Contract with the devil.

Laura pushed the door to Alex's bedroom open and stopped frozen in shock. Alex, her boyfriend, was busy making out with cassie her best friend. They were in a compromising position. The image seared itself into her brain, and Laura felt like she had been punched in the gut. "Alex!!!" She yelled, her voice shaking as tears started welling up in her eyes.

The both of them quickly slid under the sheets, and Alex faced her with cold eyes.

"Surprised?" He raised an eyebrow.

"What do you mean by surprised ?" She asked.

"Isn't it obvious? You no longer have my time. You're always busy with your brother and work. Honestly, George is going to die anyway. So, stop trying, " Alex snapped.

Aurora's anger boiled over. She felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins.

She was trying her best to be optimistic about George's health, but Alex's words cut deep.

She stormed to the side of his bed. Before he could react, her hand flew out and slapped him across the cheeks, sending his head tilting sideways.

"You can say all you want about me, but don't you ever dare open your filthy mouth and talk about my brother," she snarled.

With that, she turned and ran out of the apartment. The tears she was holding back had started streaming down her cheeks freely.

She was late for work and couldn't find a cab. She quickly wiped her tears and took off on foot.

After about 30 minutes of running, she arrived at the restaurant, gasping for breath.

She quickly wiped her tears and composed herself before pushing the door open.

The restaurant was meant for elites only. And the atmosphere was calm as usual. She spotted John her colleague, coming out from the kitchen, and she ran to him.

"Is Mrs Miller around?" She asked.

"Ehm... she came about an hour ago," John replied.

"Oh God, I'm doomed," She muttered.

"Quickly get dressed in your uniform before she comes out," John said as he glanced at the door leading to Mrs Miller office to see if she was coming.

"Ok," Laura nodded, running into the staff's changing room.

She quickly changed and emerged only to find Mrs Miller waiting for her, a Stern expression on her face.

"And what's your excuse for today ?" Mrs Miller asked.

"I'm... I'm sorry, please. I couldn't find a ride here," Aurora quickly apologized.

"Sorry? Be sorry for yourself. You're fired!" Mrs Miller half yelled.

Laura's eyes widened in horror. She couldn't lose this job. George's medical bills are there, and her rent was almost due. She lost her other jobs last week, and this was the only one she had left.

"Please don't do this, Ma'am. I really need the money for my brother's hospital bills, please, I'm begging you," Aurora fell on her knees pleading.

"I don't care. I won't have you coming to my restaurant late every single time and always trying to cook up an excuse or an apology. That's it. Take off my uniform and leave these premises now!" Mrs Miller yelled.

Aurora searched her face to see if it held a single remorse, but she saw none. All she saw was anger and hate.

Right from the start, Mrs Miller didn't like her, but she tried her best to please the old witch but couldn't.

Fresh tears start rolling down her cheeks as she grabs Mrs Miller's legs.

"Please don't do this to me. Please ma'am. My brother's life is in your hands, I need this job, please," Aurora cried.

"Get those filthy hands of me. Your freaking brother's life isn't in my hands," Mrs Miller snapped, shaking Aurora off her leg.

"Leave for the last time, or I'll call the cops," She threatened.

Laura knew that was it for her. She was officially jobless and heartbroken.

She changed back into her casual clothes and left the restaurant reluctantly.

Her mind was messed up as different thoughts ran through it. She didn't even know whether to go home or to the hospital to check on George.

His cancer was surely eating him up. She was already owing the hospital, and his medication bills were the only thing she was able to clear.

Her phone rang from her pocket, disrupting her thoughts. Without checking the caller's ID, she brought the phone out and answered the call before placing it on her ear.

"Hello," she whispered.

"Hello, Miss Jacobs, this is Doctor Connor speaking," the caller said.

Her eyes widened as she regretted picking the call. She was trying to avoid any call from the hospital lately because of the bills.

"Ehm...Doc... Doctor... Connor. How may I help you?"Aurora stuttered.

"You have not been picking up my calls, but thank goodness you did today. George's condition has taken a turn for the worst, and we need to perform an urgent transplant. One of his organs is down," Doctor Connor informed.

"How much will it cost," Aurora asked, knowing fully well they'll ask for money.

"$7,000" Doctor Connor replied.

Her eyes instantly widened.

Where was she going to get that amount from, she bearly had $2,000 on her.

She quickly ended the call and shoved her phone back into her pocket.

This was it. She was finally hopeless. She couldn't watch George die, but on second thought, she couldn't do anything currently.

A thought suddenly crossed her mind, and she stared at the story building ahead of her.

"If I can't watch you die, I might as well die before you," she muttered, proceeding into the building.

She cried as she ran up the stairs leading to the rooftop. All the memories she had with George came playing back in her head in vivid flashes.

More tears fell from her eyes as she got to the rooftop.

The night breeze was cold as it blew by, pushing her hair forward, making it cover her face.

She quickly tucked her hair behind her ears, approaching the edge.

"I'm sorry, George," she mumbled, closing her eyes.

Just as was about to jump, a muscular hand encircled around her waist, pulling her back.

"Ahhhhh!" She screamed as they both fell backward, with she landing on top of him.

"Miss, what were you trying to do?" The man that pulled her back asked.

She quickly got off him, realizing he was a roofing contractor.

"I'm sorry," She quickly mumbled.

"This is private property. Don't come trying to commit sucide here next time," the man scolded.

Aurora nodded as she quickly ran off.

What was she thinking, trying to kill herself. She didn't even bother saying goodbye to George. What if a miracle happened and George didn't die ?

All those thoughts ran through her mind when suddenly she remembered someone who could help.

Her mother's sister, Rose. Aunt Rose was coldhearted and didn't give a damn about her and George. But, she still wanted to try her luck.

Firstly, she has to see George now that he is still breathing before anything else.

She got a taxi that quickly drove her to the hospital.

Immediately, she was done paying her cab fare. She took to her foot running into the hospital.

She didn't stop till she got in front of George's ward.

He looked really pale as he lay unconscious on the hospital's bed. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she pushed the door open and slowly made her way to the side of the bed.

"George," she whispered, taking hold of his hand.

"I'm sorry I can't currently help you," she cried.

"Please hold on a little longer, I'm going to Aunt Rose's place, I'm sure she's going to help. Please stay strong," Laura said before reluctantly letting go of his hand.

The door pushed open and the doctor walked in.

"You can see he's not doing well yourself," Doctor Connor said.

"Please, Doc, can you at least just go ahead with the transplant, I promise to bring the money soon, please," Aurora pleaded.

"I'm sorry, Mrs Anderson, but that's not how we work here. Get the money quickly, or I'm afraid you'll lose George," Doctor Connor replied.

Aurora sighed as she glanced at George, then back at Doctor Connor.

"I'll go get the money," she said.

And with that, she ran out of the ward with one place in mind.

THE SMITH'S MANSION

The mansion stood tall and grand, its white walls shining like a pearl in the sunlight. The roof was a deep, rich brown, with tiles that sparkled like diamonds.

A wide, sweeping driveway led up to the mansion's front doors, which were made of solid oak and adorned with shiny brass handles.

Inside, the mansion was just as impressive, with high ceilings, sparkling chandeliers, and walls lined with expensive artwork.

The floors were made of polished marble, and the rooms were filled with plush, comfortable furniture.

The mansion's backyard was just as beautiful, with a sparkling swimming pool, a tennis court, and a lush, green garden filled with colorful flowers and towering trees.

Rose was amongst the powerful and influential people in NY (New York). Her husband owned the fourth largest production companies, but even with the wealth and power they lacked one thing, and that was children.

Aurora arrived at the gates, but the securities were not letting her in.

"Please, I need to see Aunt Rose, please," she pleaded with one of the security guards.

"Mrs Smith isn't expecting a guest today. Therefore, I can't allow you in," the guard replied.

"Aunt Rose !" Aurora shouted, banging on the gate.

"Miss you're being noisy, we'll call the cops on you if you don't leave," the security guard threatened.

Aurora paid deaf ears to his threat as she kept on banging on the gates.

"Aunt Rose, please come out!" She shouted.

The security guard had enough as he grabbed her and was about pulling her away when an elegant voice interrupted.

"What's going on here," Rose asked from behind.

Aurora quickly turned to see Rose, looking more gorgeous than ever.

She exuded elegance and sophistication, with a refined beauty that commanded attention.

Her blonde hair was styled in an impeccable updo, adorned with intricate details that framed her face.

The hairstyle was reminiscent of classic British aristocracy, evoking a sense of timeless refinement.

Her slender fingers were clad in sleek, white gloves that added to her air of sophistication.

Around her neck, a luminous pearl necklace glimmered, complemented by matching pearl earrings that sparkled with understated luxury.

Her features were finely chiseled, with high cheekbones, a slender nose, and a determined jawline that spoke to her formidable business acumen.

Her eyes were bright and piercing, shining with intelligence and poise.

"Ma'am, she demanded to see you, but, since you weren't expecting any guest, I didn't let her in," the security guard replied.

Rose eyes narrowed as she zoomed in on Laura's face. It didn't take her long to realize who Laura was.

"Let her in," she said before walking away.

The security guard stared at Rose then at Laura before releasing his grip.

Laura instantly took to her heels following Rose.

Rose stopped walking when they got to the luxurious living room and turned to face Laura.

"What do you want?" She asked, her voice cold and detached.

"Please, Aunty, George..."

"No," Rose held up a finger.

"It's madam, point of correction," Rose said, taking a seat.

Laura's clenched her fist, trying her best not to snap.

"Madam, George health has gotten critical, and the hospital is asking for the sum of $7,000. They need it for a transplant. Please can you help me with the money. Consider us as your own just this once, please," Laura a said, falling on her knees.

"Hmm..." Rose hummed, with her evil smirk playing on her lips.

"You'll have to earn the money," she said.

"Anything, please." Laura said, her voice laced with desperation.

Rose was about to speak when Mr Smith came out with Scott Williams.

Laura's gaze darted to them, and as soon as she made eye contact with Scott, she felt a chill run down her spine.

Scott was extremely handsome. He had a strong face with sharp features that made him look very attractive.

His piercing blue eyes were cold and serious. His thick brown hair was styled perfectly, showing off his sharp jawline. He was tall and lean, with broad shoulders that filled out his expensivelooking suit.

He looked like a man who was used to getting what he wanted, and his confident air was intimidating.

His eyes seemed to bore into her soul, and she could swear she sensed a sinister intent under those piercing gazes.

She quickly looked away, returning her gaze to Rose.

"And that's my wife Rose," Mr Smith introduced.

Rose immediately ignored Laura as she stood up and approached Mr Smith and Scott.

Laura couldn't hear what they were saying as they started walking away.

She felt so devastated and hoped Rose wouldn't give her a complicated task.

She stared at them, unable to read their lips as they discussed. All of a sudden, Scott said something, and they all turned to her.

The look Rose gave her made her nervous.

Mr Smith continued walking away with Scott while Rose returned to where Laura was.

"The money," she started but paused.

"Are you willing to do anything for it ?" She asked.

"I told you before, I'll do anything," Laura replied.

"Marry Mr. Williams," Rose blurted out.

"Who ?" Laura raised a brow.

"The young man I was talking to earlier," Rose clarified.

"What?!" Her eyes widened.

There was no way she would think of marrying a total stranger.

"I don't have the money you asked for," Rose said.

"But aunty...i mean madam, you have way more than I asked for," Laura said, getting up.

"I can't just give you that amount, no way," Rose shook her head.

"He'll be the one giving you the money if you agree to marry him. But if you don't need the money, you might as well just leave my mansion," Rose said, turning to leave.

"Wait!" Laura called out.

She really wanted to save George, even if it meant risking her own freedom.

"I agree, but how long is the marriage ? Because I know $7,000 isn't worth my entire life," she asked.

"Six months," Rose turned to her with a smirk.

"You're doing this because you'll also gain from it, but I don't care. As long as George is safe, I'm fine with it," Laura said.

"Smart girl," Rose chuckled.

"I need the money now," Laura demanded.

"The hospital's bank details," Rose said, picking up her phone.

Laura showed it to her, and she made the transfer.

"Done," she showed Laura the transaction receipt on her phone.

Laura turned to leave, but Rose called her back.

"And where do you think you're going?" She asked.

"To the hospital. I need to see George," Laura replied.

"You're not allowed to leave this premises till you sign on our agreement. The papers will be brought in tomorrow morning. I'm sure George's treatment has commenced. Spend the night here." Rose said before walking away.

Laura sighed, feeling scared. She regretted agreeing so soon, but she was left with no choice.

A slight relief washed over her as the thought of George getting treated crossed her mind.

A maid soon walked over to her and led her to the room she would be spending the night in.

NEXT DAY, MORNING

Laura eyelids twitched as the ray of sunlight streaming through her window reflected on her face.

She turned to the other side and was confused by the unfamiliar softness she was lying on.

She quickly jerked up and realized she was still at Rose's mansion. Memories of yesterday's event came playing back in her head, and fear gripped her.

A knock sounded on the door. She stared at the door, wondering who it was.

"Come in," she managed to say.

A maid walked in with a wedding dress, and her eyes widened.

They were joking, right? She just agreed yesterday, and the marriage was already set for today?

"What's the meaning of this?" She asked.

"Madam Rose requested I bring this dress to you. She strictly ordered me to get you prepared in 30 minutes. Your groom is waiting for you." The maid replied.

"Marry today? I thought I'll be giving a little time first," Laura said, getting off the bed.

Just then, Rose walked in.

"You said I'll sign papers not get married," Rose sneered.

Rose walked up to her and gave her a hard slap across the cheek.

"Is that how your useless mother brought you up? You saw your elder in the morning and forgot about greeting them," Rose scolded.

Laura balled her fist as a surge of adrenaline washed over her.

"Apologize now, or else I'll ask for a refund and see how you'll pay?" Rose threatened.

A tear rolled down Laura'scheek as she forced herself to apologize.

"I'm sorry," she muttered.

Rose smirked.

"Now get dressed." She said, exiting the room.

Laura sat at the edge of the bed, sobbing as she placed her palm on the spot Rose slapped her

"I'm so sorry, but you need to start getting ready," the maid said.

Laura nodded slowly, trying to compose herself. She went into the bathroom and did a quick shower.

The maid helped her into the wedding dress when she was done.

She couldn't help but feel like she was trapped in a nightmare. The dress was beautiful, but it felt like a prison.

As the maid finished styling her hair and applying makeup, Laura caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. She looked like a completely different person, a person she didn't recognize.

The maid handed her a bouquet of flowers, and Aurora took a deep breath. She had to get through this. For George's sake.

With a heavy heart, she followed the maid out of the room and down the stairs, leading to the living room.

Rose was sitting legs cross, chatting with Mr Smith. She wondered what kind of wedding ceremony would be held.

"Finally," Rose smiled as she sighted Laura.

"God Job Naomi," Rose said to the maid as they got to where she sat.

Naomi bowed with a forced smile before walking away.

"It's a small ceremony. Let's get going," Rose said as if she read Laura's thought.

They made their way out of the mansion and to the driveway, where their ride was waiting.

They got in, and the driver ignited the engines and soon drove off.

SCOTT'S MANSION

The car drove into the mansion that looked like a paradise. It had huge walls that shone like gold in the sunlight. The roof was made of sparkling glass that reflected the colors of the rainbow.

A beautiful garden surrounded the mansion, filled with rare flowers and trees that smelled sweet. A clear blue pool glimmered in the center of the garden, surrounded by comfortable chairs and umbrellas.

A small crowd was gathered outside.

Laura sighted Scott, but he wasn't looking at their direction.

The driver put the car to a halt, and they all stepped down, making their way towards Scott and the few guests.

Scott immediately turned to them, and Laura's heart skipped a beat as their eyes met. For a moment, time seemed to stand still.

Laura quickly looked away, her eyes scanning the small crowd, trying to avoid Scott's piercing gaze. Rose nudged her forward, and she reluctantly took a step closer to Scott.

The ceremony began, and Laura's mind went blank as the officiant spoke. She couldn't believe she was actually marrying a stranger.

As the officiant asked her to sign the marriage certificate, Laura's hands trembled. She tried to read the document, but Rose snatched it away.

"No time for that, dear," Rosee said with a sly smile.

"Just sign."

Laura hesitated, but Rose's grip on her arm tightened. She reluctantly signed the document.

Scott signed next, his eyes never leaving Laura's face. The officiant pronounced them husband and wife afterward.

Mr Smith left with Scott to discuss, and soon, the guests all left, including Mr Smith and Rose.

Laura stood like a lost puppy when a guard approached her with papers in hand.

"Master asked me to give this to you. He said it's the agreement you signed, and you should read the rules thoroughly," the guard said.

Laura nodded, collecting the papers from him.

She read through it, and her eyes widened.

She was not allowed to leave the mansion. She is to obey Scott's every rule. She is to come to Scott's room only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for them to have sex.

"I didn't agree to this," she shook her head.

"Mr Williams is waiting for you inside," the guard said.

Her heart raced as she followed him into the mansion.

She was led to Scott's bedroom, and her heart raced even more as she stepped inside alone.

The bedroom was a lavish space that reflected its owner's wealth and power. The walls were a cold, dark gray, and the carpet was black and flawlessly clean.

A massive bed with four solid steel posts dominated the room. The bed was draped in expensive, black silk sheets. Two sleek, modern nightstands with silver lamps sat on either side of the bed.

A single leather armchair stood in the corner, facing a floor to ceiling window that offered a stunning view of the city skyline.

A chandelier made of sharp, crystal shards hung from the ceiling, casting a cold, unforgiving light over the room.

Scott stood at the center of the room, staring at Laura with his piercing green eyes.

"I...I.. didn't...ag...agree to have sex with you," Laura stuttered.

Scott walked over to her and stopped an inch away. His frame towering over her.

She lowered her gaze, unable to stand those alluring eyes of his.

He placed a finger beneath her chin, lifting her head and her gaze to meet with his.

"Too late. You signed. You're mine little dove," Scott said, his deep voice low and menacing.