Chapter 11: Chapter 11

I didn’t expect it, but the kiss felt different than I had imagined. Rhett's lips were soft and warm, and he stood there like a statue, shocked at my bold move. As I kissed him, my mind wandered; was this really what I wanted? Or was I just putting on a show for the cameras? At that moment, I didn’t care. I just wanted to put in a good show and get done with it. I leaned in and kissed Rhett deeper, and his shock finally faded away as he drew me into him by the waist, returning the kiss. It was as though he had suddenly forgotten about the paparazzi, lost in the moment. Was he still playing his role? My mind wandered as the kiss got more and more passionate.

I tried to push the thoughts aside, focusing instead on the kiss itself. But just as I was starting to lose myself in Rhett’s embrace, I snapped back to reality. I could feel the kiss becoming too intimate, and I knew we had to stop before things went too far.

I drew myself aggressively away from Rhett, who stood frozen in place for a moment, the realization of what just happened slowly dawning on him. He fully recovered his composure and cleared his throat, avoiding eye contact with me.

“That-that wa-was just for the camera,” he stuttered, his words coming out in a rush.

“Of course, I’m pretty sure the paparazzi took good shots and our job here is done,” I responded with a strict tone, picking up my bags and walking away.

As I reached the car, I took a deep breath and tried to compose myself. I was shaken by the intimacy of the kiss, but I brushed it off cause I knew it meant nothing and was just for show.

Rhett joined me in the car, and we immediately set off for his parent’s house. The atmosphere in the car was tense, as we rode in heavy silence. But I tried to push the thought of the kiss away, focusing on the next and most important task.

I couldn’t help but feel nervous as I thought about what meeting Rhett’s parents would be like. I knew that Rhett had dated my step-sister Clara, and I wasn’t sure how his parents would feel seeing him move on with me of all people, especially after causing chaos at the wedding and embarrassing both families. If we’re being honest, I did a good job; they’d have had a cheating in-law if that hadn’t happened.

I took a deep breath, trying to compose my thoughts. I reminded myself that I was here for a reason and that I must do a good job convincing Rhett’s family.

As we arrived at Rhett’s parents’ house, I was struck by the poshness and extraordinary sight of the property. The gate alone was a sight to behold, and as we drove through, I was welcomed by a stunning mansion that was larger and more beautiful than Rhett’s. My jaw dropped as I took in the huge expanse of the property, the beautiful gardens and the elegant architecture of the house itself. I thought I had seen it all at Rhett’s mansion, but that was just the tip of the iceberg. Just how rich is this family?

Rhett parked his car and we hopped down, with the staff welcoming us into the mansion. As we walked down the long hallway, I couldn’t help but notice the interior. The walls were lined with artwork, the floors were marble polished, and the furniture looked luxurious. Everything was just so beautiful, and the mansion could be easily mistaken for a five-star hotel, it was very clear that Rhett’s parents spared no expense when it came to their home. But just as we got to the living room, I was greeted by a familiar face.

“Laurel!” Anita called out my name, her voice ringing in excitement as she rushed to me and gave me a big hug.

“Anita!” I stood with my eyes beaming in surprise, shocked at her presence.

I hugged her back with tears welling up in my eyes. I felt so happy seeing my best friend, Anita, after being apart for more than a year. I heaved a sigh of relief as I looked at Rhett.

“Well, Anita kept pestering me about how she wanted to meet you and I told her to come home today and she’d be able to catch up with you.” He explained. “I didn’t inform you beforehand 'cause I wanted it to be a surprise.

I smiled at him. “Thank you so much,” I said softly, pulling Anita into a tighter hug.

“Where’s Dad and Mum though? I told them to stay home today ‘cause I’ve got news for them.” Rhett asked Anita, eagerly waiting for a response.

“They’re in the living room for guests. They have a visitor,” Anita replied, shrugging him off as she led me by the hands to take a seat.

Rhett took a seat opposite us. “I guess I’m all alone now,” he teased, giving us both a jealous and playful look.

Anita just rolled her eyes, giving him a dismissive look. “Whatever,” she said, her tone filled with sassiness.

I laughed at their banter, and Anita and I fell into a conversation, catching up on everything that had been going on in our lives. We laughed heartily and made jokes, and I noticed Rhett stealing glances at me a few times. There was something about the way he looked at me that made me feel quite uneasy, but I brushed it off.

All of a sudden, Anita came to the realization that I was in her parent’s house. She asked suddenly, her eyes eager for an answer.

“Wait-why are you here though?”

I hesitated, but just when I was about to respond, a new voice chimed in from a corner.

“Yes, why are you here?”

The voice asked, its tone filled with shock and curiosity. I turned to see the source of voice, and my heart skipped a beat as I saw the face, coming out from the shadows.