Emma

I didn't belong to the world of Manhattan's high society. Nowhere near. However, I found myself on the rooftop of an elegant hotel, attempting to appear unfazed even though I knew I could easily damage my only good pair of heels with one misstep. Looking at the elegant crowd, I felt more out of place like a confused visitor than a hopeful entrepreneur about to succeed. 

However, extreme situations require drastic actions. I had dedicated years to working hard and making difficult choices to establish my company, but now it was on the brink of collapsing. My top employee had recently submitted her resignation, suppliers were requesting payment in advance, and I had yet to be able to secure any investors. This event was my final attempt, a slim ray of hope that perhaps, just perhaps, I’d discover the solution I was in dire need of. 

I looked around at the crowd, listening for bits of conversation, searching for possible allies or, ideally, someone interested in investing. Men dressed in sharp suits and women wearing stylish gowns mixed effortlessly, enjoying champagne as if they had no worries at all. I felt completely uncomfortable.

Feeling defeated, I thought about hiding in the corner to calm down, but then I bumped into a firm chest. Powerful grips held onto my arms, preventing me from falling backward. Feeling ashamed, I raised my gaze and became motionless. 

The man standing in front of me possessed a presence that commanded attention. Tall and slender, with striking blue eyes that carried a hint of risk, he appeared as if he was from a completely different realm. He looked with a piercing, analytical stare, almost as if he could detect all deceptions. I recognized him right away from the slight smile playing on his lips. 

Nathan Blackwood. The billionaire is known for his dark suits and sinister reputation. 

"Are you lost?" Although his tone was soft and teasing, his eyes revealed a vulnerability that made me feel exposed. 

I squared my shoulders, attempting to look self-assured. "No, simply... steering." 

"Are you finding your way?" He raised his eyebrow. "Your choice of words is intriguing." Why have you come? 

A chill ran down my back. Nathan Blackwood was known not only for his riches but also for his brutal nature. It was rumored that he had constructed his empire with unwavering determination, defeating anyone who tried to obstruct his path. He seemed almost invincible, but he was now conversing with me, an insignificant person. 

A shiver went down my spine. Nathan Blackwood’s reputation wasn’t just for his wealth; it was for his ruthlessness. Rumor had it he’d built his empire with a single-minded focus, crushing anyone who dared get in his way. He was practically untouchable, yet here he was, talking to me, a nobody.

“I’m here for… business,” I said, trying not to sound too desperate.

He chuckled, the sound low and dangerous. “Aren’t we all?” He looked me up and down, his gaze making me feel like he was evaluating my worth. “And what’s your business?”

“I own a startup,” I said, trying to keep my tone steady. “It’s… struggling, but I believe it has potential.”

“Struggling,” he repeated, his lips curling into a smirk. “And you think networking here will save it?”

I felt a spark of anger. Sure, I was out of my depth, but he didn’t have to be so condescending. “Yes, I do. Everyone starts somewhere.”

His eyes narrowed, as though he were assessing me in a new light. Then, surprisingly, he nodded. “True. Even the most powerful started with nothing.” He paused, his gaze sharpening. “I may have a solution for your… struggling startup.”

My heart skipped a beat, hope flaring despite my better judgment. “What do you mean?”

Nathan looked around the room before moving in closer. "It's easy." I require a person to pretend to be my girlfriend for the next three months. In exchange, I will pay for any expenses necessary for your company to survive. "I will also put money into it." 

His words left me in shock, my thoughts moving quickly. I was unsure if I had heard him correctly. "Do you want me to act like your girlfriend?" 

"Exactly." He stood up and calmly slowly fixed his shirt's cufflinks. “My investors place great importance on appearances. They believe I have a lack of emotional depth because I am too focused on business and don't truly understand those around me. They are looking for someone... more gentle, someone who I can relate to by my side. This is where your help is needed”. 

I stared in disbelief at him, finding it difficult to understand his proposal. Nathan Blackwood, a prominent figure in Manhattan, desired for me, a little-known startup owner, to pretend to be his girlfriend. "Why choose me? You have the option of selecting anyone present in this room”. 

A slight smile played in his eyes as he cocked his head. I was able to. However, you are seeking a solution, and I find that interesting since you are here. Additionally…" He inched nearer, his voice a menacing murmur, "You're like an empty canvas. "No one would anticipate your arrival." 

I looked around, partially anticipating someone to show up and expose this as a complex prank. However, Nathan Blackwood stood in front of me with a completely serious expression. This wasn't merely a proposal, it was a crucial means of support. 

"I started slowly, asking what exactly I would need to do if I agreed." 

"It's easy." You will accompany me to events, allowing the media to witness our presence together. Convince my investors to the point where they decide to make a purchase. He stopped briefly, his stare filled with concentration. "In exchange, your startup receives complete financial support without any inquiries." 

It seemed too good to be real. Nevertheless, he didn't appear to be the type of person who would make promises he couldn't keep. “What reason do I have to have believe you?” 

Nathan's eyes gleamed with a mysterious, indecipherable darkness. "You must not." However, trust is not essential. "This is a matter of commerce." 

I paused, considering my choices with a nervous breath. This was crazy - insane. However, what was there for me to risk? My business was struggling and I had no more solutions. Nathan Blackwood's offer was the only thing that had the potential to rescue me. 

"What about three months later?" I inquired quietly, my voice barely audible. 

He smiled slowly, but his eyes didn't reflect the smile. "Three months later, we part ways. Easy. 

I attempted to envision the scenario of living in his world, feigning to be him, as all eyes from the press, investors, and concerned individuals would be on me. I would be the center of attention, but I would be protected. It was both frightening and alluring. 

He continued to stare unwaveringly while I pondered. "So, Emma Collins," he whispered in a seductive tone, "what decision will you make?" Would you like to strike a bargain with the devil? 

I felt my heart beating fast, adrenaline flowing through me as I gazed at him. This man posed a threat. He was methodical, merciless, and engaging in a game that was difficult for me to understand. However, he was also the sole source of my hope. 

"Okay," I eventually stated, my voice barely maintaining its composure. "I will accomplish it." 

Nathan's grin grew bigger, his eyes shining with contentment. “Great! I will be in touch with you shortly”. 

As he strolled off, leaving me stunned and with a head full of doubts, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just agreed to something that would alter everything. Truly, a bargain with the devil.

Nathan’s words echoed in my mind as I tried to steady my breathing. “Care to make a deal with the devil?"