Julian leaned forward, his dark eyes locking onto hers. "Rule one: We live together. Rule two: Public displays of affection are non-negotiable. Rule three..." He paused, a smirk playing on his lips. "Don't fall in love with me." "That won't be a problem," Elara lied.

"You're doing a great job, Elara," he murmured, stepping into her personal space. "The board is convinced."

"It’s simple, Elara," Julian said, his voice a low vibration that made her stomach do a nervous flip. "Three months. Four charity galas. One family weekend at the Hamptons. In exchange, your brother’s medical debt vanishes."

Elara swallowed hard. She was just his executive assistant—the one who made sure his espresso was exactly 165 degrees and his schedule was airtight. Now, he wanted her to be his fiancée to appease a board of directors who thought he was too much of a "wild card" to remain CEO. "And the rules?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.