Emily's POV"I'm going to pick out a teddy bear for you," Liam said, his tone playful and mischievous. "And then you're going to pick one for me. If you don't like the one I pick, I lose. But if you like the one I pick, I win." I thought about his proposal for a moment, and then I nodded. "You're on." A smile was on my face. "This is going to be fun." And with that, we set off to find the perfect teddy bears for each other.I started looking through the shelves, searching for the perfect teddy bear for Liam. There were so many to choose from, but I wanted to find one that reflected his personality. Finally, I spotted the perfect one. It was a big, fluffy brown bear with a red bowtie around its neck. I knew it was the one. "I found the perfect one," I said, holding it up for Liam to see. "It's you, in teddy bear form." He laughed, and I could tell he was impressed. "That's pretty accurate."Liam studied the teddy bear for a moment, and then he turned to me, an impish grin on his fac
Emily's POVAs we drove closer to Ethan's apartment, I felt a sense of panic rising in my chest. I didn't want Liam to know where I lived, for some reason. So, when we reached a point close to Ethan's building, I decided to lie. "We've reached my destination." I pointed to a random apartment building. "Thank you for the ride." Liam got out of the car and came around to open the door for me. I wasn't expecting that, and it caught me off guard. I felt a flutter in my stomach as I stepped out of the car. I was grateful for the gesture, but I wasn't sure what to make of it. Was this a sign of something more, or was it just a friendly gesture? "Thank you for making my evening interesting," he said, his eyes meeting mine. I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks, and I looked away, trying to regain my composure. "It was my pleasure." My voice was a little unsteady. "It was nice to get out and do something fun for a change. I'm glad you enjoyed it." His voice was warm and sincere. "We shoul
Emily's POVI glanced at the clock and realized it was late. I knew I had to get up early to make breakfast for Ethan before he went to work, so I decided to call it a night. I put the flowers and note on my nightstand, next to my bed. I closed my eyes and tried to sleep, but my mind was racing with thoughts of Liam and what the future might hold. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't seem to settle my thoughts.I tried to clear my mind, to think of something else, but Liam's face kept popping up in my thoughts. I closed my eyes, but his smile lingered there, like a ghostly presence. I tried to focus on my breathing, but my mind kept wandering back to him. I wondered if he was thinking about me too, if he was lying awake, unable to sleep as well. I wondered if he was smiling too, thinking about me.I opened my eyes, my heart still racing from the thoughts of Liam. I sat up in bed, trying to calm myself down. I knew I needed to get some sleep, so I decided to do something that would help
"I didn't know you were awake I wanted to come upstairs to ask you what you would like for breakfast"Ethan's face remained serious, and his tone was unyielding. "So, since you didn't come upstairs to ask me, you must have decided on something for me. It doesn't matter what I want, you've already made your choice." "Yes, I decided to make Italian pasta. I hope you like it.""I've never had that before. But I'm always up for trying something new." I was taken aback by Ethan's behavior. It was so different from his usual demeanor, which was usually cold and distant. I couldn't help but wonder if something had happened that had put him in a good mood, or if this was just a fluke. Either way, I was glad to have the chance to talk to him. Even if the conversation was a bit awkward.The conversation was a bit awkward, but I was still surprised Ethan was engaging with me. I was trying to make the most of the opportunity. "There's a small issue." "What's that?" His expression was still
Emily's POVThe car ride was filled with an uncomfortable silence, and I wished that we would reach Ethan's house soon. I was grateful he had offered to bring me to the store, but I couldn't help but feel a little unsettled by the sudden change in his behavior. I wondered what had brought about the shift, and whether it would last. When we arrived at his house I was relieved. I carried the groceries inside, heading straight for the kitchen. I put the items away, avoiding any eye contact with Ethan. He was still silent, and I wasn't sure what to say to him. We both seemed to be avoiding any conversation, and the air was thick with tension. I couldn't help but feel anxious and uneasy.I was almost done putting the groceries away when I tripped on the rug and a few items fell to the floor. I scrambled to pick them up, but Ethan walked right past me without offering to help. I was taken aback by his lack of concern. Was he really that self-absorbed? I continued to put the groceries away,
Emily's POVMy frustration was growing by the second. I was already feeling stressed about work, and now he was adding to it with his demands. "I'll be leaving now." His tone was curt and demanding. "I want you to submit the PowerPoint I asked for, and I want you to be at work as early as possible." I wanted to snap back at him, but I bit my tongue. I didn't want to make the situation worse. I just wanted to get out of there and go to work."Okay, sir." I tried to sound as respectful as possible. I didn't want to make things worse by arguing with him. "Have a good day." He just grunted in response. I hurried upstairs, feeling a sense of relief as I closed the door to my bedroom. I took a deep breath and tried to relax. I poured some cold water on my face and neck, hoping it would help to calm my mind. I felt so stressed out after my interaction with Ethan. He was such a jerk, and I couldn't believe I had to deal with him every day at home and work. I took a few minutes to just br
Emily's POV"What about the girl you ran into?" I asked, wanting to know more about Sofia's condition."You mean Sofia?" I nodded. "Yeah, she's doing better. I went to visit her today, and I bought her some cupcakes," A smile was on his face. I couldn't help but feel a wave of relief wash over me, knowing that Sofia was doing better. "That's so nice of you." I was impressed by his thoughtfulness. "You are a good guy," I added, my voice full of admiration."Don't flatter me." "I'm serious.""You mentioned you were busy." "Yeah, I am," I admitted. "Don't worry, I'll let you get back to work," he gave me a knowing smile. "Thanks, I appreciate it." He gave me a quick wave and then turned to leave. I watched him go, feeling grateful for his kindness and generosity.I took a bite of doughnuts, savoring the sweet, fluffy goodness. As I ate, I couldn't help but feel warm and fuzzy inside, thinking about how kind and thoughtful Liam had been. He was such a sweetheart, always looking o
Emily's POVIt was lunchtime, and I was sitting at my desk, trying to regain my composure. Then, I heard the door open and saw Liam's smiling face in the doorway. But as soon as he saw my tear-streaked face, his smile disappeared. "What happened?" he asked, concern in his voice. I wanted to tell Liam everything, from how Williams had broken my heart to how I ended up in this position due to the proxy marriage. But I stopped myself, remembering Ethan's warning not to tell anyone about the arrangement. I felt torn between wanting to confide in Liam and wanting to obey Ethan's wishes. I didn't know what to do, and I just sat there, silent and unsure. Liam's concerned expression turned to confusion, and I knew I had to say something."My grandma is sick," I blurted out, not thinking about the consequences of my lie. I knew it was wrong to lie, but I didn't want to tell him the truth. I didn't want to look weak or vulnerable. As soon as the words left my mouth, I regretted them. But then
Ethan's POVI extended my hand, but Emily looked at it with confusion, her stubbornness radiating like a shield."Emily," I called softly.She snapped out of her reverie, her gaze focusing. Finally, she took my hand. Her palm felt incredibly soft, sending unexpected waves of comfort through me. I hated to admit it, but her touch soothed me."You're my wife.... for today." The words felt strange coming out of my mouth, but they were true.Emily's gaze dropped to my shoes, then met mine, her brown eyes locking onto mine. "That's what I'm being paid for," she said, her voice heavy with sorrow.I nodded silently, acknowledging the truth in her words. I felt bad for telling her that I was trying to create a conversation; I just couldn't say anything to alter what she just said. As painful as it was to her, that was the truth. I wanted to counter it, but no words could express it in a way I wouldn't show vulnerability.I had planned to drive myself, but occasions like this left me no choice
Ethan Smith In record time, she emerged from her room, radiant in a fitted blue sundress that accentuated every curve. I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. Had I been blind to her allure this whole time? The dress hugged her figure in all the right places, showcasing the soft swell of her hips and the gentle dip of her waist. My gaze lingered, tracing the contours of her body. How had I managed to overlook this stunning woman standing right before me? "OH. GOD!!" my mind screamed as if finally waking up to the reality of my feelings. In that instant, I yearned to feel her warm breath dance across my skin, her body melting into mine. The thought of her gentle touch sent shivers down my spine. I craved the softness of her hands, the whisper of her fingers intertwining with mine. Every cell in my body ached to be closer, to feel her radiating heat. Time stood still as I gazed at her, lost in the depths of her eyes. The world around us dissolved, leaving only the two of us
Emily's POV I walked away from him, my heart still racing from our brief moment together. The way he brushed away the biscuit crumbs, his fingers grazing my skin... I couldn't shake the feeling. I returned to my room, I couldn't shake off the memory of our encounter. My mind replayed the moment, scrutinizing every detail. "Ugh, Emily, what's wrong with you?" I muttered to myself, shaking my head. "You practically threw yourself at him." My cheeks flushed at the thought. I couldn't believe I'd been so forward, my lips parted, inviting him to kiss me. But he didn't. Instead, he coughed, breaking the spell. I felt like I'd been doused with cold water. Why did I do that? Was I that desperate for connection? I forced myself to focus, but my gaze kept drifting to the door, hoping he'd appear again. I smacked my hand against my forehead, feeling like an utter idiot. "He's your sister's husband, Emily! Get a grip!" I reprimanded myself, pacing back and forth. How could I b
Ethan's POV I paced back and forth in my room, frustration boiling over. Why did my mom always have to sabotage my plans? Her constant interference was suffocating. But I refused to let her win. "No," I muttered to myself, determination hardening my resolve. "I won't let her control me." Or would I? The familiar doubt crept in, undermining my confidence. I stopped pacing and faced my reflection in the mirror. My eyes flashed with defiance. "I'm done letting her dictate my life," I declared, the words echoing in my room. This time, I meant it. I stood there, a grown man torn apart by conflicting desires. My mother didn't get it - I couldn't bear the thought of spending more time with Emily. Yet, my heart yearned for her desperately. The contradiction was maddening. How could I simultaneously feel an intense attraction to Emily and an overwhelming need to escape her? Two emotions wrestled within me: longing and repulsion, desire and resistance. It was as if my heart and m
Emily's POV The sweet words spilled from his lips like honey - "You're important to me," "I care deeply for you" - but I saw right through them. They were empty reassurances, crafted to soothe my frazzled emotions. I searched his face, my gaze piercing, but his expression revealed nothing. Still, I knew better. He was pretending, feigning concern. Olivia's haunting words still echoed in my mind: "I'll be back soon, and you'll return." The memory sent a shiver down my spine. "No, you didn't do anything, Em." I stared at him, shock etched on my face. "Em" - he'd never called me that before. Why now? It was just another tactic, a feeble attempt to soften the blow before cutting me out of his life. Just like everyone else. His sudden familiarity grated, a painful reminder of what I was about to lose. The truth stung: I was disposable, a temporary convenience. Then why now? I thought the contract stated that Olivia returns before I leave beside his Mom said I must fulfill my o
Contract DissolvedEthan's POV I watched Emily head to her room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of protectiveness towards her. The pain in her eyes after that phone call had gutted me, and I knew I had to make today count. I wanted to tell her everything. I waited for her to get ready, and I steeled myself for the conversation ahead. I had to tell her the truth - that the proxy arrangement was over, that I couldn't keep pretending anymore. But it wasn't just about the arrangement; it was about my feelings. I was catching feelings for her, and I didn't like it. I didn't want to be vulnerable, didn't want to risk getting hurt. But I knew I had to be honest with her, and with myself. I took a deep breath, pushing aside the conflicting emotions swirling inside me. Time to end this charade and move on. She emerged from her room, dressed in black leggings and a cropped top, and for a moment, I saw her in a different light. The familiar contours of her face, the curve of her neck, see
Emily's POV I gazed up at Ethan, his words hung in the air like a gentle promise. "You're important to me, Emily." I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It was the last thing I thought possible - that I, a burden to everyone around me, could be important to someone like Ethan. His eyes, warm and sincere, held mine, and for a moment, I felt seen, truly seen, for the first time in what felt like an eternity. Time seemed to freeze, suspending us in a moment of electric tension. Our eyes locked, unblinking, as if the world around us had melted away. The air vibrated with unspoken emotions, our faces inches apart. It was as if the universe had pressed the pause button, trapping us in a cinematic tableau. The only sound was our synchronized breathing, the only movement was the fluttering of my heart. Ethan cleared his throat, shattering the spell that had held us captive. "Thanks for the coffee, Emily,' he said, his voice low and even, as if the tender moment we'd shared moments befo
Ethan's POV I gritted my teeth as Emily leaned into me, her body trembling with fear. The movie was intense, I'll give her that. But I didn't need her clinging to me like a lifeline. I tried to subtly shift away, but she only held on tighter. Her chest was pressed against my arm, and I could feel her warmth seeping into my skin. I hated it. I hated how my body reacted to her touch, how my mind started to wander to places it shouldn't. I focused on the screen, trying to distract myself from the sensation of her body against mine. But I could feel her gaze on me, sense her looking up at me with those big, scared eyes. I sighed inwardly, feeling like a jerk for not being more understanding. But I couldn't shake off the feeling that she was getting too close, that I needed to push her away before things got out of hand. "I'm Sorry" I couldn't help but notice the hint of disappointment in her voice, and I felt a pang of regret for not prolonging the moment. But I pushed it asid
Emily's POV After I was done eating, I quickly freshened up and got into an outfit for the movie night. I chose a comfortable yet stylish pair of dark wash skinny jeans, a soft white blouse with a relaxed fit, and a cozy black cardigan to layer over it. My hair was tied up in a messy bun, and I added a touch of subtle makeup to enhance my natural features. I slipped on a pair of black ankle boots, grabbed my small cross-body bag, and headed out to meet Ethan in the sitting room. As I entered the sitting room, Ethan looked up from his phone and smiled, his eyes scanning my outfit with approval. "You look great," he said, standing up from the couch. "Ready to head out?" I nodded, feeling a flutter in my chest as he approached me. He was dressed in a simple yet stylish outfit of his own - a pair of light blue jeans and a fitted white T-shirt that showcased his broad shoulders. We walked out of the house together, the evening air crisp and cool as we made our way to the car park.