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“I didn’t think I’d have to talk to you about this but, Phebe, this is something serious. I’m asking you to go on a dinner date with me.”
“We need to act as the perfect couple to the press and convince Mr. Lucas to agree to expand the charity to more nations,” he explains. I gape at him, wondering what is going on.
“Are you serious right now? You want me to pretend to be your fiancé? Have you forgotten how much you despise me?” I retort.
“You think I hate you? I wish I could,” he scoffs, leaving me frozen and confused.
“Listen, this is very important to me. I wouldn’t have asked you if it wasn’t,” he says, his eyes brimming with sincerity.
“I’m not sure about this, Jeffrey; I’m terrible at pretending.” I admit.
“I know that which is why you’re perfect for this. I’m ready to pay any amount for your help,” he says, and I gape at him in shock.
“Are you kidding me? You want to pay me?” I ask, anger flashing in my eyes, as I gape at him.
“I’m sorry if my words offended you. I just assumed I was asking for a big favor and a monetary compensation would convince you.”
“You assumed wrong. I don’t need your money,” I assert, and he nods in understanding.
“I apologize.”
“It’s fine,” I reply, trying to ease the tension. We sit in silence, watching each other.
“What do you say to my proposition?” He asks.
“Let me take some time to think about it,” I respond. He sighs, clearly disappointed.
“Okay. How long should I give you? The exhibition is tomorrow, and I need to meet with him,” he explains.
“I’ll give you my answer tonight,” I assure him.
“Thank you,” he says with a smile.
* * *
My heart starts racingas I stand in front of the grand entrance of the city’s renowned art museum, my eyes scanning the magnificent facade. Today is a special day—a date with Jeffrey, something I never thought possible. The flashes of cameras remind me that this is all just for show. The only reason why we are here is to put on a facade. I take a deep breath, nervously adjusting my dress. I’ve never been comfortable being the center of attention like this. Despite Jeffrey’s reassurance, I can’t shake the nervousness that creeps down my spine. Goosebumps form on my skin even under my coat. Why does the night have to be so chilly? Filled with anticipation, I watch as Jeffrey shuts the door and extends his hands with a smile.
I inhale deeply as I stare at his beautiful face. I’m sure he knows the effect of his charming smile on me. My heart skips a beat at the sight of him, his effortless confidence offering me some comfort.
“Are you okay?” He asks, frowning. The noise from the media personnel outside the art gallery fades as I focus solely on him.
“Sure,” I whisper with a smile, linking my arm with his. It’s a big mistake; the air rushes out of my lungs as I feel his strong arm around mine. Jeffrey is well-built as a god.
“If you change your mind, you can tell me. I’ll take you back home,” he says.
“What about the press?” I ask, glancing briefly in the direction of the press. It seems we are the center of attention. The only thing keeping them from hoarding us is the security personnel blocking their path.
“I’ll figure something out,” he assures me. I know it will take a lot of PR to repair the damage caused by Jeffrey’s date leaving before the annual art gallery show, especially since I’ve already announced my presence.
“No, I agreed to this. Besides, it’s only for tonight. I’ll be fine,” I tell him with a shy smile on my lips.
“Thank you, Phebe,” he says, and I nod.
I gasp when he leans closer and lightly kisses the corner of my lips. In that moment, everything else around fades away. The sweet tingling sensation from the kiss has me melting on the inside.
“Let’s go inside,” he says, but I barely hear him. The kiss left me in a state of shock, my head spinning. I can’t help but wonder what it would be like if he deepened the kiss, even if only for a moment. Trying to distract myself, I nervously adjust my dress as I enter the museum, my legs weak and feeble. I probably would have stumbled if Jeffrey wasn’t holding me. My heart won’t stop beating frantically.
As I step into the museum, my jaw drops in awe. It is breath-taking sight, with its grandeur and elegance. Ladies and Gentlemen are scattered around, taking in the beautiful views the museum has to offer.
