(A/N:) This chapter is dedicated to QueenAnalizaIbarra4 because her comments make me laugh 😂
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Cadence's POV:
I stood in front of the mirror, scrutinizing my appearance. I'm wearing a fitted crimson dress that hugged my curves, paired with black stilettos and simple silver accessories. Amaya, sat on the edge of the bed, watching me with an amused expression.
"You look gorgeous, Cadence," she said, shaking her head in disbelief. "I can't believe I have to play third wheel tonight."
I rolled my eyes, but couldn't fight the smile that tugged at my lips. "I didn't force you to come, you literally said yes before I finished asking."
"Potato -photato"
I had asked Amaya to come with me and Emory, to provide some backup in case things get too awkward. We're the perfect team, with Amaya's wit and charm balancing out my nerves.
Speaking of Emory, I turned to face her, when she entered the room. My eyes widened at the sight of her, who stunned in a fitted navy suit and matching heels. I swallowed hard, trying not to let my emotions get too tangled up with the act.
"Wow," I breathed out. "You look amazing."
Emory smiled, reaching out to brush away a stray hair off my forehead. "So do you. Ready?"
"As I'll ever be," I muttered, grabbing my clutch and following Emory out of the room.
"Wait up lovebirds!" Amaya exclaimed, hastily putting on her heels. She's wearing a stunning emerald green dress that looks similar to mine. I looked back and stuck my tongue out at her, giggling. Emory turned to me and held out her hand. I took it and we both waited for the elevator to open.
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As we pulled into Nonna's driveway, my jaw dropped at the sight of her mansion. It was a sprawling white building with dozens of windows, a wraparound porch, and a huge yard that seemed to stretch on forever. I felt a surge of nerves as I realized that I'm about to face the biggest hurdle in our fake relationship yet. But I was determined to make a good impression.
"Wow," Amaya said, craning her neck to get a better look. "This place is insane. I forgot you're loaded Em."
Emory shrugged, looking unimpressed. "It's just a house," she said, but I could tell she's nervous too.
We got out of the car, and Nonna came out to greet us, looking regal in a simple white dress. "Emory, my darling," she said, embracing her granddaughter. "And you must be Cadence." I nodded, smiling warmly at her. Emory pulled me closer and wrapped an arm around my waist.
"My, my, what a lovely couple you make!" Nonna exclaimed looking at our actions. "And who might you be?" Nonna asked, turning to Amaya. "I'm Amaya, Mrs. Winslow. Cadence's best friend." Amaya replied, shaking nonna's hand
"Well then, come come!" Nonna led us inside, and I marveled at the opulence around me. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, a grand piano sat in the corner, and a window seat overlooked the sprawling lawn. I felt out of place, knowing deep down I don't belong but Emory's arm around me, made me feel welcome and at ease.
"Sit, sit," Nonna said, gesturing towards the dinner table. "I've had the chef prepare a feast. Emory, I hope you're hungry."
Emory smiled dutifully, but I could tell she is tense. Nonna is nothing if not perceptive, and I worry that she would see through our fake relationship in an instant.
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The Marriage Bargain - ENGLOT
Romance"It's okay, you don't have to love me." Emory Winslow, The most sought after bachelorette has no time or interest in relationships. But She must find a wife or risk getting disinherited by her Grandmother Emmanuelle Winslow, all before the matriarc...
