Strangers To Lovers

"Chapter five"

I had to monitor Ella's expression closely as I made my offer, hoping to achieve my goal without causing alarm. The moment I spoke, I noticed an empty expression cross her face. Contrary to what I had learned from my experiences, I discovered that money did not equate to happiness. "Then what are the terms?" she questioned, her curiosity piqued. I couldn't help but smile, feeling a sense of triumph as I suggested we discuss the details, to which Dylan readily agreed.

I opened my laptop, accessed my library, and pulled up a contract I had meticulously crafted over the past week. I was determined to ensure this arrangement wouldn't feel like adult torment. This wasn't just about the money; it was about creating a mutually beneficial situation.

While I explained the terms, I noticed another woman at the bar who seemed to be watching us intently. She shot glances in our direction, her expression a mix of curiosity and regret. I sensed that Ella was struggling internally, caught between skepticism and intrigue. I didn't chastise her for her hesitation; I understood that this was a big step for her.

"This arrangement is about mutual benefit," I said, trying to ease her doubts. "It's going to work for both of us."

"I thought $10,000 was a bit excessive," she replied after considering the offer.

"Absolutely not," I countered honestly. "To be completely truthful, I wouldn't even notice if I lost that amount from my account." I kept this little story to myself, hoping it would gain her trust, or at the very least, not make me seem unworthy.

I heard her let out a soft laugh, more an exhale than anything else. I pushed my laptop closer to her. "Read it and let me know if you need anything changed," I encouraged, hoping to ease her tension.

"Do you have a document describing what we're aiming to do together?" she asked, brushing a strand of blonde hair behind her ear. "Okay...I think I have the basics here."

"It's preferable to do things right," I reassured her. "I've outlined what we should do together, and we'll meet several times a week."

I tried to be as convincing as I could. "I will take care of all your financial needs, including meals, trips, and clothing expenses," I added, eager to make my offer appealing.

Her attitude shifted slightly, a smile breaking through. "What? Do I not look like I have enough money to be with you?" she retorted playfully.

"That's the truth," I said, grinning back. "We need to make my mother believe you're a member of the upper class. I don't know much about you," I continued, trying to gauge her reaction.

Ella paused for a moment, uncertainty clouding her expression. "What happens if my father doesn't think I'm earning a respectable sum each year?" she asked.

I sensed her apprehension. "Is this worth reconsidering?" I replied, curious about her hesitation. I couldn't understand why she felt uncomfortable with the arrangement, but I was determined to find out.

Her cheeks flushed a bright shade of pink. "If you tell me I'm extremely impoverished, I won't go that far. It's not like I'm starving on the streets." I pointed out that having two jobs was indeed a good thing, and she nodded in agreement.

"I'm not homeless nor hungry," she affirmed. "But enough to get by... just not as well as you." Our lively exchange felt like a dance, each of us testing the waters.

"I'm sure you don't have a lot of money to waste," I said.

When she questioned, "What do you think you are?" her jaw almost dropped. "What if I'm not old enough?" She looked at me skeptically. "It's never even crossed your mind, has it?"

I assured her, "The diner doesn't allow minors in, so I know you're at least 21."

She paused, contemplating. "But it doesn't matter if I'm not old enough, does it? The diner does not serve minors, so I know that you must be at least 21 years old to be having this conversation with me."

"I'm twenty-two, turning twenty-three this summer," I revealed, feeling a connection deepen between us.

Ella's expression shifted, surprise dancing in her eyes. "Is it required to kiss?" she asked abruptly, a hint of seriousness in her tone. "It's common for couples."

I responded with a soft smile, "It may not be the best idea for us."

She glanced at me, her cheeks turning a shade redder. "But I'd prefer a kiss," she replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "What about me makes you want to kiss me?"

As I took her hand, I felt an unexpected rush of warmth. I quickly kissed the back of her hand, watching her cheeks flush even more. "If we're to make this work, I'll need to make you feel comfortable."

"It's important to ensure the other person feels secure," she remarked, her expression softening. "Marrying someone you don't like isn't worth it."

"I agree," I replied, relieved to see her opening up. "I would never marry someone I didn't love."

"I think you've thought this through," she said, her skepticism waning. "Especially when you're trying to protect your loved ones."

As our conversation continued, I pushed my laptop aside, realizing that we didn't know much about each other's lives. "Let's not be forced into anything marriage-related without our choice. I'll help you; I need the money."

I made her a generous offer, aware that she wouldn't hold out for much longer. While I could have offered her less, I was determined to find the best candidate for the role I needed to fill.

Ella seemed to consider it, her brow furrowing. "I'm not going to walk away, am I?"

I assured her, "You won't regret this."

She sighed, and I could see the wheels turning in her head. "So, let's talk about the details."

As we worked through our arrangement, I felt the tension easing between us. I was curious about where this unexpected partnership would lead us both.