CHAPTER ONE: UNEXPECTED ARRANGEMENT

Chapter One: Unexpected Arrangements

I hurried through the bustling streets of downtown, my heels clicking against the pavement as I dodged commuters and tourists alike. Clutching my coffee cup in one hand and my briefcase in the other, I darted through the revolving doors of Sterling Enterprises, my heart pounding with nervous energy.

As I stepped into the sleek lobby of the towering skyscraper, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the grandeur of my workplace. Sterling Enterprises was more than just a company; it was a symbol of power and prestige in the city, and I was proud to be a part of it. It is one of the biggest company in the country.

But today was no ordinary day. Today, I had a meeting with the one person I dreaded encountering more than anyone else: Gabriel Knight, the CEO himself.

Taking a deep breath to steady my nerves, I made my way to the executive floor, my mind racing with thoughts of the impending meeting. I had heard all the stories about Gabriel Knight – his sharp tongue, his demanding demeanor, his relentless pursuit of perfection – and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of apprehension at the prospect of facing him alone.

As I approached his office, I hesitated for a moment, steeling myself for what lay ahead. Then, with a determined nod, I knocked on the door and stepped inside.

"Ms. Parker, right on time as always," came a voice from behind the desk, sending a shiver down my spine.

There he was, Gabriel Knight himself, seated behind his massive desk, his steely gaze fixed on me with unnerving intensity. He was every bit as imposing as I had imagined – tall, handsome, and impeccably dressed, with an air of authority that commanded respect.

"Good morning, Mr. Knight," I replied, forcing a polite smile as I took my seat opposite him.

Gabriel nodded curtly, his expression unreadable as he studied me for a moment. Then, without preamble, he got straight to the point.

"I have a proposition for you, Ms. Parker," he said, his tone serious. "One that I believe could benefit both of us."

My heart skipped a beat at the mention of a proposition from the CEO. I had no idea what he could possibly want from me, but I was determined to hear him out.

"What kind of proposition?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady despite the nerves gnawing at my stomach.

Gabriel leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers as he regarded me with a thoughtful expression.

"I need a wife, Ms. Parker," he said simply, his gaze never wavering from mine. "And I believe you would be the perfect candidate." His word filled my eyes , he's never to scared to say anything. His anything at his own will and he believes he can get everything he wants .

I listened to Gabriel's words, my mind reeling with disbelief. A wife? Me? It was absurd. I had worked hard to build my career at Sterling Enterprises, and now he wanted me to play the role of his spouse?

"I'm sorry, Mr. Knight, but I don't understand," I stammered, trying to process his proposition. "Why me? And why a wife?"

Gabriel sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "Look, Ms. Parker, I know this may seem... unconventional. But I assure you, it's purely for show. There's an important event coming up, and I need someone by my side to represent stability and commitment. It's a one-time thing, I promise." He said firmly

Can you imagine this mind, it's purely for show ,so I'm too represent being his wife just for show and his selfish interests.His words did little to alleviate my concerns. I couldn't fathom why he had chosen me for such a role, and the idea of pretending to be his wife felt wrong on so many levels. I would never pretend to someone wife not even for my CEO that I hate so much.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Knight, but I'm not some kind of whore you can use for a one-time thing," I said firmly, my voice trembling with indignation.

Gabriel scoffed, his expression hardening. "Money is involved, Ms. Parker," he retorted coldly, his tone dripping with disdain.

I shook my head, feeling a surge of anger rising within me. "Who cares about money?" I shot back, meeting his gaze with defiance. "Look, Mr. Gabriel, I can't do this." He surely thinks money can buy everything so proud and annoying.

His jaw clenched in frustration, Gabriel leaned forward, his voice low and menacing. "Be ready to lose your job, Ms. Parker," he said firmly, his eyes boring into mine.

I swallowed hard, steeling myself against the threat. "I'd rather lose my job than pretend to be a fake wife to you," I declared, my voice steady despite the fear coursing through me.

To my surprise, Gabriel let out a laugh, the sound echoing through the room. "This is why I chose you," he said, his tone filled with admiration. "So bold, so fearless... with great enthusiasm"

I stood up, my heart pounding with a mixture of anger and relief. "I beg to take my leave, sir," I said, my voice tinged with defiance.

As I turned to leave Gabriel's office, ready to stand by my principles no matter the cost, his voice stopped me in my tracks.

"Ms. Parker, wait," he called out, his tone urgent.

I paused, reluctantly turning back to face him, my resolve faltering at the seriousness in his voice.

"What now, Mr. Knight?" I asked, my tone edged with frustration.

Gabriel's expression softened slightly as he leaned forward, his gaze intense. "I understand your hesitation, Ms. Parker. But consider this," he said, his voice low. "I'm prepared to offer you a substantial sum of money for your cooperation. Enough to set you up for life and your family "

The mention of money made my head spin. It was a tempting offer, to be sure, but I refused to let it cloud my judgment. What does the CEO think I am? some cheap whore who can be enticed by money?

"To hell with your money, Mr. CEO," my voice laced with contempt. "I won't be bought and sold like some commodity. My integrity is not for sale."

Gabriel's eyes narrowed at my words, his expression unreadable. For a moment, there was silence between us, the tension in the air palpable.

Then, with a resigned sigh, Gabriel nodded slowly. "Very well, Ms. Parker," he said, his tone intimidating " dont you think there's a consequence for turning down your CEO"

I met his gaze with defiance, refusing to back down. "I'm well aware of that, Mr. Knight," I replied, my voice firm. " Bye... I have some documents to work on"

With that, I turned on my heel and marched out of his office, leaving Gabriel Knight and his proposition behind me.