The days that followed were a blur of research, soil amendments, and careful nurturing. Catherine Morland lived and breathed for the delicate plant that held her mothers future in its fragile leaves. She consulted with botanists, horticulturists, and even delved into ancient texts on the art of plant husbandry.
Edward Cullen observed her progress with a mix of skepticism and grudging admiration. He would appear unannounced, his gaze assessing as he examined the plants slow but steady recovery. Catherine could feel his eyes on her, weighing her determination, measuring her worth.
On the eve of the final day, Catherine stood on the balcony, her hands covered in soil, her eyes tracing the now lush green leaves of the plant. It had not only survived but thrived under her care. She had done it; she had brought it back from the brink of death.
As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the balcony, Edward approached. He was silent, his presence as imposing as ever. Catherine turned to face him, her heart pounding with a mixture of anticipation and fear.
"Well?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Edwards gaze was inscrutable as he looked from her to the plant and back again. "It appears you have succeeded," he conceded, his voice a low rumble that sent a shiver down her spine.
Catherines shoulders sagged with relief. "Does this mean...?"
Edward held up a hand, silencing her. "I said you have succeeded in this task. The money is yours. However, I have not agreed to give it without conditions."
Catherines heart sank. "What conditions?"
Edwards eyes glinted with a cold light. "You will attend a gala with me tomorrow night. Your performance there will determine whether you truly deserve the money."
Catherines brow furrowed. "What do you mean, my performance?"
Edwards lips curled into a smirk. "You will be my wife in name only, Catherine. But for one night, you will play the part of the doting wife. If you can convince the elite of Aspen City that we are a loving couple, the money is yours."
Catherines stomach churned at the thought of deceiving people, but she knew she had no choice. "Ill do it," she agreed, her voice barely above a whisper.
Edwards smirk widened, and he held out his hand. "Then its a deal."
Catherine placed her hand in his, the touch sending an unexpected jolt through her. She quickly pulled away, trying to ignore the sensation.
The next evening, Catherine stood in a gown that Edward had sent for her, a deep blue that matched her eyes and hugged her curves. Her hair was swept up, and her makeup was expertly done, enhancing her natural beauty.
Edward appeared at her door, his eyes widening slightly as he took her in. "You look... acceptable," he said, his voice rough.
Catherine bristled at his lukewarm compliment but chose to ignore it. She had a job to do, and she wouldnt let Edwards coldness deter her.
The gala was in full swing when they arrived, a glittering affair filled with the citys most influential people. Catherine pasted a smile on her face and clung to Edwards arm as they made their rounds, laughing at his jokes and nodding along to conversations.
As the night wore on, Catherine started to feel the strain of the charade. Her face ached from smiling, and her heart ached from the lies. But she kept up the facade, determined to see this through to the end.
Edward, on the other hand, seemed to be enjoying himself. He was the perfect gentleman, attentive and charming, and Catherine could see why so many women in the room were envious of her supposed relationship with him.
But just as Catherine was starting to believe her own act, a familiar face appeared at the edge of the room. Isabella Gray, dressed in a gown that was somehow both elegant and provocative, watched her with a smirk.
Catherines heart dropped. She knew that Isabellas presence could only mean trouble. As she watched, Isabella started to make her way towards them, a predatory gleam in her eyes.
Catherine gripped Edwards arm tighter, her smile faltering. She had faced many challenges in her quest to save her mother, but she knew that the biggest test was about to begin.