Chapter 9 – The Rules of Engagement

The contract lay between them, crisp white pages filled with conditions, clauses, and the undeniable proof that Ava Carter was officially trapped.

She stared at Adrian Kingston, who leaned back in his chair, completely at ease, as if he hadn't just rewritten her entire life with the stroke of a pen. His sharp eyes studied her reaction, waiting for any sign of hesitation.

Ava wouldn't give him the satisfaction.

She snatched the pen from the table and signed her name with precise, deliberate strokes. When she was done, she dropped the pen and pushed the document toward him.

"There. Done."

A slow smirk ghosted across Adrian's lips as he picked up the contract, flipping through the pages leisurely before adding his own signature. The finality of it settled over the room like a heavy weight.

"You belong to me now, Ava," he said smoothly, closing the folder with a soft click.

Ava's spine stiffened. "I belong to no one."

His amusement deepened, but he didn't argue. Instead, he stood, adjusting the cuffs of his tailored suit. I have a press conference scheduled in an hour. You'll accompany me.

"Excuse me?"

Our engagement needs to be public knowledge. The media will be expecting us to act like a couple. That means you'll smile, stay close, and follow my lead.

Ava exhaled sharply. Let's get something straight. Just because I signed your ridiculous contract doesn't mean I'm your puppet.

Adrian stepped closer, the scent of his expensive cologne wrapping around her. "And let's get something straight, fiancée." His voice was dark velvet, smooth yet laced with steel. You agreed to this. That means you play the part. No mistakes. No defiance. No second thoughts.

His gaze dipped to her lips for a fraction of a second before meeting her eyes again. Do we have an understanding?

Ava's heart pounded, but she lifted her chin. "Crystal clear."

An Hour Later – The Press Conference

The flashing cameras were blinding, the murmurs of the press a constant buzz in the background. Ava stood beside Adrian, her hand resting on his arm, every inch the picture-perfect fiancée.

The entire world was watching.

Adrian spoke smoothly, addressing the questions with effortless confidence. Yes, the engagement was unexpected, but when you find something valuable, you don't hesitate.

A reporter raised a brow. Miss Carter, what was it about Mr. Kingston that made you say yes so quickly?

Ava felt Adrian's grip tighten slightly—a silent warning.

She smiled sweetly. "He asked nicely."

The reporters chuckled, but Adrian turned slightly, his lips brushing near her ear as he whispered, "Behave."

A shiver ran down her spine.

She turned her head, just enough to meet his gaze, her lips curving mischievously. "Or what?"

His eyes darkened, You don't want to find out.

And for the first time, Ava wondered if she really did want to know.