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Shaking off the lingering doubt, I grab my keys and head out of the hotel room. The fresh morning air greets me as I make my way to my car.
Heart racing with anticipation, I drive to Lily’s house. We won’t be living together until our engagement is official, but being seen together will only strengthen the illusion of our relationship.
Pulling up to her driveway, I take a moment to collect myself. This is it — the beginning of a whole new chapter for us both. I check my appearance in the rearview mirror, making sure I look presentable enough for our first public outing as a couple.
“Okay, let’s do this,” I mutter under my breath before stepping out of the car.
I walk up to Lily’s front door, finding myself strangely nervous. Even though we’ve been friends for years, there’s something different about today. Maybe it’s the significance of our plan or the fear of the unknown. Whatever it is, I need to get myself together. I can’t afford any room for errors.
“Morning!” Lily greets me with a warm smile as she opens the door.
I nearly trip over my feet at how beautiful she looks — vibrant and full of life in a flowing sundress.
How does she manage to look like a supermodel no matter what she has on?
“Morning, Lily,” I reply, my voice slightly shaky. “Ready to go house hunting?”
“Absolutely.” She smiles at me as she strides down the porch steps.
As we drive through the city, the streets come alive with movement and color. I steal glances at Lily, taking in the excitement on her face. It’s contagious, and I find myself grinning as well.
Arriving at the rental property, we’re both taken aback by its beauty. The lavish house overlooks the bay, offering a breathtaking view and privacy from a large fence around the back and side yards. We step out of the car, and the realtor greets us with a warm smile.
“Welcome! I’m Carla.” She shakes my hand.
“Glad to meet you,” I say. “Thanks so much for getting this arranged despite the short notice. This is my girlfriend, Lily.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Carla doesn’t bat an eye at my calling Lily my girlfriend, but the words make my stomach feel off. “Let me show you around this stunning home.”
The interior is just as exquisite as the exterior — high ceilings, ornate furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in ample light. As we walk through the rooms, I can already imagine the freedom this place will offer me. Here, far away from the prying eyes of my parents, I can finally live life on my own terms.
“Isn’t this view incredible?” Lily exclaims, gazing out at the bay. “I can see why you were drawn to this place.”
I can’t stop my smile; I’m that glad that she’s impressed by the spot.
We continue our tour, Carla highlighting the unique features of each room. With the basement garage, no one will be able to see who comes in and out of the house.
Which will be perfect for when I want to have female guests over — something I’ll do completely out of sight, of course.
As we wrap up the tour, I sense an opportunity to slip my arm around Lily’s waist. It’s time to start playing the part of a couple in love, and what better way than with a simple, affectionate gesture?
“Could you tell us more about the neighborhood?” I ask Carla, drawing her attention as my hand finds its place on Lily’s waist.
“Of course,” she replies, oblivious to my ulterior motive. “This area is quite upscale, with plenty of amenities nearby. There are parks, shops, and restaurants within walking distance, so you’ll never be bored.”
I nod, but my focus isn’t on her words. Instead, it’s on the electric thrill that rushes through me when I touch Lily. It’s a sensation I wasn’t prepared for, one that leaves me wanting more. But I force myself to let go, reminding myself that getting too attached would jeopardize our plan — and my own freedom.
“Sounds perfect,” Lily chimes in, her voice bright and cheerful.
She doesn’t seem to have noticed my internal struggle, which is a relief. The last thing I need is for her to think I’m losing control over this arrangement.
“Thank you for your time today,” I tell Carla as we make our way to the front door. “We’ll be in touch soon.”
“Take all the time you need,” she says, smiling warmly. “And if you have any questions, feel free to call.”
As we get into my car, my phone starts blowing up. Texts, calls and other notifications flood in at an alarming rate. It seems that Enrique has done his job well; our “relationship” is now plastered all over the tabloids and social media, and all my friends are sending me the articles and posts, asking me if I’m really dating Lily.
“Wow, news travels fast.” Lily glances at my phone screen. “People must be really excited about our… situation.”
