Page 71 of Retribution

Harry looks at me nervously, trying to gauge my emotions about all of this. I offer him a reassuring nod and he lets out a hearty breath.

“Okay, I must go over some things first before we can get down to the essential points of this contract.” Harry points out.

“So, you both understand the logistics of a contract. Once signed, it’s legally binding and if either of you were to break your side of the contract, the other party has the resources to take legal action against you for the purpose of breaking the contract.” I take in his words, the professionalism of it suddenly making this decision more daunting and weightier.

“Yes.” we respond.

Harry keeps looking at me, his eyes soft and reassuring. He begins to list the terms of the contract, the monetary exchange, the purpose of this agreement. The only clause for us to end this contract early, is if it is in the best interests of Willow. If for any reason, she wanted us to split apart then the contract would become void immediately. She is the primary reason for this fake marriage, this is to benefit her in every way possible and try to maintain an ordinary life for her. However, she is not to be made aware that the marriage is fake.

Children have a way of relaying information, and we can’t trust that she wouldn’t slip up, which could cost us the case. We get to the parts where it discusses that our relationship does not require any physical contact, aside from public outings. This can include hand holding, hugging, and kissing (when necessary). This is to ensure that the world can view us like a normal affectionate couple.

We must go on dates twice a week publicly, we need to learn as much about each other as possible in case we are put under any sort of pressure from the courts who may deem our relationship unreliable or false. We must live together for the duration of the contractual marriage and our finances will be covered solely by Reed himself, meaning that the money I acquire will not be used for any sort of living expenses whilst we are ‘married’.

I must remain on birth control for the duration, ensuring I keep up to date with any medical appointments that could affect my health. An element of the contract draws my attention.

“I have to change my name?” I grimace.

“Well, it is just to make it so that you are all united. The Breckenridges. It will help the opinion of the court if they can visualize you as being part of the family.” Harry states.

I swallow anxiously. I don’t feel like I’ve realized the depth of this agreement, the lifestyle changes I’m going to have to make, the commitments.

Tapping my foot on the floor, I chew the inside of my cheek.

Come on, Indie.

Think of the future, think of the people you can help, think of Willow.

You can do this.

I hold my hand out for the pen, the diamond ring on my finger grasping my attention again. I feel like my head is underwater, the sounds in the room sound distant and slow, none of this feels real.

“Indie?” Harry says, concern etched in his sunken brows.

“I’m fine, honestly.” I attempt to reassure him.

Reed has barely spoken, keeping to himself which I kind of respect him for. At least he can understand how big of a decision this is for me, without any added pressure.

Gripping the pen firmly, I look at the papers, flipped onto the page that requires my signature, Reed’s already signed and complete alongside. I swallow, what feels like a razor blade, and blink slowly, my vision drawing in on the dotted line.

I blow out a breath and lean forward, my hand shaking as I press the ball point to the page. Within a short second, my signature sits there peering up at me in its choke hold. The pen drops to the table with a clatter, breaking the silence.

Harry and Reed both stand up whist I sit here, reserved, and quiet. Harry kneels in front of me, his hand resting on my knee, offering a warming touch.

I look into his honey brown eyes, the soft lighting of the room casts shadows across his jaw. I focus on the indented dimple on his cheek as it flexes with the tensing of his jaw. That’s pretty fucking hot.

“You’ve got my number, darling. I’m here if you need anything, anything at all.” His large hand squeezes my thigh gently, but not sexually. Everything about him seems genuine, the way he speaks to me is thoughtful and cautious of my internal mindset, always wanting to comfort me in some way.

Reed coughs, earning a scowl from his brother.

“Thank you, Harry.” He smiles at the sound of his nickname, knowing that I’ve taken onboard his comment from earlier.

“That’s everything wrapped up on my end, do either of you have any questions?” He stands back up, grabbing onto the thick file of pages. I shake my head as Reed responds No, firm, and strong.

“Reed.” He tips his head to bid him farewell, as does Reed in response.

“Goodbye, beautiful.” He flashes me a wink.

He is baiting Reed so badly.

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