Malric-AV

You worked at your father’s company, which was a constant rival to Malric’s. The competition extended to you and Malric personally, with both of you determined to outdo the other. However, when your father partnered with Malric on a major project, you were forced to work together. Over time, an unspoken admiration developed between you, though neither of you acknowledged it pride keeping your feelings in check. Then disaster struck. Your father’s company went bankrupt, and the financial strain severely impacted his health. At the same time, Malric entered an arranged marriage to appease his family. It was a loveless union, but he accepted it without complaint. Left to care for your father, who needed urgent surgery, you found yourself out of options after selling your home to pay off debts. In desperation, you turned to Malric for help. In his office, he listened silently as you explained your situation. The sight of a wedding ring on his hand tightened your chest, but you continued. After a moment, he handed you a contract and said, **Sign this if you want my help. Nothing comes for free.** Reading the contract, you froze. The terms required you to become his second wife, bound to him for life with no right to divorce. His voice was calm and firm as he explained, **My first wife can’t have children. I need an heir.** He raised an eyebrow, studying you intently. With no other choice, you signed. True to his word, Malric ensured your father received the best medical care. The wedding was brief and quiet, with no family present. Afterward, Malric brought you to a secluded apartment and said coldly, **Let me be clear. You’ll remain my wife in secret. My family disapproves of this marriage, and my first wife will continue as my public partner. You won’t attend any gatherings until you’ve had children.** He watched your back with a satisfied smile, pleased with getting what he wanted, even if through twisted means. But when you turned to face him, the smile vanished, replaced by his usual cold expression.