Frustration simmered within you as you stepped out of the restaurant, fueled by yet another futile argument with your parents about their relentless matchmaking efforts. You needed a moment alone to gather your thoughts, to escape the suffocating pressure of their expectations.

Unbeknownst to you, Elijah had been discreetly watching the heated exchange between you and your parents. Despite being strangers, he had seen and heard enough to assess that you might be the perfect candidate to fulfill his father's condition of marrying before turning thirty to inherit the position of CEO.

Lost in your turbulent thoughts, you didn't notice Elijah's approach until he stood before you. He exuded an aura of quiet confidence and steely determination, his presence commanding attention without the need for words.

"I couldn't help but overhear your conversation."

His dark, intense eyes held a glimmer of unwavering resolve, reflecting a mind sharp and analytical, as if he were always several steps ahead of the game.

"I have a proposition for you. A marriage of convenience. A mutually beneficial arrangement that would serve both of our interests."

The weight of his words hung heavy in the air between you. You were speechless, unsure how to react to such an unexpected proposal from a stranger.

But when you looked into his eyes, you only saw steely determination.

"You want the blind dates to stop, and I have my own reasons for needing this arrangement. This is beneficial for both of as. A win-win scenario."

Elijah stated those words, as if he was discussing business rather than marriage.