Bubble Tea

from pretend to promise

Song for the chapter: 10000 hours by Dan+Shay and Justin Bieber

Andres' POV:

I picked up my phone and dialed Audrey's number, excitement bubbling up inside me. She answered after a few rings, her voice warm and familiar.

"Hey, cutie," I greeted her. "Guess what Aunt Cheryl just told me?"

Audrey chuckled softly. "What did Aunt Cheryl say this time?"

"She's finally having that charity gala this Sunday," I exclaimed. "The one she's been planning forever. You remember, right? The one I told you about way back when we started this whole fake relationship thing?"

"Yeah, I remember," Audrey replied, amusement evident in her tone. "It's about time she's putting it on. So, what's the plan?"

"I was thinking we go together," I suggested. "Brunch time. It'll be fun, and we can support Aunt Cheryl together. Plus, it'll give us a chance to dress up and show everyone how great we look together."

Audrey laughed softly. "You just want to show off that suit you bought last month, don't you?"

I chuckled. "Maybe a little," I admitted. "But seriously, it'll be good. We can make a day out of it."

"Alright, Andres," Audrey said warmly. "Count me in. It sounds like it'll be a blast."

"Great!" I exclaimed, feeling relieved and excited. "I'll pick you up around eleven. We'll make sure to make a grand entrance."

"Looking forward to it," Audrey replied. "I'll see you then, Andres."

"See you Sunday, Audrey," I said, a smile in my voice as I hung up the phone.

As I pulled up to Audrey's place to pick her up for Aunt Cheryl's brunch gala, I couldn't help but admire how stunning she looked. She stepped out in a flowing gown that shimmered under the mid-morning sun, and for a moment, I forgot how to breathe.

"You look absolutely radiant, Audrey," I said, unable to hide my admiration.

Audrey grinned, a playful glint in her eyes. "Why, thank you, Andres. Not looking too shabby yourself."

I chuckled, feeling a rush of warmth. "High praise coming from the most beautiful woman here."

Audrey leaned in closer, her voice teasing. "Careful, Andres. Flattery will get you everywhere."

I held out my arm, offering it to her with a grin. "Shall we, milady?"

She took my arm, her touch sending a shiver down my spine. "We shall."

As we walked to the car, I couldn't resist pulling her close for a brief kiss, feeling the softness of her lips against mine. It was a moment that made my heart race, even after all this time together.

"Ready for Aunt Cheryl's brunch?" I asked, still feeling a bit breathless.

Audrey nodded, her smile soft and genuine. "Absolutely. But mostly, I'm ready to spend the morning with you."

I squeezed her hand gently, feeling grateful for her presence. "Same here. And to think, it all started with a fake relationship."

She laughed softly. "Who would've thought we'd end up here?"

"Life has a funny way of surprising us," I said, opening the car door for her.

Audrey winked. "I guess fake relationships can turn into something real after all."

As we drove to the gala, our conversation flowed effortlessly.

Audrey and I arrived in style, our luxury car gliding up the driveway of Aunt Cheryl's sprawling mansion. The estate looked resplendent, adorned with elaborate decorations that turned it into a glamorous setting fit for the occasion.