absolutely smitten (c duology #02)

C Duology #02:

Acquaintances Marianne Alison "Malie" Herrera and Theodore Gael Ortega never really connected beyond the borders of Cafuné Café. Malie had interacted with all walks of life -- except with someone like Theo who needed lots of things spelled out for him.

For months, Theo and Malie acknowledged each other's presence as almost but not quite friends.

But when his grandfather threatens to arrange another marriage, Theo is forced to be creative. His eyes land on Malie -- who happened to be facing financial problems.

An idea blossoms. Theo makes a proposal.

Determined to keep his life out of his grandfather's hands, Theo starts a fake, picture-perfect relationship with Malie. Malie thinks it was absurd at first. Theo is certain that she is the perfect candidate to convince his family.

Is beginning a fake relationship the best way to resolve their dilemmas? Or could they have untangled their problems without being utterly smitten by each other's whims?

[c duology #02, a novel]

floeful || 2022