Page 10 of Billionaire Wolf Needs a Fake Girlfriend

"Deadly," he said. "These designs are exactly what XMGH needs to stay relevant. They'll make a statement and launch the American line with a splash. This is your chance to show the world what you're capable of."

I felt a rush of emotions. Excitement, disbelief, and a flicker of fear. This was everything I'd been working toward, everything I'd dreamed of. But it was also terrifying. What if I wasn't ready? What if I failed?

"Denver, I don't know what to say," I stammered, my mind racing.

He reached out, squeezing my hand in a gesture that was surprisingly gentle. "Say you'll do it. You've earned this, Sasha. Don't let fear hold you back."

I looked into his eyes, searching for any hint of doubt or hesitation, but all I saw was confidence in me, in my work. It was the push I needed.

"Okay," I said, my voice steady despite the storm of emotions inside me. "I'll do it."

His smile was triumphant, and for a moment, I forgot to breathe. "Good. We'll announce it at the charity event next week. It'll be the perfect platform to introduce your work to the world."

I nodded, still processing everything. "Thank you, Denver. For believing in me."

He shrugged, his expression softening. "It's not hard to believe in someone as talented as you, Sasha. Just don't let it go to your head."

I laughed, the tension easing as I shook my head. "Don't worry, I'll keep my ego in check."

"Good," he said, his tone teasing. "Remember to keep us little people in mind once you have your own brand and become a household name."

I rolled my eyes. He was being over the top. Like I was ever going to be the next Vivienne Westwood.

He chuckled, the sound low and warm, and for a moment, it felt like we were just two people, joking and teasing like any normal couple.

"Let's rehearse how we're going to announce our relationship at the office," he said.

Reality came crashing back, reminding me that this wasn't real. It was just an arrangement, a means to an end.

Chapter 5

DENVER

On Monday morning, we left the penthouse and drove to the XMGH office in silence. Sasha didn't speak much during the trip, and I couldn't help but notice the way she worried her bottom lip between her teeth and her shaky hands fiddled with the strap of her purse. The acrid stench of anxiety and fear came off of her in waves. I knew it was just the nerves of what was to come, but I didn't like seeing her upset. As we pulled into the parking garage, I glanced at Sasha. "Ready for this?"

She nodded and flipped down the visor mirror to check her appearance. "As ready as I'll ever be."

I placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You'll be fine. Just stick to the plan. Remember, I'll be right beside you. We're a team. Act natural."

She looked up at me, her hazel eyes searching mine for a moment before she nodded again. "Right. A team."

We walked into the office together, and the moment we stepped through the doors, I could feel the weight of everyone's eyes on us. The whispers started almost immediately, and I could see the curiosity and skepticism in their expressions. Sasha kept her head high, her posture confident, but I could tell she was feeling the pressure.

"Good morning, Mr. Roberts," the receptionist greeted me, her eyes darting between me and Sasha. Her expression was filled with curiosity, though she dared not ask what was on the tip of her tongue.

"Morning," I replied curtly, not giving her a chance to ask any questions. I placed my hand on the small of Sasha's back and led her to the elevator. As the doors closed, I saw the receptionist pick up her cell phone. Good. News of our new status as a couple would spread through every floor of the building by lunchtime. I turned to Sasha. "You're doing great."

She let out a shaky breath. "I feel like everyone's staring at me."

"They are," I said with a smirk. "But that's the point. We want them to notice."

The elevator doors opened, and we stepped out into the bustling office. The whispers grew louder as we made our way down the hall. I could see the calculating looks of some of the staff. As we walked by the glass-walled offices, I spotted Victoria Song in conversation with Margot.

"Denver," Victoria called out. "A word in private?"

I glanced at Sasha, who gave me a small nod. "Go ahead. I'll be fine."

I followed Victoria into the meeting room. Margo brushed past me and headed in the direction of the design studio. Sasha was going to have to deal with her supervisor on her own. I had my hands full at the moment. Closing the door behind me, I turned to her. She crossed her arms over her chest. "Is there news you would like to tell me?"

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