Fake facade

Denzel stood in the foyer, briefcase in hand, ready to head out the door to start his day. He checked his watch for what felt like the hundredth time, anxious to get to the office and tackle the mountain of work waiting for him. He took a deep breath, preparing himself for the chaos that lay ahead. The morning sunlight streaming through the window highlighted the dust particles dancing in the air, and the sound of birds chirping outside created a sense of calm that Denzel wished he could bottle up and take with him to the office.

He wore a crisp, white dress shirt with a conservative collar, made of high-quality cotton that accentuated his broad shoulders and chest. The shirt was tailored to fit him perfectly, with a subtle sheen that hinted at its luxurious fabric. The sleeves were long and slim-fitting, ending in cuffs that were fastened with elegant silver cufflinks.

His navy blue suit was a masterclass in tailoring, with a fitted waist and shoulders that seemed to broaden his already impressive physique. The fabric was a rich, dark blue that seemed almost black in certain lighting conditions, and it was woven with a subtle texture that gave it depth and visual interest. The suit was single-breasted, with a classic two-button front and a fitted silhouette that accentuated Denzel's athletic build.

His tie was a subtle pattern of dark blues and grays, with a texture that seemed almost silky to the touch. The knot was precise and perfectly symmetrical, adding a touch of elegance to Denzel's overall appearance. The tie was slim and modern, with a subtle sheen that caught the light as he moved.

His black leather belt was cinched at his waist, holding up his matching navy blue trousers with a simple yet effective silver buckle. The trousers were slim-fitting and tapered, ending in a crisp crease that seemed to sharpen Michael's already chiseled features.

On his feet, Denzel wore black dress shoes that were polished to a high shine. The shoes were made of rich, supple leather that seemed to mold to his feet, and they had a subtle brogue detailing that added a touch of sophistication to their classic design.

On his wrist, Denzel wore a simple leather strap watch, its classic design and understated elegance perfectly complementing his overall appearance. The watch was a subtle accessory, yet it seemed to add a touch of authority and gravitas to Denzel's already commanding presence.

Overall, Denzel's outfit was a masterclass in understated elegance and classic style, perfectly suited to a successful businessman heading to an important meeting. Well he's one of the richest businessman in New York.

Just as he reached for the door handle, he heard a usual familiar voice behind him. "Denzel, wait!" It was Nadetta,his wife, her voice firm but gentle, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

Denzel turned to see Nadetta and their daughter, Angel, standing in the kitchen doorway, looking at him with expectant eyes. Angel was bouncing up and down, her blonde pigtails bobbing with each movement, she's 17, while Nadetta leaned against the doorframe, her arms crossed over her chest.

"What's up?" Denzel asked, trying to hide his impatience. He knew he was running late, and every minute counted.

"We made breakfast," Nadetta said, holding up a plate of scrambled eggs and toast. The aroma wafted through the air, making Denzel's stomach growl with hunger. "We thought you could eat with us before you leave."

Denzel hesitated, looking at his watch again. He really didn't have time for this. But the look on Nadetta's face told him that this was important. She had that determined glint in her eye, the one that said she wouldn't take no for an answer.

"Okay, fine," he said, putting down his briefcase. "But just for a minute."

Angel squealed with delight and ran over to him, throwing her arms around his shoulder. "Dad, I made your favorite breakfast!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining with pride.

Denzel smiled, feeling a pang of guilt for his initial hesitation. He hugged Emma back. "Thanks, kiddo. I'm starving."

"It's Angel dad not kiddo,I'm 17 for goodness sake" Angel whined and he laughed out loud.

Nadetta handed him a plate of food, and Denzel dug in, savoring the taste of the scrambled eggs and toast. The eggs were fluffy, the toast was crispy, and the coffee was hot and strong - just the way he liked it. Angel chattered excitedly about her day, telling him about her plans for school and her friends, while Denzel listened intently, feeling grateful for this small moment of peace before the chaos of the day began.

As they finished up, Nadetta reached out and put a hand on his arm. "Have a good day, honey. We'll see you tonight." Her eyes locked onto his, and for a moment, Denzel felt like everything was going to be okay.

Denzel smiled, feeling a sense of appreciation for his family. "I will. Thanks for breakfast, guys. It was just what I needed." He hugged Angel again, then kissed Nadetta on the cheek. "I'll see you tonight."

With that, he grabbed his briefcase and headed out the door, feeling a sense of determination wash over him. He was ready to take on the day.

"I'll go get ready for work while you get ready for school too Angel" Nadetta said and Angel nodded.

**

{ NEXUS ENTERPRISES}

As Nadetta arrived at her place of work, she was greeted by the familiar sight of the bustling office building. She stepped out of the car and onto the sidewalk, taking a deep breath of the crisp morning air. The sun was shining, casting a warm glow over the scene.

Nadetta smiled to herself as she walked towards the entrance, her heels clicking on the pavement. She was dressed in a sharp, navy blue pencil skirt that hugged her curves in all the right places, paired with a crisp, white blouse that accentuated her toned arms. Her long, dark hair was pulled back into a sleek, low bun, and her bright, hazel eyes sparkled with confidence.

She wore a tailored, fitted blazer that added a touch of sophistication to her outfit, and her statement silver necklace added a hint of glamour. Her high heels were a deep, rich brown that complemented her outfit perfectly, and her classic, leather briefcase was full of notes and presentations.

As she pushed open the door, she was enveloped in the hum of conversation and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. She nodded to the receptionist, who greeted her with a friendly smile.

"Good morning, Nadetta! You've got a busy day ahead, you know."

Nadetta nodded, her eyes scanning the room. "Yes, I do. But I'm ready for it."

She made her way to her office, exchanging greetings with her colleagues along the way. Her workspace was tidy and organized, with a stunning view of the city skyline.

Nadetta took a moment to collect her thoughts, sipping her coffee and reviewing her schedule for the day. She had a series of meetings and presentations, but she was feeling focused and energized.

With a sense of determination, Nadetta dove into her work, ready to tackle whatever challenges came her way. She was a force to be reckoned with, and she knew it.

As she settled into her chair, Nadetta's assistant, Rachel, poked her head into the office. "Good morning, Nadetta! I've got your schedule for the day right here."

Nadetta nodded, taking the folder from Rachel. "Thanks, Rachel. What's the first meeting?"

"You've got a team meeting at 9am to discuss the Smith account," Rachel replied. "Then you've got a conference call with marketing at 10:30am."

Nadetta nodded, scanning the schedule. "Okay, got it. Anything else I need to know?"

Rachel hesitated. "Well, there is one thing. The CEO wants to see you in his office at 2pm."

Nadetta's heart skipped a beat. A meeting with the CEO was never a good sign. "Do you know what it's about?"

Rachel shook her head. "No, I don't. But I'm sure it'll be fine. You're doing a great job, Nadetta."

Nadetta smiled, trying to reassure herself. She was doing a great job. She had nothing to worry about.

With a deep breath, Nadetta stood up and headed to her first meeting. She was ready to tackle whatever the day threw her way.

As she walked to the conference room, she couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. She had worked hard to get where she was, and she wasn't going to let anything bring her down.

The team meeting was productive, and Nadetta felt confident as she left the conference room. She was on top of her game, and nothing could stop her.

But as she walked back to her office, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. The meeting with the CEO loomed in her mind, and she couldn't help but wonder what it was about.

As Nadetta walked back to her office, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. The meeting with the CEO loomed in her mind, and she couldn't help but wonder what it was about.

She tried to focus on her work, but her mind kept wandering. She was usually confident and composed, but the uncertainty of the meeting was getting to her.

Nadetta's phone suddenly buzzed on her desk, breaking her concentration. She glanced down to see a text from her boss, Julian: The CEO himself

"Nadetta, can you come to my office? I have something important to discuss with you."

Nadetta's heart skipped a beat as she wondered what this could be about.

When she arrived, Julian was sitting behind his desk, a warm smile on his face. "Ah, Nadetta, thanks for coming. I have some exciting news to share with you."

Nadetta took a seat, her eyes locking onto Julian's. She couldn't help but notice how handsome he looked in his tailored suit.

"What is it?" she asked, trying to sound professional.

"We've been considering you for a major business proposal, we're going on a business trip for a month in paris" Julian began. "One of our biggest clients is looking for a new marketing strategy, and we think you're the perfect person to lead the pitch."

Nadetta's eyes widened in surprise. This was a huge opportunity, one that could make or break her career.

"Wow, thank you for considering me," she said, trying to sound calm.

Julian leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving hers. "We'll be discussing the details in a meeting tomorrow at 2 PM. I want you to be prepared to present your ideas and strategy."

Nadetta nodded, her mind already racing with ideas and concepts. She couldn't believe that Julian was trusting her with this project.

"I won't let you down," she promised, her voice filled with determination.

Julian smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I know you won't, Nadetta. You're one of our best team members."

Nadetta felt a flutter in her chest at the praise. She couldn't help but wonder if Julian saw her as more than just an employee. The truth is she has a huge crush on him but does that even make sense? She's married.

"Thank you, sir," she said, standing up to leave.

Julian stood up too, his eyes locked onto hers. "I'm looking forward to seeing your presentation tomorrow, Nedetta."

Nadetta nodded, feeling a spark of electricity between them. She left Julian's office feeling both excited and nervous, knowing that this was her chance to shine.

Her mind suddenly went to their one month trip and she heave a big sigh,will her husband even allow?

**

{Denzel's mansion - The couple's bedroom}

Nadetta sat alone in the room on the huge bed,with her laptop in front of her,her fingers were moving like fire on the keyboard, she's so engrossed in it. Her phone suddenly rang from the table and she sighed tiredly before stretching her hand to pick it.

It's her friends calling her through video call,Davina and Imelda.

She smiled before swiping the green.

"Hey bitch" Imelda face popped up first and she laughed.

"You look tired, what's up? Any gist? Imelda said again,not giving her a space to reply.

"Yeah. So girls, my boss told me I have to go on a business trip with him to Paris for a month ," she said, trying to sound calm.

Imelda's face appeared on the screen, her eyes wide with excitement. "Ooh, alone with the boss? Sounds like a recipe for disaster... or romance!" She winked, her voice echoing through the speakers.

Davina's face popped up this time, her expression serious this time. "Yes, do tell! What's the plan?"

Nadetta rolled her eyes, laughing. "It's strictly business, guys. Nothing much."

Davina leaned in, her face filling the screen. "Speaking of which, we saw someone who looked exactly like you yesterday."

Imelda nodded in agreement, her face bobbing up and down. "Yes, it was freaky! We were at a restaurant, and we saw a girl who was your doppelganger. Same hair, same eyes, same smile..."

Nadetta's eyes widened, her mind racing. "What? That's so weird!"

Davina grinned mischievously. "We know, right? We were like, 'Is that Nadetta's secret twin?'"

Imelda chuckled. "We should investigate. Maybe it's a sign or something."

Nadetta laughed, shaking her head. "You guys are crazy. But seriously, I have to focus on this business trip. Wish me luck!"

"Good luck Mrs Denzel " They said in unison and Nedetta laughed and fell on the bed.

Nadetta's face appeared on the screen again, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Hey guys, I need to ask... do you think my husband, Denzel,will be okay with me going on this trip with my boss?"

Davina's eyes widened. "Hmm, that's a good question. He can be a bit possessive, right?"

Imelda nodded in agreement. "Yes, remember that time he got jealous when you went out with us for drinks?"

Nadetta sighed. "I know... I'm a bit worried about how he'll react. This trip is really important for my career, but I don't want to upset him."

Davina's expression turned serious. "Nadetta, you need to communicate with him. Explain the situation and reassure him that it's just business."

Imelda added, "And maybe remind him that you're a strong, independent woman who can handle herself!"

Nadetta laughed, feeling a bit better. "Thanks, guys. I'll talk to him tonight and see how it goes."

"Okay,so since you're going on a trip with your boss,you should totally try to get some dirt on him" Imelda said,with a sly grin spreading across her face .

Nadetta laughed. " Imelda,no! This is strictly business. I need to keep it professional.

Davina face appears on the screen, nodding in agreement . "Yes, Nadetta. Be careful,we don't want you getting into trouble.

Imelda rolled her eyes " Spoilsport. Fine,be boring . But if you change your mind,am here for you baby" she said sassily with a wink and Davina flicked her forehead.

"Just shut up.

Nadetta laughed out loud.

As Nadetta continued to chat with her friends on the video call, she heard the sound of the front door opening. She smiled, knowing it was her husband, Denzel, returning from work.

"Hey, guys, I have to go. Denzel just got home," Nadetta said, waving goodbye to her friends on the screen.

Davina and Imelda blew her kisses and disappeared from the screen. Nadetta closed her laptop and stood up, smoothing out her clothes.

Denzel walked into the room, a tired expression on his face. "Hey, beautiful. How was your day?"

Nadetta smiled, walking over to give him a hug. "It was good. Just got some unexpected news from my boss."

Denzel's eyes narrowed. "What kind of news?"

Nadetta took a deep breath, bracing herself for his reaction. "I have to go on a business trip with him to Paris for a month."

Denzel's expression changed from tired to tense. "A business trip? Alone with your boss?"

Nadetta nodded, trying to reassure him. "It's strictly business, Denzel. Nothing else."

But Denzel's eyes had already darkened with suspicion...

His expression turned firm, his jaw clenched. "No, Nadetta, I don't think this is a good idea. You can't just go on a business trip with your boss, alone. It's not right."

Nadetta felt a surge of frustration. "Denzel, we've been over this. It's just a business trip. Try to understand ."

But Denzel shook his head. "I don't care about the trip. I care about you, and I don't want you putting yourself in a situation that could compromise your values or your marriage."

Nadetta sighed, trying to reason with him. "Denzel, nothing is going to happen. We'll be in meetings and presentations, not alone in a hotel room. And even if we were, I'm a grown woman, capable of making my own decisions."

But Denzel's expression remained resolute. "I don't trust your boss, and I don't trust this situation. You're not going, Nadetta."

Nadetta's eyes widened, her voice rising. "You can't dictate what I do, Denzel. This is my career we're talking about."

Denzel's voice matched hers, his words firm. "And this is our marriage we're talking about. I won't let you jeopardize it."

The air was thick with tension as they stood there, locked in a silent standoff...

Nadetta's face reddened with frustration. "You're being unreasonable, Denzel. I have to go on this trip. It's my job."

Denzel's jaw clenched. "Then maybe you should quit your job. I don't want you putting yourself in this situation."

Nadetta threw up her hands. "Quit my job? You can't be serious. I've worked hard to get where I am."

Denzel shrugged. "I'm dead serious. Your job is not worth risking our marriage."

Nadetta's eyes welled up with tears. "You're not even willing to listen to me. You're just dictating what I can and can't do."

Denzel's expression softened slightly, but his voice remained firm. "I'm just trying to protect you, Nadetta. And our marriage."

Nadetta shook her head, feeling a deep sadness wash over her. "I don't know if I can do this, Denzel. I feel like you're suffocating me."

Denzel's eyes widened, his face pale. "Nadetta, don't say that. I just want what's best for us."

But Nadetta felt a crack in their relationship, a sense of hopelessness that she couldn't shake. She turned and walked away, leaving Denzel standing alone in the room...

She walked into one of the empty room and fell on it.

She knew Denzel was just worried about her, and she couldn't blame him. But as she lay back on the bed, she couldn't shake off the feeling that she was being suffocated.

Suddenly, a thought crept into her mind. What if she didn't have to choose between her career and her marriage? What if she could find a way to have both?

Nadetta's eyes widened as she thought about her doppelganger, the woman her friends had seen at the restaurant.What if she could convince her to take her place while she go on the business trip?

The more Nadetta thought about it, the more it seemed like the perfect solution. Her doppelganger could stay behind with Denzel, and she could go on the business trip. No one would ever know the difference.

Nadetta's mind started racing with possibilities. She could finally have the freedom she craved, without jeopardizing her marriage.

With a newfound sense of determination, Nadetta sat up and reached for her phone. She needed to find her doppelganger, and fast. Little did she know, her life was about to take a dramatic turn...

The next morning, the tension between Denzel and Nadetta was palpable. They barely spoke to each other, their usual warm greetings replaced with cold shoulders.

Their daughter, Angel, sensed the awkwardness and approached Nadetta with concern. "Mom, what's wrong? You and Daddy aren't talking."

Nadetta forced a smile, trying to downplay the situation. "Oh, sweetie, it's just a little disagreement. We'll be fine."

But Angel's curious eyes lingered, sensing that something more was amiss. "But what happened?"

Nadetta hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "Daddy and I just don't agree on something right now. But we'll work it out, okay?"

Angel nodded, but her expression remained worried. "I don't like it when you and Daddy fight."

Nadetta's heart ached, knowing her daughter was affected by their argument. She moved closer and hugged Angel tightly. "I know, baby. We'll try to do better, okay?"

Meanwhile, Denzel stood in the kitchen, his eyes fixed on the coffee brewer, his mind still reeling from the previous night's argument. He knew he needed to apologize, but his pride was getting in the way.

As the silence between them continued, Nadetta's mind wandered back to her plan to find her doppelganger. She couldn't shake off the feeling that it was the solution to all their problems...

Denzel came out of the kitchen and left for work.

"Baby,get ready for school please" Nadetta told Angel and she nodded.

**

{ ROOM}

Nadetta got to the room and picked up her phone and dialed her friend Imelda's number, trying to sound casual.

"Hey, girl! What's up?" Imelda answered, her voice bubbly as always.

"Nothing much,Denzel refused. He said he won't allow me go for the trip,"Nadetta shrugged.

"I knew it,he won't agree. Just tell your boss to go with someone else,am sure he'll understand " Imelda replied from the other end.

"Okay" Nadetta replied, trying to sound nonchalant. "Hey, can I ask you something?"

"Shoot, what's up? Imelda asked, her curiosity piqued.

Nadetta hesitated for a moment before asking, "So, where exactly did you see my... uh, 'twin' again?"

Imelda laughed. "Oh, girl, it was at the Oakwood Mall! I'm telling you, it was like looking at you!"

Nadetta's heart raced as she scribbled down the name of the mall. "Oakwood Mall, got it. Thanks, girl!"

Imelda's voice turned sly. "Nadetta, what's going on? You're not thinking of tracking her down, are you?"

Nadetta laughed nervously. "No, no, nothing like that. I just... uh, wanted to know where to find the best sales."

Imelda chuckled. "Sure, sure. Just be careful, okay?"

Nadetta smiled to herself as she hung up the phone. She had the information she needed, and now she could start her search for her doppelganger and she's not going to inform her friends about it.

**

{ OAKWOOD MALL}

Nadetta's heart raced as she walked through the sliding glass doors of Oakwood Mall. She had been there for hours now but wouldn't give up.

As she scanned the crowded food court, her eyes landed on a lady who made her do a double take. It was her - the doppelganger. Nadetta's heart skipped a beat as she approached the lady,she moved closer and the lady looked up.

Nadetta's eyes locked onto her doppelganger, Her name is Keaton, she was sitting at a small table in the food court, eating a plain sandwich. Keaton looked up, and their identical eyes met, causing a shiver to run down Nadetta's spine.

As Nadetta approached, Keaton's gaze faltered, and she looked away, her cheeks flushing. Nadetta noticed the worn-out shoes and the faded uniform with the mall's logo on it.

"Hi," Nadetta said softly, not wanting to startle her. "Mind if I join you?"

Keaton shrugged, her eyes still cast down. "It's a free country."

Nadetta sat down, taking in Keaton's disheveled appearance. "I've been looking for you," she said, trying to sound gentle.

Keaton's eyes narrowed. "What do you want?"

"I'm Nadetta,what about you?

"Keaton " She replied simply. "What do you want?

Nadetta hesitated, unsure how to reveal her plan. "I want to help you. I know we look identical, and I think we can help each other out."

Keaton snorted. "You think I need your help? You're probably just some rich lady who's never had to struggle a day in her life."

Nadetta winced, feeling a pang of guilt. "You're right. I have been fortunate. But I'm willing to share that fortune with you, Keaton. I have a proposal that could change your life."

Keaton raised an eyebrow, her expression skeptical. "What kind of proposal?"

Nadetta took a deep breath. "I want you to take my place for a month. Pretend to be me for a month while I go for a business proposal. And in return, I'll give you a sum of money that will set you up for life."

Keaton's eyes widened in disbelief. "You want me to pretend to be you? Are you kidding me? No way, I'm not doing that."

Nadetta expected hesitation, but Keaton's outright rejection caught her off guard. "Why not? It's a chance to change your life," Nadetta pressed.

Keaton snorted. "Change my life? You think pretending to be some rich lady is going to solve all my problems? I don't think so."

Nadetta leaned in, trying to persuade her. "It's not just about the money, Keaton. This could be an opportunity for you to experience a different life, to see what's out there."

Keaton shook her head, her ponytail swishing behind her. "I'm not interested in your life. I have my own problems to deal with. And what about your husband? Won't he figure out I'm not you?"

Nadetta hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "My husband... we're having some issues. He won't suspect a thing."

Keaton raised an eyebrow. "Issues? You mean like he's going to kill me when he finds out I'm not you?"

Nadetta laughed nervously. "No, nothing like that. Just... marital problems."

Keaton stood up, her chair scraping against the floor. "Look, lady, I appreciate the offer, but I'm not interested. I'll stick to my own life, thanks."

Nadetta watched as Keaton walked away, feeling a pang of disappointment. She hadn't expected Keaton to reject her offer so outright. But Nadetta was not one to give up easily...

Nadetta quickly got up and followed Keaton, determined to change her mind. "Please, wait! Please hear me out."

Keaton stopped and turned around, her expression unyielding. "What else could you possibly say to convince me?"

Nadetta took a deep breath and decided to reveal more. "I'm not just offering you money, Keaton. I'm offering you a chance to escape your struggles, to experience a life you never thought possible. And I'm willing to pay you $100,000 to do it."

Keaton's eyes widened, clearly taken aback by the amount. For a moment, Nadetta thought she saw a glimmer of interest, but then Keaton's expression hardened again.

"I don't care about your money," Keaton said, her voice firm. "I care about my dignity. And pretending to be someone I'm not? That's not dignity, that's desperation."

Nadetta felt a sting from Keaton's words, but she refused to give up. She knew she had to find the right angle to convince Keaton.

"Desperation?" Nadetta repeated. "You're working in this mall, Keaton. You're struggling to make ends meet. Isn't that desperation?"

Keaton's eyes flashed with anger, but Nadetta could see the faintest glimmer of doubt. She pressed on.

"I'm offering you a way out, Keaton. A chance to change your life. Don't let pride get in the way of that."

Keaton's expression softened, her eyes wavering as she considered Nadetta's words. The mention of her struggles had struck a chord, and the promise of a better life was tantalizing. Her mind also went to her sick mother who needed treatment.

"Okay, fine," Keaton said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'll do it. But just for the money. And I'm not going to pretend to be you forever."

Nadetta's face lit up with a triumphant smile. "That's all I ask. Just one month, Keaton. And the money is yours."

Keaton nodded, a hint of determination in her eyes. "But I'm doing this for me, not for you. I want that money, and I'm going to make sure I get it."

Nadetta held out her hand, and Keaton shook it, sealing the deal.

"Welcome to my life, Keaton," Nadetta said, a sly smile spreading across her face.

Keaton's eyes narrowed. "Don't think this means I'm going to start acting like you. I'm still me, no matter what."

Nadetta chuckled. "Oh, I'm counting on it."

Nadetta dropped her contact for her when she found out she has a small phone.

As they parted ways, Nadetta couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement. She had found her doppelganger, and now she could finally take a break from her suffocating life.

But little did she know, Keaton had secrets of her own, and this deal would change both their lives in ways they never imagined...