A Challenge To An Arranged Marriage

The Contract

If it's not making you better, it isn't love. True love makes you more of who you are, not less.

- Mandy Hale

No words spoken would be enough to define the beauty that stood before Ian. She was gorgeous with her brown hair softly hanging around her shoulders in form of stiff bouncy curls, her brown eyes so simple, yet held so much of power. She had a splendid figure, with her curves totally visible in the dress. Ian couldn't help but praise his father choice for him. When he was told about the deal, he sure was upset because the thought of getting married and settling down was terrifying for him but seeing the innocent beauty in front of her, he was rather more convinced to go through this marriage.

"Yeah, the pleasure is all mine, Ian" Lisa answered as she gently took her hand from Ian's grip and smiled warmly at him. Ian couldn't help but chuckle at her innocent gesture, which he found very attractive. He knew he would enjoy taming her.

"Well, why don't all of us settle down and then further talk about the contract," Liam said as he took out a chair for Ian to sit. Before settling down on the seat Ian noticed that there was no other seat in the office for Lisa to sit on. He motioned towards Lisa to take the seat, who was rather surprised by the man's behavior. He was being such a perfect gentleman.

"Oh no Ian, you don't need to do that. Lisa is completely fine standing. You are the guest, please have the seat." Liam spoke in a stern voice looking at Lisa, making his gesture quite clear to her.

"I am afraid I can't do that sir. What kind of person would I be, if I let my future wife standing uncomfortably while I am comfortably sitting?" Ian answered almost as if he was defending Lisa. Lisa didn't know how she felt about his gesture. She would definitely feel her cheeks getting red from his words. After so long she had someone stand up for her and she couldn't help but wonder why though? 

"Of course, my apologies. Lisa, you may have the seat." 

As soon as everyone was settled, the contract was thus opened and read up to both the parties. It stated clearly that both Ian and Lisa had to get married within a period of a week after the contract is signed. Both of them have to stay married for at least a period of two years and under any circumstances if any of the two parties files for divorce, the contract will end immediately and all the funds that will be transferred to the Black's cooperation after marriage would be instantly asked back. After getting married, Mr. Ian Arthur will become the official head of Arthur's company; meaning all the shares and funds will be transferred to him stating that he holds every right to the company.

 Both Lisa and Ian read the contract thoroughly. Although Lisa knew that there is nothing she could do to change the contract. Her father has already agreed to the agreement, anything she says and asks for won't even matter. Ian was rather surprised by the girl beside her, he could see the hesitation through her eyes but never once did she uttered a word. He wondered the reason behind such calmness but before anything, he knew he had to get to know her well. The thought was enough for him to sign the papers immediately. He promised himself to be honest and kind towards the girl who would soon be his future wife. He didn't know anything about love but he knew that he would do anything to keep her happy.

 Lisa didn't want to go through the pain again, the pain of her dreams burning. As soon as the papers were handed to her, she signed them without thinking twice. She knew she had signed her future away. The thought itself made her wanted to cry.

"Aha, so great. It would be an honor to have you as my daughter in law Lisa. I can't wait." James said as he gently patted Lisa's shoulder, a feeling of such adoration could be visible in his eyes. Lisa was delighted to hear such excitement in his voice. For the first time, she felt like she was wanted.

"Sir, if you don't mind, I would love to take Lisa out for dinner today. It would be great for both of us to know each other and well talk about stuff." Ian asked Liam in a voice that quietly stated that the answer is not up for discussion.

"Of course son, she is all yours. If you don't mind I have a meeting to attend. Mr. Arthur would you like to accompany me, please" Liam said as he walked out of the office with James behind him, leaving Lisa alone with Ian.

"I hope that you like Italian; I have a great place in mind," Ian said as he started walking close to Lisa, who unsure of her actions was moving back. Her back hit the wall, as Ian came more close to her than expected. 

"I would like to know you, Lisa, give me chance." He said in a husky voice as he brought his lips close to her. Lisa had to hold back an almost moan from his closeness. He gently placed a kiss on her cheeks before he spoke up again.

"Get ready by 8 love. I will pick you up." As soon as he whispered the words he walked out of the office without a second glance. Lisa stood there with her hand on her heart to stop her heart from beating so fast. She just met the man and he was already giving her an almost heart attack. 

She couldn't help but wonder what else would have been written for her. Was there still hope? 

Maybe hope for a chance to fall in love?