Ember's POV
The set looked like something out of a dream—soft golden lights, a backdrop of velvet curtains, and a white floral arch.
It was beautiful, almost magical, but none of it eased the knot twisting in my stomach.
The photographer waved us over with a wide, fake smile.
"Alright, let's get started! Let's see that chemistry!"
Chemistry?
I almost laughed.
The only thing burning between Ethan and me right now was resentment—and something else I couldn't name.
Ethan adjusted his jacket and walked to the center of the set like he did this a thousand times.
I, on the other hand, felt like a lost child in someone else's world.
"Stand closer," the photographer instructed. "Closer. You're supposed to be a couple in love, remember?"
I swallowed hard and took a hesitant step toward Ethan.
Before I could overthink it, he reached out and placed his hand lightly on my waist.
The contact sent a jolt up my spine, my heart hammering so loudly I was sure he could hear it.
He didn't even look at me.
His hand rested there like it was nothing—like I was nothing.
"Now, Ethan, tilt your head a little toward her. Ember, look up at him... softer... like you adore him."
I did as told, lifting my gaze.
Ethan's face was so close now, I could see the slight stubble on his jaw, the faint crease between his brows.
He looked...tired. Distant.
Still, the camera clicked and flashed, immortalizing the perfect illusion.
"Perfect!" the photographer called. "Now... Ethan, can you hold her hand? Maybe tuck her against your chest?"
Ethan's jaw tightened, just for a second.
Then, without a word, he took my hand in his and pulled me closer until my side pressed against him.
His chest was solid and warm through the fabric of his suit, his scent faintly familiar—soap, clean linen, and something uniquely him.
I stood there stiffly for a moment, but then I remembered:
Pretend.
I closed my eyes for a breath and let myself relax slightly against him, telling myself it was just acting.
Just another mask, like the one he wore so well.
"Beautiful!" the photographer praised. "Now, just one more... Ethan, kiss her forehead."
I froze.
Kiss?
Wasn't this supposed to be just posing?
I barely had time to process when Ethan leaned down.
His lips brushed my forehead, barely there—a fleeting, cold touch that somehow burned
When the photographer finally called, "That's a wrap!" I pulled away from Ethan so fast it was almost rude.
He didn't say anything.
He just adjusted his cufflinks, face blank, and walked away like it was nothing.
After we returned home, I quickly changed into something comfortable.
I was adjusting my clothes when I heard a knock on Ethan's room door.
Before I could react, the door swung open —
And there stood Damian.
The moment I saw him, my heart leapt.
Without thinking, I ran toward him and hugged him tightly, burying my face against his chest.
"Sorry, friend," Damian said softly, wrapping his arms around me.
"I had an important business deal. I couldn't come earlier."
"Are you okay?" he asked, pulling back slightly to look at me.
I nodded, trying to smile, even though my nerves were a mess.
From the corner of my eye, I noticed Ethan lounging near the window, silently watching us with an unreadable expression.
"Hey, Ethan," Damian greeted him casually.
"You never saw me here, Damian," Ethan said with a small smirk, crossing his arms.
Damian chuckled, then handed me a white envelope.
"This came from Ethan's father," he said, his voice a little hesitant.
Curious, I opened it —
Inside were two flight tickets.
I frowned in confusion, scanning the papers.
When I saw the destination, my heart jumped into my throat.
It was a famous romantic island resort— known for couples, honeymoons, and candlelight beaches.
My hands trembled slightly as I looked up at Damian.
"For... honeymoon?" I whispered, my voice barely audible.
Damian gave a half-smile and nodded.
I stared at the tickets, feeling hella nervous.
How could I possibly survive a trip like that alone with Ethan?
Trying to gather some courage, I looked at Damian hopefully.
"Can you come with us?" I asked, almost pleading.
Damian chuckled lightly but shook his head.
"Ethan's father said..." — he hesitated, glancing at Ethan before looking back at me — "only the two of you should go."
I bit my lip hard, feeling completely trapped.
Sensing my panic, Damian gently took my hand and led me to the corner of the room, away from Ethan's sharp gaze.
He crouched slightly to meet my eyes and squeezed my hands between his.
"Just enjoy wherever you're going," he said softly, his voice full of warmth.
"Ethan will never be a problem for you. I promise."