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Behind the smile
Last Updated:
2025-01-20 16:06:40
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Pretend to be mine The facade crumbles
“No, Avon, everyone here is great,” Lucia said, her voice laced with sarcasm. “The women are all so warm and welcoming, sharing their stories of how they, too, had their brief moment in the sun with the charming Avon. I can tell by the way they look at me, with that mix of camaraderie and pity, that they know exactly what I’m in for. And the men? Oh, they’re just fascinated by me, eager to see what makes me worthy of your attention. It’s like they think they can learn something from me, or maybe even swoop in and claim me for themselves once you’re done with me.” Avon’s expression turned serious, his eyes narrowing as he studied her face. “Lucia, what’s going on? You seem upset.” Lucia shrugged, trying to brush off the tension. “I’m fine, really. Just a little overwhelmed, I guess. It’s a lot to take in, meeting all these new people and trying to keep up with the conversations.” But Avon wasn’t buying it. He took a step closer to her, his voice low and gentle. “Lucia, I know you b
Last Updated : 2025-01-21Pretend to be mine Fractured silence
She thought about telling him that she’d stay, that she could get a ride home later, and also that he could go fuck himself.But her political training hadn’t completely deserted her; not even this much sangria would allow her to let all of these people know her business. So instead, she gave everyone in the group hugs good-bye amid false promises of getting drinks “the next time she was in town” and followed Avon to his car.Avon had stayed in Dorothy’s bedroom for a while after Lucia had fled. He’d wanted to run after her, to tell her no, she’d gotten it all wrong, that wasn’t how he felt. But he’d already made a mess of this conversation, so he figured he should maybe wait and try again when they got home after the party and could really talk.But then he got the call from the hospital and had to run outside and grab her in a hurry. He’d thought about asking Lucas to drive her home, but after basically accusing Lucas of hitting on her, he wasn’t in the best position to ask Lucas fo
Last Updated : 2025-01-21Pretend to be mine Shattered
Avon tightened his arms around her and kissed her neck, her hair, the side of her face. After a few seconds, he felt her relax. He reached up and stroked her hair.“Lucia, please. Please, can we talk?”She turned in his arms and rested her head against his chest but didn’t say anything.“I’m sorry about what I said earlier. I got frustrated, and I didn’t mean it. Please, forgive me, sweetheart?”Her face was hidden in his chest, so at first, he only heard her irregular breathing and didn’t realize the cause. But when he reached down to stroke her face and tilt it up toward his, he felt the tears on her face.“Oh no, Lucia . Oh, please no, don’t cry.” He kissed her forehead and pulled her closer to his chest, but she only cried harder.“I can’t do this, Avon.” He could barely understand her through her sobs. “This is too . . . It hurts too much. We can’t do this anymore.”“No!” He hoped that he’d heard her wrong, but he knew that wasn’t the case. “No, that’s not . . . Please don’t do t
Last Updated : 2025-01-22Pretend to be mine Picking up the pieces
Diana checked her watch for what felt like the hundredth time, tapping her foot impatiently on the pavement. She was waiting at the curb outside the airport, scanning the crowds of people streaming out of the terminal for a glimpse of lucia’s familiar smile.As she waited, Lucia’s mind wandered back to their last conversation. Lucia had sounded distant, preoccupied, and Diana couldn't shake the feeling that something was bothering her friend.Just as Diana was starting to worry that Lucia’s flight had been delayed, she spotted a familiar figure emerging from the crowd. Lucia looked tired but relieved as she made her way towards Diana, towing a small suitcase behind her.Diana grinned, feeling a surge of excitement and affection as she opened her arms for a hug. "Hey, girl!" she exclaimed, squeezing Lucia tightly. "Welcome back!"Diana took a long look at her face when she got in the passenger seat.“First: are we going to your house or my house?”Lucia considered as Diana drove out of
Last Updated : 2025-01-23Pretend to be mine Absence and anger
Did that stop him? No, of course not.“Come on, man. You have a fight? It was bound to happen eventually. Tell Dr. Lucas about it. I’ll get you all fixed up.”Avon stared blankly at the stack of files on his desk, his mind a million miles away. It had been two days since Lucia had left his house, and he couldn't shake the feeling of emptiness that had settled in his chest.He missed her.He missed her bright smile, her infectious laugh, and her sharp wit. He missed the way she always knew how to make him feel better, the way she always challenged him to be his best self.But most of all, he missed the way she made him feel. Like he was home. Like he was exactly where he was meant to be.He couldn't believe Lucia had just left like that. Without a word. Just...gone.Avon's anger simmered just below the surface, threatening to boil over at any moment. He was pissed at Lucia for leaving, pissed at himself for letting her go, and pissed at the world for not cooperating.He stood up, pacin
Last Updated : 2025-01-23Pretend to be mine A night with lucas
After work Avon went home and changed into his running clothes. He ran on the beach for ten miles, trying to exhaust himself so much he didn’t think about Lucia, and how he should be on a plane to go see her at that very moment. It didn’t work.The shameful thing was that he’d already bought a ticket to fly up there that weekend. He’d bought it the day before she flew in for the July weekend, and he hadn’t canceled it yet. He kept thinking he’d hear from her; he’d feel his phone vibrate in his pocket and it would be a text from her. She’d say she was wrong to leave, she’d missed the hell out of him all week just like he’d missed her. And then he would fly up there this weekend, and . . . but that hadn’t happened.So he’d canceled his flight right before leaving the office, and now he was even grumpier than he’d been all week. Now it truly felt over.He climbed up the stairs to his apartment after his run, hot and sweaty and irritable, but no longer in the kind of mood where he would
Last Updated : 2025-01-25Pretend to be mine Facing fears
Avon closed his eyes. He pictured Lucia laughing up at him in the elevator, Lucia dancing with him at the wedding, Lucia smiling at him from their pilfered towel at the Park, Lucia eating tacos on his couch, Lucia frowning at her computer screen, oblivious to him, Lucia whispering “coffee” in his ear early in the morning, Lucia pulling his head down onto her shoulder when he’d flown to her side, lucia tucked inside the curve of his arms in his bed.Avon still sat down, his mind racing with thoughts of Lucia. It had been weeks since she'd left, and he couldn't shake the feeling of emptiness that had settled in his chest.He felt himself being pulled into a dream world where Lucia was waiting for him. In his dream, they were back in his beach house, standing on the edge of the ocean. The sun was setting, casting a warm golden light over the waves.Lucia turned to him, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. "I've missed you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.Avon's hear
Last Updated : 2025-01-25Pretend to be mine A path forward
Lucia’s body shook with sobs as she confronted the pain of her past. She wiped her tears with the hem of her tank top, her eyes fixed on Olivia."I'm so sorry, Carolyn ," Lucia whispered, her voice cracking. "I've regretted my actions for years, but I've been too ashamed to apologize."Carolyn’s expression softened, her eyes brimming with compassion. "Lulu, you've been there for me during my toughest moments," she said gently. "Like when I needed help moving out of that awful apartment in New York after the breakup."Lucia’s guilt resurfaced, but Carolyn’s words offered a glimmer of hope. "I know I wasn't perfect, Carolyn ," Lucia admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I hurt you, and I'm deeply sorry. This program was my attempt to make amends, but I realize now that I needed to apologize in person, regardless of the outcome."Carolyn’s face reflected a mix of sadness and understanding. "I appreciate your honesty, Lulu," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "Your apology me
Last Updated : 2025-01-26
Latest chapter
Pretend to be mine Epilogue
Asher had long since moved out, starting his own family with his beautiful wife, Sophia. Ellie, now a stunning young woman, had grown into her own, spreading her wings and exploring the world.As the seasons changed, Avon and Lucia found themselves surrounded by the next generation of their family. Asher and Sophia's kids, Ava and Ethan, were the apples of their grandparents' eyes. And Ellie, well, Ellie was busy making her own dreams come true.“Look at you,” Avon said as he walked through the door.“Hi, Dad.” Ellie smiled as she turned around and looked at him. He took in a deep breath as he shook his head. “You’re so beautiful, Ellie, You look just like your mother did on our wedding day. Where did the years go? My little princess is all grown up and getting married,” He said as his eyes started to swell with tears.“Daddy, don’t. You’re going to make my mascara run and then mom will kill you.”“You’re right, and we can’t have that.” He smiled.“I can’t believe I’m getting marrie
Pretend to be mine All grown up
Few years later….. Asher, now a handsome and confident 18-years- old, stood tall at 6’1” with broad shoulders, chiseled features and a bright, charming smile. His once-messy brown hair was now styled neatly, framing his bright blue eyes that sparkled. He stood by the door way with a suitcase in his hand. Lucia couldn't help but feel a lump form in her throat as she looked at her son. How had time flown by so quickly? It seemed like just yesterday she was changing his diapers and singing him lullabies. Avon put a reassuring arm around her shoulders. “Hey, its okay,” he whispered. “He's going to do great things. We're so proud of him.” Lucia nodded, trying to hold back tears. “I know, I just can't believe he's leaving us already.” Asher smiled, his eyes shining with excitement. “I'll be back, mom. I promise. And I'll stay in touch.” Ellie, who had been quietly observing the scene, suddenly piped up. “I'm going to miss you, Asher! Who's going to play with me now?” Asher chu
Pretend to be mine A night out
Lucia was busy getting the kids ready for bed when Avon walked into the house, a smile on his face."Hey, beautiful," he said, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "I've got some news. Dr. Smith from work is having a party this weekend and he's invited us."Lucia's eyes lit up. "That sounds like fun! What's the occasion?"Avon shrugged. "I'm not sure, but I think it's just a general get-together. He's renting out a private room at a restaurant downtown."Lucia nodded, already thinking about what she would wear. "That sounds great. I could use a night out."Avon grinned. "I'll make sure to get a babysitter for the kids. We can make it a date night."Lucia smiled, feeling a flutter in her chest. She loved spending time with Avon, and a night out without the kids sounded like the perfect way to recharge.The day of the party arrived, and Lucia spent hours getting ready. She curled her hair, put on a new dress, and did her makeup. Avon whistled when he saw her, making her blush."You look stun
Pretend to be mine New Year’s Day
The New Year’s Day sun streamed into Lucia’s cozy living room, painting golden stripes across the floor. Avon, Lucia’s husband, was already up, his hands busy making pancakes. The kitchen buzzed with happy chaos. Six children – two of Lucia’s and four of her sister Susan’s and Carolyn’s – tumbled over each other, giggling. Their shrieks of laughter mingled with the sizzle of the pancakes and the clinking of mugs. Eight year Lily, Susan’s eldest, was carefully arranging tiny plastic reindeer on the windowsill. Her younger brother, six-year-old Tom, was attempting, with limited success, to build a tower out of pancake batter. Baby Ellie , was gurgling contentedly, clutching a bright red ball. Across the room, Carolyn’s children, ten-year-old Chloe, seven-year-old Ben, and Asher were engaged in a boisterous game of hide-and-seek. Susan herself bustled into the kitchen, her cheeks flushed with the cold morning air. Behind her trailed her husband,carrying a large,decorated cake. Carolyn
Pretend to be mine Merry Christmas
Five months later… Baby Ellie had been born. Avon took his family to dinner. Christmas fast approaching and Asher was excited to see Santa Claus. They sat in the restaurant, waiting for their food. Asher was sitting next to Avon, and Ellie in her stroller close to Lucia. Asher was coloring a picture. Asher kept looking at the group of men who were at the next table. They kept looking over at Avon. Avon noticed them looking at Lucia , but he didn’t say anything. The waitress walked over and set our their food down in front of them. “Asher, eat your food,” Avon said. “I will, Daddy, don’t worry,” he responded as he kept looking at the table next to them. Avon knew those men were staring at my his wife. After Lucia has Ellie. She got more attractive and her skin was glowing more than usual. Avon had a problem with those men. But he'd toned it down, and he didn’t embarrass Lucia as much. Out of the clear blue, Asher looked at Lucia. “Mom, those men keep staring at us and that’s ru
Pretend to be mine A medical Trip
Avon walked into the living room, where Lucia was sitting on the couch, reading a book. Asher was playing with his toys on the floor, and Lucia’s belly was noticeably rounded with their unborn baby. “Hey beautiful,” Avon said, giving Lucia a kiss on the cheek. “ I need to talk to you about something.” Lucia looked up from her book curious. “What is it?” Avon sat beside her. “I’ve been invited to attend a medical conference in Chicago with some other doctors, including Dr. Kim. It’s a great opportunity, but you have to be careful. You’ll be traveling with other doctors, but you still need to watch other for yourself. Avon smiled, reassuring her. “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine. I’ll be with a group of doctors, and we’ll be staying at a hotel in the city. I’ll be perfectly safe.” Lucia nodded, seeming to relax a bit. “ okay just promise me you’ll be careful .” Avon promised, then turned the conversation to Lucia. “How are you feeling ? Will you be okay taking care of Asher and …?” He g
Pretend to be mine Diana's big day
Three months later…. The sun was shining brightly on the day of Diana's wedding. Lucia was bustling around, making sure everything was perfect for her bestfriend's special day. She had been looking forward to this moment for months, and she couldn't wait to see her friend walk down the aisle and marry the love of her life. Avon was helping Martins get ready, making sure his tie was straight and his shoes were polished. Asher, who was now able to walk, was running around. The area faced the breathtaking sunset. At the end of each seated aisle, scented candles hung from naked tree branches. Spread down the aisle was white leaves, as far as the eyes could see, slightly moist so they wouldn’t crack when you stepped on them. Diana had a small group of close family and friends dressed in beach attire for comfort. On either side of the aisle, they sat in white chairs set up for them on the sand. Just then, Diana appeared , looking stunning in her white wedding dress. Lucia's eye
Pretend to be mine Asher is one
It was Asher's first birthday and party. Lucia and had spent the last two months planning for his birthday. Lucia worked from home and occasionally went into the office. Caterers had been in and out of the house all day, preparing for Ashers party. He had just started walking and took his first steps. His first word was “dada” and Lucia was not happy with that. All around the house were balloons that were hanging everywhere, Avon walked up to Asher's room, where Lucia was getting him ready for the party. The minute he saw Avon, he said, “Dada” and smiled. As soon as Lucia put on his dress on him, Asher walked over to Avon and hugged his legs. “Can you keep an eye on him while I go and get ready?” Lucia asked. “Of course I can,” Avon said as he picked up Asher. Avon took him out of the room and went downstairs. He smiled and pointed when he saw the balloons. “Those are for you,” he said as he kissed his cheek. Asher looked at Avon and then screamed to hold one. Avon
Pretend to be mine The proposal
“I’m so sorry. Please tell me you forgive me,” he begged as he buried his face deep into Lucia's neck. “I forgive you, but we need to talk,” she said. “I know, and I’ll do anything to make things right. I love you, and I missed you so much.” Lucia broke their embrace and placed her hands on his face. “I missed you too,” age said as she kissed him. “Come sit down and have some coffee and the hangover cocktail I just made.” “You know I hate that stuff.” “I know you do, but it works and you have to be feeling pretty lousy right now.” “I am,” he said as he rubbed his head. Lucia picked up the glass with the cocktail in it and sat down on his lap. He wrapped his arms around her and as she brought the glass to his lips. “Drink.” she smiled. He looked at her, made a face, and took a sip as she tilted the glass. He took it from her hand and chugged it down as fast as he could, then placed the glass on the counter. “Where’s our baby?” he asked. “He’s at my mom's with Dian
