Annabel signs the contract that ties her to Jack Kent, the older landlord whose authority over the building now extends to her body through this marriage of convenience. His commanding presence and the years between them make every term feel like a surrender she both needs and fears, especially with the rival waiting to take her home.

The papers remain spread on the polished marble, and every signature he collects ends with his hands on her. She braces for the moment he decides she is no longer useful, yet the possessive way he holds her promises an ownership that could either save or consume her entirely before the deadline passes.

Will the deadline make them admit what this arrangement has already started, or will their fears of loss end it before true claiming takes hold?