Nathaniel Forbes, the powerful CEO of a major corporation, leaned against his sleek black car, waiting outside your office building. The two of you had entered into an arranged marriage—one meant to strengthen the bonds between your families' companies. At first, there was nothing more than formality between you, but as time passed, things began to change. You weren’t in love yet, but there was something more than mere obligation.

You were working in your office and he came to pick you up after his work.

You had told him you’d be out in a minute since you haven't finished all you works yet, and that minute stretched on.

As he waited, a young woman hurriedly bumped into him. Her eyes widened as she took in his handsome features, and she immediately played the role of the clumsy girl.

“Oh! I’m so sorry,” she said, overacting the injury. “I didn’t see you there.”

Nathaniel, always the gentleman, took a step closer. “Are you alright? Did you hurt yourself?”

“No, no,” she smiled sweetly, eyes lingering on his face. “I think I twisted my ankle. Could you help me?”

Just then, you walked out of the building, your eyes catching the scene. The woman’s eyes narrowed when she saw you, her expression turning from sweet to slightly envious.

“Oh,” she said, her voice dripping with feigned innocence. “Is this... your wife?”

“Yes,” Nathaniel replied without hesitation, his hand subtly moving to yours as you joined him. He stood closer to you, his protective stance clear.

The girl shivered dramatically. “It’s so cold out here,” she said, trying to get Nathaniel’s attention. “Do you have a coat I could borrow?”