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I close my eyes, inhaling the smell of his cologne. It has woodsy undertones with just a hint of citrus. I commit the smell to memory, realizing this will be the last time I’ll be this close to him. And for reasons I can't quite grasp given our history, that thought makes me the slightest bit sad.
***
The evening sun casts a warm glow through the windows of my apartment, bathing the room in hues of orange and gold. I'm engrossed in a novel, turning the pages with each breath of anticipation. The characters, the plot, and the escapism offer a welcome reprieve from the demands of reality. It's a luxury I seldom indulge in, given the demands of my doctoral program.
The dance with Jackson still swirls in my mind. I never thought one night with him could have any effect on me, yet I relive our dance daily. But it’s over now, and I need to move on. He got a fake fiancée for the night. I’ll get my recommendation. That’s where it ends.
As I turn another page, a gentle knock on the door pulls me from my fictional realm. I put the book on a side table and make my way to the entrance. The door creaks open, and Jackson stands in front of me with Kennedy at his side.
"Hey, Brinn," Jackson greets me with a casual smile. "Mind if we come in?"
I gesture for them to enter, my curiosity piqued. They step into the apartment. Kennedy gives me his usual warm greeting. “Wonderful to see you, as always, Miss Parker.”
“You, too. What brings you both here?" I ask, closing the door behind them.
Jackson sneaks a glance at Kennedy before turning his attention back to me. "We've got something important to discuss. Trevor's baby shower is coming up."
I raise an eyebrow. "Trevor's wife is having a baby?"
"Yes. The family is hosting a baby shower for them. We’re all expected to be there. The Reeds love their parties."
The mention of family sends a pang through me, a reminder that the complexities of Jackson's life extend far beyond the facade of our fake engagement.
"Why are you telling me?"
Jackson hesitates. Kennedy shifts his weight from one foot to the other. They're both stalling.
Jackson finally continues. "My parents want to see you again. It's a family event, so of course as my fiancée, you would be present.”
“Fake fiancée,” I correct him. “And that’s over. The retirement party was last weekend."
A surge of frustration courses through me. This was supposed to be a one-time charade, a temporary alliance for the sake of appearances. Now, the prospect of attending another family event triggers a tornado of feelings inside me, ones I can’t let myself feel. I don’t like what this is doing to me.
"I'mnotyour actual fiancée." My voice comes out more assertive than intended. “I thought you were supposed to talk to your grandfather and fix the situation.”
Jackson sighs, his eyes reflecting a blend of understanding and a hint of remorse. "I know, Brinn. I tried. I really did. But he left for LA the morning after the party. He’s been unavailable all week.”
He sits on the couch, considering his words. “I don’t even want to go. Being around Trevor is not something I enjoy. But my family dynamics are complicated. This is important to my parents. They are all about supporting your family, even Trevor.” He chuckles.
I understand what he’s saying. Being around the Reeds for just one night showed me how much they care about everyone.
I rub my hands on my face. Jackson's world is entangled with layers of complexity.
"I didn't sign up for an ongoing commitment. What makes this a necessity?" I press.
"This event is huge for the family business. People will be watching. It's not just about the baby shower. It's about showcasing a united front. We need to reassure our clients that family values will continue to be at the forefront of the firm, even with my grandfather stepping down.”
Jackson hangs his head. This is clearly having an effect on him too.
Kennedy takes over, trying to help like always. “If Jackson shows up without you, it will reflect poorly on him. Trevor is married and now adding a baby, reflecting Shieldify values. We don’t want clients to push for Trevor as CEO based purely on his family makeup.”
He rubs his chin, considering his words. “The bottom line is without you by Jackson’s side, Trevor will know your engagement was fake. He already seems suspicious. He will tell everyone Jackson’s a fraud, destroying his chances of taking over the company.”
I shake my head in disbelief. "I can't believe I'm being dragged into family drama. This is not what I agreed to."
Jackson looks up at me, sincerity in his eyes. "I totally understand, Brinn. I wouldn't ask if it weren't necessary. I promise this will be the last time."
I contemplate the weight of his request. This is more distraction from my goals. More complications into my already busy schedule. "What's in it for me?"
