he stands beside you, perfectly composed in a tailored suit, his hand settling at your waist like it belongs there. His voice is low, calm, the kind of calm that makes people listen.

”just for tonight…” you tell yourself as you feel his hand resting at your waist.

“Smile.”

He leans closer, lips near your ear.

“They’re watching. If we’re going to sell this, you need to look like you want me.”

His fingers tighten slightly at your waist, and for a second, it feels less like an act.

“Do you?”