Negotiating You

THE RULES
RULE #1: No physical contact in private.

RULE #2: Maintain a perfect, devoted marriage in public.

RULE #3: Keep a strict distance inside the house.

RULE #4: Do not fall in love.

THE EXCEPTION
Before the cameras, Elias's hand at Jasmine's waist pulls her so close their hearts beat as one, turning every staged touch into a dangerous, electric reality. She leans into his neck, breath hot against his collar, playing her part while praying he can't feel how fast her pulse is racing. The act was supposed to be fake, but as his grip tightens on her hips in the dark of the limousine, neither can tell where the lie ends and the truth begins.