Required to Wear the Tycoon's Ring by Maggie Cox

thinking that I can hardly believe I’m doing this... It seems so surreal.’
    â€˜But you’re enjoying it?’
    â€˜Yes, I am. It’s made me realise how cautious I’ve become. I’ve shied away from doing anything remotely risky in case it backfires on me—even having fun . I really want to try to change that.’
    â€˜That’s good to hear. We’re ahead of the game. Maybe enjoying yourself is just what was needed. Taking risks isn’t so bad after all, hmm?’
    Meeting his gaze, she flushed. Then she glanced away again. Maybe she had lowered her expectations for too long. What could be wrong in raising them a little? She might not fulfil her desire of meeting a like-minded soul who wanted a loving long-term relationship as she did, but perhaps being with someone like Seth would provide other things that would compensate. All she could do was wait and see what transpired.
    * * *
    After being shown to their elegantly dressed table beneath the glinting chandeliers of the dining room, Seth and Imogen took their seats. Seth schooled himself to relax. After all, what had he to worry about? Fate had dealt him a very unexpected but fortunate hand.
    Not only had he been presented with the fortuitous opportunity to become the sheikh of Ayabador’s supplier of classic sports cars, but he hadn’t been back at home for very long before it had brought the pretty and delightful Imogen Hayes into his path.
    Studying her across the table just then, he mused that she might well turn out to be the perfect companion for him. Although he personally didn’t like the term, she would be exactly the ‘trophy wife’ that his friend Ash had suggested he find.
    Not only was she pleasant to be around, but she was young and inexperienced enough to see the necessity of taking guidance from him from time to time, and he had to confess he liked that. She would definitely need his help in negotiating the glamorous world his work had made him a part of, and he hoped she would see it as the most incredible asset. And if she was ever intimidated or unsure, Seth would be there to help her.
    â€˜What an amazing place,’ she remarked, glancing round. ‘It’s so beautiful!’
    â€˜I agree. Its reputation surpasses itself. The decor and ambience are superlative, and so is the cuisine. If you’ve never experienced coming anywhere like this before, it’s a very fitting introduction.’
    His glance swept over her once again. He privately thought that the lawn-green dress he’d bought her was the perfect foil for her innocent and youthful beauty. His eye for what was both stylish and classy hadn’t failed him. Tonight the brunette was positively glowing. And although Seth guessed that a couple of their fellow diners had recognised him, he noted that they were appraising Imogen just as much.
    Telling himself that it was inevitable—who wouldn’t enjoy looking at her?—he smiled up at the attentive blonde waitress who had arrived at their table with the menus and asked, ‘Can you give us a little bit longer before you take our order? Then we’ll select the wine.’
    â€˜But of course, Mr Broden. The sommelier is already waiting to serve you, and if there’s anything else you’d like please let me know.’
    When they had chosen their dishes, and Seth had selected a suitable wine, he directed his attention back to Imogen. ‘I’ve had the agreement for our marriage drawn up today by my solicitor,’ he said, ‘and I’ve had a copy made for you to look over. When you’ve read it, you can sign the original.’
    The smooth skin between her delicately arched brows puckered. ‘I told my boss that I might be handing in my notice soon. She was very surprised when I told her why.’
    â€˜Because you’re getting married or because it’s to me?’
    â€˜Both. I had to tell her who you