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Decision

Charlotte

I wake up the next day with my head still full of thoughts about Richard's proposal. The weight of the decision feels heavier with each passing minute, and I know I can't delay my reflection for much longer.

When I arrive at the office, I try to concentrate on my tasks, but Richard's voice and his unusual proposal keep echoing in my mind. Sarah notices my distraction and approaches me.

"Are you okay, Charlotte? You seem worried," she asks, with a concerned expression.

"I'm fine, just a little tired," I reply, trying to appear unconcerned.

"If you need anything, I'm here," she says, giving me an encouraging smile before returning to her work.

The morning passes slowly, and every time I see Richard, my heart races. The tension between us is palpable, but he doesn't mention the proposal again, giving me the space I asked for.

During lunch, I decide to call my mother. She has always been my greatest confidante and advisor, and I feel like I need her guidance now more than ever. But when she answers, all I can say is:

"Hi, Mom. I just wanted to hear your voice."

"Hi, dear. Is everything okay?" she asks, her voice full of warmth.

"Yes, Mom. I just miss you," I reply, feeling a little relieved just by hearing her.

"I miss you too, dear. Remember, I'm always here for you," she says, her voice transmitting unconditional support.

"Thank you, Mom. That means a lot to me," I say, feeling a wave of gratitude.

After the call, I return to work, trying to focus on the immediate tasks. At the end of the day, Richard calls me to his office. I enter, feeling the tension in the air.

"Charlotte, I know I asked something huge of you, and I want you to know that I completely respect your time to think," he says, his voice sincere. "But there’s something else I need to share with you."

My heart races again. "What is it, Richard?"

"I received some medical news recently, and it has made me reconsider many things in my life," he begins, seemingly choosing his words carefully. "In addition to the condition that may make it difficult to have children, I’m also facing a possible loss of my ability to keep working at the same pace. This means I need to ensure my personal life is in order before things get more complicated."

The revelation hits me hard. "Richard, I’m so sorry to hear that. This must be very difficult for you."

He nods, his eyes showing a rare glimpse of vulnerability. "Yes, it is. And that’s why I’m asking for your help. I know it’s a big responsibility, but I believe you could be the right person for this."

The sincerity in his eyes and the seriousness of his situation deeply touch me. The proposal stops seeming like just a strange arrangement and becomes a matter of trust and mutual need.

"Richard, I... really need more time to think," I say, trying to organize my thoughts.

"Of course, Charlotte. Take all the time you need. But you should know that due to the urgency of the situation, I would like a response by tomorrow," he says, handing me a thick envelope. "Here’s the contract. Read it carefully and sign it if you agree."

I leave Richard’s office with my mind even more full of thoughts. My mother’s words echo in my mind, as well as Richard’s urgency. The decision won’t be easy, but I know I need to carefully consider all aspects.

At night, at home, I open the envelope and read the contract line by line. The terms are clear: financial security, support during pregnancy and beyond, and a contract marriage agreement. The pressure to make a quick decision weighs on me.

I decide not to tell my mother. Instead, I call her again, just to hear her voice, but this time I keep the conversation short and simple, without revealing what I’m facing.

The next morning, I arrive at the office with the signed contract in hand. I knock on Richard’s door, and he invites me in.

"Richard, I’ve thought a lot about all this," I begin, trying to stay calm. "And I’m ready to accept your proposal. Here’s the signed contract."

Richard’s eyes shine with gratitude and relief for a brief moment, but then his gaze turns colder and more calculating. "Great, Charlotte. Let’s get started immediately."

We leave the office, and Richard takes me to his mansion. The house is immense and luxurious, but I quickly realize that the environment is not as welcoming as it appears. Richard’s expression changes drastically as we cross the door.

"Now that we’re here, there are a few rules you need to follow," he says, his voice now cold and authoritarian. "This marriage is purely an agreement. Don’t expect any kind of emotional or personal relationship beyond what’s necessary."

A chill runs down my spine. "I understand," I reply, trying to keep my composure.

"You’ll have access to all areas of the house except for my office and the private wing," he continues, without looking directly at me. "I want you to keep everything in order and fulfill your responsibilities without question."

I nod, feeling the shift in the dynamic between us. The man who seemed vulnerable and genuine now reveals himself as distant and controlling.

"Any needs you have will be met, but remember, you’re here to fulfill a specific role," he finishes, turning to leave the room.

Alone in the vast mansion, I feel the weight of the decision I’ve made. Richard’s words echo in my mind, and I realize that the life I envisioned by accepting the proposal is far from the reality I now face.

I sit on one of the luxurious sofas, trying to process how quickly everything has changed. What seemed like a solution to my financial problems now feels like a gilded prison, with rules and expectations I never anticipated.

As night falls, I look around the silent mansion, feeling a loneliness I’ve never experienced before. I know I made a choice, and now I must deal with the consequences. The journey ahead will be arduous and full of challenges, but I’m determined to find my way, no matter the adversity.

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