Days turned into weeks, and Julian's love for Aria only grew stronger. He bought her flowers, took her on surprise dates, and treated her like a queen. But for Aria, every smile felt like a betrayal.
One afternoon, while Julian was at a physical therapy session, a woman named Elena arrived at the mansion. She was elegant, dressed in expensive silk, and she didn't knock.
"So, the little mouse is still playing 'house'?" Elena sneered, looking at Aria.
"Who are you?" Aria asked, her heart sinking.
"I'm Julian's real life, honey. His business partner and the woman he was supposed to marry before your father's debt got in the way," Elena laughed. "I know about the contract, Aria. I have a digital copy of it. How do you think Julian will react when he finds out his 'beloved wife' is actually a paid employee?"
Aria felt the world spinning. "He... he has amnesia. He doesn't remember."
"Exactly," Elena smirked, leaning in close. "And if you don't leave him by tomorrow, I'll make sure he remembers everything in the cruelest way possible. Give me the divorce papers, or I'll destroy you both."
That night, Julian came home early, looking happier than ever. He had a small velvet box in his hand.
"Aria, I know we are already married," Julian whispered, kneeling before her. "But I don't remember our first proposal. I want to do it right this time. Will you stay with me forever? No contracts, no business—just us."
Aria looked at the beautiful diamond ring, then thought of Elena's threat. Her heart was breaking into a million pieces. If she said yes, Elena would reveal the truth and Julian would hate her. If she said no, she would lose the only man she had ever truly loved.
"Julian... I can't," Aria sobbed, pulling her hand away.
Julian's smile faded. "Why, Aria? Is it because of the accident? Or is there something you aren't telling me?"
"I'm not the woman you think I am!" Aria screamed, the guilt finally exploding. "We weren't in love, Julian! You bought me! You paid for me like a piece of furniture!"
The room went deathly silent. Julian stared at her, his brows furrowing in pain. He clutched his head, his breathing becoming heavy. "What... what are you saying?"
Memories began to flash in his mind—the cold office, the harsh signature, the $5 million check. The headache was blinding. Suddenly, Julian collapsed to the floor.