Lise Hansen couldn’t believe her ears. She was rummaging through a dumpster on Store Torv in Aarhus, looking for food, when a impeccably dressed man approached her and made the most absurd proposal she had ever heard in her thirty-two years. It was when he knelt down in the middle of the crowd with a small red box containing a ring that glinted in the evening sun. “I know you don’t know me,” the man said, ignoring the curious stares of passersby who began to gather around them.
“My name is Frederik Møller, and I desperately need your help. ”
Lise stepped back a few paces, clutching the plastic bag where she kept her few belongings. Her brown hair was tangled, her torn and dirty clothes told the story of the last six months on the street. But her brown eyes still held a spark of intelligence that had caught Frederik’s attention the moment he saw her.
“Are you crazy? ” she whispered, looking around as she noticed more people had stopped to witness the scene. “Get up, you’re making a fool of yourself. ”
“I’m not crazy.
I’m desperate,” Frederik replied without moving from his position. “I need to be married before the end of this month. Otherwise, I lose everything I’ve built in my life. ”
Lise felt a mix of anger and shame.
How dare this man appear out of nowhere and make such a humiliating proposal? She, who had been a respected lecturer at Aarhus University, was now being treated like someone in need of charity. “I don’t need your pity,” she said, trying to pass him. “Find someone else for your game.
”
But Frederik quickly stood up and blocked her path, always keeping a respectful distance. “It’s not pity. It’s a business deal. A contract.
You help me, I help you. It’s that simple. ”
“What kind of help could a man like you need from someone like me? ” Lise crossed her arms challengingly.
“My grandfather left a clause in his will. To inherit the family business, I must be married before I turn thirty-five. I have exactly twenty-three days to find a wife. Otherwise, everything goes to my cousin Pernille.
”
Lise studied his face. Frederik had sharp features, piercing blue eyes, and seemed to be around forty-three years old. His suit was clearly expensive, and the watch on his wrist looked like it cost more than she earned in a year when she still worked. But there was something in his expression that didn’t seem fake.
“And why me? ” she asked, still suspicious. “There are thousands of women in Aarhus who would accept to marry you for your money. ”
“Why would I want your money?
” Frederik replied, putting the ring box back in his jacket pocket. “I’ve seen you here on the square several times over the past few weeks. Always polite to everyone. Always grateful even when people treat you badly.
You have dignity, and that’s rare. ”
Lise felt a knot in her chest. It had been so long since someone had spoken respectfully about her that she had almost forgotten how it felt. “You know nothing about me,” she muttered.
“I know you weren’t always like this,” Frederik said, gesturing toward her clothes. “I know something happened in your life that brought you here, and I know you’re not here by free will. ”
Tears began to form in Lise’s eyes, but she held them back with force. She wouldn’t cry in front of a stranger.
“Even if I wanted to help you, what you’re suggesting is insane. ”
“A marriage is not a game,” she added. “It will only be on paper,” Frederik explained. “A business arrangement.
You marry me, help me get the inheritance, and after a few months, we get divorced. In return, I’ll give you an amount that will allow you to restart your life. ”
Lise looked around the square. Gradually, people lost interest and continued on their way.
The sun was setting, and soon she would have to find a safe place to spend another night. Six months on the street had been enough to crush any romanticism she might have had about life. “How much? ” she asked, surprising herself.
“500,000 Danish kroner. ”
Lise felt her legs give way. That was enough money to start completely over. Maybe even get away from Aarhus and start a new life somewhere else.
“And what exactly would I have to do? ”
“Live in my house, attend some social events with me, meet my family, convince my grandfather that we’re a real couple. ”
“How long? ”
“At most six months.
Then we cite irreconcilable differences and go our separate ways. ”
Lise was silent for a few minutes, digesting the proposal. It was risky, but what alternatives did she really have? Continue sleeping on benches, searching for food in dumpsters, fleeing from dangerous people at night?
“I have conditions,” she said finally. “What? ”
“No physical intimacy. Separate rooms.
And when this is all over, you help me with something I need. ”
“What kind of thing? ”
Lise hesitated. Could she trust this man?
She had trusted people before, and it had gone wrong. Very wrong. “I need to clear my name. I was falsely accused of something I didn’t do, and it ruined my career and my life.
”
Frederik observed her attentively. There was a deep pain in her eyes, a wound that still hadn’t healed. “I accept your conditions,” he said. “When do you want to start?
”
“Not now,” she replied quickly. “I need time to think. ”
“How much time? ”
“Two days.
”
Frederik took a card out of his pocket and handed it to her. “This is the address of my house. If you decide to accept, show up there Thursday at 7 PM. If you don’t show up, I’ll understand that you don’t want to.
”
Lise took the card. The paper was thick, expensive, with gold embossed letters. The address was in Risskov, one of the city’s most exclusive areas. “What if I steal something from your house?
” she asked, testing him. “Then I’ve chosen the wrong person,” Frederik replied with a half-smile. “But I don’t think you will. ” He turned to leave, but stopped and looked back.
“Lise, that’s your name, isn’t it? ” She nodded, surprised that he knew. “Whatever your decision, there’s a shelter two streets from here that serves dinner until 8 PM. The food is good, and the people are decent.
” And with that, Frederik left, leaving Lise alone with the card in her hand and her head full of confusing thoughts. That night, lying on a bench on Store Torv with her bag as a pillow, Lise couldn’t sleep. Frederik’s proposal echoed in her mind. It was a chance to get out of this terrible situation, but it also seemed too good to be true.
How many times in life does someone appear out of nowhere and offer a magical solution? She knew fairy tales well. She had taught children’s literature for years and knew that in real life, things didn’t work like in books. There was always a price to pay.
There was always a hidden trap. But 500,000 Danish kroner was enough money to properly investigate what had happened at the university, to hire a competent lawyer, to have the resources to fight against the lies that had destroyed her career, to prove that she had never plagiarized. The cold of the early morning made her huddle even more in her worn-out coat. In two days, she would make a decision that could completely change the direction of her life.
Thursday at 7 PM, Lise stood in front of the gate of Frederik’s mansion. She had spent the previous two days obsessively thinking about the proposal, weighing pros and cons until she got a headache. The house was even more impressive than she had imagined. Three floors, immaculate garden, electric gate with intercom.
It was the kind of place she had never imagined setting foot in. She pressed the intercom button with a trembling hand. “Good evening,” said a woman’s voice from the other side. “Good evening, I’m Lise.
Frederik invited me to come today. ” “One moment, please. ” A few seconds later, the gate opened automatically. Lise walked through the garden toward the front door, feeling completely out of place.
Her clean clothes, which she had managed to wash at the shelter Frederik mentioned, were still old and worn. The door opened before she even had a chance to ring. A middle-aged woman, well-dressed and with a serious expression, received her. “Good evening.
I’m Kirsten, the housekeeper for the Møller family. Frederik is waiting for you in the living room. ”
Lise followed Kirsten through an entrance that seemed larger than any apartment she had lived in. Expensive paintings adorned the walls, and a crystal chandelier hung from the high ceiling.
Frederik was sitting in an armchair reading some papers. When he saw her come in, he immediately stood up. “Lise, how lovely that you came. ”
“I said I would come,” she replied, trying to sound more confident than she felt.
“Kirsten, could you leave us alone, please? ” The housekeeper nodded and withdrew, but not without casting an appraising look at Lise. “Sit down,” Frederik said, gesturing toward the sofa. “Would you like something?
Water, coffee? ”
“I’m fine, thank you. ” Lise sat on the edge of the sofa with a straight back and her hands folded in her lap. Frederik returned to his armchair.
“I imagine you’ve thought a lot about my proposal. ”
“I have, and I have some more questions. ”
“Of course, you can ask anything. ”
“Will your family know that the marriage is fake?
”
“No. And they must not know. My grandfather is very traditional, and if he discovers it’s a farce, he won’t just disinherit me, he could even sue me for fraud. ”
“And your friends, your employees, will they believe it was a whirlwind romance?
”
“It happens. People will gossip for a few weeks, and then they’ll forget. ”
“And you don’t want to know who I really am before you let me into your house? ”
Frederik leaned forward with his elbows on his knees.
“I know you were a university lecturer. I know something happened that made you lose your job. I know you don’t have family here in Aarhus, because otherwise you wouldn’t be living on the street. And I know you’re an honest person.
Even in a desperate situation. ”
“How do you know all that? ”
“I observed you. I talked to some people who work in the area around Store Torv.
I didn’t hire a private detective or anything invasive, if that’s what you’re thinking. ”
Lise was impressed. He had really taken the trouble to investigate her minimally. “And if I accept and then change my mind in the middle of the process?
”
“Then we talk and find a solution. I don’t want anyone to feel trapped in this agreement. ”
“And the money, when will I receive it? ”
“Half now.
Half when we get divorced. ”
Lise took a deep breath. It was a fair proposal, considering the circumstances. “I accept,” she said finally.
Frederik smiled for the first time since they had met. “Excellent. We’ll need to get married as soon as possible. I was thinking of having a civil ceremony on Monday, if you agree.
”
“So soon? ”
“The longer we wait, the greater the risk that my grandfather starts asking questions. He’s already suspicious because he’s never seen me with a serious girlfriend. ”
“I understand.
And where would I stay until the ceremony? ”
“Here, if you want, or I can pay for a hotel. ”
Lise looked around the luxurious living room. The prospect of sleeping in a real bed for the first time in months was tempting, but it also made her nervous.
“I think a hotel is better. At least until we’re officially married. ”
“No problem. Kirsten can drive you to a good place.
” Frederik got up and went to a desk in the corner of the room. He opened a drawer and took out a thick envelope. “Here’s the first half of the payment,” he said, handing it to her. “250,000 Danish kroner.
”
Lise took the envelope with trembling hands. She had never had so much money in her life. It was surreal. “Thank you,” she whispered.
“There’s one more thing we need to talk about,” Frederik said, sitting down again. “Tomorrow morning, we need to buy some clothes for you for the social events and for meeting my family. ” Lise looked at her own clothes and blushed. Of course, she would need a suitable wardrobe to play the role of a rich businessman’s wife.
“I’ll pay,” Frederik added quickly, noticing her discomfort. “It’s part of the deal. It’s fine. ”
“And we also need to talk about our story.
How we met, how long we’ve been together, that kind of thing. We need to be consistent when people ask. ”
“Have you already thought of a version? ”
“A little.
What about saying we met in a bookstore? You were buying a book on classical literature. We started talking about Danish authors, and it was love at first sight. ”
Lise almost smiled.
It was a plausible story and close to the truth about who she really was. It could work. “Fine. ”
“Kirsten will drive you to the hotel now.
Tomorrow at 10, I’ll pick you up, and we’ll go shopping. ” They stood up at the same time. For a moment, they stood facing each other without quite knowing how to say goodbye. They were no longer strangers, but they weren’t intimate either.
“Lise,” Frederik said. “I know this is strange and a little crazy, but thank you for agreeing to help me. ”
“Thank you for giving me this opportunity,” she replied. Kirsten appeared in the doorway as if she had been waiting for the right moment.
“I’m ready to drive the lady to the hotel. ”
In the car on the way to the hotel, Lise looked out the window at Aarhus’s lit streets. Twenty-four hours ago, she was on a bench on Store Torv. Now she was sitting in the passenger seat of an expensive car with 250,000 Danish kroner in a new bag that Frederik had insisted on buying for her.
Life could change very quickly. She knew that better than anyone. The hotel Kirsten drove her to was discreet but elegant. The room had a king-size bed, a bathroom with a bathtub, and a partial view of Aarhus Bay.
Lise stood in the middle of the room for a few minutes, just looking around. Then she went into the bathroom, turned on the water in the tub, and let the tears finally flow. Tears of relief, of gratitude, of fear, of hope. All the emotions she had held inside for the past months came to the surface at once.
She stayed in the bath for over an hour, letting the warm water loosen muscles that had been tense for a long time. When she finally got out, she looked in the mirror and saw a woman she didn’t quite recognize. Her hair was still damaged and unkempt. Her skin was dry and marked by sun and cold, but there was something different in her eyes.
A spark of hope she hadn’t seen in a long time. The next morning, Frederik showed up exactly at 10. Lise was waiting in the hotel lobby, wearing the same clothes as the day before, but at least clean and pressed. “Good morning,” he greeted.
“Did you sleep well? ”
“Much better than in months,” she replied honestly. In the car on the way to the shopping center, Frederik explained the day’s plan. “We’ll go to Bruuns Galleri first.
There are several good stores where we can find everything you need. Then we’ll go to a hair salon that my secretary recommended. ”
“I don’t want anything too extravagant,” Lise said. “I don’t feel comfortable with luxury.
”
“I understand. We’ll take it easy, and you choose what makes you feel good. ”
The first stop was a store with designer clothes for women. Lise felt intimidated by the prices and the attention of the salespeople, but Frederik was patient and encouraged her to try different options.
“This dress suits you beautifully,” he remarked when she came out of the fitting room wearing a navy blue midi dress. Lise looked in the mirror and had to agree. The quality fabric and perfect cut completely transformed her appearance. “It’s very expensive,” she murmured, looking at the price tag.
“Don’t worry about that. Choose what you like. ” They spent three hours in the shopping center buying dresses, blouses, pants, shoes, accessories, and even appropriate lingerie. Frederik always maintained a respectful attitude, giving his opinion when she asked, but leaving the final decisions to her.
In the hair salon, the transformation was even more dramatic. The stylist cut and hydrated her hair, revealing a brilliant chestnut brown color she had forgotten she had. The manicurist and pedicurist made her nails look completely different, and the discreet makeup highlighted her features in a way she hadn’t seen in years. When she looked in the mirror at the end of the day, Lise could hardly recognize her own reflection.
The woman looking back at her was elegant, sophisticated, beautiful. It was the person she used to be before everything fell apart. “Impressive,” Frederik said when she came out of the salon. “You’re beautiful, Lise.
” Lise blushed. It had been a long time since anyone had called her beautiful. “Thank you. And thank you for all this.
” She gestured toward the shopping bags in the car. “It’s the least I can do. You’re helping me with a very serious problem, after all. ”
On the way back to the hotel, Frederik mentioned casually, “Tomorrow evening, we’re having dinner at my grandfather’s house.
He wants to meet you. ” Lise felt her stomach turn. “That soon? ”
“Unfortunately, we don’t have much time.
He called this morning and said he wants to meet my girlfriend as soon as possible. ”
“And if he doesn’t like me? ”
“He will like you. You’re intelligent, well-educated, have an interesting story.
You just need to relax and be yourself. ”
“And if he discovers it’s all a lie? ” Frederik stopped the car at a traffic light and looked at her. “He won’t discover it.
Unless you tell him. ”
“Of course I won’t tell him. ”
“Then everything will be fine. My grandfather is a simple man despite all the money.
He’s more impressed by character than by social status. ”
At the hotel, Lise carried all the shopping bags up to her room. She hung the new clothes carefully in the closet and arranged the shoes in rows. It was like assembling a wardrobe for a character she was going to play, because that’s what she was doing, wasn’t it?
Playing the role of the loving girlfriend of the rich businessman. A woman who didn’t have dark secrets in her past, who hadn’t lost everything that mattered, who hadn’t spent months on the street. She lay down on the comfortable bed and closed her eyes. She tried to mentally prepare for what was coming.
The dinner at Frederik’s grandfather’s house was planned for 7:30 the next evening. Lise spent the whole day nervous, changing clothes several times until she decided on the navy blue dress that Frederik had praised in the store. When he came to pick her up, he was visibly nervous. “My grandfather is a bit intense,” he explained in the car.
“He likes to ask direct questions and observe everything attentively. ”
“What kind of questions? ”
“About your family, your education, your future plans, that kind of thing. ”
“And what do I say about my family?
”
“The truth, if possible. It’s always easier to remember the truth than lies. ” Lise took a deep breath. The truth about her family was complicated, but not impossible to explain.
Frederik’s grandfather’s house was even bigger and more impressive than his grandson’s. It was located in Marselisborg and had a spectacular view over the city. A butler received them at the entrance and led them to a formal dining room with a table that could easily seat twelve people. Robert Møller was a 73-year-old man with white, well-groomed hair, piercing blue eyes like his grandson, and a posture that radiated authority even when sitting.
He wore an impeccable dark suit and a garnet red tie. “Grandfather, this is Lise,” Frederik said with a light hand on her back. Lise repeated, “Grandfather,” as the old man stood up and walked toward them. “A pleasure to meet you, my dear.
Frederik has talked a lot about you. ”
“The pleasure is mine, Mr. Møller,” Lise replied, taking his outstretched hand. “Please, call me Robert.
Excessive formality makes me uncomfortable. ”
During dinner, served by two silent staff members, Robert bombarded Lise with questions: Where was she born? Where had she studied? What books did she like to read?
What were her professional plans? “Frederik told me you were a university lecturer,” Robert remarked as he cut into the salmon. “That’s a very noble profession. Why did you stop teaching?
”
Lise felt her throat dry up. It was the question she feared most. “I had some… problems at my last job,” she answered cautiously.
“I decided to take a break to reconsider my career. ”
“What kind of problems? ”
“Grandfather,” Frederik interrupted. “You don’t need to interrogate Lise as if she were a witness.
”
“It’s fine,” Lise said, touching Frederik’s arm lightly in a gesture that seemed natural. “I don’t mind talking about it. ” She looked directly into Robert’s eyes. “I was falsely accused of academic plagiarism.
Someone forged evidence to harm me, and I couldn’t prove my innocence in time to save my career. ”
“That’s terrible,” Robert said, and for the first time that evening, his expression softened. “Injustice is one of the things I despise most in this world. ”
“That’s why I’m focused on clearing my name and proving the truth,” Lise continued, “even if it takes time.
”
“And Frederik is helping you with that. ” Lise looked at Frederik, who nodded almost imperceptibly. “He’s offering me support,” she said, “both emotionally and practically. ”
“Excellent.
That’s how it should be. A couple should be present in difficult times. ” The rest of the dinner went more smoothly. Robert told stories about building the family business.
Frederik contributed some funny anecdotes, and Lise managed to gradually relax. “Lise,” Robert said as they drank coffee after the meal. “You seem like a very honest young woman. Frederik is to be congratulated on his choice.
”
“Thank you, Robert. ”
“And when are you planning to get married? ” Lise almost choked on her coffee. “Well,” Frederik began.
“Soon,” Lise interrupted, surprising them both. “We see no reason to wait long when we know it’s what we want. ” Robert smiled broadly. “Excellent.
Young people who know what they want and don’t beat around the bush. I like that. ”
In the car on the way back to the hotel, Frederik was visibly relieved. “You did perfectly,” he said.
“My grandfather really liked you. ”
“How do you know? ”
“The way he talked. And he never praises the women I present to him.
Never. ”
“You’ve presented him with many women? ”
“A few over the years, but he always found a flaw. He said they were too interested, or too frivolous, or too fake.
And you’re none of that. ” Frederik stopped at a traffic light and looked at her intently. “You’re the most genuine person I’ve met in a long time. ” Lise felt something strange stir in her chest.
A feeling she hadn’t experienced in a long time. “Frederik, why did you really choose me? And don’t tell me it was only because I didn’t want your money. ” He took a moment to think about his answer.
“Because when I saw you there on the square, for the first time in years, I felt like I had found someone real. Someone who understands what it means to lose everything and have to rebuild your life from scratch. You’ve lost everything in a way, but that’s a conversation for another day. ” Lise wanted to insist, but something in his expression made her change her mind.
Everyone had the right to their secrets. Monday morning, they got married at the city hall. It was a simple ceremony with only the obligatory witnesses. Lise wore a discreet white dress they had bought especially for the occasion, and Frederik was impeccable in a dark gray suit.
When the official asked if they accepted each other as husband and wife, both answered with firm voices but avoided looking into each other’s eyes. The kiss that sealed the marriage was quick and chaste. Barely a brush of lips. As they left the city hall as husband and wife, Lise felt strange.
She was officially Mrs. Lise Møller now, at least temporarily. “How do you feel? ” Frederik asked as they got into the car.
“Strange,” she answered honestly. “And you? ” “Relieved. At least part of the problem is solved.
”
“What’s the next step? ”
“You move into the house today. Tomorrow, we announce our marriage to the rest of the family and my friends. ”
“How will that go?
”
“A lunch at my place. Nothing too formal. My cousin Pernille will be there. Some uncles, my secretary, some business partners.
”
“The cousin who would lose the inheritance if you didn’t get married. ”
“Exactly. Prepare yourself, because she won’t be happy about the news. ”
That afternoon, Lise finally moved into Frederik’s mansion.
Kirsten, the housekeeper, received her warmly but reservedly and showed her the room that would be hers for the coming months. It was a spacious suite on the second floor with its own bathroom, walk-in closet, and a small sitting area with armchairs and a table. The windows faced the garden, and the decor was elegant but not ostentatious. “Frederik’s room is at the end of the hall,” Kirsten explained.
“If you need anything during the night, you can call me. My room is on the first floor. ”
“Thank you, Kirsten. And sorry if all this is a bit confusing.
I know the situation is unusual. ” The housekeeper studied her for a moment. “It’s not my place to judge Frederik’s decisions,” she said finally. “But I can say that he seems happier since he met you.
”
“Really? ”
“Yes. He was very stressed lately, worried about the inheritance issue. Now he’s calmer.
” Lise arranged her new clothes in the closet, organized her few personal belongings, and sat in the armchair by the window. From there, she could see Frederik by the pool area, talking on the phone and gesturing a lot. He seemed to be discussing a professional matter. It was strange to observe him in his own house, in his natural environment.
He seemed different there, more relaxed and confident. On the square, when he approached her, there was a certain desperation in his posture. Now, walking around the garden of his villa, he was clearly a successful man in control of his life, or at least that’s how it looked from the outside. During dinner, which they shared in the house’s smaller, more intimate dining room, Frederik explained some details about the daily routine.
“Breakfast is served at 7:30. Kirsten always prepares varied options. Lunch is at 12:30, and dinner at 8 PM. But if you want to eat at other times, just let me know.
And on weekends, I usually work Saturday morning, but in the afternoon and Sunday I’m free. Sometimes I have social obligations, company events, and that kind of thing. ”
“And now that we’re married, I’ll have to accompany you to these events? ”
“To some.
Yes, but not too frequently. ” They ate in relative silence for a few minutes, still getting used to the new dynamic between them. They were no longer strangers, but they weren’t exactly friends either. “Can I ask you a question?
” Lise said finally. “Of course. ”
“Why did your grandfather set that condition in the will? The one about having to get married?
” Frederik sighed and put down his fork. “My grandfather is a very traditional man. He married at 22 and was with my grandmother until she passed away, eighty years later. For him, marriage and family are the foundation of a stable and successful life.
”
“And your parents? ”
“They died when I was 15. Car accident. My grandfather raised me from that day.
”
“I’m sorry to hear that. ”
“Thank you. It’s been a long time, but it’s still hard to talk about. ” Lise understood perfectly.
She had also lost important people and knew that some wounds never heal completely. “So that’s why you never got married before? Because you lost your parents early and are afraid of getting attached to people? ” Frederik looked at her, surprised.
“That’s a very astute observation. ”
“I was a psychologist before I became a literature lecturer. I have two degrees. ”
“I didn’t know that.
”
“Why did you change fields? ”
“Because I discovered I preferred analyzing fictional characters to real people. Characters don’t lie about who they are, but real people lie all the time, to others and to themselves. ” Frederik became thoughtful.
“And have you ever lied to yourself? ” Lise hesitated. It was a deeper question than it seemed. “I think we all lie to ourselves from time to time.
It’s a way to survive. ”
“What do you lie to yourself about? ”
“About being fine alone. About not needing anyone.
About having gotten over what happened to me at the university. ” She paused. “Completely. ” It was more honesty than she had intended to share.
But something about the way Frederik listened made her feel safe to open up. “And what do you think I lie to myself about? ” Lise observed him attentively. His blue eyes, his upright but slightly tense posture, the way his hands moved restlessly when he thought.
“About being content with your life. About professional success being enough to make you happy. About not feeling lonely in this house that’s too big for one person. ” It was Frederik’s turn to look surprised.
“How do you know I feel lonely? ”
“The way you look at things when you think no one’s watching. It’s the same look I had when I still lived alone in my apartment, before everything fell apart. ” They were silent for a few minutes, digesting the unexpected revelations they had shared.
“Lise,” Frederik said finally. “Can I ask you a personal question? ”
“Yes. ”
“What really happened at the university?
Who was it that harmed you, and why? ” Lise felt her chest tighten. It was a subject she avoided thinking about, but it never completely left her thoughts. “There was an older professor at the institute, Allan Sørensen.
He had an interest in me, but I always made it clear I wasn’t interested. When I started being considered for a permanent position that he also wanted for one of his protégés, he decided to sabotage me. ”
“How? ”
“He forged documents to make it look like I had copied parts of my PhD thesis from other authors.
He placed evidence on my computer, bribed people to testify against me. When the investigation began, I couldn’t prove my innocence, and the university didn’t challenge the evidence. ”
“Didn’t they challenge it? ”
“No, because Allan was very respected and influential.
He had friends in important positions. I was just a young lecturer without many political connections. ”
“What happened in the end? ”
“I was fired.
My name was publicly tarnished. Other universities wouldn’t hire me. I lost my apartment because I could no longer pay the rent. My friends drifted away because they didn’t know whether to believe me or the accusers.
” Lise felt tears begin to form, but she held them back. “Within a few months, I lost everything. Career, home, friends, reputation. When the money ran out, I ended up on the street.
”
“And you never tried to fight the accusations? ”
“I did. I hired a lawyer with the little money I had, but we couldn’t find sufficient evidence to overturn the situation. The lawyer told me it would be better to accept a settlement and move on, maybe change cities and start a new career.
”
“But you didn’t accept it. ”
“No, because accepting it would mean admitting I had done something wrong, and I hadn’t. ” Frederik stood up and walked to the window, standing with his back to her for a few moments. “Lise,” he said without turning around.
“If you could get another chance to prove your innocence, would you take it? ”
“Of course, but I don’t know how that would be possible now. ” Frederik turned to look at her. “And if I told you I know people who could help?
Private detectives, specialized lawyers, people with resources to find the truth? ” Lise felt her heart beat faster. “Why would you do that? Our agreement didn’t include you spending money to try to clear my name.
”
“Because it’s the right thing to do. ”
“And why? ”
“Because I like you, Lise. As a person, as a friend.
And friends help each other. ” She was silent, digesting what he had said. It was a generous offer, but also dangerous. It meant opening up again, reliving all the pain and humiliation of the past.
“I need to think about it,” she said finally. “Of course. There’s no rush. The offer will still stand.
”
The next morning, Lise woke up in her new bed, in her new room, in her new temporary life. For the first time in months, she had slept a whole night without waking up in a panic. The feeling of safety was almost strange after so long. She went down to breakfast and found Frederik already sitting at the table, reading the newspaper and drinking coffee.
He wore a gray suit and seemed ready for another workday. “Good morning,” she greeted, sitting down on the chair opposite him. “Good morning. Did you sleep well?
”
“Very well, thank you. ” Kirsten appeared with a tray of fresh fruit, bread, cheeses, and juice. “Mrs. Lise,” the housekeeper said, “from today, can you tell me your preferences for meals?
I like to know what the people of the house like to eat. ”
“I’m not very demanding,” Lise replied. “I eat almost everything. ”
“Do you have any allergies, any dietary restrictions?
”
“No, none. ” After Kirsten had withdrawn, Frederik explained the day’s program: “Lunch with my family is at 12:30. It will be here at home. My secretary is taking care of all the preparations.
”
“How many people are coming? ”
“Eight. Including my cousin Pernille and her husband, two uncles from my mother’s side, my secretary Camilla, and two of the company’s partners. ”
“And how do we explain our sudden marriage?
”
“As we planned. That it was love at first sight, and we didn’t want to wait. ”
“Will your family swallow that explanation? ”
“Pernille will definitely question it.
She’s very suspicious by nature, but the others will probably accept it without many questions. ” Frederik finished his coffee and stood up. “I have to go to work now, but I’ll be back before lunch. If you need anything, Kirsten knows where to find me.
” After he left, Lise found herself alone in the villa for the first time. It was a strange feeling to be in such a large and luxurious place. She decided to explore the house a little. The library on the second floor impressed her the most.
The walls were covered with bookshelves from floor to ceiling, filled with books of all kinds: world literature classics, business books, biographies, even some modern novels. It was clearly a library belonging to someone who actually read, not just for decoration. She took a copy of Claus Ribjerg’s “The Chronic Innocence” from the shelf and sat in an armchair by the window. It had been a long time since she had read for pure pleasure, without the pressure of preparing lectures or academic research.
Kirsten found her a few hours later. “Mrs. Lise, sorry for the interruption, but I need to confirm some details about the lunch. ”
“Of course.
”
“Do you wish me to prepare a special dish, or can I continue with the menu I’ve already planned? ”
“What you’ve planned is perfect. Don’t worry about me. ” Kirsten hesitated before speaking.
“May I make a personal remark? ”
“Of course. ”
“It’s nice to see Frederik with someone who appreciates books. His ex-girlfriend never came into the library.
She said reading gave her headaches. ”
“He had a serious girlfriend? ”
“For almost two years. Frida.
A beautiful girl, but very, how should I say, materialistic. ” Lise was curious but didn’t want to seem nosy by asking too many questions. “What happened between them? ”
“She broke up with him when she found out he had to get married before he turned thirty-five to receive the inheritance.
She said she didn’t want to be pressured into marriage. ” It was ironic, Lise thought. Frida wouldn’t marry Frederik, and now he was married to a complete stranger. At 12, Frederik came home and went straight upstairs to change.
When he came down, he was wearing dark trousers and a white shirt. A more casual but still elegant look. “How do you feel? ” he asked.
“Nervous,” Lise admitted. “What if they don’t like me? ”
“They will like you. And even if they don’t, it doesn’t matter.
The only one who needs to approve our marriage is my grandfather, and he’s already approved it. ”
The guests began to arrive exactly at 12:30. First came Camilla, Frederik’s secretary, a woman in her forties with a professional look and a friendly smile, and the two business partners, middle-aged men who greeted politely but without much interest. Then came Frederik’s uncles, Carl and Jonas, both around fifty with their respective wives.
They seemed friendly and treated Lise with warmth. Pernille arrived last, accompanied by her husband. She was a tall, blonde woman, well-dressed, with an expression that Lise immediately identified as hostile. She was around forty and wore expensive jewelry that glittered every time she gestured.
“So you’re the famous Lise,” Pernille said as Frederik introduced them. “What a pleasant surprise to discover that my cousin got married without telling anyone in the family. ” Her tone made it clear that she didn’t find the surprise the least bit pleasant. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Pernille,” Lise replied, maintaining her composure.
“The pleasure is mine. I’m very curious to meet the woman who managed to get my cousin to the altar in less than a month. ”
“Pernille,” Frederik interrupted. “Let’s have lunch.
Kirsten has prepared a special menu. ” During lunch, Pernille bombarded Lise with seemingly innocent questions, but clearly designed to make her uncomfortable or reveal inconsistencies in her story. “And where exactly did you meet? ” Pernille asked as she cut into the salmon.
“In a bookstore in the city center,” Lise replied calmly. “Frederik was looking for a book on business management, and I was buying a copy of A Midsummer Night’s Dream to reread. ”
“What an interesting coincidence. Frederik has a copy of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
He’s always said it’s a boring and old-fashioned book. ” Lise looked at Frederik, who seemed a bit uncomfortable. “People can change their minds about literature,” she said, “especially when they meet someone who can show a different perspective on the classics. ”
“That’s true,” Frederik admitted quickly.
“Lise made me see aspects of the book I had never noticed before. ”
“How romantic,” Pernille remarked with a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “And I’ve heard you were a university lecturer. At which university did you work?
” Lise felt her stomach tighten but kept her voice steady. “At Aarhus University, Department of Nordic Studies. ”
“Interesting. And why did you stop?
”
“Pernille,” Frederik said in a warning tone. “I don’t think it’s appropriate to interrogate Lise as if she were a witness. ”
“It’s fine,” Lise said, touching Frederik’s arm lightly. “I had some academic disagreements with colleagues and decided it was time to seek new horizons.
”
“Academic disagreements,” Pernille repeated. “How exciting. Differences of opinion about teaching methodology and research direction? Nothing particularly dramatic.
” It was technically true, and a very subdued version of events. Camilla, the secretary, tried to change the subject. “Frederik told me you’re very cultured, Lise. It must be wonderful to have someone he can talk to about books and art.
”
“Yes, it is,” Lise admitted, grateful for the intervention. “Frederik has an impressive library. I was reading some of the books from there this morning. ”
“What type of literature do you enjoy most?
” asked Carl, one of the uncles. “Classical Danish literature primarily, but I also like modern authors. Recently, I’ve become interested in author biographies. ” The conversation flowed more naturally after that, with discussions about books, travel, and future plans.
Pernille continued to cast suspicious glances at Lise but stopped with the direct questions. After all the guests had left, Frederik and Lise sat in the living room, both clearly exhausted. “How do you think it went? ” he asked.
“Your cousin hates me,” Lise replied directly. “Pernille distrusts everyone. Don’t take it personally. She clearly suspects there’s something wrong with our marriage, but she can’t prove anything.
And even if she could, what would she do? Tell my grandfather? He’s already approved us. ”
“Frederik, I have to ask you something.
”
“What? ”
“Did you really have a copy of A Midsummer Night’s Dream? ” Frederik blushed for the first time since lunch. “I hate it.
I think it’s one of the most boring books I’ve ever tried to read. ”
“Then why did you say you had changed your mind about it? ”
“Because I had to defend you, and it was the first thing that came to mind. ” Lise felt something warm stir in her chest.
It had been a long time since anyone had defended her, even in such a small situation. “Thank you,” she said softly. “Thank you. ”
“We’re a team now, remember.
At least for the next few months. ” That night, Lise lay in her bed thinking about what had happened during the day. The lunch had been a test, and she felt she had passed it, even with Pernille’s hostility. But what troubled her most was the growing realization that she liked Frederik as a person.
It wasn’t just gratitude for what he was doing for her. It was genuine sympathy, even admiration. And that was dangerous, because when the six months were over, they would get divorced and live separate lives. She couldn’t allow herself to develop real feelings for a man who was only married to her out of convenience.
She had to maintain emotional distance, be grateful, kind, fulfill her part of the agreement, but not get emotionally involved. It was easier said than done. The next morning, a Tuesday, Frederik had left early for an important meeting at the company. Lise was eating breakfast alone when Kirsten came over with a worried expression.
“Mrs. Lise, there’s a person here who wants to speak with you. ”
“With me? Who?
”
“A man who said his name is Allan. He said he knows you from the university. ” Lise felt the blood freeze in her veins. Allan Sørensen, the professor who had destroyed her life.
What was he doing here? “Where is he? ”
“In the guest room. He said it was urgent.
” Lise took a deep breath and tried to calm down. She couldn’t show weakness. “Tell him I’ll be down in a moment. ” She hurried upstairs, changed from her robe into more appropriate clothes, and went down to meet the man who had taken everything from her.
Allan Sørensen was standing by the window in the living room, looking out at the garden. He was a man in his fifties with slicked-back hair and a distinguished appearance. He wore a suit and tie as always. When he saw her come in, he turned around with a smile she knew well and had always despised.
“Lise, my dear, how are you? ”
“Different. What do you want, Allan? ”
“Oh, how cold you are.
You won’t even greet me properly. ”
“Talk. What did you come here to do? ” Allan sat down uninvited, crossed his legs, and adopted a relaxed posture.
“I heard you married a rich businessman. Congratulations. I always knew you were clever. ”
“How did you know about my marriage?
”
“Oh, Lise, the city isn’t that big. News spreads. A whirlwind marriage between an influential businessman and a former university lecturer causes a stir. ” Lise remained standing, keeping her distance.
“You still haven’t told me what you came here to do. ”
“I came to make you a proposal. A peace offering, so to speak. ”
“What kind of offer?
”
“I’m willing to publicly admit that the accusations against you were exaggerated. I can even help clear your name academically. ” Lise felt her heart beat faster but forced herself to maintain a neutral expression. “In exchange for what?
”
“A symbolic amount, 500,000 Danish kroner, to cover some inconveniences I’ll have to deal with to rectify the situation. ”
“Are you trying to extort me? ”
“I prefer to think of it as a business opportunity. You now have access to resources through your husband.
500,000 is a trivial amount for a man in his position. ” Lise felt rage rise like hot lava. “You destroyed my life. You made me lose everything I had.
And now you want me to pay you to admit you lied? ”
“Let’s be practical, Lise. Do you want your name cleared? This is your chance.
Otherwise, I can assure you that the doors of the academic world will remain closed to you forever. ”
“Get out of my house. ”
“Think carefully about my proposal. You have until the end of the week to decide.
” Allan stood up and walked toward the door, but stopped before leaving. “Oh, and Lise, does your husband know about your past? About the accusations? It would be a shame if he discovered he married someone with a dubious reputation.
” And he left, leaving Lise shaking with rage and fear. She ran up to her room and locked herself in. Her hands were shaking so much she could barely call Frederik on her mobile. “Lise, has something happened?
”
“I need to talk to you. It’s urgent. ”
“I’m in an important meeting. Can it wait until I get home?
”
“No, it can’t. It’s about my past, about the person who harmed me at the university. ” There was a pause on the other end of the line. “I’m leaving now.
I’ll be home in 20 minutes. ”
Frederik arrived home in 15 minutes and found Lise still locked in her room. She opened the door when she heard his voice, and he immediately noticed she was visibly shaken. “What happened?
”
“Allan was here. The professor who accused me of plagiarism. ” Frederik led her to the armchairs by the window and sat down opposite her. “Tell me everything from the beginning.
” Lise recounted the conversation, every word, every hidden threat. Frederik listened silently, but she could see the rage growing in his eyes. “He’s trying to extort you,” Frederik said when she was finished. “I know, but what if he carries out his threats?
What if he tells your grandfather about the accusations? Even though they’re false, it could be enough to destroy everything. ”
“It won’t destroy anything. My grandfather is not the type of person who judges anyone without knowing the facts.
”
“But Allan can invent convincing evidence. He’s done it before. ” Frederik was silent for a moment, thinking. “Lise, do you trust me?
”
“Yes, I think so. ”
“Then let me handle this. I have resources and contacts that can help deal with men like him. ”
“What are you going to do?
”
“First, I’ll hire a private detective to find out everything there is to know about Allan’s recent activities. If he’s trying to extort you now, he’s probably done it to others before. And then… then we’ll expose the truth in the right way, with solid evidence that can’t be challenged.
” Lise felt a mix of relief and anxiety. “This will cost a lot of money. ”
“Don’t worry about the money. Worry about giving me all the information you have about that man and about what he did to you at the university.
”
“Why are you doing this? It goes far beyond our original agreement. ” Frederik stood up and walked to the window, standing with his back to her. “Because you don’t deserve to live in fear of someone who unjustly harmed you.
And because I care about what happens to you. ” There was something in his voice that made Lise feel he wasn’t just speaking as a helpful friend. “Frederik… ” “Don’t say anything now,” he interrupted, still with his back to her.
“Let’s focus on solving this situation first. We’ll talk about the rest later. ”
That afternoon, Frederik canceled all his appointments and dedicated himself to making calls and arranging meetings with people who could help. Within a few hours, he had hired one of Aarhus’s best private detectives and arranged a consultation with a lawyer specializing in academic law.
“How did you manage to organize all this so quickly? ” Lise asked, impressed. “When you have resources and know who to talk to, doors open,” he replied. “Tomorrow morning, we’ll meet with the investigator.
He’ll need all the details you can remember about what happened. ”
“And if Allan discovers we’re investigating him? ”
“So much the better. Men like him become careless when they’re nervous.
” That evening, during dinner, Frederik told Lise about his own experience with extortion and threats. “When I was younger and gradually taking over my grandfather’s company, several people tried to pressure me. Disgruntled former employees, competitors, even some distant relatives. I learned that the only way to deal with that kind of person is to confront them directly.
And it always worked. Extortionists are basically cowards. When they realize you won’t be intimidated, they usually back off. ”
“But what if Allan is different?
”
“Then we’ll destroy his credibility once and for all, in a legal but definitive way. ” Frederik’s determination in his voice was reassuring, but Lise still felt a knot in her stomach. She had known Allan for years and knew he was cunning and vindictive. “Can I ask you a personal question?
” she said after a moment. “Of course. ”
“Why did you never get married before? I mean, really, not because of the inheritance.
” Frederik hesitated, playing with his fork. “Because I never found anyone who made me feel it was worth the risk. ”
“What risk? ”
“The risk of opening my heart to someone and then losing that person, like it happened with my parents.
” Lise understood. It was the same reason she had stayed away from serious relationships for years. “And now you’re taking that risk with me. ” Frederik looked her in the eyes for the first time in the conversation.
“I think I’ve already started to do that, whether I want to or not. ” Lise felt her heart beat faster. There was an intensity in his gaze that made her realize the dynamic between them had changed. They were no longer just two strangers fulfilling a business agreement.
“Frederik, I… ” “I know. It’s complicated. It wasn’t what we planned.
We can’t get emotionally involved. ” He paused. “But when all this is over… when all this is over, we’ll decide what to do with what’s happening between us.
”
Lise lay awake that night, thinking about the conversation. She was in uncharted territory. She had married Frederik to solve one of his practical problems and restart her own life. She hadn’t planned to get emotionally involved, but it was too late.
She was already involved. The next morning, Frederik and Lise met with the private detective at a discreet café in the city center. Mikkel Christensen was a 50-year-old man, a former police officer with an ordinary appearance that went unnoticed in any crowd. “I’ll need all the details about that professor,” Mikkel Christensen said, opening a notebook.
“Full name. Where does he work now? What are his habits? Who are his friends and contacts?
” Lise provided all the information she could remember about Allan. Mikkel Christensen took careful notes, occasionally asking specific questions. “And regarding the accusation period, who else was involved in the process? ”
“There was an investigation committee consisting of five professors.
The coordinator was a close friend of Allan. ”
“Names. ” Lise gave the names and all the circumstances she could remember. Mikkel Christensen seemed satisfied with the amount of information.
“I’ll start by investigating Allan’s current activities,” he explained. “If he’s trying to extort you, it’s probably not the first time. Men like him have behavioral patterns. ”
“How long will it take?
” Frederik asked. “For preliminary information, a week. To build a solid case, maybe a month. And if he carries out his threats before then, we’ll be ready to strike back immediately.
” After the meeting, Frederik seemed confident, but Lise was still uneasy. “What if we ultimately discover we don’t have sufficient evidence to prove he forged the accusations? ”
“Then at least we’ll have enough information to neutralize any future extortion attempts. ”
“That’s not enough for me,” Lise said firmly.
“I want the truth to come out. I want my name to be completely cleared. ” Frederik stopped walking and looked at her. “And it will be.
I promise you. ” There was a conviction in his voice that, for the first time in months, made Lise believe it might be possible to regain her reputation and career. The rest of the week, life in the villa followed a relatively normal routine. Frederik went to work in the morning and came home in the late afternoon.
Lise spent the day reading in the library, talking with Kirsten, and trying not to think obsessively about the ongoing investigation. On the weekend, they received an unexpected invitation. “My grandfather wants to invite us to a special dinner Saturday evening,” Frederik said Friday during breakfast. “There will be several people from the family, some of his close friends.
It’s quite formal. He wants to present you to his circle. It’s a kind of official approval. ” Lise felt her stomach turn.
The more people who knew her fabricated story, the greater the risk that someone would discover inconsistencies. “It will be fine,” Frederik reassured her, as if reading her thoughts. “They’re cultured people. They’ll ask cultured questions and accept cultured answers.
”
Saturday evening, Lise dressed carefully for the dinner. She chose a dark blue dress, elegant but discreet, low heels, comfortable shoes, and minimal jewelry. She wanted to make a good impression without seeming like she was trying to impress. Frederik’s grandfather’s house was full of guests when they arrived.
About twenty people circulated in the living room with drinks in hand, talking in small groups. Lise recognized some faces from the earlier lunch, but most were unknown. Robert received them warmly. “Lise, my dear, how lovely to see you again.
You look radiant. ”
“Thank you, Robert. The house is beautiful. ”
“Come, I want to introduce you to some special people.
” For the next two hours, Lise was introduced to businessmen, doctors, lawyers, retired professors, and their respective wives. The conversations were superficial but pleasant, and she managed to gradually relax. It was during dinner that the situation became complicated. She was sitting between Frederik and an elegant woman in her sixties named Marianne, who casually mentioned, “Lise, I heard you were a lecturer at Aarhus University.
What a coincidence. My daughter-in-law also studied literature there. Maybe you know each other. ”
“It’s possible,” Lise replied cautiously.
“When did she graduate? ”
“About three years ago. Her name is Laura Mathiesen. She always speaks very highly of the professors she had.
” Lise almost choked on her wine. Laura Mathiesen had been one of her most brilliant students and also one of the first to abandon her when the plagiarism accusations arose. “Laura, yes, I remember her,” Lise said, trying to keep her voice neutral. “How wonderful.
I’ll tell her I met you. I’m sure she’ll be happy to hear you’re doing well. ” Lise exchanged a worried glance with Frederik. If Laura knew she was married to a rich businessman, so soon after living on the street, she would certainly ask questions.
And Laura knew all the details about the accusations at the university. “Actually,” Lise said quickly, “I prefer not to mix my current life with my professional past. I’m in a transition phase. Do you understand?
”
“Of course, my dear. I understand perfectly. ” But Lise noticed that Marianne had become curious about her reaction. Another person who might leave the place with unanswered questions.
After dinner, as they were driving home, Frederik asked, “Who is Laura Mathiesen? ” Lise sighed. “A former student. One of those who abandoned me when the accusations began.
”
“Do you think she could cause problems? ”
“If she discovers our marriage and tells others at the university, yes, it could become problematic. ”
“We’ll deal with it if it happens. There’s no point worrying in advance.
” But Lise was already worried. She felt like she was walking through a minefield, where any misstep could make her new life explode. Monday, Mikkel Christensen called with the first information about Allan. “Can I come by this afternoon?
” he asked. “I have some interesting things to show you. ” Frederik canceled a meeting to be present when the investigator arrived. Mikkel Christensen brought a folder full of documents and photographs.
“Our professor has been busy,” he began, spreading papers out on the coffee table. “I discovered he’s carried out the same fraud on at least two other people in the past three years. ”
“How? ” Lise asked.
“A lecturer from Aalborg University and a researcher from the University of Southern Denmark. Both were accused of plagiarism under very similar circumstances to yours, and in both cases, Allan was involved in the investigation committees. ” Frederik leaned forward to examine the documents. “And what happened to the other victims?
”
“The lecturer from Aalborg University managed to prove her innocence after two years of legal battle, but she lost the permanent position she was seeking. The researcher from the University of Southern Denmark changed fields completely and now works in a private company. ”
“This proves there’s a pattern,” Lise said, feeling a mix of relief and anger. “Exactly.
But there’s more. Allan has a son who’s doing a PhD at a prestigious university in Copenhagen. The tuition fees are expensive, and based on the financial documents I’ve had access to, his salary as a professor wouldn’t be sufficient to cover those costs. ”
“Is he being paid by someone to sabotage other professors?
” Frederik asked. “That’s a possibility. Or he’s using extortion to get extra money. I’ll need to investigate further to be sure.
” Mikkel Christensen showed some photographs of Allan going in and out of expensive buildings, dining at sophisticated restaurants, driving a car that cost much more than he could afford with his salary. “His lifestyle doesn’t match his official income,” the investigator observed. “That’s always a red flag. ”
“What do we do now?
” Lise asked. “Now we talk to the other victims. If we can get them to cooperate, we can build a much more solid case. ” In the following days, Mikkel Christensen managed to contact the lecturer from Aalborg University and the researcher from the University of Southern Denmark.
Both showed interest in cooperating when they heard there were other victims. The lecturer from Aalborg University, Dr. Helene Berg, agreed to meet with Lise at a café in Aarhus later in the week. “I could never prove it, but I always knew Allan had a personal interest in harming me,” Helene remarked during the meeting.
“He wanted the position of coordinator for the master’s program, which I was seeking. ”
“And did you get the position after proving your innocence? ”
“No, the position went to one of his protégés. I left the university completely and started working at a private school.
”
“Do you still have documents from your case? ”
“I’ve kept everything. I could never bring myself to get rid of the papers, hoping they might one day be useful for something. ” Lise felt less alone for the first time in months.
There were other people who understood exactly what she had been through. The researcher from the University of Southern Denmark, Dr. Rasmus Kolding, shared an even more disturbing story during a video conference. “Allan contacted me after my case was closed,” Rasmus told them.
“He said he could help me clear my name in exchange for a favor. He wanted me to falsify data from a study that would benefit a company that was paying him bribes. ”
“And did you do it? ” Lise asked.
“Of course not. But the threat was clear. If I didn’t cooperate, he would make sure I never worked at a university in the country again. ” Frederik participated in all these conversations, taking notes and asking astute questions.
Lise was impressed by his ability to quickly understand the situation. “We’re dealing with something far more serious than individual extortion,” he remarked after the conversation with Rasmus. “This is systemic corruption. ” Mikkel Christensen agreed.
“And men like Allan rarely work alone. There’s probably a network of people involved. ”
“What does that mean for me? ” Lise asked.
“It means that when we expose this situation, you won’t just be exonerated. You’ll be seen as one of the first victims of a much larger network. ” It was more than Lise had dared to hope for: not just clearing her name, but being publicly recognized as a victim of injustice. But it also meant the risks were greater.
If Allan was part of a corruption network, he had resources and connections that could make him more dangerous when he felt threatened. Thursday of the second week after Allan’s visit, he showed up again at Frederik’s mansion. This time, he wasn’t politely announced by Kirsten. He simply appeared at the door when Lise was home alone.
“Time is running out, Lise,” he said as soon as she opened the door. “I hope you’ve thought about my proposal. ”
“Yes, I have,” she replied, holding the door only half open. “And my answer is no.
” Allan’s expression changed immediately. The fake smile disappeared, revealing something darker. “I hope you don’t come to regret that decision. ”
“I won’t.
”
“We’ll see. Does your little husband know he’s married to an academic fraud? A woman who stole from other professors’ work? ”
“He knows the truth about what you did.
” Allan seemed genuinely surprised. “Oh, really? And what exactly do you think you can prove? ”
“More than you can imagine.
” Lise closed the door and immediately called Frederik. He was home within 10 minutes, along with Mikkel Christensen, who had been called for a war meeting. “He feels pressured,” the investigator remarked. “That’s good.
Pressured people make mistakes. ”
“What kind of mistakes? ” Frederik asked. “They’ll try to speed up their plans.
Maybe they’ll contact accomplices carelessly or try to get rid of evidence hastily. And if he tries to harm Lise publicly before we can expose him, we’ll be ready to strike back immediately. ” Mikkel Christensen had prepared a strategy for that possibility. He had contacts in the media who could publish the true version of the story if Allan tried to spread lies.
“But I prefer to avoid a public war,” he explained. “It’s better to resolve this behind the scenes in a way that forces Allan to admit the truth without causing more harm to anyone. ”
“How? ”
“By confronting him with undeniable evidence of his other crimes.
If he knows he could be arrested or lose everything, he might accept a deal where he confesses to Lise’s case in exchange for not being prosecuted for the other frauds. ” It was a risky plan, but it seemed to be the best available option. On the weekend, Frederik suggested they do something relaxing to distract from the stressful situation. “How about going to ARoS Aarhus Art Museum?
” he proposed. “The weather is fantastic, and you look like you need a distraction. ” Lise agreed. It was a good idea.
It had been years since she had last visited the art museum in Aarhus, and she had always loved walking around the garden and looking at the art installations. In the car on the way to ARoS, they talked about lighter topics. Art, music, places they had visited, books they had read recently. It was nice to have a normal conversation after weeks where the focus had only been on problems and investigation.
“Can I ask you a question? ” Frederik said as he drove. “Of course. ”
“If we manage to solve all this with Allan and clear your name, what will you do afterward?
” Lise thought for a moment. “Teaching again is what I’ve always wanted to do. Teaching literature, supervising research, working with young people who are interested in learning. In Aarhus?
I don’t know. Maybe it’s better to start in another city, in another country, where no one knows me, and I can get a completely fresh start. ” Frederik was silent for a few moments. “And what about us?
” he asked finally. Lise felt her heart beat faster. It was the question they had both been avoiding asking directly. “I don’t know,” she answered honestly.
“Our situation is very complicated. ”
“Why? ”
“Because it started as a business arrangement. How can I be sure that what I feel is real and not just gratitude or convenience?
”
“And how can I be sure you’re not just here for the money and security? ” They were fair and difficult questions to answer. “Maybe we’ll only find out when we no longer have any practical reason to be together,” Lise said. “Maybe.
” At ARoS, they walked around the garden in comfortable silence, looking at the art installations and enjoying the fresh air and the peace of the place. It was the first day in weeks that Lise could completely relax and not think about the problems surrounding them. “Thank you for bringing me here,” she said as they sat on a bench looking at a sculpture. “Thank you for agreeing to come.
It’s been a long time since I’ve felt so calm. Even with all the problems we’re facing, especially because of them, you made me realize there are more important things in life than work and family obligations. ” Lise looked at him. The evening sun lit up his blue eyes, and there was an expression of serenity on his face that she rarely saw when they were at home.
“Like what? ”
“True companionship. Having someone to share the difficult and good moments with. Feeling like I’m not alone with everything.
” She understood perfectly. It was exactly how she felt too. “Frederik, I… ” “I know.
It’s risky, us getting this close. But I can’t help it. ” Lise couldn’t help it either. With each passing day, she felt more connected to him.
It wasn’t just physical attraction, although that existed too. It was a deep affinity, a feeling that she had finally found someone who understood her completely. But there was still the question of the agreement between them, and the situation with Allan, and the uncertainty about the future. Monday, Mikkel Christensen called with urgent news.
“I need to talk to you immediately,” he said. “I’ve discovered something important about Allan. ” They met at the investigator’s office in the city center. Mikkel Christensen had a serious expression as he received them.
“I arranged this meeting here because I suspect your house may be under surveillance,” he explained. “What? ” Frederik asked. “Allan has hired a private detective to find out everything he can about you, especially about your marriage.
” Lise felt the blood freeze in her veins. “He suspects our marriage is fake? ”
“Not just suspects. He has evidence.
” Mikkel Christensen opened a folder and showed several photographs. Lise saw herself in the pictures from the days when she lived on Store Torv to the moment she got into Frederik’s car for the first time. “How did he get these pictures? ”
“He’s probably been following you for weeks, or maybe months, maybe since you left the university.
” Frederik examined the photographs with a grim expression. “What is he going to do with this? ”
“Extort you both. If he proves the marriage is fake, he can destroy Frederik’s reputation and make you lose the inheritance.
And as for me? ” Lise asked. “For you, it would be even worse. You’d be seen as a fraud who took advantage of a rich man.
It would destroy any chance you have of regaining your academic reputation. ” The situation had become much more serious than any of them had imagined. “What options do we have? ” Frederik asked.
“Few, and all risky. We can try to expose his crimes before he exposes you, or you can consider formalizing the marriage for real. ”
“What do you mean? ” Lise asked.
“If you’re truly in love and want to be together, the marriage stops being fake. Allan won’t have anything more to use against you. ” Lise and Frederik looked at each other. It was a logical solution, but it carried enormous emotional implications.
“We need to think about it,” Frederik said. “We don’t have much time,” Mikkel Christensen warned. “According to the information I’ve gathered, Allan intends to act in the coming days. ”
On the way home, Lise and Frederik barely spoke.
Both were absorbed in their own thoughts, processing the new reality of the situation. At home, they sat in the library in armchairs opposite each other, trying to decide what to do. “Mikkel Christensen is right,” Frederik said finally. “If we decide we want to be together for real, Allan can’t hurt us.
”
“But what if we make this decision only out of fear and not out of genuine love? How can we be sure what we feel in the middle of all this pressure? ”
“Maybe we can’t have absolute certainty. Maybe we have to trust what we feel now and hope it’s real.
” Lise stood up and walked to the window, looking out at the garden where they had walked together so many times in the past weeks. “Frederik, can I tell you something? ”
“Of course. ”
“These past few days, I’ve imagined what it would be like to continue living here with you.
Not for the money or the security, but because… because I feel at home by your side. ” Frederik stood up and walked over to her. “I’ve been thinking about that too.
This house has always been too big and quiet for me. Since you came, it finally feels like a home. ” They stood next to each other at the window without touching, but feeling the other’s presence. “So what do we do?
” Lise asked. “We decide whether we want to try to make it work for real. Independently of Allan. Independently of the inheritance.
Independently of all the practical reasons that brought us here. ”
“And what do you want? ” Frederik turned to look at her. “I want to try.
I want to see if what I feel is real and lasting. I want to give us a chance. ” Lise felt her heart beat faster. It was what she wanted too, but she was afraid to admit it.
“And if it doesn’t work, at least we’ll know we tried. That’s better than spending the rest of our lives wondering what if. ” Lise took a deep breath and made a decision. “Okay.
Let’s try. ” Frederik smiled for the first time that day. “Really? ” “Really.
” He came closer and gently touched her face. “Can I kiss you for real this time? ” In response, Lise leaned into him. The kiss was gentle at first, hesitant, as if they were both still testing the boundaries of this new dynamic between them.
Then it became deeper, filled with weeks of suppressed tension and emotions they had tried to ignore. When they parted, Frederik rested his forehead against hers. “So now we’re really married. ”
“I think so.
”
“How do you feel? ”
“Scared. Hopeful. Happy.
”
“Me too. ” That night, they talked late into the night about how their new relationship would work. They decided to take it slow, to get to know each other better as a real couple, not as people playing a role. “I want to get to know the real Lise,” Frederik said.
“Not the lecturer who lost everything. Not the woman who lived on the street. But the person you really are underneath all those circumstances. ” “And I want to get to know the real Frederik,” she replied.
“Not just the successful businessman or the devoted grandson. But the person you are when no one’s watching. ” It was a new beginning for both of them, but they still had to confront Allan. The next morning, Mikkel Christensen called with a risky proposal.
“I want to confront Allan directly with the evidence we have about his other crimes,” he said. “If we do it right, we might be able to force him to back off without having to expose your marriage. ”
“How? ” Frederik asked.
“We arrange a meeting with him, show him that we know about the lecturer from Aalborg University and the researcher from the University of Southern Denmark, and make it clear that we can destroy his life just like he destroyed others’ lives. ” It was risky, but maybe it would work. Allan only understood the language of strength. The meeting was planned for late afternoon at a discreet hotel in the city center.
Frederik insisted on accompanying Lise and Mikkel Christensen. Allan arrived exactly on time with a confident expression that quickly disappeared when he saw he wasn’t just dealing with Lise. “What is this? ” he asked as they sat down in a reserved room.
“A conversation about unpleasant truths,” Mikkel Christensen replied, opening a folder full of documents. “Specifically about your illegal activities over the past five years. ” Allan’s expression changed completely as he saw photographs, bank statements, and testimonies from other victims spread out on the table. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.
”
“No? Then let me clarify,” Mikkel Christensen said calmly. “Helene Berg, Aalborg University. Rasmus Kolding, University of Southern Denmark.
Isabella Christensen, VIA University College. Three lecturers falsely accused of academic plagiarism in situations where you had privileged access to the investigation processes. ” Allan was visibly pale. “That proves nothing.
”
“No. And what about the irregular payments you received from companies interested in favoring certain candidates in academic competitions? Or the forged documents we found in your office at the university? ” It was a bluff, but Mikkel Christensen presented it with such conviction that Allan believed it.
“What do you want? ”
“We want you to stop pursuing Lise,” Frederik said, speaking for the first time during the meeting. “We want you to publicly admit that the accusations against her were false. And we want you to retire discreetly from academic life before we decide to expose everything we know about you.
”
“And if I don’t accept? ” Mikkel Christensen leaned forward. “Then tomorrow morning, all the country’s universities will receive a detailed report about your activities. The media will also receive copies, and the police will receive evidence of federal crimes related to corruption in higher education institutions.
” Allan was silent for several minutes, clearly calculating his options. “And if I do as you ask, what guarantee do I have that you won’t pursue me afterward? ”
“Because we’re not interested in destroying your life,” Lise replied. “We just want you to stop destroying others’.
”
“I need time to think. ”
“You have 24 hours,” Mikkel Christensen said. “Tomorrow at this time, we’ll have your answer. ” Allan left the meeting visibly shaken.
Mikkel Christensen was confident he would accept the deal. “Men like him are basically cowards,” he explained. “When they realize they can lose everything, they always choose to save what they can. ” But Lise wasn’t so optimistic.
“What if he decides to harm us before he backs off? He still has those photographs from our wedding. ”
“Then we’ll be ready to strike back immediately,” Frederik replied. “We have enough evidence to destroy his credibility faster than he can destroy ours.
” That evening, Lise and Frederik had dinner at home, trying to maintain normalcy despite the tension. They talked about future plans, assuming everything would go well with Allan. “When all this is over,” Frederik said, “I’d like to learn more about your academic field. Maybe you can teach me Danish literature for real this time.
Not just to impress my family. ”
“Do you really want to learn, or are you just trying to impress me? ”
“I want to learn. I want to understand the things that are important to you.
” Lise smiled. It was one of the things she appreciated most about Frederik: his genuine willingness to grow and learn. “And I’d like to understand your business better,” she said. “I’ve always been interested in how family businesses work, especially those that have gone through several generations.
”
“Our company has an interesting history. My great-grandfather started with a small hardware store, and each generation expanded it into new areas. ”
“And what do you want to add to the family legacy? ” Frederik thought for a moment.
“Social projects. Education for disadvantaged communities. Using the company’s resources to make a difference in people’s lives. ” Lise was impressed.
It was a noble vision, very different from the stereotype of the greedy businessman. “Is that why it means so much to you to receive the inheritance? To be able to implement those projects? ”
“Partly.
Also because it’s a family legacy I don’t want to lose. But primarily, yes, because of the social projects. ” It was another reason Lise admired him. Frederik wasn’t just fighting for money or status, but for an opportunity to do something good.
The next morning, Mikkel Christensen called early. “Allan accepted our conditions,” he reported. “He will sign a confession admitting he forged the evidence against you, Lise, and he will take early retirement from the university. ” Lise felt a mix of relief and disbelief.
“How? He just accepted? ”
“We discovered more things about him during the night. Evidence that he was involved in even worse schemes than we thought.
When we presented it to him this morning, he realized he had no choice. ”
“What kind of evidence? ”
“I prefer not to go into details over the phone. Come to my office this afternoon, and I’ll explain everything personally.
” At Mikkel Christensen’s office, they discovered the full extent of Allan’s crimes. Besides sabotaging academic careers, he had been involved in fraud with university procurement, illegal sale of places on master’s courses, and money laundering. “It’s much bigger than any of us imagined,” Mikkel Christensen explained. “When I showed him we had evidence of these activities, he became desperate to make a deal.
And the confession about your case is already signed and notarized. You’re officially exonerated, Lise. ” Lise felt tears in her eyes. After so many months of humiliation and hopelessness, she finally had her reputation back.
“Thank you,” she whispered to Mikkel Christensen. “Thank you for not giving up. And thank you to you too,” she said to Frederik, taking his hand. “For believing in me and giving the resources to find the truth.
”
“You don’t need to thank me,” he replied, squeezing her hand. “We did it together. ” In the following days, Allan’s confession spread quickly in the academic world. The university issued an official statement exonerating Lise and apologizing for the treatment she had received.
Other universities began to contact her, offering positions. “How do you feel? ” Frederik asked one evening as they celebrated at home with a bottle of champagne. “Free,” Lise replied.
“For the first time in over a year, I feel completely free. ”
“And what will you do with that freedom? ” Lise thought carefully before answering. “I want to teach.
But here in Aarhus, if you agree. I want to stay close to you. ”
“Are you sure? Don’t you want a fresh start somewhere else?
”
“My fresh start is here with you. ” Frederik smiled and kissed her gently. “And what about our original agreement? The six months, the divorce?
”
“I think we can break that contract. ” “Absolutely. ” Six months later, Lise was back in the lecture halls, this time as a tenured lecturer at Aarhus University. Her students adored her.
Her colleagues respected her, and she finally felt she was where she was supposed to be. Frederik had implemented his social projects, including a scholarship program for students from socially disadvantaged backgrounds who wanted to pursue an academic career. Lise helped him select the recipients, ensuring that talented young people got opportunities that she herself had almost lost. Robert, Frederik’s grandfather, had become one of Lise’s biggest advocates.
He often said to anyone who would listen that his grandson had chosen an exceptional woman. “She has courage,” he would say. “She’s been through difficulties that would break many people, but she came out stronger. ” Pernille, surprisingly, also came to respect Lise after knowing the whole story.
She even apologized one day for her initial hostility. “I thought you were just another person interested in the family’s money,” she admitted during a family lunch. “I didn’t know you had been through all that. ”
One evening, as they sat in the library reading together, Frederik asked a question that had been on both their minds for weeks.
“Lise, do you regret anything about how everything happened between us? ” She closed her book and looked at him. “Nothing important. And you?
” “No. Even though our beginning was unconventional, maybe it was exactly as it should be. If we had met under normal circumstances, we might never have connected so deeply. ”
“Why?
”
“Because when we met, we were both at vulnerable moments in our lives. You with the pressure of the inheritance. Me with my desperate situation. It forced us to be completely honest with each other from the beginning.
” Frederik nodded. “In conventional relationships, people often hide their problems and insecurities until much later in the relationship. We had to confront difficulties together from day one. ”
“Can I ask you something?
” Lise said. “Always. ”
“When did you know you were falling in love with me? Really, not just fulfilling our agreement.
” Frederik thought carefully. “It was when you confronted Allan the first time he showed up here. I saw the courage you had to stand up to him even though you were scared. In that moment, I realized you were much stronger than any circumstance you faced.
”
“And you? When did you know? ”
“When you defended me at the lunch with your family, even though you knew you had a copy of A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” she replied, grinning. “I saw that you were willing to protect me even when you weren’t obligated to.
” They smiled, remembering the moment that now seemed so long ago. Two years later, Lise was pregnant with their first child. The pregnancy was planned, and they were both excited at the prospect of starting a real family. “How will we explain to our children how we met?
” Frederik asked one evening, his hands on Lise’s belly. “We’ll tell them the truth,” she replied. “That sometimes the best things in life happen in the most unexpected ways. And if they ask why you lived on the street, we’ll teach them about resilience, about how bad people sometimes hurt good people.
And about how important it is to fight for the truth, even when it seems impossible. ”
“And about how you agreed to marry a stranger. ” Lise smiled. “We’ll say that sometimes you have to take a risk to find happiness, and that your father was very persuasive.
” Frederik leaned in and kissed her forehead. “I’m grateful every day that you took the chance. ”
“Me too. ” Three years after their first meeting on Store Torv, Lise published a book about her experience, “Rebuilding: A Story of Injustice, Love, and Second Chances.
” It became a bestseller and was used in courses on academic ethics at several universities. In the dedication, she wrote: “To Frederik, who taught me that happy endings are possible when you find someone willing to fight by your side. And to all those facing injustice: never give up on the truth. ” The royalties were donated to a foundation that helped people facing unjust academic persecution.
It was a way to ensure that others in similar situations had the resources to fight for their reputations. Allan, in turn, disappeared completely from the academic world. Rumor had it he had moved to Jutland and was working in a family business far from universities. None of his victims ever sought him out for confrontation or revenge.
The truth had been enough. Mikkel Christensen continued to work as a private detective, but specialized in cases of academic corruption. He said Lise’s case had opened his eyes to a much bigger problem in the Danish university system. One day, five years after their first meeting on Store Torv, Lise and Frederik took their two-year-old son to the same park where it all began.
The boy ran laughing between the benches, completely unaware of the dramatic story that had unfolded there years earlier. “Do you remember how you felt that day? ” Frederik asked, pointing to the bench where he had found her searching for food. “I remember,” Lise said, watching the boy play.
“I felt lost, hopeless, like my life was over. And now… now I know that sometimes life has to end completely to be able to start over in the right way. ” Frederik embraced her from behind and rested his chin on her shoulder.
“Thank you for accepting my crazy proposal that day. ”
“Thank you for making it. Even though it was selfish of you, thinking only about solving your inheritance problem. But you didn’t know you were also saving me.
” “Sometimes we do the right thing for the wrong reasons. And sometimes the right people meet at the most unlikely times. ” They stood there, watching their son play in the park, thinking about all the impossible coincidences that had led them to this moment. If Lise hadn’t lost everything, if Frederik hadn’t had the pressure of the inheritance, if Allan hadn’t been so ambitious, if Mikkel Christensen hadn’t been so competent, any change in this chain of events could have resulted in a completely different ending.
But all these things had happened exactly as they were supposed to happen, so they could find each other. “Do you believe in fate? ” Lise asked. “I believe in choices,” Frederik replied.
“I believe fate can put opportunities in our path, but it’s up to us to decide whether to take them. ”
“And do you think we took our opportunity well? ” Frederik looked at his son, his wife, the life they had built together from an absurd proposal on a square in central Aarhus. “I think we took it perfectly.
” That evening, as they put their son to bed, Lise found an old letter in a drawer: the first version of the contract Frederik had sketched for their original agreement. Six months of fake marriage in exchange for 500,000 Danish kroner. She showed the paper to Frederik. “Look what I found.
” He laughed when he saw his own handwriting, scribbled clauses about no physical intimacy and automatic divorce after the agreed period. “I should have had a lawyer draw this up properly,” he remarked. “Why? ”
“Because this contract has several loopholes that either of us could use to break the agreement.
”
“Such as? ”
“Such as here, where it says the marriage will only be a performance. It doesn’t specify what would happen if one of us fell in love for real. ” Lise smiled.
“A very convenient contract flaw. ”
“Extremely convenient. ” She tore the paper into small pieces. “Now there’s no longer any evidence that our marriage started as a business arrangement.
”
“You’re destroying important historical evidence. ”
“I’m making room for our true story. ” Frederik kissed her softly. “What is our true story?
”
“The story of two people who met at the right time in the right way and decided to build a life together based on love, respect, and mutual understanding. ”
“I like that version better. ”
“Me too. ” Years later, when they told their story to friends or family, they never mentioned the details of the original agreement.
They told of a chance meeting on a square, of a love at first sight that was a little atypical, and of how they had decided to marry quickly because they knew it was right. Technically, they weren’t lies. They were just simplified versions of a much more complex truth. Sometimes the deeper truth isn’t in the specific details of how something happened, but in what came out of those events.
And what came out of the impossible meeting between a desperate businessman and a desperate lecturer was a happy family, rebuilt careers, transformed lives, and proof that second chances can lead to even better endings than the first ones. Ten years later, when Frederik and Lise renewed their vows in an intimate ceremony with family and close friends, Robert raised a toast that perfectly summed up their journey. “To my grandson Frederik and my granddaughter-in-law Lise, who taught us that true love can arise under the most unlikely circumstances, grow under the most difficult conditions, and bloom more beautifully than any fairy tale. They proved that when two people are willing to fight together for truth, for justice, and for love, there is no obstacle they cannot overcome.
” All the guests applauded, but for Lise and Frederik, the most important words were the ones that didn’t need to be said aloud: that they had found in each other not just romantic partners, but true life partners. And as they left the celebration hand in hand under the stars of Aarhus, they both knew their story was just beginning. For the best happy endings aren’t the ones where everything ends perfectly, but the ones where everything is reborn even better.