All Chapters of FAKE HUSBAND, REAL TWIN: Chapter 21 - Chapter 30

Adrian's POVThe moment my lips were inches away from hers, I hesitated, my mind a chaotic storm. Sarah’s green eyes widened, searching mine, and I could see the wariness mingled with something softer, something I didn’t deserve.I couldn’t bring myself to cross that line. Not yet.I released her hand gently and took a step back, raking a hand through my hair in frustration. “I shouldn’t have done that. I’m sorry, Sarah.”She blinked, clearly thrown off by my sudden retreat. “Adrian…” Her voice was quiet, unsure, and it only twisted the guilt tighter in my chest.“I just—” I paused, trying to find the words. How could I explain the storm raging inside me? The pressure Rome had applied, the secrets I was desperately trying to keep buried, and now, the undeniable pull I felt toward her. It wasn’t supposed to be like this.“I need some air,” I muttered, walking toward the balcony before I could do something else I’d regret.The cool night air did little to calm my nerves. My hands grippe

Adrian’s POVSarah didn’t realize it, but she was becoming the glue holding me together. I had gotten so used to no one caring for me that when Sarah entered my life, her attention began to thaw at my walls.I hadn’t expected this arrangement to change anything about my life other than the legalities and appearances. It was supposed to be simple—help her care for Nora, and secure my position in the company. Yet, here I was, doing things I’d never done before.I caught myself glancing at her as we drove toward my apartment, her fingers absently twisting the hem of her sweater. She was nervous, though she tried to hide it. I wanted to say something reassuring, to tell her it would all work out, but the words felt too personal. Too real.Instead, I tightened my grip on the wheel and focused on the road.For as long as I could remember, I’d kept people at arm’s length, letting them see only the version of me I wanted them to see. It was easier that way—no expectations, no attachments. But

Adrian’s POVThe thrum of music pulsed in my ears as I leaned back in the plush booth, gripping the tumbler of whiskey in my hand. The dim lights of the club blurred faces into shadows, and it was just what I needed—or so I kept telling myself.The truth was, I wasn’t here to drown my troubles or escape from some business deal gone wrong. I was here because of her.Sarah.I’d thought the contract marriage would be straightforward. A transaction. But Sarah wasn’t just a name on paper. She was real—vividly, painfully real. Her laugh, her stubbornness, the way she cared for me like I actually mattered to her. She’d crept into my life, into my head, and now I couldn’t stop thinking about her.And that terrified me.I downed the rest of the whiskey, the burn in my throat barely registering. Nora’s excited chatter about her new room, Sarah’s soft “thank you” as she squeezed my hand—those moments had felt right. Too right.I wasn’t supposed to feel this way. I couldn’t afford to.Another gla

Adrian's POV The soft hum of the dishwasher filled the silence as I stood in the kitchen, absently wiping my hands on a towel. My mind, however, was far from the task at hand.Sarah’s frosty demeanor lingered in my thoughts, gnawing at me like an itch I couldn’t reach. She had smiled, nodded, even apologized, but her tone and body language betrayed her. Something was wrong, and I had no idea what it was.Through the window, I could see Nora playing on the lawn, her laughter carrying through the crisp morning air. Sarah sat on the porch, knitting, her eyes occasionally lifting to check on Nora.She looked serene, but I knew better. The tension from breakfast was still thick enough to cut with a knife.I glanced at the table where Sarah’s phone lay. Its screen lit up with a notification, momentarily catching my attention. I didn’t mean to look, but the image on the screen froze me in place.It was me.At the club.With the lady who had followed me back to the penthouse.My chest tighte

Adrian’s POVThe Black Orchid’s private dining room was a study in excess, with its shiny mirrors, soft candlelight, and pristine table settings that screamed exclusivity. Rome sat at the head of the table, a smug expression plastered on his face. Every time I dealt with him, I was reminded of why I hated playing these games.Tonight wasn’t just about business, it was a chessboard, and Rome was positioning himself for the ultimate checkmate.Sarah stood beside me, her posture perfect but her unease palpable. The dress I’d chosen for her hugged her figure, drawing a few lingering stares from Rome and his cronies. My jaw tightened, but I placed a protective hand on her lower back, guiding her forward.Rome rose as we approached, a smile that didn’t reach his eyes spreading across his face.“Adrian,” he said, his voice smooth but laced with venom. “It’s always a pleasure.” He turned to Sarah, his gaze lingering far too long. “And you must be Sarah. You’re even more stunning in person.”