Emily
I took Nathan’s arm as we stepped out of the car.
The moment my heels touched the pavement, the air shifted.
Cameras clicked rapidly, flashes bursting like tiny explosions around us, all of them desperate to capture the newest spectacle—the Carter heir and his fiancée. Nathan’s grip on my arm tightened just slightly, practiced
He was used to this. So was I.
I lifted my chin, posture perfect, smile soft but controlled.
This was part of the role.
Voices overlapped as we moved forward, greetings and admiration blending into one indistinct hum. I felt like I was walking through a carefully staged illusion, one where every step was choreographed and every expression scrutinized.
Nathan’s mother appeared almost immediately.
“My dear,” she said warmly, pulling me into a hug before
