Page 20 of Fake Out

“Lastly, don’t forget that we’re supposed to be a couple.” I chuckle at the absurdity of our situation. “So, act affectionate. Hold hands, stand close together, smile at each other… you know the drill.”

“Understood.” He nods once, completely professional.

Which is a relief. Gone is the playboy who was flirting with me at our first meeting. In his place is a man who is serious about his career.

Of course, I do miss the playboy a little bit…

“It’s our time to shine.” My pulse races with excitement and anxiety as our car pulls up to the Storms’ offices.

Stepping out of the car, we’re greeted by the imposing glass building that houses the team’s headquarters. A sudden breeze whips through my hair as we stride towards the entrance, hand in hand like the perfect couple we’re pretending to be. I keep my head high despite the butterflies fluttering wildly in my stomach.

“Marissa White and Charlie Elwood, here to see Patrick,” I announce to the receptionist, who flashes us a friendly smile. “He’s expecting us.”

“Of course.” She gestures towards a set of sleek double doors. “Patrick’s office is just through there.”

“Thank you.” I nod graciously before guiding Charlie through the doors.

Inside, we find Patrick lounging comfortably in an armchair, a steaming cup of coffee resting on the table beside him. His face lights up when he sees us, and he stands to greet us with a firm handshake and a warm smile.

“Marissa! Charlie! It’s great to finally meet you both,” he exclaims, his voice booming with enthusiasm. “I’ve been following your career for a while now, Charlie — impressive stuff!”

“Thank you.” Charlie flashes his trademark grin. “I’m just doing what I love.”

“Ah, aren’t we all?” Patrick chuckles, waving us toward the plush seating area. “Please, have a seat. Can I get you anything? Coffee? Tea?”

“Not for me, thank you.” I settle into the chair across from Patrick.

It feels like everything is going smoothly so far, but I know that won’t last long. The real challenge — proving that Charlie is worth the Storms’ investment — still lies ahead.

“All right. Let’s get down to business, shall we?” Patrick suggests, clasping his hands together.

“Sounds great.” My heart rate speeds up as Patrick leans forward, his gaze fixed on Charlie.

“Let’s talk about your recent scandal,” he says, his tone serious but not unkind. “We need to make sure you’re turning over a new leaf, like Marissa here promised.”

Charlie gives me a quick glance before nodding. “I am. And having Marissa by my side, both as my agent and girlfriend, has been a huge support in making those changes.”

Patrick nods, seeming satisfied with the answer. But I know he won’t let it go that easily. There are too many questions, too many doubts for him to simply take us at our word.

“What about that fight?” he asks, leaning back in his chair, his expression unreadable. “If we sign you, how will we know you won’t do something like that again?”

I hold my breath, waiting for Charlie to respond with the carefully rehearsed answers we’d practiced in the car. But instead, he surprises me.

“Everyone’s so quick to judge, but they don’t know the real story behind what happened,” he snaps, his jaw clenched.

My jaw drops. What the hell is he doing?

I can see the frustration building in his eyes, and I know I have to intervene before things spiral out of control.

“Charlie—” I begin, trying to cut in with a calm, measured response.

“No, Marissa,” he interrupts, his voice rising. “I want to speak for myself.”

I’m taken aback by his sudden defiance. We’re supposed to be working together, presenting a united front. Instead, we’re bickering like children. I can practically hear our chances of success slipping away with every heated word exchanged between us.

But what am I supposed to do? Snap back at him? Interrupt and speak for him?

“Go ahead,” I say.

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