Chapter 27
Chapter 27:
“Just tell me if any of it works for you, or if there’s anything you don’t like,” he said, waiting.
I nodded and started unfolding the paper, scanning his meticulous list.
We have to look like a real couple, so some public affection is mandatory.
No flirting with anyone else.
If Leona gets curious, we’ll say we’ve been seeing each other for a few weeks.
Stop me from hitting the guy who ruined my marriage.
Don’t overdo the drinks. I don’t want us saying something we’ll regret.
𝗗o𝗐𝗇𝗹𝗼а𝘥 PD𝗙𝘀 𝗳𝘳𝖾𝖾 о𝗇
Turn up the flirting whenever Leona is nearby.
You have to dance with me if I ask, no matter what song is playing.
Don’t give too many details about how we met, or anything anyone can verify.
If anyone asks, it’s nothing serious—we’re just seeing each other and hanging out.
If my mother asks, we’ll tell her we’re official. She never talks to Leona, so we won’t get caught.
Kissing is non-negotiable. Sorry.
You have to stay by my side all night.
Half of his conditions made me want to laugh; the rest weren’t terrible.
“Kissing? Isn’t that too much? I don’t mind holding your hand or flirting, but do we really have to kiss?” I asked, giving him a skeptical look.
“Yes, of course. That’s how it works. Leona expects me to make it clear that the woman I’m with is mine. I’ve always liked public displays of affection. I can’t let people think otherwise,” he rambled.
“If we were actually together, I’d understand. But to everyone else, it’ll just look like you’re crazy about some girl you’re casually seeing.” I let out a laugh.
“That’s the point. I need Leona to believe you’re not like any other woman I’ve dated,” he admitted. “If she sees us acting a little more serious, she’ll assume things are getting intense—whether we admit it or not.” There was a mischievous edge to his tone.
“Fine. Just remember we don’t need to put on a full-blown soap opera. Keep it playful, not passionate,” I said.
“I’ll do my best,” he replied, finishing with a quick wink.
I looked over the list again and paused at the part about lying to his mother. That didn’t sit right with me. I’d always gotten along with her, and the idea of deceiving her made me uneasy. I wasn’t sure I could do it—or if I even wanted to.
An idea started forming. Maybe it would be better if we stuck to one story. Pretending we really were together, instead of juggling two different versions, could simplify everything.
I decided to bring it up. “Davidson, wouldn’t it be easier if we chose one story and stuck to it? Either we say we’re casually dating, or we say we’re official. If we tell your mother one thing and everyone else another, someone’s going to slip. And then what?” I asked.
He went quiet, thoughtful as he weighed my words.