Ava had expected a job interview.

She had not expected a marriage contract.

Adrian Cole sat behind a desk larger than her apartment, his expression unreadable.

“You need money,” he said.

Ava crossed her arms. “That is not an answer to why I am here.”

“It is the reason you will listen.”

He slid a folder toward her. Inside was a contract: one year of marriage, public appearances, separate bedrooms, and enough money to save her family home from foreclosure.

Ava looked up. “Why me?”

“Because you are not impressed by me.”

She almost laughed.

“I am not impressed,” she said. “I am offended.”

For the first time, Adrian smiled.

“Good,” he replied. “That will make this easier.”