I was drowning in hospital bills when a stranger in a suit offered me a deal: pretend to be his fiancée, and he’d save my father’s life. I had no choice but to say yes. Then I met his brother.

The day started normally until a call shattered my world. “Miss Carter, your father needs surgery immediately.” The cost was impossible. My café job barely covered rent, and my manager could only offer a small advance.

Desperation clung to me. That’s when I felt it—someone watching. A man in a sharp suit, listening as I begged my manager for help. That night, as I walked home, a car pulled up beside me.

“Sophie,” he said, his voice calm. “Get in.”

I hesitated. “Who are you?”

“Steven. I need a fiancée. You need money. Simple.”

The deal was madness, but my father needed saving. Hours later, I stood in a designer dress, playing my part. At Steven’s father’s party, I met Oliver—my café regular.

“Fancy seeing you here,” he murmured, eyes knowing. “I came to the café every day for you.”

Guilt burned. I kissed Steven, sealing my lie.

The next day, Steven placed a check before me. “You’re playing your part well. Maybe we continue?”

I couldn’t. “I love your brother.”

He left, taking the check. That night, Oliver appeared at the café, offering one of his own.

“No deals. No charades. Just help.”

Tears welled.

“Come on,” he said. “Let’s talk to your dad’s doctor.”

For the first time, I wasn’t alone.