Chapter 9 - The Contract
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The next morning, Arthur called Nora into his private study.
The room was dark, lined with books and smelling of leather and gun oil. Arthur sat behind a massive mahogany desk, looking over a stack of legal documents.
“Sit,” he offered, pointing to the chair opposite him.
Nora sat, smoothing her skirt. She looked exhausted, having stayed awake with Mia until dawn, but she kept her posture perfect.
“My lawyers drafted the marriage contract,” Arthur said, sliding a thick file across the desk. “It stipulates that we will be married in a private ceremony on Saturday. You will take my last name. You will be given full access to the family accounts, a generous monthly allowance, and a security detail.”
Nora looked at the paperwork but didn’t pick up the pen.
“What are your expectations for... us?” she asked quietly.
Arthur leaned back, studying her face.
“This is a business arrangement, Nora. My enemies need to see a united front. The syndicate needs stability. You will be my wife in public, attend the galas, host the dinners, and raise the children. In private, you will have your own wing of the house.”
“And the bedroom?” she asked, refusing to shy away from the reality of her situation.
Arthur’s gaze darkened. “I do not force women, Nora. I bought your hand, not your body. Our marriage will be unconsummated until, or unless, you decide otherwise.”
A massive wave of relief washed over her, though she hid it well.
“And the children?” she asked.
“They are my heirs. You are their guardian. If anything happens to me, the contract dictates that you assume control of the family trust until Leo turns twenty-one. You will be protected.”
He was giving her real power. He was trusting her with his empire.
“Why are you giving me so much control?”
“Because I saw you with Mia last night,” Arthur said softly. “You didn’t flinch. You didn’t run. You stayed in the fire with her.”
May you like
Nora picked up the pen and signed her name.
Nora Costa.
