Chapter 1

JAZZLYN stood in front of the vanity mirror in Camille’s luxurious bedroom. She looked at her reflection with a mix of dread and disbelief. Her best friend Camille was busy applying foundation to her face, dabbing a concealer over her every blemish.

“I really don't want to do this, Camille,” Jazzlyn muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. “This is too risky. What if your dad finds out?”

A playful grin curving Camille’s lips. “Just do your best to make sure the guy doesn't fall for you. That's the whole plan, remember?”

Jazzlyn sighed, she wanted to avoid her reflection in the mirror. Even with Camille’s makeup skill, she could still see the imperfection. Her fingers grazed over her cheeks where a cluster of pimples refused to disappear no matter the treatment. Jazzlyn couldn't help but lose confidence when Camille was standing beside her, who always looked flawlessly beautiful.

Camille took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. “Stop it, Jazz, you're beautiful. Just let me work on this makeup, okay? I’ll make sure that no one will see anything but the gorgeous you.”

Jazzlyn managed a small smile but deep inside, she was really nervous. They were classmates in college, Jazzlyn was a scholar and a top student, while Camille from a wealthy family. They clicked immediately when they first met. Despite being from one of the richest families in the world, Camille had never let it affect their friendship. Camille never flaunted her wealth, and Jazzlyn admire that about her. They had been inseparable since then.

“Tell me who's that guy you're into that you have to decline this blind date?”

A dreamy look crossed Camille’s face. “I don't know his name yet, but I’ll find him. I just need a little time which is why I need you to go for me tonight.”

“I feel ridiculous,” Jazzlyn mambled. “What if he won't buy this plan? What if this guy already knows you?”

“I can assure you he won’t,” Camille said with confidence. “Just stick to the plan, okay? One dinner. Smile, nod and keep things light. Tomorrow you can get back to being yourself. Simple, right?” She nudged Jazzlyn playfully.

Before Jazzlyn could respond, Camille handed her a black elegant dress. Jazzlyn was hesitant first but finally slipped to it. Camille adjusted the dress to make sure it's perfectly presentable.

“You looked great, Jazz!”

Jazzlyn turned and faced the mirror. She felt she was about to step into a world she didn't belong.

***

JAZZLYN entered the luxurious restaurant and she spotted her blind date sitting at a corner table. Her legs suddenly felt weak as she recognized that man. It was Kevin Alvarez—the CFO of Alpha Holdings Group. Her boss!

Kevin was incredibly handsome. His dark hair was perfectly styled, and the tailored black suit showed off his broad shoulders, fitting him like a second skin. His deep brown eyes were warm, giving him an intense look that only made him more attractive.

Jazzlyn had a huge crush on him since she started to work at Alpha Holdings a year ago. She never got a chance to see Kevin smiling at her—until now. Everything was different. He was smiling at her for this blind date.

Her heart pounded with excitement and fear flooding over her. What if he recognized her? Her palms grew sweaty as he approached him hoping her disguise would hold.

Kevin stood up when she reached the table, his eyes lighting up as he looked at her. “You must be Camille Huffman?” he asked with a smile.

“Y-Yes I-I am. I’m Camille Huffman,” she responded nervously.

Kevin was captivated, his warm gaze locked on her. And for a moment, Jazzlyn felt her heart skip realizing he was more handsome up close. “I didn't know Camille Huffman could be so stunning,” he said, pulling the chair for her. “Have a seat.”

Jazzlyn froze as his words hit her. It was the first time other than her father and her best friend had ever called her beautiful. Coming from Kevin, it felt completely different.

“T-Thank you,” she said smilingly and sat on a chair. She let herself enjoy the feeling that someone like Kevin might actually see her as beautiful.

The feeling faded instantly as she remembered that she was supposed to turn him down because that was the plan. But as she looked at Kevin, she knew this wasn't easy.

They started talking, and before Jazzlyn knew it, they were discussing favorite foods, places, likes and dislikes. She found herself nodding the whole time, agreeing with everything he said. She also remembered all these little details about him at work.

“This date is amazing. And this has been one of the best dates I’ve had in a long time,” he said. “How about we keep it going? Let's grab a drink at a bar nearby.”

Jazzlyn became tense but she was trying to stay calm. She needed to end this date, but his smile was melting her. “Uh, I’m not sure,” she said. “I’m supposed to head home soon and I need to wake up early tomorrow.”

Kevin raised his eyebrow, teasingly. “Just one drink? It doesn't have to be a late night. Besides, I can't let such a fun date end this quickly.”

Jazzlyn hesitated. She knew she should say no, but his confidence, his charm was overwhelming. She couldn't shake the feeling that maybe she should let herself enjoy this for a little while.

“Alright,” she finally agreed. “Just one drink.”

Kevin’s smile brightened. “Great!”