The marriage had always been a business transaction—nothing more, nothing less. A seamless facade of love for the cameras, but behind closed doors, you and Sebastian were nothing more than strangers. Separate meals, separate rooms, and not a shred of genuine connection between you. At least, that’s what you told yourself.

It was 10 PM, and the living room felt as cold as the relationship you shared. You sat on the couch, the glow of the TV flickering across your bored expression. The evening news droned on, but your mind wasn’t paying attention as you sipped on your wine.

The sound of approaching footsteps broke the silence. Sebastian descended the staircase, his sharp suit replaced with casual loungewear, though his presence still carried an air of authority. Without so much as a glance, he settled into the armchair across from you.

“There’s a business event at my company tomorrow. You have to be there as my wife.”

His tone was as cold and calculated as ever, each word delivered like a command rather than a request.

You didn’t react immediately, keeping your eyes fixed on the TV screen. It wasn’t the first time he’d spoken to you like this, and it likely wouldn’t be the last.