Chapter 5 Behind the facade

I woke up to the sound of birds chirping outside my window, feeling more refreshed than I expected. The events of the previous day still lingered in my mind, but I was determined to face whatever lay ahead. After a quick shower, I dressed in the outfit Rachel had carefully selected for me - a sleek black dress that accentuated my curves and shoulders.

I put on the necklace Ryder had given me, the weight of it feeling strange around my neck, did a quick clean makeup and put my hair in a bun, allowing little tendrils of it fall down to my face.

As I made my way downstairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Emma greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a steaming cup. "Good morning, Miss. You look lovely today." "Thank you, Emma. Please, call me Emily." Emma's eyes sparkled. "Of course, Emily." I took a sip of my coffee, feeling a surge of energy. James appeared, handing me a schedule for the day. "Ryder wants you to meet him in the study at 9 am sharp. The business partners will arrive at 10 am."

I nodded, tucking the schedule into my pocket. As I entered the study, Ryder looked up from his papers, his eyes scanning me from head to toe. For a moment, I thought I saw a flicker of approval, but it vanished quickly.

"You look... suitable," he said, his tone neutral.

I raised an eyebrow. "Suitable?"

Ryder shrugged. "For the role you're playing." I bit back a retort, reminding myself of our agreement.

"Shall we go over the plan for today?" Ryder asked, his expression serious. I nodded, taking a seat beside him. The next hour was a blur of discussions about business strategies and expectations. Ryder's words from the previous night echoed in my mind - "Just follow my lead tomorrow, and try not to argue with me in front of them."

As the clock struck 10, the sound of voices outside the study signalled the arrival of Ryder's business partners. My heart racing, I stood up, smoothing my dress. Ryder offered me a tight smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. For a moment, I forgot we were just pretending.

"Time to put on a show," he whispered, offering me his arm. I took a deep breath and placed my hand on his arm, ready to face whatever lay ahead. As we entered the living room, Ryder's business partners turned to face us. There were three of them: Mr. Jenkins, a portly man with a warm smile; Mr. Patel, a tall, slender man with a reserved demeanor; and Mr. Rodriguez, a charismatic man with a charming grin. Ryder introduced me with a possessive arm around my waist. "Gentlemen, I'd like you to meet my fiancée, Emily." I smiled brightly, extending my hand. "It's lovely to meet you all."

"You didn't tell me you had a fiancée, Ryder?"Mr Patel said, smiling at me.

"Well, she has been outside the states, and we didn't want to make it public just yet." Placing a hand firmly on my waist, Ryder smiled, guiding me to a nearby chair.

The men exchanged warm greetings with Ryder before turning their attention to me. Mr. Jenkins asked about my interests, and I launched into a well-rehearsed speech about philanthropy and art. Mr. Patel inquired about my background, and Ryder smoothly interjected, "Emily comes from a distinguished family. Her father was a respected businessman."

I nodded graciously, playing along. As the conversation flowed, I found myself relaxing into the role. Ryder's hand remained on my waist, a gentle reminder of our charade. Just as the meeting was concluding, Mr. Rodriguez spoke up. "I'm hosting a charity gala tonight at the Grand Ballroom. I'd be honored if you both could attend."

Ryder's eyes locked onto mine, a silent message passing between us. "We'd love to," he replied, smiling.

Mr. Rodriguez beamed. "Wonderful! I'll send over the details. Black tie, of course."

As the partners departed, Ryder released his hold on me. "Well done," he said, his voice low. "You played the part perfectly." I smiled, feeling a twinge of pride.

"Thanks to your coaching." Ryder's gaze lingered on me before he turned to James, who was waiting by the door. "James, have Maria prepare Emily's gown for tonight. Something stunning." James nodded and disappeared. As the door closed, Ryder turned back to me. "Tonight's event requires a different level of sophistication. Stay close to me, and follow my lead."

I nodded, a flutter in my chest. "I will."

Ryder's eyes narrowed. "And, Emily?"

"Yes?"

"Don't forget, we're in this together. For now."

With that, he turned and left me to prepare for the evening ahead. As I made my way back to my room, I couldn't shake off the feeling that tonight would be more than just a charity gala., and after tonight my name will be on every Tv station and newspaper.