Page 17 of Fake Fiancée for the Grump

“Thank you, Kennedy. You’re so kind.”

“Yeah, not bad,” I add, trying to hide the flush creeping onto my face. “But why don’t you try some others.”

Her face falls. “Sure,” she says, heading back in.

What is wrong with me?

Kennedy eyes me questioningly but doesn’t say a word. We sit in silence for what seems like an eternity until Brinn returns wearing dress number two.

Kathleen guides her in our direction. “This one is just gorgeous, don’t you agree?”

Brinn looks at us tentatively. Clearly, my last comment affected her confidence. She’s swathed in a red gown that flowsdown to the floor like a waterfall of fire. One look at her and my heart starts pounding like there's a full drumline in there.

“How do you feel?” I ask.

“Good.”

“Good? That won’t do. Kathleen, I need you to find a dress that makes Brinn feel amazing, like a princess. Can you do that for me?”

“Of course, Mr. Reed.”

The tiniest smile creeps onto Brinn’s face as she heads back once more.

Kennedy turns to me. “Better.”

I chuckle.

The wait is twice as long this time but worth every second. Brinn beams as she glides in our direction, confidence exuding from every inch of her. Her smile is intoxicating. Her beauty is captivating.

The design of the dress doesn’t matter. It’s how it clearly makes her feel.

My knee aches after sitting for so long, but I push through the pain to stand and greet her.

Steadying myself with the cane, I lock in on her. “I’m at a loss for words to describe how stunning you look. But more importantly, how do you feel?”

I gently tip her chin upward until she meets my gaze. “Like a princess.”

“Then it’s settled. We’ll take it.”

Chapter six

Brinn

The room feels chilly even though it’s seventy-five degrees outside. My fingers trace the edges of the dress hanging in my closet. Tonight is the night—the retirement party for Jackson’s grandfather.

I was so angry when he pulled me out of class, embarrassing me in front of my peers. But after spending the day shopping and having lunch, I agreed to his proposal. I saw such a different side of him. I really enjoyed his company.

He started a little rough in the dress shop but turned it around. He listened intently every time I spoke, held doors for me. It was nice. More than nice actually.

But I didn’t say yes because I care about him. I still haven’t fully forgiven him for the past. I said yes because I need to focus on the future. My future. His recommendation would go a long way to help me secure that future.

The dress he bought me is incredible. The fabric is a deep purple, adorned with intricate silver embroidery that shimmersin the light. Layers of chiffon billow gracefully with my every step. Wearing it made me feel beautiful.

But I can't shake the nerves that twist in my stomach. Inhaling deeply, I try to steady myself. "You can do this, Brinn," I mutter to my reflection, a feeble attempt at self-assurance.

Pretending to be Jackson's fiancée, even for the night, sends a ripple of nervous energy through me. It's just a fake engagement, a performance for the sake of appearances. No one will know it's not real.

Right?

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