Leo pushed open the door to the coffee shop, the bell above tinkling faintly. The smell of roasted beans and sugar hung heavy in the air. She scanned the crowded room until she spotted William lounging in a booth near the back, one arm draped across the seat, a small, teasing smile tugging at his lips as he raised a hand in greeting.
She made her way over and slid into the booth opposite him, dropping her bag beside her.
“Good evening” she said, her tone brisk.
William arched an eyebrow, eyes glinting with mischief. “Formal already? And here I was worried I underdressed for the occasion.
Leo sighed, unimpressed. “If you don’t want to take this seriously, just tell me now. I don’t intend to waste my time if you’re going to act like this whole time .”
He lifted both hands in mock surrender, grin lingering. “Fine, fine. It was just a joke. Let’s order something first.”
She picked up the menu, eyes narrowing. “Is this place joking? Fifty bucks for a coffee?”
“You know,” William said smoothly, leaning back, “if we end up married, you’ll have to get used to small luxuries like this.”
Leo rolled her eyes. “I’m already regretting what’s about to come.”
“Lots of women would kill to be in your place,” he replied casually.
“Lots of people would,” she corrected sharply. “And I don’t believe in owning money I haven’t earned myself.”
William shook his head with exaggerated disbelief. “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard. Waiter—espresso for the lady, black coffee for me.”
“Yes, sir. Coming right up,” the waiter said.
Leo raised an eyebrow at him, but he only shrugged, clearly unbothered.
“Let’s just agree to disagree,” she muttered, leaning back slightly. Her voice hardened. “Back to the real issue. Steven—the manchild at my job I mentioned last time—has already started sabotaging my visa. I don’t have many options right now, and no power to fight it. If you’re serious about this arrangement, with ground rules of course, I’d appreciate your help.”
For a moment, William actually looked stunned. Then his expression settled, sharp and businesslike. “Let’s talk business then. I have some terms too. In fact, I brought a draft.” He slid a folded document across the table.
“You brought a draft?” she asked, eyebrows lifting.
“I thought that was the point of this meeting,” he replied, unruffled.
Slowly, she nodded, unfolding the papers. The language was clipped, formal, almost legalistic:
---
Draft Agreement
This Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into by and between:
Party A: William Oswald, hereinafter referred to as “Party A”; and
* Party B: Leonia Black , hereinafter referred to as “Party B.”
Together referred to as “the Parties.”
1. Duration of Agreement
1.1 The Parties agree to enter into a lawful marriage, to commence upon execution of this Agreement and to continue for a minimum term of twelve (12) months.
1.2 The Parties shall cohabitate in a shared residence for the duration of this term.
2. Responsibilities of Party A
2.1 Party A shall undertake all necessary legal and administrative steps for the marriage and residency status of Party B, including but not limited to visa applications and associated fees.
3. Responsibilities of Party B
3.1 Party B shall accompany Party A and act in the capacity of spouse at family functions, social gatherings, and other events where the marital relationship is to be represented.
4. Mutual Obligations
4.1 Neither Party shall engage in extramarital romantic or sexual relationships during the term of this Agreement.
4.2 The Parties shall maintain a cooperative and respectful household environment.
5. Confidentiality
5.1 The terms and existence of this Agreement shall remain confidential between the Parties, unless disclosure is legally required.
Executed this day, subject to mutual amendment and final signature.
---
Leo’s eyes flicked up from the paper. “Straightforward enough. But I need a few amendments.”
“Go ahead,” William said, leaning back, watching her closely.
“First, any physical contact—of any kind—has to be mutually cleared beforehand. No assumptions, no surprises. I don’t want excessive, unnecessary PDA either. Second, this arrangement should not meddle in our private lives more than required. I won’t pursue relationships outside this, but my personal life isn’t for you to poke into. I’ll extend you the same courtesy. And finally—this one’s non-negotiable—I have personal boundaries. Some I won’t compromise on. I’ll send you the details tonight by text. That’s it.”
She set the paper down firmly.
William studied her, eyes narrowing with something between curiosity and amusement. Then he nodded once. “As long as we can sell this marriage, I’ll take it.”
Their drinks arrived, and silence settled for a beat. Both sipped thoughtfully, the calm between them taut with unspoken calculations.
Leo stood, gathering her things. “I should head home, or I’ll miss the train. See you soon.”
“Let me get you a taxi,” William said instantly.
“It’s fine. I’ll manage.”
“I insist,” he replied, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. “This is something you’ll have to get used to soon anyway.”
She paused, a small sigh escaping her. “Oh. Okay, I guess.”
As she left the coffee shop, the air outside cooler and sharper, she felt the weight of the deal settling over her shoulders. Boundaries set, terms acknowledged, a tentative partnership struck—yet the uneasy thought lingered: she had no idea what she’d just agreed to.
YOU ARE READING
Bound by Variables
RomanceLeonia and William? Yeah, they don't exactly get along. She thinks he's an arrogant show-off. He thinks she's allergic to fun. Basically: oil, meet water. But then life decides to throw in office drama, family meddling, and-oh yeah-marriage papers. ...
