Chapter 1: The Idea

Chapter 1: The Idea.

Lily Rose stood hopefully outside the glass and metal tower. Three months after starting her job as a secretary at Blackwood Industries, she heard that the CEO, Ethan Blackwood, was looking for a new assistant. When Lily entered the living room, she was amazed by the gorgeous décor of the room. The marble floors, sleek modern furniture, and soft lighting helped create a beautiful and sophisticated living space. Lily walked towards the elevator, her heels clicking on the marble floor. She took a deep breath, straightened her clothes, and tried to get comfortable. She was always busy and always made sure the photos looked good. When the elevator doors opened, Lily was greeted by Ethan's assistant, who was busy with paperwork. "Lily-Rose?" she asked boldly but respectfully. "Yes, I am," Lily replied, trying to sound more confident. "Mr. Blackwood is waiting for you. Please follow me." Lily followed her assistant as she gazed at the city in awe. She had never been to a peak like this before, and the view took her breath away. When Lily reached Ethan's office, she could feel her heart pounding in her chest. She had heard that Ethan was a talented businessman, but she didn't know what to expect. The assistant opened the door and Lily walked in. Ethan looked up from the table and locked his blue eyes with hers. "Ah, Lily," the man's deep voice said, sending shivers down Lily's spine. "Thank you for coming today." Lily smiled, trying to hide her disappointment. "Yes, Mr. Blackwood." "Nice to meet you." Ethan gestured to the chair in front of his desk. "Please sit down. I'm afraid I have some ideas you may not like.

Lily's interest was piqued. What was Ethan thinking? Ethan was sitting back in his chair, doing nothing. "I want you to know that my father was ill," he began. "He encouraged me to stay, find a husband, and work for my family." Lily shook her head in surprise. "Mr. Blackwood, I'm sorry about your father." Ethan's eyes never left hers. "I'll do anything to please my father, Lily. It's your duty." Lily's heart paused for a moment. What did Ethan mean? "I want to ask you, Lily," Ethan said, his voice low and shaky. "I know this sounds crazy, but listen to me. I want a woman who is willing to give you a lot of money and a good future." Lily felt as if someone had stabbed her in the stomach. Would you accept it? Is Ethan seriously ill? But when she looked into his eyes, she saw something that made her uneasy. Flames of fire, darkness. What is Ethan's real purpose in asking this question? Does Lily want what he wants from her?

As Lily sat in shock, Ethan stepped forward, his eyes blazing.

"I know Lily, this is hard to accept," he whispered, his voice low but convincing. "But I can assure you that this will be a partnership that will bring you great benefits, and I will have the security and honor I need to run my family business." Lily's mind was in disarray. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. This sounds like something out of a bad romance novel. But when she looked at Ethan, she saw the sincerity in his eyes. He was depressed and would do anything to get what he wanted.

"What makes you think I'm the right person for this...plan?" Lily asked, trying to keep her voice calm.

Ethan smiled, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "I've been watching you, Lily. You're smart, witty, and beautiful. You'll make a wonderful wife."

Lily felt her cheeks flush. No one had ever complimented her beauty before.

"What about love?" Lily asked, her voice barely a whisper. "Don't you want to fall in love with someone?"

Ethan's face turned cold, and there was an iron glint in his eyes. "Love is a luxury I can't afford, Lily. I want a mate, not a soul mate."

Lily felt a wave of sadness. She had always believed in fairy tales and love at first sight. But Ethan's words were a stark reminder that not everyone shared her romantic interests. As Lily sat there considering her options, she knew she had to make a decision. She could walk away, reject Ethan's offer, and preserve her honor. Or she could take her time, accept his offer, and risk everything to start a new life. The question is, what will she choose?