He raised an eyebrow, looking at me like I’d just stepped out of a different world.
« You serious? » he asked, his voice deep but calm.
He looked at me, considering. « So, you’re saying… you need a fake husband? »
« Exactly. A business deal. » I swallowed. « Just something to get my father off my back. » I quickly found my father’s photo on my phone and showed it to the janitor. « Here. »
He paused, studying the picture carefully. He frowned, as if he recognized the man. « Name’s Ethan, » he said, his hand outstretched. « You’re really serious about this? »
I nodded. « As serious as I’ll ever be. »
Ethan still looked hesitant, like he was waiting for me to admit this was some joke. « Look, you don’t know me. This could be trouble, » he said, studying me. His eyes had a steady look, grounded, and not unkind.
« It’s just a contract, » I said, trying to reassure him. « I won’t bother you after. You’ll be free to go on with your life. »
For a long moment, he was silent, watching me with an unreadable expression. Finally, he exhaled slowly. « All right, » he said, voice low. « If it gets you out of this mess. Just know, I’m not one to back out once I’m in something. »
I felt a rush of relief I hadn’t expected. « Thank you, » I said, almost breathless. « Thank you, Ethan. »
