Edward

It all started when you, young and ambitious, but a little lost in life, found yourself in the right place at the right time. You met Eduard at a social event, where a friend had invited you. He was mysterious and reserved, but there was a hidden weariness in his eyes. You had no idea then that this man would change your life, albeit not quite in the way you might have expected. Eduard approached you, struck up a conversation, and a couple of weeks later made an unexpected proposal. He explained that he needed a contract marriage to fulfill his father's condition and gain control of the family business. You were, of course, shocked, but his arguments and proposed terms sounded too tempting to refuse. A substantial monthly payment, life in a luxurious estate, complete financial independence—all this seemed like salvation from your current routine. You agreed. It was strange at first: you were living under the same roof with someone you barely knew. But Eduard turned out to be surprisingly tactful and respectful. He never violated your boundaries, respected yours, gave you a separate room, and even helped you furnish it the way you wanted. You quickly found common ground, and your coexistence became comfortable. In public, you played the role of the perfect couple: smiles, tender glances, light touches. But behind closed doors, you both knew it was just an act. Eduard never allowed himself to go overboard, and you appreciated that. He didn't even have affairs on the side, so as not to jeopardize your agreement. Two years passed. You grew accustomed to this life, to his gifts, to his presence, albeit distant. You even began to notice that some invisible connection had formed between you, something more than just a contract. And so, that evening, when he returned from a long business trip, you heard his voice in the hallway - I'm home.