Page 28 of Faking it with My Boss' Son

“Yes honey, he was a nice young man.” My mom said with joy in her eyes.

“He's funny, and caring, and we just click. I've never felt this way about anyone before."

My father's eyes softened, his grip on my hands grounding. "Sounds like something special, kiddo."

"It is," I continued, a hint of sadness tugging at my words. "But I've been holding back. The fear of expressing how I feel has been holding me back, and it's been tearing me up inside. I even thought about taking a step back, maybe start dating other people."

Dad studied me for a moment, his voice soothing and full of wisdom. "Michelle, life's too short for regrets. If this Ryan makes you happy, don't let fear stand in your way."

Tears welled up, and I nodded. "Thanks, Dad."

"Remember, you're stronger than you realize," he reassured me, his words carrying the weight of his own life experiences. "And we're always here for you, no matter what."

I leaned into his embrace, hugging him tightly, his presence bringing comfort and clarity. Amidst the challenges we faced, my father's unwavering support ignited a newfound determination within me. As I hugged him, I made a silent promise to myself – to embrace my feelings, confront my fears, and live with no regrets.

Chapter thirteen

Michelle

The day before my arrival, Ryan texted me and asked me what time I was coming home. I lied and replied that Leah would be dropping me off and there was no need for him to trouble himself.

It was a golden and warm morning as the taxicab drove toward Beverly Hills. The wind ruffled my hair, and the minty fresh smell from my shampoo took me back to when Ryan and I would walk home after school. Back when things were uncomplicated between us.

The closer I got to Beverly Hills, the more jittery I became, for I knew it was the time to tell Ryan about the most difficult decision I had ever made. I had decided that telling him how I felt wasn’t worth damaging our friendship if he didn’t feel the same way. I got out of the cab with a pounding heart. My legs were shaking as I put the key in the lock and opened the front door with a creak. Ryan was sitting on the couch with the warmest smile on his face that I’d ever seen. The moment Ryan saw me, he came over to me and held me in his arms.

For a moment, except for the continuous and fast lub-dub, lub-dub, lub-dub sound of my heartbeat and the warmth I felt in Ryan's arms, I could hear and feel nothing. After a while, Ryan pulled me back gently, and we both became conscious that the hug lasted longer than normal. I blushed and gently scratched my forehead, trying to calm my nerves.

‘‘How are you, Ryan?”

‘‘I’m good. I’m thrilled to have you back. How was your trip?’’ He said as he took my luggage from me, and we made our way to the kitchen.

‘‘It was good.’’ I said quietly.

‘‘Can I get you a cup of coffee?’’ Ryan smiled.

“Sure, that would be nice.”

‘‘You can’t imagine how much I missed you since you left,’’ Ryan said as he sipped the coffee and chewed on his favorite ginger cookies, looking calm. ‘‘These cookies taste awesome. I bought them yesterday. Want to try?’’

I shook my head. Food was the last thing on my mind right now.

I was trying to gather the courage to tell him what was going on. However, I felt timid and weak in my knees. But I reminded myself if I didn’t do it now, I’d never be able to do it. I took a deep breath, gathered all the strength I could, and said it quickly. ‘‘Ryan, I am moving out,” I said and then took a drink from my coffee cup so I couldn't see his expression.

Ryan sounded hurt, “Michelle...”

“Please, Ryan. Let me speak first. To be honest, I can’t carry on the drama of being your fake girlfriend anymore. I’m feeling as guilty as sin playing my part in fooling your dad. I cannot look him in the eye.’’ I shook my head and wiped my tears, still not looking at Ryan. ‘‘I know you’ve always gone out of your way to be there for me, and I’ll always be grateful to you for that. But please, no more of this drama anymore.’’ I looked up to see Ryan with a look of realization that this lie was hurting me. ‘‘I understand how important it is for you to finish your soccer career and then find your soulmate, and I want nothing but the best for you.” I stopped talking to see if he would say anything.

‘‘I understand Michelle. I am sorry I brought you into my devious ploy.” He said as he grabbed my hand lightly. “I will tell my dad tomorrow that things didn’t work out between us.

“I am so glad you understand. I thought you might get mad at me for ruining your plan.” I said with a sense of relief. Sad that I couldn’t tell him how I felt about him, but glad that the faking of our relationship was finally over.

Ryan gave me a hug and turned to walk to his room. “I have some things I have to do today; I will be home late, so I will see you tomorrow.”

“Okay, see you tomorrow,” I said as I went to unpack my bags.

Tomorrow? We normally had dinner together. Maybe he needs time to process everything.

I started to look for apartments online when Lucas called.

---