Chapter 5

Samuel's bodyguards and assistant arrived just in time. I smoothly left the scene in his car.

I had barely taken two sips of water when Samuel rattled off my entire family history.

Most importantly, he even knew all about my relationship with Lucas!

"Going from a breakup to wanting to be your ex's elder... Miss Thompson, you play quite dangerously."

Samuel turned to look at me, a hint of admiration in his smile.

Ugh!

I had really been too arrogant.

Samuel must have looked into Lucas because of Sophia's return, and then stumbled upon me in the process.

Wait, wasn't I stopping his car to ask for repayment of a favor? How did I end up on the defensive?

"Six years ago, at Holy Water Beach. Do you remember me?" I asked.

"I've never forgotten," his deep voice replied.

I had felt like I was being led by the nose ever since I stopped his car.

Samuel was truly unfathomable. I decided to put aside my petty schemes and be straightforward about being a "benefactor seeking repayment".

"A life-saving debt should be repaid in kind... I'm in trouble now and need you to act out a play with me."

I had told my parents it was "real marriage", but I never actually thought that myself.

I knew my own worth all too well.

Samuel could have anything he wanted. He definitely didn't need an "ill-matched" little girl like me as a wife.

As for saving him back then, it was just a coincidence.

That year, I had just graduated high school and went on a spontaneous trip with friends.

While learning to surf at the beach, I happened to save Samuel from drowning.

After pulling him ashore, I lectured him a bit and kept him company for most of the day until someone came to pick him up. Only then did I leave.

I soon learned of his identity afterwards.

Keeping a low profile, I had never actively mentioned it to anyone all these years. If it weren't for that white-eyed wolf Lucas forcing my hand, I wouldn't have thought of this "trump card".

"Marriage can't be an act," Samuel flatly refused.

As expected, big shots aren't easily fooled.

Just as I was feeling disheartened, Samuel spoke up:

"If you're sure about this, come register our marriage tomorrow at 9:30 AM."

I was still dumbfounded when I got out of the car.

After tossing and turning all night, I still decided to keep the appointment the next morning.

And just like that, I got married.

The giant diamond ring fit my finger perfectly. The man beside me held me with gentle strength.

"Hello, Mrs. Henderson."