“What about Finn?” Evelyn asked me.“What about Finn, what?” I asked, confused and startled.“Tell him to be your pretend boyfriend, he will play the role better" Evelyn proposed.“What?” I exclaimed; my heart heavy on the weight and glimpse of what it’ll be.“What?? Finn is our boss” I didn't wanna cross the boundary“And he is your friend, the two of you are pretty much closer than just friends and I’m sure he’ll wanna do this for you”“We are just friends, we are not pretty much intimate whatsoever” I murmured.“Well, the major reason I said he will play the role of a pretend boyfriend better is because he loves you” Evelyn added.“Ugh!” I scoffed and rolled my eyes.“Listen Rita, I see no better alternative and I cannot watch you continue to get worked up when there’s already a solution” She said and I forced a smile because she truly cared.“Thank you Evelyn” I got on my foot.“I should go meet Finn now, what do you think?”“Yeah, Go right now, he’s less busy” She encouraged, gent
Rita’s POVI didn't inform Zane that I have found someone to substitute him, Finn, my CEO, the one whom he so much detest. Instead, Zane believed that I must have canceled the meeting with my parents.However, Canceling the meeting seemed even more suspicious because my mom will continue pestering the hell outta me to show them my partner and they might eventually find out themselves that I've got no physical partner. Therefore, to avoid all these further dramas, I'll take Finn home to clear the air once and for all and when next they wanna meet Finn, I'll announce to them that we’ve broke up and we’ve gone separate ways and I'm now with Zane. What a brilliant idea!I ignored Zane’s messages to make plans ahead with Finn the night before the D-day.“Hello Finn”“Hello Rita” He sounded sleepy.“I’m sorry for disrupting your sleep”“Uhmmmn”“Okay so, since we are having a dinner at my parent’s place, I think you should come over to pick me up at my place tomorrow evening firstly” I sugg
RitaI looked behind me, only to see Finn.He just alighted from his car and walked towards us with a fruit basket and a bouquet.He wore suit with dart stripes, surprisingly matching the colour of my gown. He had styled his black jet hair which looked kinda glossy, perfecting his chiseled face and the stubbled neatly trimmed shaped beard at the bottom of his face.His deep-set hazel eyes sparkled, drawing me in yet I refrained myself from drooling besides, I was still shocked and surprised to see him.“Good evening ma’am, sir” He greeted parents, bowing his head respectfully.“We’re late, aren't we?” He asked, throwing his hand over my neck while I kept gazing at him.“Late? Not at all, you both arrive just in time” My mom beamed.“Come on in, come in” My Dad paved the way for us as he motioned us to the dinning room.“This is for you both” Finn said, dropping the basket of fruits on the table right in front of them.“Oh wow, just wow. You are such a sweet gentleman” My mom praised hi
Rita’s POVIt was when I felt I have had enough; I withdrew my lips from his.The air was heavy with unspoken words, it was as if time had frozen, while we stood there, staring at each other, caught in the aftermath of the passionate encounter, unsure of what to say or do next.The kiss was just a temporary escape from reality, and as for me, it was a fleeting moment of bliss; a taste of what it could be.Now I’ve returned to my right senses and I felt embarrassed immediately reality crashed back in, reminding me of the complexities that lay between us. Yet I wanted to hold on or continue where we left off but our connection waned.The passion that had burned so brightly moments ago began to fade, as it was replaced by a lingering awkwardness.I cleared my throat awkwardly and avoided eye contact with him as I moved away.I opened the door, leaving him in the kitchen but he soon came after me.“Rita, your room is still very much vacant and available” My mom beckoned, smiling widely as
Rita’s POVWe left my parents’ place the following morning haven had breakfast with them. My lovely mother had packed a lot of dishes for Finn and I because Finn enjoyed it.We deserve an accolade for pulling up a great act that my parents didn’t suspect something wrong. But now, they love Finn so much and I’ll break their heart when I bring home another man, next time; anyways till then.“It was really really stressful right?” I broke the awkward silence in the car.“It’s worthwhile” He replied and I smiled.“Your parents are very nice and sweet” He remarked.“Thank you” I said.“You can have all the dishes by the way as an extra thanks for coming” I added and he nodded..“You know what I really want Rita” He said, taking his gazes off the steering and stared at me romantically instead.I gasped; “Finn, you promised we won’t be discussing this issue again, I have told you times without number, I cannot … we cannot …”“Hey! Calm down, come on Rita, chill; I’m talking about the date. L
RITAAfter I have mustered up energy, while having enough rest, I picked up my phone to respond to Zane’s messages.Thus;“Hello Zane, I am very sorry for going awol suddenly, I have been busy all day long. I had another appointment after the meeting with Janet Johnson and unexpectedly, business called crashed in during the weekend and it’s been very tiring” I read it aloud while I typed it. Lies creates more lies they say and that’s true. I sighed deeply and waited for him to read the messages soon but when he didn't, I called him.“Hi Zane” I spoke solemnly (filled with guilt) into the phone as soon as he picked up the call.“Rita!” He mentioned my name with an opposite tone.I puffed out heavily and I'm sure he heard it.“I know no matter what I say would not justify the reason for doing it, you can call it a flimsy excuse” I paused; “But I already sent you a message”“I forgive you” He suddenly uttered even when he was yet to listen to my excuses, the lies upon lies.“I know you
Rita’s POV“Hello beautiful” He smiled widely.“Hi” I replied, I didn’t know why I also beamed though. It was as if I was happy to see him.Unexpectedly, he hugged me.We have never exchanged pleasantries this way. I know it’s normal to greet people by embracing them. I have hugged Adam and few other male colleagues but hugging Finn felt a little strange - different.“You look ravishing!” He complimented and my cheeks reddened.“So come with me” He curved his elbow, I interlocked my arm with his and he led me to his car, helped me sit comfortably before he moved on to the driver’s seat.Somehow, it was beginning to look like we were couple and I felt like I was cheating on Zane but just this once please. Finn and I had a deal, a deal is a deal. Though, I enjoyed every interactions I have had with Finn and I really wanted to have this date with him. Through the corner of my eyes, I noticed he stole glances at me via the rear mirror. I tried as much not to blush but I couldn’t.We arriv
Rita’s POV My hands trembled as I managed to slide to the receiver. “Hello Zane, I…I.. I am…so..sorry. I… I… forgot to reach out to you after the shower and that’s so..so bad of me” I apologized, stuttering without hearing from him first. “No honey, I am the one who is sorry. I slept off not quite long, and I'm still very much sleepy. I don't know how to let you know that I don't think we can chat tonight. I'm very sorry for ruining our plans” He said. “Oh!” I mouthed, relieved. “I’m sorry” He repeated. “Err.. No problem. It’s actually fine. I feel tired and not in the mood to talk at length too. I also didn't know how to tell you especially after what I have done lately!” Lies and more lies! “Good night to you and sweet dreams” I wished. “Sweet dreams” He repeated and hung up the call. I took a deep breathe in and exhaled them all out, feeling completely relieved now. I picked up my phone and switched it off instantly to avoid any more calls that could make me panic. I pract
FINALE“We find love in unexpected places, trust me” Rita remarked after she and children had just finished watching a love movie."Oh wow, so that's how you met dad, in an unexpected place?” The sharp little boy who was named, Anthony blurted.Rita laughed softly as she snuggled deeper into the couch cushions, her kids perched on either side of her. "Indeed it was, my darling angels. Your father and I met at the same place of work” She briefly told them.The little boy furrowed his brow, still struggling to comprehend how his parents' love story began in such a mundane."Actually, we met before we met" Rita said, even making things more complicated for the children."Mom, I'm still having trouble picturing this," the little girl named Lily, who looked like her mom chipped in. "What kind of workplace was it? How do you mean you met him before you met him? What does that even mean?” She questioned."And how did you two even start talking?" Anthony added.The little children questioned
Epilogue 5:As Rita drifted off to sleep, a smile still lingering on her lips. Finn stood in front of the bassinet, gazing down at the two tiny bundles of joy. He reached out and gently ran his finger along the little boy’s cheeks, marveling at the softness of his skin, the delicate curve of his nose. He did the same for the little girl, admiring her dainty fingers and her rosebud lips; she looked like her mom while the baby boy looked like the father, Finn.He carried the little boy since he was awake and playful. He held their son in his arms and sat on the rocking chair next to Rita’s bed. He gazed down at the tiny baby, his heart bursting with love and wonder.All of Finn's previous doubts and fears about fatherhood had melted away, replaced by a fierce, all-consuming love for his children. He couldn't wait to watch them grow and develop, to be a part of their lives every step of the way. As he rocked his son gently, Finn thought about all the things he wanted to teach his child
EPILOGUE 4:Rita climbed the bed, wrapping her hands around her husband and resting her head on his chest as though she was meant to be there. Finn, on the other hand draped an arm around her stomach, gently touching her big baby bump.For a while, they remained in this position, a comfortable silence descending over them. Finn was never this quiet in bed. Was something bothering him?“What's wrong with you Finn?” Rita asked.Finn sighed heavily after staring at her for a while. Without uttering a word, he leaned into her to claim her lips but she pulled away.“What's bothering you Finn?” She asked again, her voice came out soft, laced with concern.For a moment, he was quiet but then, he spoke."Nothing," Finn replied with a weak smile. "I'm just a bit nervous about becoming a father. I mean, what if I'm not good enough? What if I mess up?"Rita laughed softly. "You're already the best husband and friend anyone could ask for. I have no doubt you'll be an incredible dad too. And remem
Epilogue 3:A few months had passed since Madison and Alex's engagement at Finn and Rita's gender reveal party, and now it was time for their wedding day. The sun shone brightly as Madison walked down the aisle towards her soon-to-be husband, looking radiant in her beautiful white gown.Alex waited at the altar, beaming with joy and anticipation as he watched his bride approach. He thought back to the day they met, and how he'd fallen in love with her from that moment on.As Madison reached the altar, she took Alex's hand in hers, and together they turned to face the officiant. The ceremony began with a heartfelt exchange of vows, each expressing their undying love and commitment to one another.As they exchanged rings, the crowd burst into cheers and applause, their love for the newlyweds evident in their smiles and tears.The party was in full swing, with guests dancing and celebrating, their happiness for the newlyweds filling the air. Not only did the newlyweds shared their first
Epilogue 2:As everyone was sitting around the patio, Rita stood up and announced, "Finn and I have something to share with you all." The guests turned their attention to her, curious about what she was about to say.As the applause died down, Finn stood up next to Rita, beaming with pride. He looked around at their family and friends and said, "We're so happy to announce that we're expecting a new addition to our family.”With a grin on Rita's face, she lifted up her shirt to reveal a small but noticeable baby bump. “we're just so thrilled to be able to share this news with you all.”Evelyn suspended whatever she was doing and ran to embrace her best friend. The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, congratulating the couple on their exciting news. Everyone began to chat excitedly, asking questions about the baby's due date, whether they knew the gender yet, and what the baby's name might be.“I and my husband has just scanned the baby, we are yet to check but then, we pleased and
Epilogue 1Ding Dong Ding! The church bells began to ring, signaling the start of Finn and Rita's wedding ceremony. A sense of excitement filled the air. Rita, dressed in a stunning white gown, was surrounded by her bridesmaids, included Evelyn, her few close friends and few nieces, all of whom were helping her to look her best. And Finn, in a sleek black tuxedo, stood at the altar, eagerly awaiting the arrival of his bride.Suddenly, the church doors opened, and everyone turned to see Rita begin her walk down the aisle.Finn walked to meet her on her way to the aisle, interlink his arms with hers and walked together with her.Everyone turned to watch the couple walk down the aisle.The priest continued with the ceremony, his voice booming throughout the church."Finn, do you take Rita to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"Finn, his voice filled
“So since you resigned, do you stay at home all day, doing nothing?”“Yeah, I already sent my application letter to some companies and I just hope one of them accepts me” Rita yawned.“Hmmn, I'm sorry about everything that happened to you” Evelyn said empathically.“Thank you Evelyn, I'm back to square one now”“Since you are searching for another job, are you as well considering moving on because you lost both a relationship and a job” Evelyn began to tease.“No Evelyn. I am done with love” Rita rolled her eyes.“Done with love? What the heck is that?”“Do not provoke me Evelyn!!” She warned by pointing a finger at her, reminding her of those days she badly wanted me to be in relationship and then Love messed me up.“Fine, at least you need to forgive Finn and get this grudge off your chest” Evelyn urged her.“And then the next minute, my nudes will be flying around the internet.. while his’ not there”“No such thing is gonna happen because Finn took them down already”“What?”“I mea
Tears rolled down Rita’s eyes and she kept on replaying the memories with Zane, comparing it with that of Finn and the fact that they turned out to be the same person was now glaring. Even when she tried to push the thought aside, she just couldn't. Why did Finn play games with her? Did he truly love her? Same Finn was Jared too.She had sent her resignation letter to his email and he had called and called. He had also been here, knocking and knocking on the door but she wouldn't open the door for him.She read their conversation over again on Kikachat and scrolled through the gossip/gist feed, thinking she’ll just bump into some of her nude pictures since Charles had said he would release it soon. While she was at it, the application suddenly began to glitch and malfunction and then, it finally crashed. Kikachat was no more.***“I did it! I did it finally!!” Alex announced, screaming.“You did it?”“Yeah, not only did I wipe the pictures, I took down the application”“Oh My God!”
“Finn is Zane”“What..what did you say? What? How can Zane be Finn? Can you even listen to yourself?” Rita shook her head continuously.“Finn himself will explain to you better”“You mean Charles is the nternet god, the popular founder of Kikachat?” Evelyn asked to confirm.“And Zane Is Finn?” I uttered unbelievably.“Remember I told you Zane and I are buddies at college, I recongised him the first day he stepped into his office. He told me what he was up to and wanted me to play along and that's why I was always concerned about your complicated relationship with Zane and with Finn because they are the same person…” Before Adam finished explaining, Rita stood up and dashed out of the restaurant quickly.****“Charles security is pretty tight” Alexander said as he battled with his laptop while Finn stood impatiently behind him.“Are you sure you don't need my help? I can help you get his laptop, passport, his signature or some of his important documents” Finn said.“No, I don't need an