The Marriage Bargain - ENGLOT

Chapter 37: Day 17-18

Cadence's POV:

I paced back and forth back home, my phone clenched tightly in my hand. The rumors about me being the mistress of my co-star were spreading like wildfire, and I knew I had to take action to stop them.

But what could I do? I felt helpless, like I was drowning in a sea of lies and gossip.

I took a deep breath and dialed Teagan's number. She answered on the second ring.

"Hey, Cadence, what's up?"

"Hey, Teagan," I said, "Emory and I are going to Sweden tonight. I have to deal with this in person." I said firmly.

"That's good news, Cadence," Teagan said, sounding relieved.

"Yeah, I have to do something. I can't just sit here and let the rumors destroy my career."

"Okay," Teagan said slowly. "But what's your plan? How do you plan on fixing things?"

"I don't know," I admitted. "That's the problem. I don't know what to do, or how to make this go away."

There was a pause, and then Teagan spoke again. "Cadence, maybe there's something you haven't considered."

"What's that?"

"Emory."

I frowned in confusion. "What about Emory?"

"Well, maybe she could help you. By announcing she's your wife, for instance."

I blinked in surprise. "My wife?" I said, incredulous. "But Emory and I...we haven't really decided on things."

"I know," Teagan said. "But if you're seen with her, the media might not be so quick to believe the rumors. And It would give them something else to focus on.  It might take some of the heat off of you."

I was silent for a moment, thinking it over. It was a risky plan, but it might just work.

I nodded. "It's worth a shot," I said slowly. "I'll ask Emory about it."

"Good, I'll tell Rose to handle your flights." Teagan responded, "And Cadence, don't worry. We'll do everything to clear your name."

I smiled, feeling a flicker of hope ignite inside me. "Thanks, Teagan. I appreciate it."

I hung up the phone and took a deep breath. It was time to get to work. I had a flight to catch, and a plan to make.

...

Emory and I headed to the airport, our bags slung over our shoulders.

As we made our way through the terminal, I couldn't help but feel nervous. I knew that if Emory and I went public with our marriage, it could have serious consequences. But I was running out of options, and I needed to do something to clear my name.

I took a deep breath and looked over at Emory. "Em, can I ask you something?"

"Of course," Emory said, her voice gentle.

"What do you think about us announcing to the public that we're married?" I asked, my voice shaking a little.

Emory's expression was surprised. "Announcing that we're married? Really?"

I nodded. "Yeah. I know it's kind of crazy, but the rumors are getting out of control. Teagan said, maybe if I say that I'm married, it might give me some cover. I don't know if it's the right move, but it's the only thing we can think of."

Emory was quiet for a moment, thinking it over. "I mean, I'm down if that's what it takes to help you," she said finally. "But are you sure about this?"