Page 29 of My Big, Fat, Fake Billionaire Wedding

He’s controlling

Trust issues (his AND mine)

Possible heartbreak if I forget this isn’t real

I stareat the screen until the words blur together. The pros are concrete, tangible. The cons are emotional, fears that exist primarily in my head.

My phone buzzes with a text from Lucy: “Whatever it is, just make sure you get everything in writing.”

I snort. Ifonly she knew.

In the kitchen, I make coffee even though it’s now 4:38 AM. The familiar ritual of measuring grounds, waiting for the water to boil, the rich aroma filling my tiny apartment, it settles my nerves slightly. I cradle the warm mug between my palms and try to imagine myself in Gideon’s world.

Mrs. Gideon King. Or is it Mrs. Ava Redwood King? God, I haven’t even thought about my name.

The sky outside my window gradually lightens from black to deep blue. I’ve made my decision, but my stomach twists with uncertainty. I grab a sketchpad and start drafting terms of my own. If I’m going into this arrangement, I’m not doing it completely on his terms.

My own studio space that he can’t enter without permission

Continue my education and career without interference

Maintain separate finances apart from the settlement

An up-front payment immediately after signing

No public displays of affection unless absolutely necessary

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