The elevator doors slid open, revealing the penthouse. Selena stepped out and immediately felt the overwhelming presence of wealth.
The space was massive—floor-to-ceiling windows framed a breathtaking view of the city, sleek modern furniture filled the open living area, and soft, ambient lighting made everything feel expensive.
Selena barely had time to admire the place before Adrian walked past her, unbuttoning his suit jacket as he spoke. "Your room is down the hall, second door on the left."
Her fingers tightened around the handle of her suitcase. "Separate rooms? I thought we were supposed to make this look real."
Adrian turned slightly, a smirk playing at his lips. "I see no reason to share a bed unless you're volunteering for that role."
Selena's face burned. "Absolutely not."
"Then separate rooms it is." He shrugged. "As long as the world believes we're together, what happens behind closed doors is irrelevant."
She exhaled sharply. Six months. I can survive this for six months.
Dragging her suitcase down the hall, she pushed open the door to what was now her bedroom. To her surprise, the space was already prepared—a king-sized bed with plush bedding, a walk-in closet, and even fresh flowers in a vase.
Had Adrian planned for this? The thought unsettled her.
She barely had time to process it before a knock sounded at the door.
When she opened it, Adrian stood there, a small velvet box in his hand.
"Your engagement ring," he said, holding it out.
Selena hesitated before taking the box and slowly opening it.
Inside was a stunning diamond ring, elegant yet undeniably extravagant. The moment she slipped it onto her finger, a strange weight settled on her chest.
"This makes it official," Adrian said, watching her reaction.
She looked up at him. "You make it sound like a business merger."
"Because that's what it is." His voice was steady, emotionless.
Selena swallowed hard, hating the way her heart clenched. This isn't real. Don't forget that.
"Get ready," Adrian said, his gaze flickering toward her outfit. "We're having dinner tonight. Our first public appearance as an engaged couple."
Her pulse spiked. "Where?"
Adrian's smirk returned. "With my family."
Selena's stomach dropped.
Of all the ways she imagined their fake engagement starting, meeting his family was not one of them.
And from the glint in Adrian's eyes, he knew exactly what he was doing.