Heavens fortune system

"I just need you to sign a contract with me," Sophia explained, her gaze firmly fixed on Ethan. "My dad isn't in good health, and he's asked me to find a husband he can trust to manage his properties. I'm not ready for marriage, nor do I want the properties, but since it's his wish, I have to take care of these things. That's why I want us to get married."

Ethan frowned, his confusion evident. "So, that's your plan? We just met today, and the first thing you think of is marriage? I don't understand. Do you want James to come after me? Look, I get that your dad is pressuring you, but I'm not ready for marriage either. I can't fake a relationship—let alone a marriage. I'm sorry, but if this is why you brought me here, I'd rather leave." He stood abruptly, his frustration clear.

Sophia remained calm. "I only asked a question, Ethan. You're free to say no. And, for the record, this has nothing to do with me bringing you here. It just crossed my mind, so I asked. That's all. Sit down; it's not a big deal."

Ethan hesitated, then sat back down without a word, focusing on the food in front of him.

Moments later, the waiter approached with the bill. "Your total is $8,900. Who will be paying?" he asked, holding out the payment terminal.

Ethan froze, his eyes wide. $8,900? The exact amount of his stolen life savings. He felt a rush of panic, unable to form words. Before he could react, Sophia pulled out her card.

"I've got this," she said casually, handing it to the waiter.

Ethan let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding, a mix of relief and embarrassment washing over him.

As they walked to the car, the sky had turned dark. Ethan felt a pang of guilt as they got in. Clearing his throat, he said, "Hey, I'm really sorry. I shouldn't have said all those things. I could've just answered no."

Sophia remained silent, her gaze focused elsewhere.

"And… thanks for the meal," Ethan added awkwardly. "It's the best food I've ever had."

Sophia glanced at him briefly but didn't respond. She started the car, the tension lingering between them.

After a moment, she broke the silence. "Would you like to take the rest of the day off? I can call James and let him know I needed you for something."

Ethan shook his head. "No, I'll just go back to work."

Sophia noticed the sadness in his voice. "What's wrong? You don't look okay. Are you sure you don't want to rest? Is something bothering you?"

Ethan hesitated, his voice low. "It's nothing. I just… don't have anywhere to go."

Sophia paused, processing his words. "If that's the case, I can take you to my house for the night. Tomorrow, I'll show you a three-bedroom apartment I built on my land. I was going to rent it out, but you can use it for now."

Ethan stared at her, surprised by her offer. "That's too much. I'll be fine, really," he replied half-heartedly, though he knew he had no better option.

"It's no problem. Or, if you'd rather not stay at my place, I can book you a hotel room nearby," Sophia suggested, sensing his hesitation.

"No, it's fine. I'll come with you. You don't need to spend more money after that huge restaurant bill," Ethan said, reluctantly accepting the offer.

Sophia smiled faintly. "Alright. Let's head to my place."

As they drove, Ethan asked cautiously, "Do you live with your parents?"

"No," Sophia replied, keeping her eyes on the road. "I have my own house. I visit my parents whenever I want, but I live alone—with security and a maid. Don't worry, the house is plenty big."

When they arrived, Ethan's jaw dropped. "This is your house? You own this?" he asked, staring at the luxurious property.

Sophia smiled. "Yes, I do. Don't you believe me?"

Ethan chuckled nervously. "It's just… impressive."

The security guards lined up and bowed as they entered the house.

"Whoa, this place is incredible," Ethan said, marveling at the elegant interior.

"Thanks. Make yourself comfortable," Sophia said as she led him inside.

Ethan sat in the living room, flipping through TV channels while Sophia disappeared upstairs. About thirty minutes later, she returned.

"Hey, Ethan, what would you like for dinner? I was thinking of ordering food," she said.

"Why not cook something instead? Isn't ordering expensive?" Ethan asked, glancing at her.

Sophia laughed softly. "I have food in the kitchen, but I'm too lazy to cook tonight. Would you like to cook?"

Ethan grinned. "Sure, I love cooking."

Sophia led him to the kitchen and showed him where everything was. As he prepared dinner, she stood outside the glass partition, watching him.

"Why are you smiling? Did I miss something?" Ethan asked, noticing her expression.

"No, you're doing great. Honestly, I don't think I could've done better myself," Sophia replied with a laugh.

They both chuckled as Ethan continued cooking.

When dinner was ready, they set the table, but before they could start eating, there was a knock at the door.

"I'll get it," Sophia said, walking toward the door. Peering through the peephole, she saw James standing outside.

"What do you want?" she asked, her tone firm.

"I was just passing by and thought I'd stop to say hi," James said, trying to peer inside.

"Well, I'm not letting you in. I don't trust you," Sophia said coldly. "Leave now, or I'll call security."

Frustrated, James reluctantly left and headed straight to the Caldwell family house.

Meanwhile, Ethan and Sophia enjoyed their dinner, chatting and watching a movie together.

At the Caldwell house, James greeted Mr. Caldwell, who was sitting on the balcony. "James, what brings you here at this hour?" Mr. Caldwell asked, his tone strict.

"I just wanted to warn you," James said hesitantly. "Your daughter is about to fall victim to a scam."

"What do you mean, 'a scam'?" Mr. Caldwell asked, his voice rising with anger.