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
Emily's POV Ethan flashed a triumphant smile as he took control of the stove, his movements fluid and assured. I watched, mesmerized, as he expertly cooked the noodles, his hands moving with a precision that belied his earlier claim of culinary ineptness. The air between us seemed to sizzle with tension, and I found myself drawn to him, my gaze lingering on the sharp angle of his jaw, the way his hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck. As he worked, he glanced up at me, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that made my heart skip a beat. "Almost done." His voice was low and husky, sending shivers down my spine. "Maybe we should take some wine while we wait for the noodles to cook." Ethan suggested, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Bring out some cups from the cupboard, would you?" He asked, already heading towards the wine rack. I nodded, my heart racing at the prospect of sharing a quiet moment with him. As I retrieved the cups, I could
Emily's POV "Maybe it's my turn to pick a nice suit for you how about that?" I pointed to the male collection full of expensive suits. Ethan's eyes widened in surprise, and a hint of a smile played on his lips. "You want to pick out a suit for me?" His voice was tinged with amusement. I nodded, feeling a sense of mischief. "Yes, why not? You've been dictating my wardrobe choices all day. It's my turn to return the favor." Ethan chuckled, his eyes sparkling with delight. "Alright, Mrs. Smith. I'm in your hands." He gestured to the male collection, and I began browsing through the racks, running my fingers over the expensive fabrics. "Hmm, let's see...what would suit you best?" I muttered to myself, scanning the options. Ethan watched me with an air of anticipation, his eyes never leaving mine. I finally settled on a sleek black tuxedo, complete with a crisp white shirt and a black bow tie. "Try it on." I handed him the outfit. Ethan raised an eyebrow but o
Emily's POV "Head out?" I asked, confusion etched on my face, my mind racing with thoughts. But before I could press for more information, Ethan's smile grew wider, and he said. "Remember, I said I had a gift for you?" His eyes sparkled with excitement, and I felt my curiosity piqued. "What is it?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. Ethan chuckled, his smile still radiant. "All in good time." His voice was low and mysterious. "Let's just say it's something I think you'll enjoy." He set the tray down on the bedside table, his movements are fluid and graceful. "Finish your breakfast, and we'll be on our way." I nodded, my mind whirling with possibilities. What could the surprise be? And where were we going? I couldn't wait to find out. As Ethan left the room, I couldn't help but pinch myself to see if I was dreaming. Was this happening? Ethan had just brought me breakfast in bed, and now he was taking me on a surprise adventure. I felt like I was floatin
Emily's POV: As I lifted the lid of the box, I was taken aback by the beautiful silver necklace, adorned with a small crystal pendant that sparkled like a diamond. But that wasn't all - nestled beside the necklace lay a small, leather-bound book, its cover embossed with the title "You Are Beautiful" in elegant, cursive script. I felt a lump form in my throat as I picked up the book, running my fingers over the soft cover. "Ethan, this is...wow." My voice was barely above a whisper. Ethan smiled, his eyes shining with warmth. "I saw the book and thought of you, the words inside resonated with me, and I wanted to share them with you. You are beautiful, inside and out." I opened the book, and a piece of paper slipped out, carrying a handwritten note: "To a woman who radiates light and joy, may these words remind you of your beauty and worth. -E" Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as I looked up at Ethan, feeling a deep connection to this kind, thoughtful man. Was th
Emily's POV: "Mind if we meet tonight?" Liam asked, his voice low and inviting. "Yes, I would." I need to get out and get some fresh air to clear my mind. I was all over the place emotionally. "Okay, I'll come pick you up at the usual spot?" "Yes." I felt a flutter in my chest. "See you, Miss Clumsy." He teased. I rolled my eyes, laughing despite myself. "Hey, that's not fair!" I protested, but he just chuckled and hung up the phone. I was left staring at the screen, my heart racing with anticipation. What would tonight bring? Hanging out with Liam was better, I thought to myself. Maybe if my affection towards him grew, I would be able to forget about Ethan. At least Liam was gentle and kind, and I was sure he loved me for who I was. Unlike Ethan, who seemed to take pleasure in toying with my emotions. As I got ready for our meeting, I couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, I could learn to love Liam the way I deserved to be loved. And
Emily POV: "You're right, it's family issues rather." I lied to conceal another lie, and Ethan saw right through me. He gave me a piercing stare, his expression calm and collected. "I can manage that." His voice was laced with a hint of skepticism, and I knew I was in trouble. He didn't believe my deception, and I knew he would dig until he uncovered the truth. "Would you mind sharing, or are you in a hurry to meet your friend?" His facial expression was suspicious when he said 'friend', and I couldn't help but wonder if he knew who I was secretly meeting. "I'm not in a hurry, but the issue is confidential." I tried to sound calm despite my racing thoughts. The way Ethan said 'friend' still lingered in my mind, his tone and expression hinting at a deeper understanding. I felt like he could see right through me like he knew the truth I was desperate to keep hidden. "Have fun with your... friend." Ethan's voice trailed off, leaving the word hanging in the air like a
Emily's POV: "But anyway, prepare your singing voice." He added, and with that, I could guess where we were headed. Karaoke. My heart sank, and I felt a wave of nervousness wash over me. I was not exactly the next American Idol. "Is it a karaoke?" I tried to sound casual despite my growing unease. "Maybe, prepare your singing voice." A small smile played on his face. That was all the confirmation I needed. We were going to a karaoke place. I could feel my anxiety spiking at the thought of singing in front of people. "Maybe you should be the one to prepare your voice, I'm always ready." I feigned a smirk, hoping to hide my true feelings. "Oh?" His eyes sparkled with amusement. "You would be so surprised." He added with a small laugh. "Little information, I was part of the choristers in church back then." He continued. "Really?" A small smile appeared on my face. "Yes, Little Liam, with a suit every Sunday, with that bass voice..." We both burst o