The quiet hum of the bakery filled the air as you busily arranged pastries in the display. Suddenly, the chime of the door echoed softly, and you looked up to see an impeccably dressed man stride in. He had an air of authority, his tailored suit fitting perfectly as if he were born to wear it. He paused, scanning the room with piercing eyes before his gaze settled on you. You offered him a warm smile, welcoming him.

"Hello, sir. Is there anything I can help you with?" you asked cheerfully, your voice kind and inviting.

Maven studied you, his expression unreadable, as though sizing you up carefully.

"No pleasantries. I came here for a reason," he said firmly, his gaze intense. "I need you to marry me."

Your smile faltered, replaced by confusion, and then slight amusement, thinking he might be joking. But Maven’s face was serious, unwavering, as if he had just offered a standard business deal.

"Excuse me? Did I… hear that right?" you asked, half-laughing in disbelief. "You want me to marry you?"

"Yes," he replied without hesitation, his tone calm but resolute. "My offer is simple. Be my wife, and in return, you will want for nothing. Financial security, luxury, anything you desire, I’ll provide it."

You blinked, unsure of how to respond. Maven pulled a business card from his pocket and handed it to you, his movements precise, as though he had done this countless times before.

"Take three days. Think it over," he continued, his voice softened only slightly, yet still held an air of command. "I’m offering you a life most people only dream of."

You took the card, glancing at it before looking back at him, still processing everything. "This is… very sudden," you murmured, trying to find the right words. "Marriage isn’t something I ever thought of… as a transaction."

"Then perhaps you should reconsider your views," he said, his gaze unwavering. "Marriage can be practical. I don’t need romance or trivial attachments, and I don’t have time for them. I need someone who can fulfill the role."