CHAPTER 5: A CONTRACT OF ILLUSIONS

A thick packet of legal terminology was sent by a courier with discreet efficiency and arrived later that day. While sitting on a broken couch with some hot tea, Ava felt tense as she read aloud from one side of the page. This voluminous document was filled with clauses and sub-clauses that were designed to intimidate. Ava's artistic talents were overshadowed by her practical nature. She carefully analyzed every paragraph, pinpointing crucial points, and clarified any confusion by making numerous phone calls to a friend who works as an attorney.

Damien had fulfilled his commitments. They were so generous, bordering on luxury in terms of their finances. A struggling artist's dream came true with a monthly allowance that was much higher than her previous income, access to upscale studios in prestigious art districts, and seemingly unlimited supplies. Yet, a nagging unease lingered. Neither a donation nor a stipend; this was an exchange for her part in ill-advised deception.

Their fake engagement was clearly marked as "performance" in the contract. The intention behind public appearances, joint interviews, and staged "romantic" outings is to create the impression of a whirlwind romance. It contained guidelines for maintaining a consistent narrative, avoiding controversial statements, and upholding 'good public image.' It felt more like a reenactment of the Civil War than a relationship. Why the fuss?

Ava wrestled with conflicting emotions. Appreciation for the financial support, elation towards the opportunities this agreement provided, and growing anxiety about the act she was taking. She was aware that she was participating in a perilous game with potential for significant financial gain. The choice between evicting, borrowing money from her creditors, or facing the immense burden of her financial obligations was not an option.

She signed the contract with a flourish, blending disobedience and resignation. She was entering a world of opportunity and influence, where the rules were altered and the stakes were more significant.

A new sleek black car arrived the next morning to take her to Damien's penthouse. Wearing a well-chosen vintage dress that blended elegance with hints of bohemian chic, Ava experienced heightened emotions. This was the first time they had a public performance as if they were actually posed as an actual couple.

With his usual impassive mask on, Damien welcomed her at the door. At home, his appearance was more authoritative, and the opulent penthouse conveyed an impression of wealth and authority. The setting had a minimalistic, almost sterile feel, featuring clean lines, neutral hues, and an exceptional assortment of contemporary artwork that appeared to be investments rather than adornments.

His voice was a cool baritone, and he said, Punctual, I see. A commendable trait Miss Rossi.

Despite feeling butterflies in her stomach, Ava remained composed and said, "I believe it's important to be professional."

Then he pointed to the living room, where they were treated to a breakfast spread something like that of a five-star hotel. Having been accustomed to having just a quick coffee and stale bread while on the run, Ava felt both amused and angry. This was so different from her own world that even breakfast was a very finely tuned performance.

Their eating was accompanied by silence, with only the sound of silverware hitting china being heard. With a keen observation of Damien's eye contact, Ava hardly ever felt surrounded by the self-consciousness. She was accustomed to the relaxed lifestyle of the art scene, where garments were stained with paint and discussions on creative expression sparked intense arguments. In this moment, every movement, every phrase felt loaded with significance, representing a possible blunder in the complex choreography they were preparing to execute.

After her breakfast, Damien led her to a cozy study adorned with shelves of leather-bound volumes and displayed accolades. He pointed to a group of armchairs that looked at a fireplace.

"Shall we talk about the terms of our engagement?" he stated, his tone allowing for no debate

With a nod, Ava prepared for the conversation ahead. She recognized that the issue at hand was not love or romance but rather a business transaction that required her to be specific about its terms and conditions.

According to Damien's voice, it is crucial to establish a consistent narrative first.

"First and foremost," Damien said, his voice firm, "we need to establish a consistent narrative. We were introduced at the event, fell in love instantly, and have been dating since then. The paparazzi photo only intensified our anticipation of going public."

Ava raised an eyebrow. "A whirlwind romance? Isn't that a bit cliché?"

Damien's lips twitched with a hint of amusement. "Clichés sell, Miss Rossi. The media loves a good fairytale."

Ava sighed. He was right, of course. They needed a story that was more sensational to draw everyone's attention away from the initial scandal.

"Very well," she muttered. "It's a whirlwind romance then."

"But what about the details? Our initial outing, our mutual fondness for each other, and so o"n.

"

"We'll need to create a backstory, a believable history that we can both adhere to. The artistic aspects will remain with you, Miss Rossi. Your imagination is bound to amaze me."

There was a rush of both delight and irritation for Ava. She was given the freedom to shape her own version of their fabricated bond. Even with the challenge, she was determined to see it through.

"I will exert all my efforts, but don't be astonished if our romance has some unforeseen twists," she remarked, her tone tinged with a touch of playfulness

Damien's smile widened. "I look forward to it, Miss Rossi. Just remember, the goal is to be convincing. We need to sell this to the public, to the media, and most importantly, to my investors."

Ava's smile lit up as Damien expressed his anticipation. It's important to be resolute. The key to selling this is in front of the public, media, and his investors.

Ava nodded, understanding the stakes. It wasn't merely a game but extremely high-stakes and possibly life-changing.

In just an hour, they discussed the details of their fabricated romance, crafted a believable narrative of occurrences, and set guidelines for public displays of affection. By utilizing her artistic talents and keen observation skills, Ava was able to excel at role-playing. It was unexpected. Her narrative portrayed an intense yet intimate love affair and courtship that occurred in the middle of Damien's hectic schedule and her own artistic pursuits.

Damien, on the other hand, was a rapid learner, adapting to his role as the lover of her dreams with remarkable ease. He gave close attention to Ava's advice, sharing his own experiences and ensuring that their narrative remained true and convincin"g.

Damien stood up as the meeting drew to a close, his towering form casting swooning across the room. His voice returned to its professional tone: "I believe we've made good progress, Miss Rossi. I'll have my PR team prepare a press release announcing our engagement.

"We'll have to arrange a photo session and several interviews in the next few days."

Ava experienced a mix of anticipation and anxiety rising within her as she agreed. However, the game had started, and she never thought it could get better than this.