Faking Fate [Book 1]

Chapter Eight: Public Facade

The night stretched on endlessly, like some cruel cosmic joke, as I stared down at the folder Alexander had given me. The folder of doom, as I'd started to call it in my mind. Because nothing says romance like a meticulously detailed, color-coded dossier on how to fake a relationship. Charming, right?

I glanced at the contents under the harsh glare of my desk lamp. The city outside pulsed with its usual restless energy, but inside, my thoughts were doing the real damage. How did I end up here? Oh, right. I'd signed on for this madness. I couldn't afford any slip-ups now, not with so much at stake. For both of us.

Flipping through the pages, I couldn't help but smirk at the absurdity of it all.

Date of First Meeting: January 4, 2023.

How We Met: At the opening of a high-end art gallery on the Upper East Side (The kind of place where everyone sips champagne and pretends to know the difference between 'abstract expressionism' and 'modernist chic.' Spoiler: I don't.)

Event Details: The gallery was hosting an exclusive exhibit featuring contemporary artists, and Alexander was a patron of the event.

Key Events:

First Date: A romantic dinner at a private rooftop restaurant, "Skyline Views." The dinner was a luxurious affair, complete with a personalized menu and breathtaking views of the city.

Apparently, we're that kind of couple—except, you know, not.

Public Appearances: Planned appearances at charity galas, business events, and a high-profile fashion show over the next few months.

I flipped the page and nearly choked on my own thoughts when I saw the shared interests section.

Background Information

Alexander's Interests: Known for his philanthropic efforts, tech innovations, and a penchant for privacy. Classical piano. Martial arts. Astrophotography. Chess.

Emily's Interests: An aspiring photographer with a passion for travel and capturing landscapes. Loves vintage fashion. DIY projects. Poetry writing.

Common Misconceptions: Be prepared to address any questions about our supposed past or future plans. Stick to the provided details and avoid personal opinions.

Other Planned Appearances:

High Society Fashion Show: August 10, 2024.
Tech Conference Gala: September 15, 2024.
Winter Charity Ball: December 20, 2024.

Personal Details

Alexander's Birthdate: April 8, 1994.

Emily's Birthdate: December 1, 1994.

Alexander's Interests: Philanthropy, tech innovations, martial arts, classical piano, astrophotography. Chess. Because of course, he's the type who contemplates the mysteries of the universe between rounds of kicking ass and playing Mozart.

Emily's Interests: Photography. Vintage fashion. DIY projects. Poetry writing. Yeah, that checks out. If by 'DIY,' they meant 'desperately trying to fix my sink with a YouTube video and praying it doesn't flood my apartment,' then sure, I'm your girl.

I leaned back in my chair, rubbing my eyes. God, I needed sleep. But instead, I had a folder full of lies to memorize. This wasn't just a show; it was the Olympics of faking it. The kind where if I tripped on the metaphorical balance beam, the media would chew me up and spit me out before I could say "tabloid scandal."