Beyond The Lie

Chapter 44: A Fake Date to remember

Adeline.

This was it - my final week of preparation before the launch of my gown collection in Paris. Last week's campaign and photoshoot had been a huge success, and now it was time to focus on putting everything together for the big day.

With only few days to go until the launch on June 23rd, every moment counted. Rehearsals, setup, and last-minute details needed to be finalized, and I was determined to make sure everything was perfect.

I took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. This was what I'd been working towards for months, and I was ready to give it my all.

I'd finally finished Susan's gown, and I was excited to deliver it to her. Tomorrow evening was the big event, and I knew she'd rock that dress.

I called Susan to confirm the drop-off details, but she had other plans. "Come to the house with Eryx," she said. Wow, okay! I guess I was getting a plus-one, whether I liked it or not.

So, I took a deep breath and dialed Eryx's number. He picked up, and I couldn't help but smile. "Hello?" I said, trying to sound casual.

"Yeah.." He replied, his deep voice making me bite my lower lip. Seriously, who needs personal space when you have a voice like that?

"Were you busy?" I asked, feeling a twinge of guilt.

"Well... kind of!" He said, and I laughed. I'm pretty sure "kind of" was code for "I was busy, but now I'm intrigued."

"Oh, I'll call you later-" I started to say, but he cut me off.

"Speak up, Darling!" I blushed, feeling a flutter in my chest. Whoa, someone was feeling feisty!

I took a deep breath and continued. "So, I called Susan to give her the gown, and she told me to visit her today... with you."

Eryx chuckled. "Okay, are you okay with going?"

I played it cool. "I mean, yeah... it's fine... unless you're not free-" Yeah, right, like I was going to let him get out of this!

He cut me off again. "I'm free after this noon!"

We made plans to head to Susan's at 4. "I'll pick you up," he said, his smile audible over the phone.

"Okay, bye. See you!" I said, and we hung up. I couldn't help but smile. This was going to be an interesting afternoon!

***

Eryx arrived at my office, and we hit the road, chatting about my work - yes, mine, not his. I mean, someone's got to keep the conversation interesting, right?

Thirty minutes flew by, and we arrived at Susan's. I handed over the gown, and we grabbed a drink. But, I didn't want to overstay my welcome, so I made a quick excuse about pending work. We said our goodbyes, and Susan tried on the dress - it was perfect! She loved it, and that smile on her face was all the confirmation I needed.

As we drove away, a soft song played in the background, and I gazed out the window. Eryx broke the silence, "Why did we leave so fast?" He was calling me out on my earlier excuse.

I shrugged, "Well, I think it's better not to get too attached, you know?" The car fell silent again, except for the song. I glanced at Eryx, and he was lost in thought.

I couldn't help but think, Yeah, it's all an act, folks. One day, the truth will come out, and leaving these people behind will be tough. But for now, let's just enjoy the ride - and the music.

A few minutes passed, and Eryx spoke up again. "yoou didn't have dinner right?" I stared at him, confused. It was only 5:15 pm! Did he really think I'd already had dinner? Was he secretly a grandma who eats dinner at 4 pm?