ed hands of Ethan's PR team. Every smile, every touch, every look was choreographed to perfection. Yet, despite the whirlwind of pre

a deep emerald green, hugging her figure in all the right places. Her hair was swept into an intricate updo, and diamonds sparkle

her thoughts. "Come in," she called,

His eyes scanned her from head to toe, a flicker

y, turning to face him. "You

, offering his ar

she slipped her hand into the crook

ed out the window, the city lights blurring into streaks of col

was swarming with paparazzi, their cameras flashing like a swarm of f

it, her fingers trembling slightly as she stepped onto the red ca

urmured, his voi

arm as they made their way down the carpet, stopping occasionally to pose for pho

el! How does it feel to be new

tlessly charming. "We're very happy. I

or the happy coupl

ogether," Maya chimed in, her voice ste

nt of her performance. They continued inside, the noi

rs and elegantly dressed guests. Waiters circulated with trays

than's people-wealthy, powerful, and confident. She felt like a f

ofile guests were already seated. He introduced her with pract

ime family friend," Ethan said, gesturing

you, Mr. Wentworth," Maya

" Charles replied, shaking her hand fir

Ethan hadn't spoken of her at all, as far a

l tension easing as she navigated the conversations with surprisin

eaned in, his voice low. "You're doing wel

surance. "Thank you. It's not as t

hed in amusement.

m the table, guiding Maya toward the exit. The ride

ef, sinking onto the plush couch in the living room. Ethan poured

l tonight," he said, hand

a sip. "I was nervous, but it

into a chair opposite her. "The public appea

ing in her eyes. "Does it ever get

lightly. "It can be. But it's

ight of his words. "I suppose I'l

ly. "And you won't have to do it

t. Their arrangement was unconventional, but in moments like t

, she could find her footing in this new life. For now, she would take it one s