“My best friend, Evelyn, and Amber.” I’ll be calling Amber as soon as I leave here. I can already picture her wide-eyed shock, followed by questions and then approval.
I watch him, waiting for a reaction, but he just nods again, his face unreadable.
“Okay,” he replies. “Also, you’ll have to come to dinners and events with me, act like a couple, and we need to live together.”
I nod, trying to keep my composure, even though my stomach does a little flip. Luckily, Evelyn mentioned the possibility of us living together, so at least I've had time to consider that option. But her saying it versus him saying it sends blood rushing to my ears. This isn’t just paperwork and bank transfers. It’s a complete temporary life change.
“And nicknames might help.”
I blink, surprised by his suggestion. “Nicknames?”
He shrugs, looking at me with a small smirk. “Yeah. Something to make it feel more real.” His smile widens just a touch. “Maybe something fun. I can come up with something.”
And even though I came here with the idea that this is a transaction between us, I worry what all this proximity will do to us… Or should I say, do to me. But it’s also more than that. I could lose my independence and possibly even the house. Leaving me both heartbroken and humiliated.
My hands tremble, and I hide them under the desk. The air in the room seems too thick to breathe properly; the walls closing in. I’m trying to hold it together, but I need some fresh air.
“Is that all?”
“Yes, my dear fiancée,” he says, his lips curling into a playful grin. “Tomorrow, I’ll pick you up. We’ll pick out wedding rings and head to Vegas.”
I nod, forcing a smile. My heart pounds with a strange mix of excitement and apprehension. For him, this is all effortless, like breathing. But me? I’m stepping into a world I’m not sure I belong in. But I’ll play the part… Whatever it takes to get that house.
My rule for this trip? No drinking. I can’t afford to lose control with him…again.
Chapter 10
Oliver
Ireviewtheproposalfor an upcoming auction piece on my computer. I’m picky about what I choose… Originality, inclusivity, and texture matter to me. Some have thick, bold brushstrokes; others are smooth and flat but still pull me in. It’s not just about how it looks. It’s about how it makes me feel.
My desk phone rings. “Cora?” I say when I answer.
“Ray is on the phone,” she explains.
I sit up straighter. “Thanks. Transfer him now.”
“Mr. Lincoln,” his young voice greets me quietly.
“Ray, do you have some good news for me?”
There’s only one reason he’d be calling.
“I have a new painting from the anonymous artist.”
I glance at my Rolex. I’ve been distracted and unable to focus since Karley left. “I’ll be there shortly.”
I hang up and finish reviewing the proposal before heading over to Cora’s desk. “Hi, I need a few things done urgently.”
“Yes, sir,” she replies, turning her full attention to me.
“I’ll be at The Lincoln School of Art to pick up a painting. And this weekend, I’m heading to Vegas.” I’m really doing this. Rushing into a fake marriage, which, until recently, was only a hopeful plan.
Her eyes widen, curiosity etched on her face. “You are?”
I clear my throat. “I’m getting married this weekend.”
Her hands freeze over her keyboard. She stares at me, mouth parted, clearly stunned. “Married? This weekend?” She shakes her head slightly. “Mr. Lincoln, I’ve managed your calendar for years, and I didn’t know you were seeing anyone seriously.”
