Chapter 2
Valentine’s Day. Christmas. Every single holiday, every late night at the office, every business trip—he was always with Carola.
Every word on the screen felt like a tiny needle digging into Dorothea’s heart. The cold seemed to seep right into her bones, making it hard to even breathe.
Why Carola? Of all people, why her?
She and Carola had never gotten along, not since they were kids. Albert knew about every fight, every grudge. Was he dating Dorothea just because she reminded him of Carola? Was she just a stand-in?
Dorothea grabbed her phone and shot a message to her mother, Elise.
[Mom, I’ll go on the blind date.
Her mother, always so distant, replied almost immediately.
[Good. Glad you’ve come around. Here’s the address, Room 1012. Be polite, okay p>
A bitter smile tugged at Dorothea’s lips. Her mom really couldn’t wait to marry her off for a good price.
After her IV drip finished, Dorothea caught a cab to the restaurant.
Elise wouldn’t set her up with anyone half decent. The guy was a notorious playboy, more famous for changing girlfriends than changing clothes. Ever since Elise remarried, she only cared about Carola anyway. Dorothea was used to being second place.
Taking a deep breath, Dorothea pushed open the door to the private room. Her eyes narrowed.
The man inside wore a burgundy suit so loud it was impossible to miss. He stood out in the crowd, holding a wine glass with one hand, the other casually tucked into his pocket.
He looked up when the door opened, his eyes dark and mischievous, the kind that could draw you in without even trying.
Mr. Stevens?
Dorothea had to admit, he was ridiculously good-looking. It made sense he’d be a heartbreaker. There were guys and girls in the room, and he seemed to be enjoying all the attention without a care.
He raised an eyebrow,said: “You are p>
“Can we talk p>
Latham set down his glass and nodded for the others to leave. The room emptied out, leaving only the two of them.
Dorothea walked right up to him.
“I’m Dorothea. I’m here for the blind date. If you think we’re a good match, I’m fine with getting married p>
Albert’s coldness had taught her what men were really like. Who she married didn’t matter that much anymore.
Latham smirked, his voice low and lazy.
“Married p>
Dorothea didn’t hesitate, “Of course. Our families want this, so let’s just get married: I don’t care if you mess around outside but I’m not taking responsibility for any kids you have. won’t give you a hard time about it, either p>
If possible, I’d like our marriage to last just one year. I’ll play the perfect wife for that year, then we call quits. No strings, no drama
Don’t worry, I won’t take a cent from your family. If you want, we can sign a prenup.
If you’re okay with this, we can draw up an agreement. What do you think?” Dorothea felt like she’d made herself clear. For a guy like him, having a respectable wife as cover was a win-win.
But Latham’s eyes were deep and unreadable, like the ocean at night. His gaze made her heart skip.
“All right,” he said, his voice a little rough. Then he grinned, “It’s still early. Want to go get our marriage license now p>