Unexpected Proposal and Unseen Plans

At a party celebrating Declan's engagement, Iris, his assistant, is disheartened by a job transfer rejection. Her friend Cal teases her about her feelings for Declan, which she denies. The night takes a dramatic turn when Declan's fiancée backs out, prompting Iris to step in as a last-minute replacement to secure Declan's inheritance and future as CEO. This unexpected proposal sets the stage for a complex relationship built on necessity rather than love.

A Contractual Commitment Unfolds

Iris and Declan agree to a marriage contract with a clause about having a child. Declan's cold demeanor contrasts with Iris's insistence on shared custody, revealing their differing priorities. Despite the tension, they agree on the terms, with Iris securing a significant financial gain. Their relationship is strictly business, but underlying emotions begin to surface, hinting at deeper connections and potential complications.

Family Dynamics and Hidden Agendas

Iris introduces Declan to her skeptical family, highlighting the emotional complexities of her past. Declan's strained relationship with his father, Seth, becomes apparent as Seth attempts to undermine Declan's plans. Iris's family provides comic relief but also underscores the emotional stakes. Declan's interactions with his family reveal his vulnerability and the immense pressure he faces to succeed, adding layers to the narrative.

A Wedding of Convenience

Iris and Declan's wedding is a public spectacle designed to convince the world of their love. Despite the display, their private interactions are filled with tension and unspoken emotions. Declan's father continues to meddle, casting doubt on the legitimacy of their marriage. The wedding serves as a turning point, forcing both Iris and Declan to confront their feelings and the reality of their arrangement, setting the stage for future developments.

Honeymoon in the Wild

On a safari honeymoon, Iris and Declan are forced to spend time together away from daily pressures. The trip reveals their vulnerabilities and growing attraction. Despite the idyllic setting, Declan's work obligations and Iris's frustrations create tension. The safari becomes a backdrop for their evolving relationship and the challenges they face, highlighting the complexities of their contractual marriage and the potential for genuine connection.

Media Storm and Personal Struggles

A media scandal erupts, questioning the authenticity of Iris and Declan's marriage. The negative attention forces them to confront their feelings and the impact of public perception. Iris struggles with harsh criticism, while Declan's protective instincts surface. The media storm tests their resolve and commitment to each other, revealing the depth of their connection and the challenges of maintaining appearances in the face of external pressures.

Confrontations and Realizations

Declan confronts his father, who is behind the media attacks, leading to a physical altercation. Iris's injury during the confrontation brings them closer, as Declan realizes the extent of his feelings for her. The incident forces both to reevaluate their priorities and the nature of their relationship. As they navigate the fallout, they must decide whether their marriage is merely a contract or something more, setting the stage for future developments.

A Father's Betrayal Unveiled

Declan discovers his father, Seth, has been sabotaging his business deal with Mr. Yakura, a potential partner for Dreamland Tokyo. Seth's manipulative tactics aim to undermine Declan's credibility and secure his own position as CEO. Despite the tension, Declan is determined to prove himself and win the deal, but his father's interference creates a significant obstacle. Declan's struggle with his father's betrayal highlights the deep-seated family issues and the pressure he faces to succeed.

Iris's Struggle and Declan's Plan

After a heated argument with Declan, Iris feels undervalued and decides to take a break from their relationship. Declan, realizing his mistake, is determined to win her back. He adopts a dog and plans a surprise proposal to show Iris his commitment. Declan's actions reflect his growth and willingness to change, while Iris's struggle with trust and self-worth adds depth to their relationship. The chapter explores themes of love, forgiveness, and personal growth.

A Proposal in the Rain

Declan recreates Iris's dream proposal, asking her to marry him for real, without the constraints of their initial contract. The heartfelt proposal, set against a backdrop of rain and a new home, symbolizes a fresh start for the couple. Declan's vulnerability and sincerity win Iris over, leading to a renewed commitment to their relationship. The chapter highlights the power of love and the importance of second chances.

A New Beginning and Home

Declan surprises Iris with a new home, complete with a greenhouse, fulfilling her dream. The gesture signifies his dedication to building a life together, beyond the confines of their contractual marriage. The couple's renewed commitment and shared vision for the future mark a turning point in their relationship. The chapter emphasizes themes of love, home, and the importance of creating a shared life.

Love and Forgiveness

As they settle into their new life, Declan and Iris navigate the challenges of their relationship with love and understanding. Declan's efforts to make amends and Iris's willingness to forgive highlight the strength of their bond. The couple's journey underscores the importance of communication, trust, and the transformative power of love. The chapter concludes with a sense of hope and a promise of a bright future together.

Characters

Iris

Iris is Declan's dedicated assistant, who steps into a marriage of convenience to help him secure his inheritance. Despite her professional demeanor, she struggles with personal insecurities and a desire for recognition. Her relationship with Declan is complex, marked by loyalty and unspoken emotions. Iris's journey is one of self-discovery, as she navigates the challenges of their arrangement and her own aspirations.

Declan

Declan is a driven businessman focused on becoming CEO. His relationship with Iris is initially transactional, but he grapples with unexpected feelings for her. Declan's strained relationship with his father and his past traumas shape his cold exterior. Throughout the story, he learns to confront his emotions and the importance of personal connections.

Cal

Cal is Iris's best friend and Declan's brother. He provides comic relief and emotional support, often mediating between Iris and Declan. Cal's carefree demeanor hides his own struggles with family expectations. His loyalty to Iris and Declan is unwavering, and he plays a crucial role in their journey.

Seth Kane

Seth is Declan's father, who seeks to undermine his son's ambitions. His actions are driven by a desire to maintain control and power. Seth's relationship with Declan is fraught with tension, as he attempts to sabotage Declan's plans. His presence looms over the story, creating conflict and driving the narrative forward.

Nana

Nana is Iris's grandmother, who provides wisdom and comic relief. Her protective nature and sharp wit offer support to Iris. Nana's past experiences shape her views on love and family, influencing Iris's decisions. She serves as a grounding force in Iris's life.

Mr. Yakura

Mr. Yakura is a pivotal character, whose decision-making influences the story's outcome. His interactions with Declan and Seth reveal his insight and understanding of family dynamics. Mr. Yakura's character serves as a catalyst for Declan's growth and the resolution of the central conflict.

Plot Devices

Marriage of Convenience

The marriage between Iris and Declan is a central plot device, serving as a means to secure Declan's inheritance. While initially a business arrangement, it becomes a catalyst for personal growth and emotional exploration. The marriage forces both characters to confront their feelings and the complexities of their relationship.

Media Scandal

The media scandal questioning the legitimacy of Iris and Declan's marriage creates external conflict and tests their resolve. It highlights the impact of public perception and the pressures of maintaining appearances. The scandal serves as a turning point, forcing the characters to reevaluate their priorities and commitment to each other.

Family Dynamics

The story explores the intricate dynamics between Declan, his father, and Iris's family. These relationships reveal the characters' vulnerabilities and motivations, driving the narrative forward. Family tensions and hidden agendas create conflict and influence the characters' decisions, adding depth to the story.

Personal Growth

The characters' journeys of personal growth are central to the story. Declan's evolution from a driven businessman to a loving partner, and Iris's journey of self-discovery and forgiveness, highlight themes of love, trust, and the transformative power of relationships.

Analysis

"Terms and Conditions" by Lauren Asher delves into the complexities of love, trust, and personal growth within the framework of a marriage of convenience. The narrative explores how external pressures, such as family dynamics and media scrutiny, impact personal relationships. Through the characters' journeys, the story highlights the importance of communication, vulnerability, and forgiveness in building meaningful connections. The book underscores the transformative power of love and the potential for personal growth when individuals confront their insecurities and embrace change. Ultimately, it offers a hopeful message about the possibility of finding genuine love and happiness amidst life's challenges.