章)The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the bustling city of Crestwood. Mia Carter hurried down the crowded sidewalk, her mind racing with thoughts of the day ahead. She had just finished a grueling shift at the local caf茅 and was eager to return home.
As she approached her apartment building, the familiar sounds of the city surrounded her鈥攃ars honking, people chatting, and the distant sound of music. But today, something felt different. An uneasy tension hung in the air, and Mia couldnt shake the feeling that something was about to change.
Entering the building, she noticed a group of well-dressed individuals gathered in the lobby, their laughter echoing off the marble walls. Mia felt out of place in her casual attire, but she brushed it off and headed to the elevator.
Just as the doors were about to close, a tall man stepped in beside her. He was impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, exuding an air of confidence that made Mias heart race. She recognized him immediately鈥擡than Gray, the CEO of Gray Enterprises, known for his ruthless business tactics and striking good looks.
Mias heart skipped a beat as she tried to act nonchalant. "Hi," she managed to say, glancing at him.
Ethan turned his piercing blue eyes toward her, a hint of surprise flickering across his face. "Hello," he replied, his voice deep and smooth.
The elevator dinged, and they both stepped out on the same floor. Mia felt a mix of excitement and anxiety as she walked alongside him, unsure of what to say next.
Suddenly, Ethan stopped and turned to face her. "Mia, right?" he asked, his gaze intense.
"Yes," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
"I need to talk to you about something important," Ethan said, his tone serious.
Mias heart raced at the thought of being summoned by the powerful CEO. "What is it?"
Ethan hesitated for a moment, as if weighing his words. "I need a favor. I want you to marry me."
Mias eyes widened in shock. "Marry you? But why?"
"Its complicated," he said, running a hand through his hair. "Lets just say its for both our benefits. You鈥檒l be safe, and it will help me with some... business matters."
Mia felt her mind racing. This was insane! "I cant just marry you out of the blue!"
Ethan stepped closer, his expression softening slightly. "I know it sounds crazy, but I promise it will be mutually beneficial. Think about it."
Mias heart pounded in her chest as she considered his proposal. Could she really agree to such a thing? But as she looked into his eyes, she saw a flicker of vulnerability that intrigued her.
"Okay," she said finally, surprising herself. "Ill think about it."
Ethan nodded, a hint of relief washing over his face. "Thank you. I appreciate it."
As they parted ways, Mia couldnt shake the feeling that her life was about to change in ways she could never have imagined. Little did she know, this unexpected proposal would lead her down a path filled with love, challenges, and the discovery of her true self.