

"Thank you, Ethan," she replied, clinking her glass against his. "I couldn't have done it without your help."

"You've done most of the work," he said with a smile. "I've just been here to cheer you on."

Mia looked into his eyes, feeling a warmth that went beyond gratitude. "I mean it, Ethan. You've believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. That means more to me than you'll ever know."

Ethan's expression softened, and for a moment, the distance between them seemed to disappear. "You're an incredible woman, Mia. And I have no doubt that you're going to achieve great things."

As they sat there, enjoying the quiet moment together, Mia couldn't help but feel a sense of hope for the future. She had found her purpose, and with Ethan by her side, she felt ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead.