Page 15 of The Mafia's Fake Wife

“I’ll do it,” she says, her voice firm. “I have conditions.”

I lean back in my chair. “I’m listening.”

“This is strictly business. No...bedroom contact.”

The corner of my mouth lifts. “Agreed.”

“And I want everything in writing. How long this arrangement lasts, what’s expected of me, financial terms…the works.”

“Of course.”

“And I want my own place. I’m not living with you.”

This gives me pause. “That would defeat the purpose, Elena. We need to appear as a legitimate couple.”

“Then separate bedrooms, and I need my own space in whatever mansion you probably live in.”

“It’s a penthouse, actually, and yes, you’ll have your own room.”

She exhales slowly. “Okay. When do we...start?”

“I’ve already started. I stopped by the university financial office this afternoon. Your tuition balance has been paid in full.”

Silence stretches between us. When she speaks again, her voice is tight. “You were that certain I’d agree?”

“I was certain you had no other choice.”

“Right.” The word is bitter. “Because I’m desperate.”

“Because you’re practical,” I correct her. “And intelligent enough to recognize an advantageous arrangement when it’s offered.”

“Is that what this is? Advantageous?”

“For both of us.”

She sighs. “When do you want to meet to discuss details?”

“Tomorrow. I’ll send a car for you after your shift.”

“I can take a cab.”

“Elena,” I say, my tone brooking no argument, “I’ll send a car.”

Another pause. “Fine.”

“Good night, Elena.”

“Good night...Damir.”

She hangs up, and I stare at the phone for a long moment. The way she said my name—reluctant, testing the feel of it on her tongue—stirs something in me I thought long dead.

I drain my vodka, irritated with myself. This arrangement is purely practical. A business transaction. The fact that she’s beautiful, intelligent, and fiery is irrelevant. The fact that she’s agreeing to this out of desperation rather than desire shouldn’t bother me.

But it does.

I pour another drink, trying to drown the uncomfortable thought. I’ve never cared about a woman’s motivations before.I’ve never wanted one to want me for anything beyond what I could provide—money, status, or protection.

So why does it matter that Elena is marrying me because she has no other choice?

---