Page 32 of The Substitute Fiancée

“That was perfect!” Emelyne shouts. “Damn, girls, I’ve got chills! These photos are going to be incredible!”

Mara checks the videos on her phone.

“All good. The footage is flawless,” she confirms.

“In that case, we can head out,” David concludes.

Oliver says nothing, but his gaze flicks between Alexander and me, worried.

Alexander steps a few paces away, as if to put distance between us, suddenly aware of what just happened.

Unease spreads through me.

Does he regret it?

When his phone rings, he looks at the screen and his expression freezes.

His eyes lift to mine before he answers.

“Good evening, Kristel.”

11. Dans le Noir

Alexander

I’m still shaken by the kiss I just shared with Sam.

My lips are still burning from her touch.

For a moment, I forgot where I was, and who was watching us. There was only her and me. Her breath against my mouth. Her body pressed against mine. That small moan she let slip, the one that almost made me lose all control.

It was supposed to be for the photos.

A staged kiss.

But damn it—there was nothing professional about the way she melted into me. About the way she kissed me as if she wanted me.

Do I really want to examine what she stirs up inside me?

No.

I’m not ready.

Not when my life is falling apart. Not when I’ve just discovered Kristel’s betrayal. Not when I’m broken and don’t even know who I am anymore.

I step away a few paces, pretending to check something on my phone. In reality, I need space. Distance. To think. To breathe.

When my phone rings, I glance at the screen automatically.

Kristel.

My stomach knots. My jaw tightens.

I hesitate for a second before answering, and despite myself, I look for Sam’s gaze before picking up.

She’s watching me, eyes wide with worry. Emelyne whispers something in her ear, but she isn’t listening. Her attention is completely fixed on me.

“Good evening, Kristel.”