Chapter 8

Naomi’s POV

I was just beginning to adjust into the reality of my new life as Mrs. Raymond, If I was going to be a pretend wife, it would be much easier if I would be bathed in this luxury. 

Raymond had spoiled me with a mountain of designer clothes, bags, purses, jewelry, and shoes. I couldn’t help but run my fingers over the soft fabrics and admire the sparkling gemstones. 

Every piece made me feel more special.

As I stood there, trying to decide what to wear, my mind was full of thoughts about my goals for that evening. I needed an outfit that was stunning enough to impress my “in-laws” and sexy enough to make Raymond fall for me. 

After looking through everything, I finally settled on a sleek blue dinner gown. It hugged my curves just right—simple, yet powerful. Wearing it, I felt confident and beautiful. My hair was brushed into a simple bun,almost like I had styled this morning but this time, accessories. 

A diamond necklace sat on my neck. Was it too much for dinner? Certainly not when I was meeting the family for the first time - my family. 

Five maids were assigned to me, and they bustled around like busy bees to get me ready for dinner. They did my hair, ran a warm bath for me, and helped me slip into my gown. I couldn’t help but wonder where Raymond was, though. He was nowhere to be seen, and it felt odd not having him around as I got all dressed up.

I needed dinner to be over quickly so I could reach out to Mildred. I was going to see her tomorrow and let her understand that my job is far from home and I can only visit during the weekend.

 “Soon enough, I headed toward the dinner table, my heart pounding with excitement. I was ready to make an entrance that nobody would forget.

And make one I did. The moment I stepped in, all eyes turned my way. I could see the surprise on everyone’s face. Raymond’s eyes lit up as he took me in from head to toe, and I could tell he was pleased, Even my “in-laws” seemed puzzled, wondering who this bold guest could be.

I walked confidently toward Raymond’s seat with my head held high. He stood up and pulled out a chair for me, and I couldn’t help but smile, feeling very pleased with myself. In that moment, I felt powerful and ready for whatever the night would bring.

Raymond's POV 

Erica’s entrance was just... perfect. If she’d looked gorgeous that morning during the interview, now, in that blue dress, she was knocked-out amazing. 

She’d chosen wisely—flattering her figure, and luckily, the color was one of my favorites. It was like she knew exactly what I liked. That made sense; she was sharp, no question about it. I couldn’t stop myself from smiling. For real, I hadn’t smiled this much in a year—probably even longer. 

Erica had literally just stepped into my life, and suddenly everything felt a bit brighter. At that moment, I didn’t even care to look at anyone else at the dinner table. All my attention was on her. Without thinking much about it, I stood up and walked toward her. I had read somewhere that complimenting a woman was a good move, but as I made my way to her, I froze. 

Was it her beauty that was catching me off guard? Or was it that I was... kinda nervous? Was I shy now? It wasn’t like me. But then, instinct took over. I pulled out a chair next to me, and she smiled at me, flashing those perfect teeth—her smile could really light up a whole room. 

Yes, I had definitely chosen the best. 

"Everyone, meet Erica Smith, now Erica Montego," I introduced, still feeling that rush of pleasure seeing her beside me. "We got married a few weeks ago, and we’ve been sorting things out before meeting the family." 

She smiled again, ever the picture of grace. "It’s a pleasure to meet you all. I’ve heard so many great things about you." 

I thought to myself, She talks a lot. I couldn’t help but notice that. I hated women that talked too much, but damn, her words just kept coming. Those perfectly shaped lips seemed pretty sharp too—like a razor. 

But when she spoke to my dad, I could see he was impressed. 

"Must be good to find someone who makes Raymond talk," he joked. 

Everyone at the table laughed, even though, honestly, it wasn’t that funny. They always laughed at the old man’s dry humor, because, let’s face it, they needed something from him—like, always. It was like they knew they’d have to butter him up for a favor, no matter how dry the joke was. I leaned back in my seat, starting to feel impatient. I wasn't really hungry. I wanted this meal to go smoothly so we could quickly wrap it up, but no. My family had other plans for the night, and this was only just the beginning. 

Then his mom chimed in with her usual sunny smile, "Raymond, you seem to have found a diamond." Her gaze shifted to Erica. "Erica, you look beautiful." 

That was mom for you—always the charmer. 

Erica responded with a smile. "You're beautiful too, ma," she said to my mother. 

Perfect. 

That was honestly one of the most polite things she could’ve said. I didn’t know who taught her manners, but they did a damn good job.

 Eventually, dinner arrived—thankfully. The maids laid down various plates, each one more delicious-looking than the last. But as much as I wanted to enjoy the food, I couldn’t stop thinking about the compliment I’d give Erica later, once we were alone in our suite. 

Dinner could wait.