Heart and Track

-6-

☆꧁༒Louisa May Pearl༒꧂☆

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The café was bustling with activity, a cozy retreat from the city's clamor. I arrived early, my nerves a mix of excitement and apprehension as I waited for Holden Collahan to make his entrance. I glanced at the clock on my phone, wondering how this meeting would unfold.

The bell above the door chimed, and in walked Holden. He was impossible to miss—tall, effortlessly stylish, and with an aura that commanded attention. I can say he is hot. I mean, no wonder every woman wants to sleep with him and tie him down. That man is a catch. With his blond hair, perfect height, and a lot of money.

Suddenly, I felt doubt about all of this. Will I be perfect when I stand beside him?

It's not like I am too ugly to be with him. It just I am just look ordinary. I have brown hair with green eyes. I might be around his shoulders when I stand beside him. I guess that's fine.

My stomach knotting with anxiety. Meeting Holden under these circumstances felt surreal and uncomfortable. I don't know him, and this felt like stepping into uncharted and potentially treacherous waters. Will he at least be nice to me?

He scanned the room with a confident gaze before his eyes landed on me.

As Holden approached with a casual, almost languid stride, I couldn't help but take in every detail. His expression was a mix of cool detachment and faint amusement, a smirk playing on his lips as he reached my table.

"Louisa Pearl," he said, his voice smooth and effortlessly charming. "I bet you already know who I am," He said.

He extended his hand, and I took it, feeling the firm grip of his handshake. "Nice to meet you, Holden," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.

Holden settled into the chair across from me, his demeanor relaxed as he leaned back with casual elegance. His blond hair was tousled perfectly, and his piercing blue eyes seemed to take in everything at once. "I have to say, you're even more striking in person than in the photos. Quite the surprise."

I felt my cheeks warm at the compliment. "Thanks. I suppose that's one way to start a meeting."

He let out a bitter laugh, running a hand through his hair. "Louisa, this whole thing is a farce. My father thinks parading you around as my girlfriend will somehow fix everything." He said and I am quite surprised when he said something that quite harsh.

"I know it sounds absurd," I said softly, "but maybe it can help. You know, the media loves a good love story. It might change the narrative."

Holden's jaw tightened. "I'm not comfortable with this. You deserve better than to be dragged into my mess. Why do you accept it? It is because of money that they offer?" My stomach tied a knot when he mention about the money.

I took a deep breath, steadying myself. "It's not about the money, Holden." I lied. I can't say that I desperately need the money that's why I accept this offer. "I-"

He looked at me for a long moment, as if trying to gauge my sincerity. "I didn't like the idea," he admitted, finally looking me in the eye. "But my father... he's pushing too hard. I don't have much choice. Let's just start this whole thing,"

"First of all, are you really want me to be your 'fake' girlfriend? If not, I can recommend someone else to your sister and let them decide," I said. With his attitude, I don't think I can cope in this situation.