RULE NUMBER ONE: Don't You Fall in Love

"He maintained, "We need guidelines for this," without sparing me a glance. "I've always been a rule follower," he added, sliding a file across the table. "Here's the contract; the rules are outlined within." I picked up the file, scanning its contents briefly. "You can review them at home and share your thoughts tomorrow evening. I'll go over them now since they're immediate, and in case you need clarification, I'll explain," he said sternly. My anger simmered, but I controlled it, reminding myself of the financial benefits for Sophie. "Understood," I replied, my voice tight. "Number one: no falling in love with me," he challenged, meeting my gaze. "I assure you, that won't happen," I stated firmly. Ellen's college days were never carefree. Seeking a break from routine, she ended up with a mysterious stranger who vanished after a night of passion. To her surprise, she discovered she was pregnant a month later, desperately searching for him without success. Five years later, fate crossed their paths again, this time in an unexpected city. He, a stranger to her, was now a cold, arrogant man needing a wife, while she sought financial stability. Agreeing to a strictly governed marriage, one rule stood firm: no love could develop between them. As the attraction between them intensified, they both struggled to adhere to that very rule. Who among them would ultimately break the first rule?