Sophia tried to maintain some semblance of normalcy after striking their deal, but within 24 hours, it became apparent that sticking to her "rules" would be nearly impossible. Everywhere she went, there were cameras, reporters, and the occasional gossip-loving colleague giving her knowing looks.Her first real test came when Ethan invited her to a business dinner. She didn't want to go, but Ethan assured her it was necessary. "We're supposed to be seen together," he'd said. "The media's eating this up, and I've got a reputation to fix."So, she reluctantly agreed.At the DinnerThe evening was going well—too well. Ethan was charismatic, effortlessly charming the room. Sophia, sitting beside him, tried to keep her distance, but Ethan's magnetism was hard to resist. She found herself laughing at his jokes, even though she was trying to keep things professional.Then, things got awkward.At one point, the waiter approached with a dessert menu and asked if they'd like to share something "romantic." Without skipping a beat, Ethan put an arm around Sophia and said, "Of course. The lady will have whatever she wants."Sophia's eyes widened, and she immediately pushed his arm off. "Uh, no. We won't be sharing anything." She shot Ethan a warning look, which only made him smile wider."I'm just playing the part," he whispered. "Relax."But Sophia couldn't relax. Especially when one of Ethan's old acquaintances, Jason, a business rival, came over to their table."Well, well, well. Ethan Cole," Jason said, smirking. "I never thought I'd see the day when the notorious womanizer would settle down."Sophia felt her cheeks heat up as Jason's gaze flicked between her and Ethan.Ethan, unfazed, grinned and leaned back in his chair. "People change, Jason."Jason raised an eyebrow. "Do they, though?"Sophia forced a smile, trying to keep her cool. "It's really none of your business."Jason laughed. "Right. I'm sure this arrangement is working out just fine." With a mocking wave, he left them, leaving Sophia fuming."Unbelievable," she muttered. "People like him make this so much harder."Ethan shrugged. "It's just part of the game. The more we play along, the faster they'll leave us alone."Sophia narrowed her eyes. "You could've told him off."Ethan smirked. "Where's the fun in that?"Later that NightAs they left the restaurant, still pretending to be the perfect couple for the waiting photographers, Ethan leaned in close, whispering with a teasing grin, "You've gotta admit, we make a great team."Sophia glanced up at him. "You're impossible.""Impossible, but effective.""Whatever. Just remember the rules," she said, stepping away from him the moment they were out of the public eye.Ethan chuckled. "You really think you're going to keep all those rules intact?"Sophia glared. "Watch me."