Chapter 1.2

Dhalia is no doubt a beautiful woman, even I could see that. She looked like a prettier, female version of father. Her long, wavy brown hair was pulled back into a half-ponytail and her green eyes were the color of emeralds. She was about my height with fair skin and a lean body. Her skin-tight but elegant dress showed off everything she had to offer. She is definitely an heiress.

"You guys are so much bigger than I was expecting!" She squealed, rushing forward to give us big hugs, "but I guess you both were only babies the last time I saw you. I doubt you remember me as I didn't have much interaction after the feud with Richard."

"It's okay." I murmured, hugging her back even though I felt a little uncomfortable, "I don't blame you for not wanting to be around him. He's a jackass."

Her eyes practically sparkled at my comment, smirking, "you know what, Grace, you remind me a lot about myself. You're very headstrong, and that's a good thing. It's what you need in this day and age."

I felt like there was a double meaning to her words but we weren't going to find out quite yet. The butlers took the few pieces of luggage that we had after Dhalia informed them to take it to our rooms. I was hoping it wouldn't be too crazy to find our rooms because I seriously thought I would get lost in these halls if I didn't know where I was going.

"Butler, please take Elliot to his room to get prepared for dinner," Dhalia murmured, her eyes flickering over to me, "Grace and I have much to talk about."

Yep, I should've known.

Elliot looked at me nervously, no doubt wondering what this was about as well but I gave him a reassuring smile, letting him know that it was okay to leave. Elliot followed the butler up the grand staircase, leaving Dhalia and me alone by ourselves.

"I'm happy that you two are here with me now." Dhalia murmured, a light smile on her face as she turned to me, "and I really hate to make things weird but I'm in a bit of a bind. I have a job lined up for you, Grace, but… you have to do something for me so you and Elliot will be comfortable here."

"What do you want from me?" I asked her softly, a little nervous about whatever she was going to ask.

Her lips curled up in a small smile, her eyes twinkling, "I want you to consider marrying someone I know who is in need of a good wife. Let's call it a… mutual business proposal. I will pay you a million dollars a year for however long you stay with him. I need his connections."

I should've seen this coming, but my mind was locked on the price that she offered up. A million dollars to stay married to a man I don't love… but I can get Elliot through college and we wouldn't need to worry about anything. Should I even consider it? I doubt I'll be happy.

…

"Okay, I accept your proposal. I'll marry this guy."