Thomas Brown gazed at the panoramic view of Seattle from his penthouse. The city never slept just like him. The luxurious life he had built was the result of hard work, calculated decisions, and an insatiable hunger for power. But that night, nothing sparkled enough to extinguish the fire of rage burning in his chest. Rebecca Lewis, his fiancée, had destroyed everything he believed about trust and love. Months ago she had betrayed him, leaving him for a rival businessman, someone who offered less stability but more excitement, as she had put it.
Thomas let out a bitter laugh. Excitement. He had dedicated himself to building a perfect future for both of them, only to be discarded like a pawn on a chessboard.
It wasn’t the abandonment that gnawed at him, it was the public humiliation it represented. For weeks he replayed the events in his mind, but that night he decided it was time to act. Rebecca needed to see that not only had he moved past the betrayal, but he had found something far better.
His plan was simple. Marry someone who was the exact opposite of Rebecca, a humble woman from modest origins, someone who would contrast sharply with his ex-fiancée’s artificiality. It was perfect.
A marriage not out of love, but revenge. The next morning, Thomas strolled through the sprawling grounds of his mansion, the scent of freshly planted flowers filled the air, and the sound of birds seemed to mock his restlessness. That’s when he saw her, Sarah Cooper, the gardener.
She was kneeling in the dirt, her hands covered in soil as she trimmed the leaves of a small shrub. The simplicity of her movements caught his attention. Her face was illuminated by the sun, and the dedication she showed to her work was captivating.
Thomas stopped a few metres away, silently watching her. Good morning, Mr. Brown, she said, her voice gentle and polite, breaking the silence. Good morning, Sarah, he replied, her name rolling off his tongue with more curiosity than he intended.
How long have you been working here? Almost two years, sir. I’ve been taking care of the garden since it was renovated. He nodded, though his thoughts were elsewhere.
Sarah had something Rebecca never did, authenticity. Her demeanour was simple, yet full of dignity. She was the perfect choice.
In the days that followed, Thomas began to approach Sarah more often. Casual conversations about the garden became more frequent, and he learned more about her life. She was an only child, taking care of her sick mother, who relied on expensive medical treatments.
Sarah worked tirelessly to support her household without complaint. One afternoon, as she organised her tools, Thomas decided to act. Sarah, may I talk to you about something important? He began, his voice firm, but slightly hesitant.
Of course, Mr. Brown. Thomas took a deep breath. I need your help with a personal project.
She raised an eyebrow, intrigued. What kind of project? I want to get married, he said bluntly, watching the surprise flash in her eyes. To me? Her voice was filled with incredulity.
She laughed nervously, thinking it was a cruel joke. Yes, Thomas replied firmly, but it’s not what you think. It won’t be a traditional marriage, he explained his plan in a cold and calculated manner.
Sarah would be his wife by contract, a facade to show Rebecca that he had moved on and was thriving without her. In return, he would ensure her mother received complete medical care and provide a generous financial compensation. This isn’t right, Sarah responded, crossing her arms.
You want to use people to get back at someone else. It’s not that simple, Thomas retorted, keeping his composure. I need this, and you need money for your mother.
It’s a deal. A hollow deal, she countered, her tone firm and her eyes serious. Thomas knew convincing Sarah wouldn’t be easy.
She had principles that wouldn’t bend easily, but he was also aware of her difficult circumstances. That night, he had a detailed medical report from specialists sent to her home, along with a letter reiterating the terms of their agreement. The next day, Sarah arrived at the mansion with the envelope in hand.
You’re a cold man, Mr. Brown, she said, staring directly at him, but I won’t let my mother suffer because of my pride. I accept, but let’s be clear, I’m only doing this for her. Thomas nodded, satisfied.
It’ll be good for both of us, trust me. She let out a humorless laugh. Trust you? That’s asking too much.
With the contract signed, the plan was set in motion. Thomas believed he had everything under control. Sarah, however, felt a mix of relief and unease.
As she returned to her work in the garden, she couldn’t shake the feeling that she had just stepped into something far bigger than she could imagine. Thomas watched Sarah from his window. She was the perfect piece for his game.