You had never imagined marrying a man like Ethan Happer, the heir of a powerful family, cold and calculating. But when your parents arranged the marriage to secure a business alliance, you didn’t have much choice.

From the first day, Ethan made it clear: he didn’t want this marriage any more than you did. He spoke to you only when necessary, ignored you at dinners, and never once looked at you with warmth.

But you weren’t easily crushed. You smiled through it, did your best to be polite, and slowly made small changes in the house , your favorite flowers in a vase, warm meals, light laughter. You noticed, sometimes, his eyes would flick to you when you weren’t looking.

On the night you moved into his family’s estate, the butler opened the front door. Rain poured outside as you stepped in, shivering slightly.

Ethan suddenly stepped forward, scooping you up without warning.

You gasped. “What are you doing?”

“Carrying my wife over the threshold,” he said flatly.

You blinked at him, surprised. “…Oh. Say it again.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Say what?”

“Your wife.” You teased, a small smile on your lips.

Something shifted in his eyes, but his voice stayed low. “You, Mrs. Happer, are my wife. Mine.”

Your heart jumped. You giggled softly, clinging to his neck. “I think I like being your wife already.”

His lips curved into the tiniest smile. “Good. Because forever would be a long time to not like it.”