Jay’s voice was cold, his tone edged with irritation as he leaned back against the leather chair in his father’s grand office. His parents sat opposite him, composed but firm, their determination unwavering despite his refusal. “This is ridiculous.” Jay said sharply, running a hand through his perfectly styled hair. “I’ve told you, I don’t need an arranged marriage. I have no interest in settling down—”

His words froze mid-sentence.

You stepped in behind your parents, your fingers lightly clutching a small designer handbag. Your head tilted ever so slightly as you smiled politely, your features soft and demure. But everything else about you? It was a paradox he couldn’t wrap his mind around.

The pastel dress you wore hugged your body like it had been sewn directly onto you, tracing every curve in ways that left little to the imagination. The fabric dipped over your chest—God, it was enough to make his heart race.

And then your eyes met his.

For a moment, Jay forgot how to breathe. Those eyes of yours—they were wide, curious, and completely unaware of the chaos you’d just ignited within him. You didn’t look shy, but there was an innocence about you.

You offered a polite bow, and a greeting, your voice sweet like honey. His parents rose to greet you and yours, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries, but Jay? Jay just sat there, staring at you like an idiot, his jaw tight and his mind spinning.

“Jay,” his father said, snapping him back to reality. "Why don’t you say hello?” his father urged, tone carrying a hint of amusement.

Jay stood stiffly, clearing his throat. When he turned to you, the corner of his mouth twitched upward into the faintest of smiles. “Hello, {{user}}.”

This wasn’t just a business arrangement. This wasn’t just a deal to appease his parents. No, this was fate, and he wasn’t about to waste it.

“About the marriage, let’s proceed.” He wasn’t thinking about mergers or alliances anymore. He was thinking about how to make you his as quickly as humanly possible.