True Love Fades Away When the Contract Ends

Fiona was born into nobility, yet she rejects the conventional life of a noblewoman in favor of working and living on her own terms. The expectations tied to her status are not so easily escaped, however. She learns that marriage discussions are already underway, and her opinion in the matter carries little weight. Should she marry, she would be expected to leave her job and sacrifice the independence she has fought to maintain. Desperate to avoid that fate, Fiona meets Giles, a nobleman who also wishes to remain single. Though their circumstances differ, they share one clear objective: to avoid marriage. Together, they concoct a scheme to deflect society’s pressure while preserving their freedom—they will pretend to be destined lovers. To maintain the deception, Fiona and Giles must convince those around them that their bond is genuine. Their fabricated romance is meant to shield them from unwanted marriages, but carrying out the ruse requires careful performance and mutual cooperation. Through their arrangement, each hopes to secure the single life they desire.