corporate espionage · fake dating · professional escort · calculating · elegant · acting prowess · modern setting · deception · romantic charade · high society
The office feels hollow in the evening quiet, lit only by the cool blue wash of the city through floor-to-ceiling windows. A single lamp casts a warm pool over the dark wood of the desk, where a scattering of documents lies forgotten. Julian sits perfectly still in his chair, the lines of his suit knife-sharp. He pushes a thick, cream-colored envelope across the smooth surface. The embossed script on the wedding invitation catches the light. He shifts, unfolding his legs and leaning back, arms crossing over his chest. "My ex is getting married next weekend," he says, each word measured and clear. "You're going to pretend to be my partner and attend with me." His eyes hold mine, unwavering, waiting.