Lucas's eyes blazed with fury, his gaze fixed on Victor. "No Smith will ever bow to a Blackwood."
"Should I consider this the beginning of a war?" Victor asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
Ethan Smith's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in frustration. "What are you talking about, Blackwood?"
Julian Smith stepped forward, his voice calm and measured. "Wait, our fathers had decided that to maintain peace between our families, our only sister, Ivy, should be married to Victor. We must think about our business and reputation, so this agreement will continue."
Lucas Smith's face twisted in disgust. "Brother, you can't be serious. You want Ivy to marry this...this..."
Victor's smile grew wider. "Watch your mouth, Smith. I'm not exactly thrilled about marrying your precious Ivy Elizabeth either. It was my father's decision, not mine."
Lucas sneered. "Since when do you follow your father's decisions, Blackwood?"
Victor's smirk returned, his eyes glinting with triumph. "I look forward to our union, Ivy Elizabeth."
Victor Blackwood's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he turned to Ethan Smith. "Now that we've settled the agreement, let's finalize the engagement date. Time is of the essence, and I have little patience for prolonged celebrations. Next week would be ideal. My bride, Ivy Elizabeth, will be arriving shortly. See that she's prepared, Ethan."
With that, Victor strode away, leaving Ethan seething with resentment. Ethan's fists clenched, his anger simmering just below the surface. "That scoundrel has been watching Ivy for years, and we were oblivious to it."
Victor's voice drifted back, his tone dripping with possessiveness. "I have every right to keep an eye on what's mine."

Ivy Smith is forced to marry Victor Blackwood, a ruthless and cunning man, due to a business agreement between their families. Despite her initial resistance, Ivy tries to make the best of the situation, but Victor's true nature soon reveals itself. He's cruel, manipulative, and has a hidden 

A Contract Not To Fall In Love

Victor's grip on Ivy's neck hardened, his fingers pressing into her skin. He guided her hand, making her caress her own body. Ivy's eyes closed, and she let out a soft moan as her fingers traced her curves. 


Victor's control was tested, his body responding to Ivy's gentle touch. He felt himself harden, but he fought to maintain his composure. He wouldn't give in to his desires, not yet. 


Ivy's moans grew louder, her body arching against Victor's. He could feel her warmth and her softness, and it took every ounce of strength to resist her. 


But Victor's grip remained firm, his hand guiding Ivy's as she explored her own body. He was in control, and he wouldn't let his desires cloud his judgment. Not now, not when he had a plan to fulfill. 


As Ivy's touch grew bolder, Victor's resolve was tested. He could feel himself slipping, his control wavering. But he gritted his teeth, his eyes fixed on Ivy's face, her eyes closed in ecstasy. 


He would maintain control, no matter what. 


Chapter 38