The morning sun cast a warm glow over the city as Emma Watson stepped out of her apartment, her heart heavy with the weight of the previous days revelations. The world seemed to be moving at a normal pace, but her life had taken a dramatic turn.
She made her way to Hemsworth Corp, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The encounter with Jake had left her shaken, but the support from Liam had been unexpected. She couldnt decipher his intentions, but she knew she had to stand on her own.
As she entered the grand lobby of Hemsworth Corp, she was met with a sea of curious glances. The news of her altercation with Jake had spread like wildfire, and she could feel the whispers following her as she made her way to the elevator.
Her office on the top floor was a sanctuary of sorts, but today, it felt more like a cage. She settled behind her desk, the stack of files that needed her attention a stark reminder of the reality she was caught in.
Just as she was about to delve into her work, her phone buzzed with an incoming call. It was a number she didnt recognize, but she answered it anyway.
"Emma Watson?" a stern voice asked.
"Yes, speaking."
"This is Grandma Hemsworth. Ive heard quite a lot about you recently," the elderly woman said, her tone leaving no doubt about her disapproval.
Emmas heart sank. "Its a pleasure to speak with you, Grandma Hemsworth," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Im not calling to exchange pleasantries, young lady. I want you to stay away from my grandson. Hes been through enough, and I wont have you causing him any more distress."
Emmas grip tightened on the phone. "I assure you, I have no intention of causing Liam any trouble. In fact, Im trying to make amends for the misunderstandings between us."
"See that you do," Grandma Hemsworth warned before hanging up.
The call left Emma feeling even more unsettled. She knew she had to clear the air with Liam, but she also knew that his grandmothers influence was not to be underestimated.
As the day wore on, she worked diligently, her determination to prove herself unwavering. But as the clock struck five, she was summoned to Liams office.
She stood before his grand oak desk, her heart pounding in her chest. Liam looked up from his paperwork, his eyes cold and calculating.
"Emma," he began, his voice devoid of any warmth. "Ive been reviewing your work, and while its satisfactory, I think its time we discussed the terms of your employment more thoroughly."
Emma braced herself, knowing that what he was about to say would change everything.
"I need someone to play the role of my wife for the next year. Its a purely business arrangement, and in return, Ill ensure your professional success and financial security."
Emmas mind raced. This was not at all what she had expected. "Why me?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Because youre already entangled in my life, and I find it... convenient," Liam replied, his gaze never leaving her face.
She searched his eyes, trying to find some hint of sincerity, but they were as cold as ever. This was a business deal, nothing more.
"And if I refuse?" she asked, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her.
Liam leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing on his lips. "Then Im afraid Hemsworth Corp will have no place for you."
It was blackmail, pure and simple, but Emma knew she had no choice. She needed this job, and she needed the security it provided.
"Ill do it," she said, her voice resolute. "But know this, Liam Hemsworth, I may be agreeing to this arrangement, but I wont be your pawn."
Liams smirk widened. "Well see about that, Emma Watson. Well see about that."
As she left his office, Emma felt a mixture of emotions. She had just agreed to a contract that would change her life forever, but she also knew that she had to maintain her independence.
She would be Liams contractual wife, but she would do it on her terms. This was a new Chapter in her life, and she was ready to write her own story.