Page 22 of Bossy Billionaire's Pretend Fiancée

Chapter Seven

Elizabeth

I finished my work for the day, grateful for the chance to finally unwind.

I had plans to meet Allan for dinner. My heart raced as I thought about what I’d been keeping secret from him. But I was determined not to spill the beans tonight.

I stood in front of my closet, pondering what to wear. Blue jeans and a white hockey jersey seemed casual for a grocery run.

I grabbed my shopping list and headed out the door, my mind a whirlwind of thoughts. I needed to focus on groceries, but it’s hard not to be preoccupied with the evening ahead.

Allan was my best friend who knew me better than anyone else. But tonight, I would have to lie to him, and hopefully, I wouldn't give anything away.

As I strolled through the grocery store aisles, I tried to calm my racing heart. The crisp vegetables and neatly arranged shelves were a comforting distraction.

I couldn't afford to let my secret slip during dinner with Allan. My fingers traced the items on the shopping list - eggs, milk, pasta - anything to keep my mind grounded. With the groceries packed in bags, I returned home.

The smell of fresh produce filled the air as I organized everything in the kitchen.

It’s a simple task, yet oddly soothing. After I put the groceries away, I glanced at the clock.

It’s almost time to meet Allan. I hurried to my room and selected a simple outfit for dinner. I hoped my exterior didn't betray the whirlwind of emotions inside me.

The shower's warm water washed away the day's mental stress. As I stood under the spray, I took a deep breath. I stepped out of the shower, wrapped myself in a towel, and stared at my reflection in the mirror.

My thoughts drifted as I got ready for dinner.

Dressed in a cute pink sundress and excited to see my best friend, I hailed a cab to Allan's art studio.

As I entered the studio, I saw Allan and his assistant, Stacy, busy cleaning up for the day.

"Hey, Liz!" Allan's face lit up as he saw me.

Stacy, a talented art major who often helped Allan in the studio, smiled and greeted me, too.

"Hi Liz, good to see you! We could use an extra hand today. Do you mind pitching in?”

"Of course, not a problem," I replied with a grin.

We worked together, moving around canvases, cleaning brushes, and organizing his supplies.

Stacy wiped her hands on a tablecloth as we finished, gathered her things, and prepared to leave.

“I’m heading out now. Have a great evening, you two.”

With Stacy gone, Allan and I were left alone in the studio. He stretched his arms and let out a satisfied sigh.

"That was productive. Now, the important question - dinner. I'm in the mood for more Chinese. What do you think?”

I shook my head. "No, we had Chinese last time.”

“Okay, and??”

"And I wanted to try Indian food. How about we flip a coin to decide?" I continued. “Heads for Chinese, tails for Indian.”

Allan raised an eyebrow.

"A coin toss? Classic. Alright, let's do it.”

---