A Proposal of Deception
Ashley stared out of her New York office window, her fingers drumming against the desk as her mind raced.
For over a week, she had been juggling legal battles and emotional turmoil, desperately trying to keep her father from finding out about the chaos her life had become.
She had stayed back in New York under the guise of work, determined to sort out the partnership debacle with Ethan without raising suspicion.
But things were spiraling out of control.
Her phone buzzed on the desk, snapping her out of her thoughts. Ethan's name flashed on the screen. She let out a weary sigh before picking up.
“What now, Ethan?” she answered, her tone sharp.
“Nice to hear from you too,” he replied sarcastically. “Have you given any more thought to my withdrawal terms?”
Ashley gritted her teeth. “There’s nothing to think about. You’re making baseless claims, and I won’t let you tank this partnership because of your bruised ego.”
“Baseless?” Ethan laughed dryly. “You and Demitri conveniently left out your little history together. You think I’d invest in this knowing the two of you were married? How stupid do you think I am?”
“You’re being ridiculous,” she shot back. “Our past has nothing to do with this partnership.”
“It has everything to do with it,” he snapped. “You both deceived me.”
Ashley’s patience was wearing thin. “Ethan, this is business. Demitri and I have kept everything professional. You’re just looking for an excuse to back out, and I won’t let you drag me or this company down with you.”
There was a pause on the other end of the line before Ethan’s voice dropped an octave. “Then maybe I’ll take it up with Demitri directly.”
Ashley’s breath hitched. She hesitated, debating whether to tell him the truth about Demitri’s condition. Finally, she sighed. “He’s in no position to talk, Ethan. Demitri was in a car accident. He’s unconscious.”
The line was silent for a moment before Ethan replied, his tone devoid of any sympathy. “That’s unfortunate. But it doesn’t change anything.”
Ashley clenched her fist. “Are you serious? The man is fighting for his life, and you can’t even pretend to care?”
“Why should I?” Ethan retorted. “I didn’t sign up for charity, Ashley. First, you waste money on that orphanage donation, and now you expect me to feel sorry for a guy I barely know? Spare me the guilt trip.”
Ashley was disgusted. “You’re unbelievable,” she spat. “Do you even have a conscience? Or is everything just numbers and profits to you?”
Ethan chuckled, the sound grating on her nerves. “Spare me the lecture, Ashley. You’re not exactly a saint yourself. But I’ll tell you what—I’ll consider staying in the partnership. On one condition.”
Her stomach sank. “What condition?”
There was a long pause before Ethan spoke again, his voice laced with smugness. “Marry me.”
Ashley froze. “What did you just say?”
Ethan laughed softly, the sound dripping with arrogance. “You heard me. If you marry me, I’ll stay in the partnership. Think about it—a union of two powerful families, a business empire at our fingertips. It’s a win-win.”
Ashley’s heart pounded as Ethan continued.
“I’ve always admired you, Ashley. You’re smart, beautiful, and you know how to handle yourself. But let’s face it—you’re in a tight spot. This deal is falling apart, and your father will be furious if he finds out. I’m offering you a way out.”
Ashley’s jaw tightened. “You’re out of your mind,” she snapped.
Ethan smirked, his tone turning patronizing. “Am I? Think about it, Ashley. This could solve all your problems. Your father would approve, the business would thrive, and you wouldn’t have to worry about Demitri anymore. It’s a perfect solution.”
She glared at him, her chest heaving with anger. “You’re disgusting,” she hissed. “You think I’d sell myself to save a deal? You don’t know me at all.”
Ethan shrugged, unbothered by her reaction. “You don’t have to decide now,” he said casually. “Take some time to think it over. But don’t take too long—I’m not a patient man. I'll be waiting for your answer.”
Ashley’s hands curled into fists as Ethan ended the call.