"You're... not asleep?"

Maximilian Carter was still awake—which was saying something, since he was usually in bed by nine-thirty. Now it was nearly midnight.

"Hard to sleep with all this heat," he murmured, his warm breath brushing Elizabeth Cox's ear.

Her heart fluttered at how close they were, and his whispered words only made it worse. She stayed silent, stiff, barely daring to move as their breathing grew heavier in the dim light.

Maximilian's hand wandered somewhere it shouldn't, pulling Elizabeth closer against his chest as she tried to shy away from his burning touch. "I'm really tired," she whispered. Her small hand clutched his shirt, her voice soft and a little nasal, and the sound made Maximilian's chest ache with want.

"Can you really sleep like this?"

"Mmm," Elizabeth nodded nervously, her tiny toes curling tight as he lifted her leg. She stopped him, whispering, "We shouldn't."

"You woke me up. You can't refuse me now," Maximilian murmured, nibbling at her flushed earlobe. His husky voice sent her pulse racing.

She regretted tossing and turning earlier. Now her thoughts of home faded as Maximilian's presence overwhelmed her senses. He wrapped her in his arms, pressing her soft, warm body beneath his.

Elizabeth's shirt might as well have not existed. Their bodies melded together, warmth and breath tangled.

"It rained tonight. Let's sleep. You might catch a cold," she trembled, clinging to his wandering hand.

In the dim light, his hot palm against her skin pulled a soft sigh from her. Maximilian swallowed hard, moving in and capturing her lips with his. "Let's warm things up, then."

With that kiss, her words disappeared, and his suppressed desire finally broke loose. Raw need drove Maximilian to indulge in the woman before him.

He knew every sensitive spot on her body, making her melt into him—surrendering.

A night of passion unfolded, leaving Elizabeth breathless—and surprised by his seemingly endless vigor. Anyone who claimed Maximilian had no interest in women would have to answer to her now—his reserved exterior hid an untapped fire.

The next morning, after the storm, the air was refreshingly crisp.

Sunlight warmed the room where Elizabeth lay, held securely in Maximilian's arms. Her hair spilled across the pillow like long, silky water, and her petite face was serene in sleep.

But the workday rhythm intruded, jolting her awake. She glanced at the clock—and panicked.

It was 9:30 a.m.!

Her perfect attendance record was at risk. Hastily, she threw back the covers, wincing as soreness reminded her of last night's intensity.

Turning her head, she saw her boss still asleep beside her.

In those few seconds, a whirlwind of emotions tore through her.

Her movement stirred Maximilian. His long lashes fluttered open, revealing eyes still hazy with sleep.

"Um, it's 9:30. I'm late," Elizabeth stammered, her pulse racing.

"Take the day off," Maximilian said. His voice was low and clear, a command that carried undeniable authority even fresh from sleep.

Elizabeth blinked, her heart rate slowly returning to normal. "What about my attendance bonus?"

"I'll cover it."

Relieved, Elizabeth brightened. "Okay. You rest a bit more. I'll make breakfast. Half a day off is fine."

"Alright," Maximilian rumbled in agreement.

Carefully lifting his arm from her waist, Elizabeth noticed his intense gaze lingering on her. His dark eyes held a humor only she could read, tracing her features like a gentle caress.

Feeling unexpectedly self-conscious—and very aware of her lack of clothes—Elizabeth turned and pulled the covers over his head, shielding herself from his gaze.

Maximilian, unfazed, lay still as she hurried into the bathroom. Once she was out of sight, he sat up and uncovered himself.

The austere room seemed to come alive.

Running a hand through his hair, he wrapped a towel around his waist and headed for the wardrobe.

The previous night had left a mark. Next to the old bite mark, a new, delicate one appeared.

She couldn't resist leaving her mark.

Elizabeth got ready quickly, hoping to dodge any awkwardness—or further entanglement under the same roof—by heading to the kitchen.

Truth be told, she was hungry.

Opening the large, modern refrigerator, she was stunned.

Rows of alcohol lined the shelves—nothing but alcohol...

The freezer was empty.

"Your fridge is stocked with nothing but drinks?"

"I never cook at home. I'll take you out," Maximilian said, coming downstairs in an impeccable suit, carrying her phone and passport.

Elizabeth blinked, taken aback, and closed the fridge door.

Maximilian went to start the car, and Elizabeth found herself standing before a luxury vehicle she'd only heard her colleagues talk about.

Never had she imagined she'd actually ride in one.

"Sit up front," Maximilian offered, opening the passenger door for her.

Tentatively—yet resigned—she got in.

"Are we going to the...?"

"The civil registry."

"Shouldn't we see a lawyer first? Isn't there a prenup to sign?"

"No need. We can sign the paperwork today," Maximilian replied, looking effortlessly sophisticated in his suit. His words were direct, giving off the air of a distant man who was hard to reach.

"But you're so wealthy. Aren't rich people usually particular about that sort of thing?"

"If you can't trust your own woman, what kind of man does that make you?" Maximilian said as he drove, his tone firm but composed.

His answer struck at the independent values she held so dear.

She looked at him, bathed in golden morning light, his features even more striking.

He looked like strength and integrity wrapped in a tailored suit—a model of masculine excellence.

"What are you smiling about?" Maximilian asked, glancing at her.

"You, Mr. Carter, are so... manly. The epitome of a true gentleman," Elizabeth praised.

Compared to the conniving men she'd known, Maximilian seemed like the perfect gentleman—wealthy, handsome, and completely without pettiness.

"Sounds like you've met quite a few swindlers," Maximilian remarked, his voice steady.

Elizabeth's smile faltered for a beat as she reconsidered what she'd said earlier about Maximilian's fairness.

Maximilian Carter had planned to take Elizabeth out for breakfast, but she insisted on avoiding public dining for fear of being recognized. Left with no choice, Maximilian settled for takeout.

"No eating in the car," Maximilian said, every inch the perfectionist.

"I'll wait and eat later," Elizabeth promised, clutching the fancy breakfast package. Her appetite was no match for the sheer force of Maximilian's presence.

At the civil registry, Elizabeth was practically glowing as they filled out forms and posed for a photo, savoring every second. Twenty minutes later, breakfast and paperwork were both done, and the marriage certificate was in their hands. Staring at the photo they had taken together left Elizabeth a little dazed. She was married now—and her husband was Maximilian Carter.

"By the way, I forgot to ask about your family…" Elizabeth began.

"My parents died when I was young. It's just my grandmother and me. I'll take you to meet her," Maximilian replied.

Elizabeth was caught off guard by how simple his family situation was. Simple was good, she thought—especially compared with her own complicated family dynamics, which often felt suffocating. "Let's go see Grandma, then. Is there anything I should know?"

"Nothing special. Just that we should seem very much in love," Maximilian said seriously, his tone flat.

"Alright," Elizabeth nodded obediently.

After a half-hour drive, they arrived at the hospital entrance.

"I'll go buy Grandma some flowers. What does she like to eat? There's a grocery store nearby," Elizabeth suggested.

"No need. Let's go straight in," Maximilian replied decisively.

"Oh no, it's important to be polite. Besides, what woman doesn't appreciate flowers—even a grandmother?" Elizabeth insisted with determination.

Unlike Maximilian's indifference, Elizabeth wanted their first meeting to be memorable. Considering his impressive status and broad business interests, she imagined he must value his grandmother highly.

"Fine. I'll park the car and join you," Maximilian agreed, pulling over to let Elizabeth out.

"No need. I'll pick quickly by myself," Elizabeth said, putting on sunglasses to avoid being recognized.

Maximilian watched her carefully but didn't question her intentions.

After leaving Elizabeth to her task, he handed the car keys to a valet at the hospital entrance and caught up with her.

"Why did you come along?" Elizabeth asked, glancing around nervously.

"I thought you might not know Grandma's preferences," Maximilian explained, his gaze steady and detached.

"Oh, I have a general idea. Older people probably shouldn't eat fruit that's too cold or hard," Elizabeth said, taking a few steps away to keep some distance.

Maximilian noticed her attempt to keep her distance, but he found her cautious behavior amusing.

Once Maximilian joined her, passersby began to take notice—especially a few excited young women who admired him. Intimidated by his aloof demeanor, none approached.

"Why aren't you wearing sunglasses? Here," Elizabeth quickly pulled out a new pair and offered them to him. "Put them on."

Maximilian glanced down but didn't accept them. "Do I look inappropriate?" he asked.

"No, it's just that you're too handsome. We agreed to keep a low profile, remember?" Elizabeth said, her eyes showing concern from behind her sunglasses.

Expressionless, Maximilian took the sunglasses and put them on. His already handsome face, now half-hidden behind them, only added to his mysterious charm—a cold, untouchable allure.

Elizabeth overheard nearby young women speculating whether they were filming a movie, dubbing him the next big star.

Her head dipped lower. She wished she could disappear and avoid the fuss.

Maximilian shot a piercing glance at the group, silencing the chatter instantly. His look was icy and authoritative.

"Maximilian, maybe next time wear a hat," Elizabeth suggested softly. "I'm a bit socially anxious."

Or maybe she should cover herself from head to toe. But then again, maybe today was the only time they'd be out together.

"What did you call me? Hmm?" Maximilian asked, stepping closer to Elizabeth, who felt caught out.

Elizabeth sensed his cool presence close to her. Looking up, she met his inscrutable gaze, both serene and imposing. "Maximilian," she whispered timidly.

His eyes narrowed slightly, a shadow of displeasure passing over them.

Elizabeth blinked. Could she have been mistaken?

His intense gaze made her uneasy, so she hurried into the flower shop and pretended to browse.

"I'll take your finest bouquet of pink carnations," Elizabeth quickly instructed the florist, avoiding Maximilian's watchful eyes.

Maximilian stood quietly to the side, observing her meticulous choice with extraordinary patience.

After selecting the flowers, Elizabeth picked out a fresh fruit basket. She carried the flowers while Maximilian held the fruit basket, and together they headed to the hospital.

Grandma Carter had been eagerly waiting for them, lighting up with joy when they arrived.

"Hello, Grandma. I'm Elizabeth. It's a bit rushed, but I picked these carnations for you. Wishing you a quick recovery and many happy years," Elizabeth said warmly.

"Oh my, how lovely! Come here, let Grandma have a look," Grandma Carter beamed, her once pale face rejuvenated with joy as she pulled Elizabeth closer to admire her.

Beside Grandma Carter, her caregiver, Sue, accepted the flowers and fruit basket, while Maximilian arranged a chair by the bedside.

Elizabeth admired Grandma's graceful presence despite her frailty, reflecting her noble upbringing. Yet there was no arrogance—only overwhelming warmth and kindness.

"So rushed, I haven't had time to prepare a gift for this meeting," Grandma Carter said, eagerly removing her pearl bracelet as a token for Elizabeth.

While Elizabeth couldn't gauge its value, she knew the bracelet was exquisite—likely priceless. Overwhelmed, she looked to Maximilian for guidance.

Maximilian's dark eyes noticed her hesitation. "Grandma, you love that bracelet. Keep it. Besides, giving away your favorite bracelet as the only wedding gift might not be appropriate," he advised steadily.

Maximilian retrieved the marriage certificate and their photo from his suit pocket and handed them to Grandma Carter.

Grandma's eyes gleamed with delight as she put on her reading glasses to examine it closely.

"You rascal. No wonder you refused all my introductions. You found such a wonderful girl yourself. The photo turned out beautifully. Sue, take good care of these. I'll look at it every day—maybe I'll get better," Grandma Carter said, her face radiant with pleasure as she passed the certificate and photo to Sue for safekeeping.

Elizabeth found Grandma delightful. But what if they divorced? How would they explain the certificate?

She lingered on the marriage certificate, trying to signal Maximilian to stop Grandma from taking it away.

Maximilian Carter caught the look in Elizabeth Cox's eyes but didn't call it out—not right away. He just leaned back like he was at some casual get-together.

"Grandma, get well soon, okay? We need you at the wedding," Maximilian said, calm and collected.

"Wedding?" Elizabeth blurted. That was news—there hadn't been a word about a wedding before. Her eyes went wide as she looked at him.

Maximilian met her shocked stare with a gentle one. "But we're keeping it low-key. Just a small ceremony at home."

Elizabeth let out a relieved breath. A small family thing she could handle.

"Yes, yes, I'll recover fast. Now I've got something wonderful to look forward to," Grandma Carter said with a warm chuckle, her gaze resting fondly on Elizabeth.

"That's right—and don't forget, there's a great-grandbaby to look forward to!" Sue added brightly.

A great-grandbaby? No one had mentioned that either. Elizabeth's brows drew together, and she shot Maximilian a quick glance for reassurance.

Maximilian gave her a soft smile that said, Don't worry. Elizabeth slipped out of the room, cheeks burning, not daring to lift her head. She hadn't taken the expensive bracelet Grandma offered, so the older woman had given her a small wooden box instead, insisting it held something any young woman would cherish.

Maximilian carried the box and caught up with Elizabeth as she hurried to put on her mask outside.

"It's a private hospital. Completely secure," he reassured her.

"I know," Elizabeth said softly, eyes down.

The upscale surroundings were obvious everywhere.

"Then why do you look so guilty? Like you did something wrong," Maximilian asked, giving her a sidelong glance.

He opened the box casually. Diamonds flashed inside, and Elizabeth's attention snagged on them.

"It was my grandma's coming-of-age gift. She must be fond of you," he said.

Elizabeth stared at him, stunned. "Isn't that too extravagant? Should we return it?"

"That bracelet was a wedding gift from my grandfather. If you like it better, we can swap," Maximilian offered, his tone gentle enough to leave her speechless.

"No, no—they're both way too extravagant for me," Elizabeth whispered, shaking her head hard.

For someone pulling in about three thousand a month, luxury like that was intimidating. Unattainable.

"You were brave enough to chase me, but a few gifts scare you?" Maximilian teased lightly.

Elizabeth's face flushed even hotter. Embarrassment flooded through her.

"The elevator's here. Let's go," she murmured.

Maximilian followed, one brow arched, the box in his hands.

Outside, while they waited for the valet to bring the car around, Elizabeth hesitated. "Um... Mr. Carter, are we going to the office now?"

"We are."

"To avoid drawing attention, maybe I should take a separate cab," she suggested. Her eyes were still red and puffy from yesterday's tears.

Next to Maximilian's sheer presence, she looked exactly like what she was—the humble assistant.

"How do you usually get to work?" Maximilian asked, eyes narrowing slightly.

"I usually ride a Vespa. Or take the bus when it rains," Elizabeth answered earnestly.

Maximilian's lips curled into an amused smile. "Do you have a driver's license?"

"Yes," Elizabeth said, curiosity flickering in her eyes.

"Ride with me today. Tomorrow you can pick a car from the garage," he said, leaving no room for argument.

Elizabeth was completely thrown. Driving one of the CEO's luxury cars on her modest salary? That was a recipe for gossip.

"You're being too generous, Mr. Carter. Even your cheapest car is above my means," she protested, shaking her head.

Maximilian frowned at the formal address. Watching her timid expression, he let out a soft chuckle.

He stepped closer and gently tipped her chin up until her eyes met his. "You weren't shy when you were pulling at my clothes and feeling my muscles that night, were you?"

Elizabeth turned bright red. Her cheeks burned. Her eyes danced with embarrassment, lashes trembling slightly, as if protesting.

"Mr. Carter, we have to maintain professionalism in public!" she pleaded, panic edging into her voice. If anyone saw them, she'd be in trouble. Maximilian was popular—he drew attention from wealthy suitors wherever he went. If rumors started, her life would be anything but peaceful.

"Elizabeth, you're here as my wife, not a stranger," Maximilian said smoothly.

Elizabeth's face seemed to wilt. "I... I know, but... I'm nervous. I'm just an ordinary person, and you're in a different league."

Their unequal social standing meant that if they split, his life would go on unchanged—but hers would be picked apart, her privacy invaded. Their relationship had no real emotional foundation, and she wasn't sure he'd protect her if things went sideways.

Thinking about it, Elizabeth regretted her impulsive decision. Maybe the alcohol had clouded her judgment.

The valet brought the car around and opened the door for Maximilian with a polite bow.

"I'll go hail a cab," Elizabeth said, already turning to leave.

"Get in. Let's find you a car that's actually suitable for driving," Maximilian insisted.

"What?" Elizabeth said, confused, as he gently steered her into the passenger seat and set the wooden box on her lap.

She held it carefully, as if the slightest jolt might damage what was inside.

A moment later, Maximilian was behind the wheel. "What kind of car do you like?"

"You don't need to get me a car," Elizabeth said, surprised. "I'm fine with my Vespa."

"Your Vespa's too slow for the commute from my place," Maximilian remarked, his eyes lingering on her.

Elizabeth bit back a smile, touched by the thought. No one had ever shown her that kind of care before. Her heart warmed before she could stop it.

"Think fast."

Elizabeth remembered the route from his villa had no public transportation. Riding her Vespa would make her stand out even more. "Let me check," she said, pulling out her phone to look up the car she liked.

It was a compact, stylish two-seater.

"I've had my eye on this one, but it's a little expensive. I didn't want to splurge," she said.

"How much?"

"About fifteen grand."

Maximilian stared at her. "...That thing can actually go on the road?"

"Yes, it's electric. Really cute," Elizabeth defended, showing him the picture.

Maximilian looked at it, deeply unimpressed. "Aim higher."

A fifteen-thousand-dollar car next to his fleet of six-figure vehicles?

"How about this four-seater? Bigger model, better trim, around twenty-five thousand," she suggested, showing him another option.

Maximilian stared at her, his expression caught somewhere between disbelief and pain.

"Pricey cars are beyond my reach, so maybe I shouldn't get anything," Elizabeth said, pocketing her phone.

"Let's go with that one," Maximilian decided, catching the flicker of disappointment she tried to hide. He was already preparing to take her to buy it.

When the CEO pulled up to a budget car dealership in a Rolls-Royce, the staff went into a frenzy.

"A Rolls-Royce! That could buy out several of our entire inventories," a salesperson whispered.

"Wait—are they here to buy a car?" another added, excitement rising in their voice.

The whole team was practically glued to the windows.

Elizabeth was about to step out when she realized everyone was snapping photos. She urged Maximilian, "Mr. Carter, drive forward! They're taking pictures of us!"

Her panic hit its peak. She almost shook him.

Maximilian, halfway through unbuckling his seatbelt, glanced up. Her anxiety was obvious. He let out a slow sigh. "Am I really something to be ashamed of?"