Perched sixty-three stories above Manhattan, the Mercer Tower exuded intimidation, steel, and glass. Naturally, Aria had seen it before. Everybody had. The way it caught the afternoon sun and threw light across the city like a challenge made it impossible to miss. She never thought she would be in it. I never would have guessed that she would be here as Leon Mercer's unintentional wife.

It felt like an hour, even though the elevator ride took less than a minute. With one hand in his pocket and the other still gripping his phone, Leon stood stiffly next to her. During the drive, he had made three calls. They were all angry, short, and clipped.

Aria tried to breathe normally while keeping her gaze on the increasing floor numbers. The spot on her wrist where he had grabbed her outside the marriage bureau was still tingling. Not because it was painful. Since it didn't.

Because his touch had been firm, warm, and utterly assured-the touch of a man who never questioned his right to take what he desired. The elevator made a chiming sound.

Sixty-third floor. "This way."

Leon didn't wait for her to come along. Aria was carried down a hallway lined with abstract artwork that likely cost more than her childhood home as he strolled. Somehow, her feet moved on their own.

They went by the desk of an assistant. A blond woman glanced up at Leon's face before turning back to her computer right away. Intelligent woman. Leon pushed open double doors into an office that was more of a declaration of war than a place to work.

Windows from floor to ceiling provided views of Central Park. In the middle was a huge desk that was so spotless it appeared as though no real work had ever been done there.

A fully stocked bar was next to an L-shaped arrangement of two leather couches. With his hands in his pockets, a man stood close to the window, observing the city below.

He turned when they entered. "Leon." His voice was warm, where Leon's was ice. "This is the emergency?" He looked at Aria. His eyes widened slightly. "This is not Ariana Hale." "Brilliant observation, Marcus." Leon moved to the bar and poured himself two fingers of scotch.

He didn't offer any to Aria. "Meet my wife. Aria Hale." Marcus blinked. "Your... I'm sorry, you're what?" "Wife." Leon drained half the glass in one swallow. "There was a mix-up at the registry. The wrong sister signed the papers.

I'm now legally bound to a woman I've never met. "Aria's cheeks were burning. He spoke about her as if she weren't there. As if she were an issue that needed to be resolved rather than a human being. Marcus's expression was halfway between amusement and shock as he glanced between them. Ask her, "How does someone marry the wrong person?" Ask her, Leon's eyes were so piercing that they could have drawn blood from Aria. "She seems to know everything, "I tried to tell you, Aria whispered." Compared to how she felt, her voice sounded more steady. "Multiple times. You didn't listen."

"You signed the papers." "You told me to!" "I told Ariana to sign. Not some stranger who decided to. "I am not a stranger!" The words burst out before Aria could stop them. "I'm her sister. Her younger sister. Who was doing her a favour by delivering documents because she couldn't be bothered to show up to her own wedding!" Silence dropped like a curtain. Marcus cleared his throat.

"Where is Ariana, exactly?" Aria pulled out her phone with shaking hands and held up the text message-the one with no explanation. No apology. Just Emergency. Can't make it.

Marcus read it and let out a low whistle. "That's cold, even for a runaway bride." "She didn't run," Leon said. "She sent her replacement." "I am not a replacement!" Aria's control snapped.

I didn't ask for this. This was not my plan. Her voice reverberated off the windows. "I didn't even want to be at that stupid office, but someone had to deliver the papers, and as usual, I'm the one who has to clean up everyone else's mess." The two men looked at her. Aria felt empty as her rage subsided as fast as it had appeared.

She put her arms around herself and turned her head away. "I apologize.". I should not have shouted. "Avoid apologizing. Marcus took a step closer, his face soft. "You are perfectly entitled to feel angry. "She is without rights. With a sharp click, Leon put down his empty glass. "Not in my office.

Not in my life." "Leon-" "We're fixing this. Today." Leon pulled his phone out again.

I'll give Jeffrey a call. He'll be able to speed up an annulment. "What doesn't qualify cannot be expedited. Marcus's tone remained cool and collected.

"Both of you signed the certificate. It has been submitted to the state. There are no grounds for an immediate annulment, no fraud, and no coercion. Then we'll get divorced. "In New York, there must be grounds for fault or mutual consent with a separation agreement.

That takes time." "How much time?" Marcus hesitated. "Minimum three months if you both cooperate. Six months is more realistic. And that's assuming no one contests it." Leon's jaw clenched so hard that Aria could see the muscle jump. "Unacceptable."

"I agree it's not ideal, but-" "She planned this." Leon turned on Aria, his eyes blazing. "Her sister disappears at the exact right moment. She shows up with the documents.

On my marriage license, she signs her own name. "I didn't plan anything!" Aria's voice broke. "And now you're telling me I'm stuck with her for six months?" "Why would I want to marry you? I don't even know you!" "Everyone knows who I am." Leon approached, and Aria had to fight the impulse to retreat.

"Everyone is aware of my wealth. My properties. My relationships. Getting married to me is the key to a life that most people can only imagine. "I'm not interested in your life. "Every gold-digger says this.

"The words were like a slap. Something inside Aria became rigid and frigid. She had been ignored, disregarded, and treated as if she were unimportant for her entire life. She had come to terms with it from everyone who ought to have loved her, including her parents and sister.

However, she was not required to take it from him. "You know what?" Aria said in a quiet voice, but it was more potent than all of her yelling. "You can believe anything you want. I am aware of the reality. That's sufficient. "She faced the door. Leon's voice broke like a whip as he asked, "Where are you going?" "At home. Aria didn't turn around. "It's apparent that you don't want me here. I'll handle the annulment on my own.

"You're not leaving. Leon's palm struck the wood above Aria's head, keeping the door shut while her hand was on the handle. She became motionless. She could feel the heat radiating from his body because he was so close behind her. "Let me go. She was certain he could hear the pounding of her heart. "We must talk about terms. "Terms?" Leon's breath ruffled her hair. "On paper, you are my wife.

That comes with consequences. Rules. Expectations."

When Aria finally turned, they were only inches apart, which was a mistake. His eyes were more than grey up close. They resembled broken mirrors with silver flecks. "I'm not following your rules," she declared. "You'll worsen this situation for yourself. You've already concluded that I'm a liar and a gold-digger, so how could it be worse? What else is there?

Something flickered across Leon's face. Surprise, maybe. Or respect. It vanished before Aria could identify it. Marcus spoke from across the room. "Leon. Let her breathe." Leon didn't move. "Do you have somewhere to go? An apartment? Family who'll take you in?" Aria thought of her parents' house.

The one where Ariana got the main suite, and Aria got the room by the garage. Where her mother looked through her instead of at her, her father only noticed her long enough to ask her to help her sister with errands. "I had that thought. Leon's voice became quieter.

"There is nowhere for you to go. Not a dime. No strategy. Like me, you are trapped. "I have a job," Aria declared, though she wasn't sure how long that would last. "I am capable of looking after myself. "Can you?" Leon's gaze scanned her face as if searching for weaknesses in her armour.

"Because you appear to be a woman who unintentionally married a stranger and is unsure of what will happen next. "He was correct. That only made matters worse.

"This is what will take place. At last, Leon moved aside to give her room to breathe. "You will move into my penthouse. While my attorneys work to put an end to this catastrophe, we will put on a united front for the public. You'll abide by my rules.

I won't be embarrassed by you. After all is said and done, you'll have enough money to begin any life you choose. Somewhere far from me. "I don't.

"I don't want your money." "Everyone wants money." "Not everyone is Vanessa." The name came out before Aria could stop it.

She had seen the tabloid pictures and heard the stories. The former fiancée of Leon, who had cheated on him with his business partner, attempted to claim half of his company as part of the settlement. Leon's expression froze. Aria raised her chin and asked, "What did you say?" I said I'm not Vanessa. I didn't trap you. I did not plan this. And the only thing I want from you is to correct this error so I can go back to my life.

"Your life." Leon's laugh was bitter. "The life where you run errands for your sister and let your family treat you like hired help? That life?" The observation was too accurate, too sharp. After less than an hour of getting to know her, how did he notice that? "My life is none of your business. "As soon as you signed that certificate, it became my business. Leon returned to his desk and took out a notepad. "We are putting this in writing.

A contract. Terms we both agree to follow." "You can't contract your way out of a marriage." "Watch me." Leon clicked a pen and started writing. "Rule one: Separate bedrooms. We may be married on paper, but this is purely transactional." Aria's stomach twisted. Transactional. Like she was a business deal gone wrong. "Rule two," Leon continued. "No physical contact unless necessary for public appearances.

I don't want there to be any confusion about what this is."

"Believe me, there's no confusion." Her legs felt unsteady, so Aria went to the couch and sat down.

"What else?" "You'll attend events with me when required. Smile. Play the role of devoted wife. Make this look real to anyone watching."

Leon looked at her as if she had proposed burning money for amusement. "Why not just tell people the truth?" he asked. "Because I'm currently closing the biggest deal of my professional life. My investors must think I'm married, stable, and settled. Everything I've built would be destroyed by a public scandal about marrying the wrong woman.

"So, to preserve your reputation, I should lie. When you signed those documents, you created an obligation that you are expected to fulfil. "You are just as much to blame for this entire mess as I am! I did not create anything.

You signed without even looking at the document. "I checked the name. Ariana Hale. "Maybe if you'd listened when I tried to explain-" "Maybe if you'd been clearer-" "How was I supposed to know there would be two of you?"

"I said 'I'm not Ariana' three separate times!" "And then you signed anyway!"

Now they were both standing, their faces flushed and their voices raised. Marcus's expression was torn between amusement and worry as he observed them like he was watching a tennis match. Marcus remarked, "You're both right," into the deafening silence. "This situation is chaotic.

Both of you had a part in it. You both now have to deal with the fallout. "Leon ruined his flawlessly styled hair by running a hand through it. "All right. We'll split the blame. However, that doesn't change the situation.

"What situation?" Aria asked. "You're moving in with me tonight." "Excuse me?" "We're married. Married couples live together. If we don't, it looks suspicious. And if my investors get suspicious-" Your deal tanks. Yes, you mentioned that." Aria's head spun. "I can't just move in with you. I have things-a life.

"Bring what you need. My assistant will make arrangements for the remaining items to be relocated tomorrow. "You can't just tell me what to do!" "When you live with me, I can." Leon had hard eyes. "Aria, this cannot be negotiated.

If you want me to think you didn't plan this, show me. Obey the rules. Act out the part. Please help me keep my deal. We'll both leave as if nothing had happened when the six months are up. "And if I refuse?" Leon asked with a cold smile. "After that, I'll make sure that everyone in this city is aware of how you forced me into marriage.

Your name will be poisonous. The reputation of your family will be ruined. You'll be remembered for the rest of your life as the girl who tricked Leon Mercer into a marriage. "There was a sense of impending danger between them.

The walls began to close in on Aria. He was accurate. There was nowhere for her. You can't fight him. No resources to match his wealth, power, and legal team. She was confined. "Okay," she muttered. "Yes, I will do it.

"Louder." Aria looked him in the eye. "I said fine. I'll move in. I'll follow your rules. I'll play the devoted wife." "And?"

"And I don't want to see you again after this is over. Leon extended his hand. "Then, we have an agreement. "Aria gazed at his extended hand. Her entire being cried out that she couldn't handle it.

Avoid touching him and refuse to accept this absurd arrangement. She put her hand in his, but what other option did she have? Warm, consequential, and utterly certain, his fingers closed around hers. "Welcome home, wife," Leon said. And Aria was absolutely sure that she had just struck a bargain with the devil.

Aria only had one suitcase. In the apartment she shared with two roommates, she sat on her small bed and gazed at the open luggage as if it could provide answers. Her phone buzzed. What did you bring when you moved into your unintentional husband's penthouse? Business casual, pajamas, a weapon? An unknown number sent a text. In twenty minutes, the car will arrive.

Be ready 2PM, type yes if you are seeing this." Just an order.

Without checking, Aria tossed clothes into the suitcase. Pants. Sweaters. The lovely blouse she wore during her job interview. Underwear that was undoubtedly intended only for her eyes. She reached for her phone charger, laptop, and the little wooden box containing her grandmother's only pictures.

After nineteen minutes, she watched a black Mercedes pull up to the curb while holding her pitiful suitcase on the sidewalk. Another vehicle. Same motorist. He gave her a nod, picked up her bag as if it were light, and held the door open.

"Miss Hale." Apparently, it's now Mrs Mercer. She didn't like the taste of the words. The driver's face remained the same. Naturally, ma'am. "It seemed strange to drive through Manhattan. The streets were clogged with evening traffic, but the Mercedes managed to get through every time.

They went by eateries that Aria had never been able to afford, shops that she had only perused from the window, and a lifestyle that existed in parallel to hers but never came into contact with.

Until now.

Aria recognized the building from architecture magazines as the car pulled into an underground garage. The highest point. Starting at fifteen million dollars, luxury condos are available. She had once estimated that to pay the down payment, she would need to work for 200 years.

"This way, ma'am. The driver guided her to a private elevator that required a key card. He swiped his, hit the penthouse button, and took a step back.

"Mr Mercer is expecting you. Before Aria could inquire as to whether that was a warning or just basic information, the doors closed. The elevator ascended. Aria attempted to slow her heartbeat as she watched the numbers rise.

This was temporary. For six months, she could survive anything. The penthouse was directly accessible from the elevator. When Aria went outside, she lost her breath. Three sides of the room were filled with floor-to-ceiling windows that provided movie-quality views of Manhattan.

As the sunset painted the sky pink and orange, lights started to twinkle in the sprawling city below. White marble floors, contemporary furniture in grey and black tones, and artwork that was likely worth more than her college degree were all part of the interior's elegant design.

It was lovely. It was chilly. It didn't feel like home at all. "You're late. "Aria whirled around. Still wearing his earlier suit, but with his sleeves rolled up and his tie loosened, Leon stood in the doorway of what appeared to be the kitchen. He seemed to belong in a magazine spread about strong men and their ideal lives, even in casual settings.

"The text said twenty minutes. I was ready at nineteen."

Traffic isn't an excuse. He didn't even look at her suitcase as he walked past her and toward the windows. "Down that hallway is your room. On the right, the third door. The last door is my room. Keep out of it. "I had no intention of going to your bedroom.

"Okay. He used the bar cart by the windows to pour himself a drink. Didn't give her one, though. "There is food in the kitchen. Give yourself anything you desire. Tuesdays and Fridays are when my housekeeper comes. If you put your laundry in the hamper, she will take care of it. Aria blinked.

"You have someone do your laundry?" "You don't?" "I use a washing machine like a normal person." Leon's eyes cut to her. "You're not a normal person anymore. You're married to me. That comes with certain... adjustments."

The way he said "married" made it sound like a prison sentence. "What else do I need to know?" Aria asked. "Any other rules? Curfews? Off-limits areas?" "Don't touch anything in my office. Don't answer the door without checking with me first. Don't bring anyone here without permission." "Anyone?" "Friends. Family. Lovers. Whatever."

He had a long sip. "I own this house. You're not a roommate; you're here as a necessity. "Every word fell like a tiny cut. Aria silently took them in, just as she had learned to take in her sister's casual cruelty and her mother's criticisms. "I see. I'm unwelcome cargo occupying space. "At last, we understand one another.

Leon ignored her and turned back to the windows.

Grabbing her suitcase, Aria wheeled it down the corridor he had pointed out. It was a huge penthouse. Before reaching her designated bedroom, she passed a home gym, an office with more books than her neighbourhood library, and what appeared to be a media room. She stopped after pushing open the door.

The space was larger than her whole present apartment. The room was dominated by a king-size bed with white linens that most likely cost more than her rent each month. Views of Central Park were provided by additional floor-to-ceiling windows. A whole wall of built-in closets was vacant and unoccupied.

The attached bathroom featured a glass-enclosed shower with roughly seventeen shower heads in addition to a soaking tub. It was flawless. It was isolating. Aria unzipped her suitcase after placing it on the bed. Spread across all that pricey white fabric, her meagre possessions appeared pitiful. Three pairs of jeans. Five sweaters.

Two sets of shoes. A strip of duct tape held her three-year-old laptop together.

Her life was like this. Tiny. Unforgettable. Simple to fit into a single suitcase. She had always told herself that she didn't give a damn about things, money, or status. However, Aria felt the distance between her world and Leon's world yawn open like a chasm as she stood in this room that cost more than all of her possessions put together.

It makes sense why he believed she was after his money.

She jumped when she heard a knock on the doorframe. What more could someone like her want from someone like him? Leon was standing there with an unreadable expression. "I'm placing a dinner order. In response, Aria's stomach growled, "What do you want?" Since breakfast, she had not eaten. "I don't have any preferences. That is not an answer.

"Whatever you're eating is acceptable. Leon's jaw clenched. I am having sushi masa. The cost of the omakase is approximately $400 per person.

"Are you still okay?" Aria's face heated up. "I'll prepare a sandwich. "Stop being absurd. "I'm not being unreasonable. I'm being realistic. Four hundred dollars' worth of sushi is beyond my means. You don't have to pay for it. Yes, I am. "I'm not interested in your charity. It's not charity. It's dinner.

Leon studied her with those piercing grey eyes as he leaned against the doorframe. "Aria, you'll need to adjust to this. You'll eat what I eat, dress appropriately for someone in my social circle, and go to events that I go to while you're here. That's the agreement.

"I was supposed to pretend to be a loyal wife in public. You made no mention of altering my private identity. "Your public persona is influenced by your private identity. He moved away from the doorframe. "My assistant will take you shopping tomorrow. You will require the proper clothing for the benefit gala next week."

"I have clothes." "You have..."

Something flickered across Leon's face as his gaze swept over her open suitcase. Surprise? Pity? Before she could recognise it, it disappeared. "You'll need something suitable. "I am not your dress-up doll. "No. You are my wife. Additionally, my spouse must appear as though she is a part of my family rather than as if she came in from a thrift store at college.

"He delivered the insult as intended. To keep him from seeing how much it hurt, Aria turned away and busied herself with unpacking. "I'll dress in what I own. Perhaps you shouldn't invite me to your fancy parties if that makes you feel uncomfortable. "Quiet. Then footsteps, getting closer rather than farther away.

Leon stopped right behind her.

She was close enough to smell his expensive, woodsy cologne once more, which most likely had a pretentious name like "Midnight in the Alps" or something equally absurd. "Look at me. "Aria continued to watch her suitcase. "I'm busy. Aria. "He lowered his voice.

Not quite gentle, but less sharp. "Look at me." She turned. Mistake.

This room felt much smaller than it had just moments before, and he was too close. "I'm not trying to insult you," Leon stated. "I'm attempting to get you ready for what you're about to walk into. These individuals-the ones at dinner parties, galas, and benefits-are sharks.

Anyone who exhibits weakness will be torn apart by them. And wearing a fifty-dollar dress when everyone else is dressed in designer gowns? That's a sign of weakness. "I should therefore act like someone I'm not. "You ought to defend yourself. His gaze swept over her face. "I don't want to see you humiliated, whether you believe me or not.

"Just controlled." "Guided," he corrected.

"There's a difference." "Not from where I'm standing." Leon exhaled, a sound caught between frustration and something else. "You're stubborn." "You're arrogant." "I'm realistic." "You're impossible." A smile touched his lips. Just a flicker, gone so fast, Aria wondered if she'd imagined it. "Get settled. Dinner will be here in forty minutes. We'll eat in the dining room.

Try to look..." He trailed off. "Like I belong here?" Aria finished. "Like I'm not an unwanted accident you're stuck with?" The smile vanished completely. "Like my wife." He left, and Aria sank onto the bed, her legs suddenly shaky. This was going to be impossible.

Forty minutes later, Aria was standing in the doorway of the dining room, wearing a clean sweater and her finest jeans after taking a shower. Her hair hung in waves past her shoulders, still damp. She had been too shaken to bother applying makeup.

A table that could easily accommodate twelve people already had Leon seated at its head. He had changed into a charcoal cashmere sweater that likely cost more than her entire closet, along with dark slacks. His hair remained wet as well. To get ready for this weird, forced domesticity, they had both taken showers in their separate bathrooms. "Take a seat. He pointed to the chair on his right, not the opposite end of the table.

Close enough to talk. Aria sat.

The sushi was already arranged on exquisite ceramic dishes with flawless, artistic-looking fish. She was at a loss for what to do. Leon noticed her hesitation. "Have you had omakase before?" "I've had sushi from the grocery store. It's not sushi.

That is not sushi. He picked up his chopsticks with ease, the result of practice. "Work your way up to the richer flavours, starting with the lighter fish, like this. He gave an example, and Aria attempted to imitate him. At best, she had mediocre chopstick skills.

She carefully lifted a piece of what appeared to be tuna that she had managed to grab. and- It fell, right onto the white tablecloth. Aria's face burned. "Sorry. I'll clean-"Leave it." Leon's voice was firm but not harsh. "Try again." "I'm terrible with chopsticks." "Then practice." He slid a piece onto her plate using his own chopsticks.

"Use your fingers if necessary. It isn't a crime. "Aria used her fingers to pick up the sushi, feeling like a savage. However, as soon as she bit into it, a buttery, fresh flavour that was unlike anything she had ever tasted exploded across her tongue. "Yes.

She didn't have time to stop the sound. Leon's expression changed. "Excellent?" "Yes. Aria was having trouble speaking. "It's perfect. "Better than a sandwich?" she asked, glaring at him. Don't be arrogant. "I'm not being smug. I'm telling the truth. There's a difference. "Aria's mouth twitched despite everything. "You are still impossible. You're still stubborn. "He took another piece. "But you were right about one thing.

"What?"

"I'm just as much to blame as you are. Across the table, Leon's eyes locked with hers. "I ought to have examined the documents. When you attempted to explain, I ought to have paid attention. I took it out on you because I was rushing and upset about the entire arrangement. Halfway to her mouth, Aria's chopsticks froze. Did Leon Mercer truly offer an apology? "That doesn't mean I think you're innocent in all this," he went on.

However, I'm prepared to acknowledge that I also made mistakes. "The apology wasn't flawless. It came with qualifications and conditions.

However, it went beyond what Aria had anticipated from him. "Thank you," she murmured. "For saying that. Leon gave a single nod before returning to his meal. For a few minutes, they ate in silence. It should have been uncomfortable, but for some reason it wasn't. The food was too delicious.

The view outside the windows is simply breathtaking. Even if the other person was a stranger she had unintentionally married, there was something almost serene about eating with them. Aria put down her chopsticks and said, "Can I ask you something?" "It depends on the question. "I believe you didn't even know Ariana, so why did you consent to marry her? "Leon's face tightened.

"It was a business arrangement. Her father's company needed capital. My company needed the merger.

The easiest way to ensure both was through marriage. "I've never heard anything so unromantic." Romance is reserved for those who can afford to act foolishly. "His tone became icy.

"I tried romance once. It nearly destroyed everything I built." Vanessa. He was talking about Vanessa. "Not everyone is like her," Aria said softly. "No. Some people are worse." Leon's eyes found hers. "They pretend to be innocent. They make you think they're different. And then they take everything." The accusation hung between them.

"I'm not taking anything from you," Aria declared. "All I want is to make it through the next six months and regain my life. Leon reclined in his chair and asked, "What life?" "The one where you run errands for a sister who doesn't appreciate you, wear clothes from thrift stores, and share an apartment with roommates?"

"That's my life." It's real. It is genuine. It's small. "Compared to his previous insults, this one struck her more forcefully. Because there was a part of her that, despite her best efforts to ignore it, agreed with him.

Her life was small. Safe. Invisible.

As she had always been. According to Aria, "not everyone needs a penthouse and a seven-figure bank account to be happy." "No. However, everyone has the right to be more than a doormat. She was immobilized by Leon's stare. "You are treated as though you are invisible by your family.

Your sister abandons you to deal with her messes. And you just... accept it. Why?" "You don't know anything about my family." "I know you came alone to deliver wedding documents for a sister who didn't bother to show up. I know you have one suitcase of belongings. I know you apologize for existing." He leaned forward. "I know someone taught you that you don't matter. And I want to know why you believed them." Aria's throat tightened. How did he see so much?

"Because it was easier than fighting," she muttered. "How did he look at her for one day and understand things she'd spent years trying to hide?" "Because perhaps they would love me at last if I made myself small enough. "The admission lingered between them. Leon's face softened.

Just barely. Just enough. "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard," he said. But his voice was gentle. "People don't love you more when you're small. They just take up more space." Aria blinked back tears she refused to let fall. "Then what do you suggest?" "Take up space." Leon picked up his glass. "Be loud. Be inconvenient. It would be impossible to ignore." "Like you?" "Like someone who knows her worth."

He drank. "Even if that person is now unintentionally married to a man who finds her intolerable. "Aria laughed despite everything, including the terrible day and the tears that were welling up in her eyes. Unexpected and somewhat hysterical, it exploded out of her. Leon gazed at her as if she had gone insane. Which increased her laughter.

"What's funny?" "This." Aria wiped her eyes. "All of this. We're complete strangers having marriage counseling over four-hundred-dollar sushi in a penthouse that costs more than my hometown. It's absurd." Leon's lips twitched. "It's definitely not how I planned to spend my evening." "Me neither."

Unashamed, Aria picked up another piece of sushi with her fingers. However, I must say that the food makes it a little less awful. Highly commendable. Keep it from getting to your head. "When they were done eating, Leon didn't make her feel bad about using her fingers, or choosing the incorrect pieces, or not knowing how to eat ginger correctly. They stood awkwardly in the dining room after he called his housekeeper to clean up. "Well," replied Aria.

"Thanks for dinner. It was... educational."

Marcus will deliver documents for you to sign tomorrow morning. Confidentiality clauses, prenuptial agreements, the usual.

Right. Back to business. Back to reality. "Of course," replied Aria. "I don't want anyone to believe that this is true. Leon's face flickered with something. It has nothing to do with that. It's about keeping us both safe. Yes. Aria made her way to her room. "Goodnight, Leon." "Aria."

She paused and turned around. "For what it's worth. Leon stuffed his hands into his pockets. "You made it through today. Strength is required for that. It was the closest thing to a compliment he had offered her. Like a lifeline, Aria clung to it. "See you in the morning," she said. She shut herself off in her lovely, solitary room and allowed herself to cry at last.

Not because Leon was cruel. But because, for just a moment at dinner, he'd been kind. And somehow, that was so much worse.

For a glorious moment, Aria forgot where she was when she woke up to sunlight pouring through windows that reached the ceiling.

Then reality set in.

Leon's penthouse. Leon's rules. Leon's world.

It was 7:47 AM on her phone. Throwing in sheets that most likely cost more than her security deposit, she had hardly slept at all. Every time she closed her eyes, she heard Leon say, "People don't love you more when you're small," and saw his face across the dinner table.

Her stomach rumbled. Coffee. Before confronting whatever new nightmare this day had in store, she needed coffee.

When she came out of her room in her pajamas-worn cotton shorts and an oversized college t-shirt-the penthouse became silent. On the chilly marble flooring, her feet were bare. She followed the aroma of something dark and delicious as she padded toward the kitchen.

Leon was already wearing another flawless suit as he stood at the espresso machine. This time, it's navy, a clean white shirt, and no tie yet. The shower had left his hair wet. He appeared as though he had just stepped out of a cologne commercial.

It was as if Aria had crawled out of a trash can.

"Good morning," she said, lingering in the doorway.

Leon gave her a quick look. His gaze moved from her dishevelled bedhead down her bare feet, staying there for a few moments before returning to her face.

"Coffee?" Without waiting for her response, he took out a second cup from the cabinet.

"Yes. Please. Thank you." "Pick one. You don't need all three."

Aria suppressed a grin. "Coffee, please."

He made it the same way he did everything else, using exact, effective motions that gave the impression that he had done it a thousand times.

Their fingertips touched as he gave her the cup. Only just barely. Just enough to give her arm an unanticipated jolt.

Aria almost spilled the coffee as she pulled back.

Leon arched an eyebrow.

"Careful." "Sorry. Just... tired." "The guest room wasn't comfortable?" "The guest room is perfect. I just don't sleep well in new places." Aria took a sip and nearly moaned. The coffee was perfect-rich and smooth with just a hint of sweetness.

"This is really good." "It's coffee. Not a religious experience." "You clearly haven't had bad coffee." "I don't have bad anything." He leaned against the counter, coffee cup in hand, studying her like she was a puzzle he couldn't solve. "Marcus will be here at nine with the paperwork." Right. The prenup. The contracts. The legal proof that this was all business.

"What kind of paperwork, exactly?"

"Prenuptial agreement, despite the fact that it is currently post-nuptial. Provisions protecting confidentiality. Financial disclosures. The typical.

"I don't want your money, Leon."

"So you keep saying."

He took a long drink. "Sign the papers anyway. It protects both of us." "From what?" "From you trying to claim half my fortune when this ends. From me trying to control yours." His eyes held hers. "Neither of us is trying to use this mistake for profit." Aria set her cup down carefully.

"I don't have a fortune to protect." "Don't you?" The question hung in the air, loaded with something Aria couldn't quite identify. Did he know? Had he researched her? Discovered that she was actually the Hale heiress, not just the forgotten daughter? No. Impossible.

That secret had been buried too deep for too long. "I have about three thousand dollars in savings," Aria said. "A used car that barely runs. Student loans I'll be paying off until I'm fifty. That's my fortune." Leon's expression flickered. "Then the prenup will be simple. What's yours stays yours. What's mine stays mine. When we divorce, we both walk away clean." "Sounds perfect." "It's practical." He pushed off the counter. "Marcus will explain everything. Read it carefully before you sign."

"I will."

Leon reached over to the back of a chair and retrieved his suit jacket. "All morning, I have meetings. At eleven, Sophia, my helper, will arrive to take you shopping."

"I told you I don't need-" "And I told you that you do." His voice went firm. "This isn't negotiable, Aria. The gala is in five days. You need appropriate clothing. Sophia has excellent taste and my credit card. Let her help you."

"I don't want to be in debt to you."

"You have no debt. You're carrying out the conditions of our contract." Leon tucked himself into his jacket. "Everyone wins if you play the part convincingly. We'll both be miserable for the next six months if you fight me over every little thing."

He was correct. Aria detested the fact that he was correct.

"All right. Sophia and I are going shopping.

"Thank you." Leon started for the elevator but stopped.

"And Aria?" "Yeah?"

"Make an effort to appreciate it. Most women enjoy using other people's money.

Although his tone was more playful than nasty, the remark nevertheless hurt. The elevator doors closed, and he was gone before Aria could reply.

Wearing her tattered pajamas and sipping his flawless coffee, she stood by herself in his enormous kitchen, wondering how her life had become so utterly bizarre.

At precisely nine o'clock, Marcus showed up with a leather briefcase and an overly optimistic smile.

"Mrs. Mercer." He placed the briefcase on the dining table.

"How was your first night in the tower?"

"Weird. Uncomfortable. Expensive." Aria had changed into jeans and a sweater, at least. "How do people live like this?" "You get used to it." "I don't want to get used to it." Marcus's smile softened. "I like you. You're different from the usual crowd Leon deals with." "You mean I'm poor."

"I mean, you're real." He produced a pile of papers.

"The post-nuptial agreements are these. In essence, they specify parameters for the future breakup of the marriage, financial separation, and confidentiality restrictions.

Aria took a seat and began to read. Although the legalese was complicated, the purpose was obvious: Leon intended to ensure she couldn't exert any influence over his finances, business, or reputation. Her assets, ridiculous as they were, stayed hers in return.

There were clauses about public appearances. About maintaining the appearance of a happy marriage. About not speaking to the press without approval. About social media restrictions.

The actual knife was hidden on page seven: In the event of pregnancy, additional legal proceedings will determine custody arrangements, and genetic testing will be necessary to verify paternity.

Aria felt her stomach flip. "He thinks I might try to trap him with a baby?"

Marcus had the grace to appear uneasy. "Leon had previously been tormented. Vanessa once claimed to have been pregnant. Tried to use it to coerce him into getting married. Proved to be a falsehood.

"I'm not Vanessa."

"I am aware of that. You are aware of that. Leon is still getting used to it. Marcus bent over. "Look, I'm not attempting to justify him. This is brutal at times. However, he is defending himself in the only way he can.

"By assuming the worst of me." "By preparing for every possibility." Marcus pulled out a pen. "You can negotiate any terms you want.

This isn't set in stone." Aria flipped through more pages. Everything was designed to keep them separated, isolated, untangled. Like Leon was already planning his escape before they'd even started. "What if I said no? Refused to sign?" Marcus considered her carefully. "Then Leon would assume you're planning to take him for everything you can get.

It would confirm all his suspicions. And it would make the next six months a living hell for both of you." "So I don't actually have a choice." "You always have a choice. But some choices have better outcomes than others." Marcus met her eyes. "Sign the papers, Aria. Protect yourself. And maybe... give him a chance to see who you really are." Aria picked up the pen. Her hand hovered over the signature line.

This felt like giving up. Like accepting that she'd always be the girl no one believed in, the one who had to prove she wasn't a liar or a schemer or a gold-digger. But what was the alternative? Fight Leon for six months? Let him treat her like an enemy? She signed.

Marcus witnessed her signature, gathered the documents, and stood. "For what it's worth, I think you're making the right choice."

"Doesn't feel right."

"Give it time." He turned back after making his way to the elevator. By the way, Sophia is pleasant.

Let her spoil you a little. God knows Leon could afford to be less of a control freak and more of a decent human being." Despite everything, Aria laughed. "Does he know you talk about him like this?" "He encourages it. Says I keep him honest." Marcus grinned.

"See you around, Mrs Mercer."

The elevator doors shut, leaving Aria by herself once more.

She gazed out the window at the expansive metropolis. Her actual life-her job, her roommates, her meagre existence-was somewhere out there. It seemed so far away.

It buzzed on her phone. An unknown number sent a text.

Hello, Aria. This is Leon's helper, Sophia. I'll be there to take you shopping at eleven. I'm eager to meet you!

This catastrophe at least thrilled someone.

In fancy heels, Sophia proved to be a cyclone.

At precisely eleven, she rushed into the apartment, full of vitality, genuine warmth, and blonde highlights. She was perhaps thirty years old, and her carefree style made Aria feel like a crumpled potato.

"Oh my God, you're even prettier than Leon described!" Sophia embraced Aria as if they were longtime companions. "This is going to be so fun!"

"Leon described me?" Stunned, Aria asked.

"Well, he said you needed a complete wardrobe overhaul and that I should take you to the best boutiques in the city and not let you say no to anything." Sophia took hold of Aria's hand. "Between you and me, I think he feels bad about the whole mistaken marriage thing."

"He has a funny way of showing it."

"Leon humorously expresses all of his feelings. It's like witnessing a glacier trying to feel emotions. She was drawn to the elevator by Sophia.

"But trust me, I've worked for him for three years. If he didn't care, he wouldn't have called me personally at seven this morning to make sure I took care of you." That stopped Aria cold. "He called you at seven?" "Woke me up, actually. Very demanding about making sure you had 'everything you needed' for the gala."

Sophia had a knowing smile. "He's worried about you, even if he'd rather die than admit it."

Aria attempted to take it all in as the elevator fell. Was Leon concerned? Concerning her?

No. His reputation was a concern about how she would appear standing beside him.

This was just that.

"Where are we going?" As they got into a town vehicle that was waiting, Aria asked.

"Everywhere." Sophia had mischievous sparkles in her eyes. "I am aware of a few exclusive stores, like Saks and Bergdorf's.

We'll get you gala-ready and then some. Oh, and Leon said to bring you everyday clothes too. Something about you needing more than one suitcase's worth of belongings." Aria's face burned. He'd noticed. Of course, he'd noticed. "I don't need much-" "Aria." Sophia turned serious. "Can I be honest with you?" "Please."

"Leon has dated numerous ladies, as far as I can tell. Heiresses, socialites, and models. They all desired financial gain, social standing, or connections from him. They all engaged in gaming. She gave Aria's hand a firm squeeze. "He has never contacted me at seven in the morning to ask if I would be okay with you. You two are different, regardless of what this arrangement is or what brought you two together. So allow me to assist you. Not for him. For you.

Aria's throat tightened at the earnestness in her voice. "Okay."

"Excellent!" Sophia's enthusiasm came back. "Tell me everything now. Which style do you prefer? What gives you a sense of beauty? Which hues are your favourites?

Aria found herself conversing with Sophia as if they were friends for the next twenty minutes. About her time in college, her work in marketing, her passion for mystery books, and awful reality TV. Sophia answered questions, smiled when it was appropriate, and listened as if everything mattered.

Aria felt almost... normal by the time they arrived to Bergdorf's.

With its marble, mirrors, and salespeople who appeared to have stepped off a runway, the store was daunting. Sophia, however, pulled dresses, blouses, and slacks with practiced ease, moving around the space as if she owned it.

"Try these." She gave Aria an armful of clothing. "Avoid examining the price tags. Just pay attention to how they make you feel.

Aria's bedroom in her previous apartment was smaller than the dressing room. She nearly retreated as she gazed at herself in the three-way mirror while still wearing her sweater and slacks.

Then she recalled what Leon had said: "Take up space." Make a noise. Be hard to ignore.

She tried on the first piece of clothing.

It was sleeveless, made of emerald-green silk, and had a neckline barely noticeable. Aria hardly recognized the woman staring back at her when she looked in the mirror.

She looked... elegant. Sophisticated. Like someone who belonged in Leon's world. "Let me see!" Sophia called from outside. Aria stepped out. Sophia's eyes went wide. "Oh. Oh wow." She circled Aria slowly. "That's the one. That's your gala dress." "It's too much." "It's perfect." Sophia met her eyes in the mirror.

"You look like you could own the whole room." Aria turned, watching the silk catch the light. For the first time since this nightmare started, she felt something other than small and trapped. She felt powerful. "We're getting it," Sophia declared. "And about fifty other things. Leon's orders."

The following three hours were spent in a flurry of shops. Sophia's taste was flawless; she chose things that somehow balanced Leon's world's demands with Aria's aesthetic. Silk blouses, fitted jeans, casual cashmere sweaters, and three additional dresses for different occasions.

And footwear. So many shoes.

"I can't possibly need all this," Aria protested as they loaded shopping bags into the car.

"You're Mrs Leon Mercer now. This is just the beginning." Sophia grinned. "Wait until you see the jewelry Leon has planned for the gala."

"Jewelry?" "Oh yeah. He has a whole vault of family pieces. His grandmother's collection. Ancient money, very traditional." Sophia's phone buzzed. She checked it and smiled. "Speaking of which, Leon wants to know how it's going." "What did you tell him?" Sophia typed quickly and showed Aria the response: She's perfect. Stop worrying. "You told him to stop worrying?" "Someone has to." Sophia hit send.

"He must relax. You might be beneficial to him.

Aria was at a loss for words. For a man who hated her, how could she be good?

Around four, they went back to the penthouse. Aria felt overburdened once more as Sophia assisted in carrying up the numerous luggage.

Sophia remarked, "I'll help you organize everything," as she made her way to Aria's room. "We'll get it all put away and-oh."

She had paused in the doorway, gazing at Aria's open bag that remained on the bed.

At the small pile of worn clothes. At the duct-taped laptop. "Aria." Sophia's voice went soft. "This is everything you brought?" "I travel light." "This isn't traveling light. This is..." Sophia turned to her, and there was no pity in her eyes.

Just understanding. "This is someone who's been making herself small." The words hit like an arrow. How did everyone keep seeing through her? "I'm fine." "You're surviving. That's different from fine." Sophia set down the bags. "But you know what? That ends today. We're putting all this new stuff away, and you're going to walk around this penthouse like you own it. Because legally, you kind of do." Despite herself, Aria smiled. "I like you, Sophia." "Everyone does. It's my superpower."

She took the emerald garment out. "Now let's make sure Leon's jaw drops when he sees you in this."

They organized everything for the next hour. Sophia had a system in place: work attire here, leisure attire there, and a gala ensemble at the forefront. She meticulously hung everything, giving Aria's wardrobe a magazine-like appearance.

Sophia took a step back to appreciate their work when they were finished. "Much better.

Now you look like you belong." "Do I, though?" Sophia faced her. "The thing with belonging is that it's not about the address, the money, or the clothes. It involves determining whether or not you are worth the space you occupy. She gave Aria a shoulder squeeze. Even though Leon is too obstinate to acknowledge it, he sees it. He is very defensive because of this. You frighten him.

"I frighten him? He is a CEO with billions of dollars in assets.

"And you're the woman who accidentally became his wife and didn't immediately fall at his feet begging for his approval." Sophia smiled. "Trust me, that terrifies him."

Before Aria could answer, the elevator chimed.

Leon's voice echoed along the corridor. "Sophia? Are you still around?

"We're in Aria's room!" Sophia returned the call.

Footsteps approached. Still in his suit, but with his top button undone and his tie loose, Leon materialized in the doorway. He looked across the room, taking in the shopping bags, the entire closet, and Aria standing in the center of it all.

"I see you had a productive day," he remarked.

"Sophia has excellent taste." His inspection made Aria feel uneasy all of a sudden.

"Sophia has my credit card and no self-control." However, the words lacked any heat.

"I stayed within the budget you gave me," Sophia objected. "Barely."

"I'm sure." Leon's gaze returned to Aria. "Did you get something for the gala?"

"The most beautiful dress you've ever seen," Sophia responded on her behalf. "She's going to steal the show."

"It's not necessary. She just needs to look appropriate." "She'll look stunning," Sophia corrected. "Which is better than appropriate."

Leon's face twitched with something. "I'm sure she will."

Although his words were informal, his gaze on Aria wasn't. There was a noticeable, swiftly banked heat there.

Aria's heart began to race.

Sophia responded, "I should go," and picked up her purse. "Leon, treat your wife with kindness. If you need anything, text me, Aria. I'll see you both at the gala, too.

Leon and Aria were left alone in the bedroom with their new clothes and unspoken tension as she walked out.

"Thank you," Aria muttered. "For sending Sophia, for the clothing. I am aware that you believe I am pursuing your money, but-"

"I don't think that anymore."

Aria jerked her head up. "What?"

Leon stepped further into the room, hands in his pockets. "I had you investigated last night. Background check, financial records, the works." Her stomach dropped. "You what?" "It's standard procedure for anyone entering my life." His eyes held hers. "You have three thousand dollars in savings, like you said. Student loans. A job at a small marketing firm where you're underpaid and overworked.

No criminal record. No history of scams or schemes." Aria's face burned with humiliation and rage. "So you spied on me." "I protected myself.

There is a distinction.

"No, there isn't!" Anger overcame caution as she approached him. "I was treated like a criminal by you. Looked at me as if I were a threat. Because one woman broke your heart, you are unable to trust anyone else.

Leon clarified, "One woman tried to destroy my life," in a firm voice. "Forgive me for being careful."

Careful ask questions. This is paranoia."

"This is survival." The air between them crackled with energy as he drew nearer. "You want to know what else I found out, Aria?"

"What?" Refusing to give up, she raised her chin.

"You're quite intelligent. Your GPA on your college transcripts is flawless. You are multilingual. With a marketing plan you created, you alone prevented your existing business from going bankrupt." His gaze blazed into hers. "You're not a defenceless victim. You're capable and intelligent, yet you're totally wasted in that small flat with those unappreciative housemates."

Aria's rage wavered. "You... you think I'm brilliant?"

"I think you're dangerous." Leon's voice faltered. "Because it becomes more difficult for me to continue detesting you as I learn more about you. And, Aria, I must despise you. This is the only way it can function.

The honest and unvarnished confession sat between them.

"Why?" Aria whispered. "Because if I stop hating you..." Leon's jaw clenched. "Then this becomes real. And I can't afford real. Not again." He turned and walked out, leaving Aria standing in her new closet full of expensive clothes, her heart racing and her mind spinning. Leon Mercer had just admitted she was dangerous. And somehow, that felt like the most honest thing anyone had ever said to her.