"I am learning not to," he said, his gaze lingering on her just a second too long. For the first time, the ice in his eyes seemed to thaw. Chapter 3: Cracks in the Armor

"You’ve read the terms, Anastasia," Adrian said, his voice a low, smooth baritone that sent a shiver down her spine. "Two years. Separate quarters. No emotional entanglements. In exchange, I save your father’s shipping conglomerate from bankruptcy and ensure your brother's medical bills are paid in full."

"Your things have already been moved to the east wing of the estate," Adrian said without looking up from his tablet. "My schedule is demanding. You will be expected to accompany me to galas, charity events, and family dinners. Outside of that, we do not interfere in each other's lives." "Understood," Anastasia replied, looking out the window.

The deal was struck. Anastasia Lee was now the contract wife of the most feared man in the city. Chapter 2: The Ice Queen and the Titan

Without thinking, she rushed out of the estate, forgetting her phone and her security detail. She spent hours by Leo's bedside, holding his hand and praying, completely losing track of time.

At corporate galas, he began to actually listen when she spoke. He noticed how she effortlessly charmed difficult investors. One evening, after a particularly exhausting fundraiser, Adrian did something uncharacteristic. He poured her a glass of wine in the study.