The Marriage Bargain - ENGLOT

Chapter 4: The Bargain

Emory's POV:

Sitting in the backseat of my car after parting ways with Quinn, my mind kept going over and over again the words she said. A pretend wife? Will I be able to pull that off?

I rubbed a hand over my tired face, blowing out a heavy breath, I knew I have no choice but to do it for the sake of my position in the company. But with my stubborn pride, I know I can't bring myself to marry just anyone. I needed someone who wouldn't get in the way of my life, but could also convince my Nonna that I'm settled down with the perfect partner in life.

I remembered Quinn's suggestion of using Cadence. She is pretty, with a great body, I certainly wouldn't mind living together with her. We'll have to work on her attitude though, she can't go talking back and being snarky with me. But aside from that, she seems to be the most viable option right now.

"We're here miss Winslow." My driver, Albert announced. I prefer driving by myself but with the amount of alcohol in my system, I know I shouldn't and that's when Albert saves the night.

"Thanks Albert. Have a good night."

"You too miss Winslow."

I walked slowly towards the elevator and waited for it to open. "All I have to do is find that woman." I mumbled to myself, my brain already working out how and where I can find Cadence.

Ding!

Bark!

The elevator doors opened and I'm greeted by my rowdy chihuahua. "Hey Kiewy! Let's go sleep yeah?"

Bark!

"Good girl! Let's go!"

———————-xx———————-

The next morning I decided that the best way to find Cadence is by retracing our steps, so I went to the hospital where I took her yesterday. I know this is a long shot and she might not have even left any information nor details about herself but at least it's a start. I drove slowly, making sure to let people pass in front of the car and always looking at my side mirrors. "Damn it, now I'm too conscious when driving." I grumbled to myself, hating the effect yesterday's accident has on me.

After a few more minutes of careful driving, I arrived at the hospital. I went inside and asked the receptionist for anything they have on Cadence, but I couldn't get any details due to privacy laws.

"Excuse me," I said, approaching the desk again. "I understand the privacy policies, but is there any way you could at least tell me the name of the woman I brought in yesterday?" I asked, pretending that I don't know her name too.

The receptionist hesitated before answering, "I'm sorry, but I can't do that without proper authorization."

I let out a frustrated sigh and dug into my pockets to pull out my wallet. "Here," I said, showing her my business card. "Is this enough authorization?"

The receptionist read my card and nodded. "Winslow, is it?" she said. "Let me check our records."

I held my breath as she typed away on her computer. After a few seconds, she looked up and said, "Her name is Cadence Addeman, she's 26 years old."

26 huh, pretty young. Perfect. I asked, "Do you have her contact information?"

Again, the receptionist hesitated. "I'm sorry, Ms. Winslow , but I don't think I can give you that information unless she has left a consent form with us."

I gritted my teeth. "Are you kidding me? I'm the one that paid her bills! I just wanted to check on her again. Is that too much to ask?"

The receptionist looked apologetic. "I'm sorry, but we have to abide by the law."