Page 37 of A Win-Win Situation
Without realizing it, I pull up at the hotel. This might have been the fastest car ride in a while. I step out of the car and open the door for Leora. My eyes linger on her for a moment, taking her in, catching the way she bites her plump lower lip between her teeth.
"I'll see you tomorrow. Be ready at twelve," I say, my voice steady before I let go of her hand. Tomorrow isn’t just any day—it’s the day we’re getting married. I’m becoming a husband. Regardless of whether it’s fake, we’ll still be tied to each other in others’ eyes, and in my eyes.
"Goodnight, Leora."
"Goodnight, Lucas," she whispers, and I watch as she disappears inside the hotel.
FIFTEEN
LEORA
I’m getting married today.
I still can’t believe I agreed to this. The reality of the situation hits me in waves, each one more nerve-wracking than the last, and I’m unsure if I should try to escape the waves or let them engulf me.
With a deep breath, I finally force myself to rise and head to the bathroom to begin my preparations.
To my surprise, both Sophie and Adeline are standing there, one holding a bag filled with makeup and the other with a curling iron.
I come to a halt. "What are you doing? I thought you’d be packing."
"Do you think we would miss our best friend getting ready for her big day?" Sophie puts the curling iron on the bathroom floor before coming up to hug me.
"It’s not my big day."
"You’re getting married, real or fake. It’s an important day," Adeline points out.
Tears prick in my eyes, and my whole body, which was tense a few seconds ago, relaxes at seeing my best friends.
"Now, now, Habibti, don’t cry. Jump in the shower, and then we’ll help you get ready." Adeline wipes away a tear that escaped the corner of my eye.
"Okay." My voice comes out in a whisper, but I do as she says.
I step into the shower, letting the warm water wash away any traces of apprehension and doubt. I take one of those do-it-all-showers where you wash, scrub, and shaveeverywhere. Why exactly do I do it all? I don’t know. It’s honestly comical considering it’s not like I’m having a normal wedding night. No one is making sweet love tonight—especially not me.
While Sophie dries my hair, my mind drifts back to yesterday—a surprising and enjoyable day. The dinner with Antoine was delightful. He's undoubtedly the sweetest man I've ever met, emanating a sense of familiarity. There's a softness in his eyes that makes me feel secure, as if he sees something worthwhile in me.
The drive back home with Lucas wasn't entirely unpleasant either; in fact, it turned out to be quite good. Although it started with a bit of awkwardness and silence, he eventually initiated a conversation, trying to get to know me. During our talk, he displayed a sweetness that surprised me. He even smiled and,oh my god,his smile. It could only be described in one way:beautiful. No wonder he keeps it under lock and key. With a smile like that, he could take over the world but if I’m being honest, it’s better that way. Grumpy Lucas should be easier to resist; his scowl acts like a buffer. But smiling Lucas . . . that’s an entirely different story. Smiling Lucas makes me want things. Things I shouldn’t want from a man who’s essentially a stranger.
So, maybe it’s best if he stays rude and distant. It’s a defense mechanism. I get that. Deep down, I want to know his story, but I can’t. Being left in the unknown serves as a safeguard, preventing me from making foolish and reckless decisions, like starting to enjoy spending time with my husband.
I studymy reflection in the mirror, thoroughly impressed with the girls' work. Adeline, the makeup guru, skillfully aimed for a soft, glowing, bronzed look, while Sophie, my hairstylist for the day, expertly crafted a curly half-up, half-down hairstyle.
Lastly, I slip on the pristine white dress I bought just two days ago. The midi length gracefully drapes over my frame, and the snug fit accentuates my curves, enhancing my figure. The bare shoulders add a touch of allure, completing the elegant look, and I find myself wondering if Lucas will see me as beautiful today, or at the very least, if he might find this whole arrangement a bit more bearable.
"Wow," Sophie says with a hand over her mouth, eyes glistening as she steps closer. "You look so beautiful."
"Do you think he’ll think so?" I cringe at the desperation in my voice.
I catch Adeline’s eye in the mirror as she furrows her brows slightly. "You don’t need his validation. You are absolutely gorgeous." She smiles. "However, I know he’ll think so too."
I gently take her hands in mine, squeezing a little bit—a silent thank you for her support.
"I wish this was real," Sophie adds, a hint of longing in her voice.
I do too.
"Don’t worry. It’s only going to be for about a year, then I’ll get back to my life and hopefully find a nice guy to marry for real. Then you two will be bridesmaids like you’re supposed to." I offer them a reassuring smile, which both return.
