The Marriage Bargain - ENGLOT

Chapter 5: Let's do this!

As I sat across from Emory at the fancy restaurant, I couldn't help but feel nervous. This was a big opportunity for me to make some serious money, but I had to make sure I was up for the task. I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness stirring in my stomach.

"So, Cadence," Emory began, "I want to make sure we're both on the same page here. Let's discuss shall we? I'll go first."

"Sure." I tried to keep my composure and not let my anxious thoughts run wild. Emory looked stunning, as usual, with her perfectly styled hair and designer suit. I knew I had to stay focused and not let her intimidating presence get to me.

I nodded, taking a deep breath. This was it - the moment of truth.

"As we discussed, I'm willing to pay you 10k a month for the duration of our little charade," Emory said briskly, "Of course, there will be a few conditions."

I listened carefully as Emory outlined the details of our agreement - everything from the public appearances we'd have to make as a couple to the secrecy clause that prohibited me from revealing the truth to anyone. It was a lot to take in, but I knew it would all be worth it for the money she was offering. It will make me and Nevaeh's life a whole lot easier.

As Emory finished going through the terms of our arrangement, I couldn't help but feel a little overwhelmed. It was a lot to take in, but I knew I can do this, I'm an actress afterall.

"I understand," I said, trying to sound as confident as possible. "The conditions are all reasonable."

"Good," Emory replied, looking pleased. "I'll have my lawyers send you the contract to sign."

We continued with pleasant small talk as the waiter arrived to take our orders. Emory looked delighted as she perused the menu, but I couldn't bring myself to be too excited. I knew what I was getting into with this arrangement, and I knew there was a possibility things could get complicated.

Just as we finished our meal, Emory added another term to our agreement - one that had me feeling a little amused.

"Oh, and one more thing," she said, her tone a little more serious. "We'll be staying together in a house while we're playing our parts. And just to be clear, Cadence, let me make something very clear, this is just for show. I absolutely cannot have any romantic feelings develop between us. This is strictly a business arrangement, Cadence."

I couldn't help but roll my eyes at Emory's final term. As if falling in love with her was even a possibility - I mean, seriously.

"Relax," I said with a chuckle, trying to diffuse the awkwardness. "I promise not to fall for you, Emory."

Emory looked a little taken aback by my response, but quickly regained her composure. "Of course," she said. "I'm glad we have a clear understanding of each other."

"Yep, Don't worry about it" I said, still trying to sound nonchalant. "I won't fall in love with you. I've got better taste than that."

Emory raised a perfectly sculpted eyebrow, her expression unreadable. "Well, that's reassuring," she said dryly.

I hummed in response. "Worry about yourself, I'm irresistible I know." I smirked, playfully challenging her.

Emory just chuckled, clearly amused by my response. I knew I had to tread carefully - after all, she was paying me a lot of money to play this role. But at the same time, I couldn't help but feel a little rebellious - like maybe, just maybe, I could turn the tables on her and come out on top. Only time would tell.

...

Before we parted ways, Emory turned to me with a thoughtful expression.

"Cadence, do you have any terms of your own?"