The protocol
755 Words
Sienna was sprawled on her couch, gripping a spiral-bound folder labeled “The Protocol.” It had arrived the day after she signed Jack’s contract well organized, color-coded, and honestly a bit intimidating.
Inside was an entire manual for their fake relationship. They had a “how we met” story, photoshopped vacation selfies, and even a Spotify playlist of “our songs.” Oh, and a detailed itinerary for the wedding weekend.
This guy was seriously thorough.
Just then, the doorbell rang. Perfect timing. Jack Carter walked in, carrying two coffees and wearing a smirk that said he was used to being the center of attention.
“Morning, girlfriend,” he said, handing her a drink. “Hazelnut latte, one pump, extra foam. Just like the dossier mentioned.”
“You mean my personality file?” Sienna raised an eyebrow.
“Don’t take it personally. I run a tight ship.”
Sienna flipped open the folder and pointed to a highlighted paragraph. “‘We met at a charity dog yoga class?’”
Jack plopped down on the couch. “Puppies and yoga mats? Adorable. Everyone loves a good meet-cute.”
“I’m allergic to dogs.”
“Perfect! You heroically endured hives for love.”
She stared at him. “You’re way too into this.”
“Correction: I’m just excellent at my job. And right now, that job is making your ex regret every decision he ever made.”
That actually sounded pretty satisfying.
Jack clapped his hands. “Let’s practice. Starting with the basics. How long have we been dating?”
“Seven months.”
“Where was our first kiss?”
“In the rain. After your dramatic speech about emotional walls.”
“You cried.”
“I do not cry.”
“You did because I made you feel seen.”
Sienna buried her face in her hands. “Oh my god.”
Jack leaned back, looking amused. “If we don’t know each other’s story, they’ll catch on in five minutes. Weddings are like truth serum with an open bar.”
She sighed. “Fine. What’s your favorite movie?”
“Die Hard. Yours is Pride and Prejudice,but only the 2005 version because you love chaos.”
“Accurate.”
“See? We’re making progress!”
The next hour flew by in a whirlwind of backstories, couple quirks, and semi-believable anecdotes. Sienna couldn’t tell if she was rehearsing or being brainwashed by an exceptionally charming cult leader.
“Okay,” Jack said, tossing his notecards aside. “Last thing nicknames.”
“Oh no.”
“Yes! You call me ‘Carter’ because you’re emotionally avoidant, and I find that sexy. I’ll call you… Snickerdoodle.”
“You will not.”
“Fine. How about Red? Because you get snappy when flustered.”
“That’s… actually pretty fair.”
He stood up. “We’ll keep practicing, but you’re ready for the big leagues.”
She glanced at the suitcase by the door. “So we fly out tomorrow?”
“First class. Island resort. Matching linen outfits. You, me, and a suspiciously hot fake romance.”
Sienna shook her head, trying to fight off a grin. “You’re insane.”
Jack winked. “Only professionally.”
The next morning, Sienna found herself at the airport, breezing through check-in with Jack at her side. He wore sunglasses, radiating confidence, while she felt a mix of anxiety and excitement—plus some new lipstick.
“Relax,” he whispered as they boarded. “Just follow my lead.”
The flight was… well, an experience.
Jack casually held her hand during takeoff, ordered champagne with breakfast, and spent two hours pretending to read *The Economist* while throwing her pop quizzes about their fake anniversary trip to Napa.
By the time they landed on the island, Sienna was emotionally drained but mildly impressed.
At baggage claim, Jack leaned in close. “Game time.”
As they stepped outside into the tropical heat, there they were surrounded Trevor and Kaylee, the epitome of a smug couple. Just seeing them made Sienna want to throw her suitcase.
“Sienna!” Kaylee squealed, her voice way too high. “You made it!”
Trevor loomed awkwardly behind her, his eyes darting to Jack.
Sienna smiled sweetly, slipping her hand into Jack’s. “Of course! Wouldn’t miss it.”
Kaylee’s gaze dropped to their intertwined fingers. “And this is…?”
Jack stepped forward confidently. “Jack Carter. Sienna’s plus one.”
Trevor blinked. “
- Writer
