Ethan's POV I stamped my feet in frustration, feeling like a child again, trapped in a web of family expectations and obligations. "Why does it always have to be like this?!" I muttered to myself, frustration boiling over. I was getting fed up with all this. I felt like I was living in a never-ending drama, with my mom pulling the strings and me dancing to her tune. I took a deep breath, trying to calm down, but my anger and resentment lingered, refusing to be extinguished I knew I had no choice but to go along with my mom's plan. I had to find a way to ask Emily to pretend to be my wife, even though we had only attended a dinner together once before, and she had been there as my assistant. I was worried that asking her to play along with this charade would be awkward, but I had no other options. As I walked into the hotel apartment, I couldn't ignore the rumbling protests from my stomach. I had been so caught up in the evening's events that I had forgotten to eat dinner! I he
Ethan's POV The uncomfortable truth hit me like a ton of bricks. Maybe I was indeed sugarcoating my words to spare her feelings. In reality, Emily wasn't someone who particularly stood out to me, neither positively nor negatively. She was, as I thought to myself, simply average. But in that moment, I realized that my honesty, or lack thereof, wasn't what mattered. What mattered was that Emily was hurting, and she needed someone to acknowledge her pain, even if I didn't truly believe she was "amazing". I took a deep breath, deciding to focus on being present for her, rather than trying to convince her of something she didn't believe herself. My eyes scanned the room, desperate for a way to rescue our conversation from the awkward abyss. And then, I spotted it - a tiny opening to pry open the door to understanding. "Why do you think there's a chance your mom, boyfriend, and best friend just don't...get it?" My voice was a gentle probe, trying to coax her into sharing her thought
Ethan's POV I carried the food to the dining table and headed back to the room where Emily was still sitting, looking vulnerable and hurt. I didn't feel like continuing our intense conversation, but I couldn't just ignore her either. She had been pouring her heart out to me, and it would be a jerk move to just walk away. So, I took a deep breath, trying to muster up some empathy, and sat down beside her, hoping we could find a way to move forward, even if it was just a silent meal together. The silence was suffocating, so I tried to break it with a lighthearted comment. "Hey, I'm starving! I ordered dinner, want to join me?" But she just shook her head, her eyes still red from crying. I persisted. "Come on, you should eat something, you look weak." She gazed into my eyes, her hands extended, asking for my help to get up from the bed. I gently lifted her, supporting her frail body as we walked to the dining table together, the tension between us palpable but also, somehow
Ethan's POV I stepped out of the hotel apartment and into the warm night, my emotions in disarray. I wandered, lost in a sea of thoughts and feelings, as the hotel lights blurred together around me. The sounds of laughter and music filled the air but only served to heighten my sense of isolation. I felt like a ghost, invisible and alone, without purpose or direction. My mind raced with memories of Ava's words, and her rejection, leaving me wondering what I had done wrong and what I could have done differently. Ava's betrayal had shattered me to the core, leaving my heart in pieces and my entire existence in ruins. It wasn't just a romantic relationship that had ended; it felt like my whole world had come crashing down. Every memory, every dream, every hope I had tied to her was now tainted with pain and sorrow. The heartbreak was all-consuming, leaving me feeling lost. To the outside world, I was a paragon of perfection, always excelling and achieving. But behind the mask of confid
Ethan's POV Shall we get started? I asked Emily My eyes never leaving hers. She nodded, her eyes never leaving mine, and together we navigated the crowded room. I could feel the weight of their gaze on me, sense the unspoken questions lingering in the air. I knew they were curious about my motives. But I wasn't ready to reveal my hand just yet. As we made our way through the throng of people, I couldn't help but notice the way Emily moved with grace and precision, her eyes scanning the room with a quiet intensity. We finally reached the main stage, where the symposium's keynote speaker was holding court. I took my place at the podium, my eyes locking onto the crowd as I began to speak. My words were met with a sea of nodding heads and thoughtful expressions, but I knew that the real challenge lay ahead. As I finished my speech and the crowd erupted into applause, I turned to Emily, my eyes searching for a glimmer of understanding. And for a moment, I thought I saw it - a fli
Emily's POV As I stood there, surrounded by the opulence of the hotel apartment, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. Ethan's embrace had been a balm to my frazzled nerves, his words of encouragement a soothing salve to my battered soul. I pulled back, my eyes locking onto his, and for a moment, I saw something there that gave me hope. It was a glimmer of understanding, a spark of connection that went beyond mere employer and employee. "Thank you, Ethan," I whispered, my voice barely audible. " He nodded, his eyes never leaving mine, and I felt a sense of safety in his presence. It was a strange feeling, one that I couldn't quite explain, but it was there nonetheless. As we stood there, the tension between us was palpable. I could feel the weight of his gaze, the intensity of his stare, and it made my heart race. "Maybe you should resign as my assistant," Ethan said, his voice neutral. I felt a pang in my heart, and my mind raced. I nodded. "Maybe a break would be
Emily's POV "Maybe I'll join you after I whip up dinner." I tried to sound casual despite the tension between us. Ethan's expression remained unyielding. "You don't have to bother, the cooks are resuming their duties today." "Okay, sir." we went our separate ways, the distance between us felt like an unresolved question hanging in the air. The conversation was stilted and awkward, with Ethan's curt responses and formal address making me feel like an outsider. The tension between us was palpable, and I couldn't help but wonder what was driving his distant behavior. The exchange felt like a forced dance, with both of us moving through the motions but lacking any real connection or warmth. As we parted ways, I was left with a lingering sense of discomfort and unease. As I entered my room, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. I collapsed onto the bed, surrendering to the exhaustion that had been building up. Despite my initial resistance to returning, I was secretly r
Emily's POV "Pretend wife." Ethan clarified, a sly grin spreading across his face, his eyes crinkling at the corners. The tension in my chest eased slightly, replaced by a mix of relief and curiosity. "Just for the evening, of course." He added, his voice dripping with charm, as he awaited my response to his unconventional request. "Oh, okay." I replied, trying to sound nonchalant despite the flutter in my chest, as I focused on adding a sprinkle of spices to my noodles, the aroma wafting up to fill the air. "I'll play along." I added, my eyes darting up to meet Ethan's, a hint of a smile playing on my lips, as I wondered what I was getting myself into. "I'm sorry if this is an inconvenience." Ethan said, his expression turning serious, his eyes locked on mine. " To be honest, that's why I had to ask you to stay with me after the proxy marriage - so my family members would believe I have a wife by my side." His words hung in the air, a reminder of the elabora
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.