The luxury car glided through the iron gates of the Blackwood Estate. I pressed my forehead against the cool glass, my breath hitching at the sight of the massive mansion. It was beautiful, but to me, it felt like a fortress meant to keep the world out—or keep me in.
Alexander didn't spare me a glance. He was staring at his tablet, his jaw set in that same hard line I'd seen in the office.
"Listen carefully, Elena," he said, his voice cutting through the silence. "Inside these walls, you are my fiancée. My staff, my family, and the press must believe every word of it. If you slip up, the deal is off."
I swallowed hard, clutching my small suitcase. "I understand."
The door was opened by a butler in a crisp suit. As I stepped into the marble foyer, the sheer wealth of the place hit me like a wave. Gold-leafed mirrors and crystal chandeliers everywhere.
Alexander placed a heavy hand on my waist, pulling me close. My skin tingled where his palm met my body.
"Relax," he hissed under his breath. "You're supposed to be in love with me. Now, smile. My grandmother is waiting."
I looked up and saw a stern old woman standing at the top of the stairs, watching us like a hawk. The game had truly begun.