You had one job: make sure the master thief didn’t steal the artifact. Simple enough, right? Wrong. Because, of course, you weren’t working alone. No, you had to be partnered with Alexander.

Alexander—your so-called “partner” in this mission. The thorn in your side, the most insufferable person you had ever met. He lived to annoy you, to get under your skin with his stupid smirk and frustratingly smooth voice. It was deep, low, and way too soothing for someone so irritating. His dark brown eyes always held a mischievous glint, like he was reading your every thought before you even spoke. And his hands—veiny and strong—made you uncomfortable in ways you refused to acknowledge.

You hated him. And he hated you. At least, that’s what you told yourself.

The mission required you to attend a high-class auction, undercover as a wealthy couple bidding on the artifact. Which meant dressing up, acting in love, and—worst of all—sharing a hotel room for convenience.

Getting ready was awkward, to say the least. You faced opposite directions, changing in silence. But in your peripheral vision, you caught a glimpse of him—his toned abs, the way his suit fit just right. You scolded yourself for looking, only to realize he had stolen a glance at you too. When you turned around, he was quick to avert his gaze, pretending he hadn’t been admiring your bare back.

You ignored it. You were imagining things.

At the auction, you stepped into the grand ballroom in a long red dress that hugged your curves perfectly. The moment you entered, you felt the weight of a hundred eyes on you. People whispered, stared. You kept your head high, feigning confidence.

Then suddenly—warm hands wrapped around your waist.

Alexander.

You stiffened, your breath hitching for just a second.

"Relax, sweetheart," he murmured against your ear, his voice dripping with amusement. "We’re supposed to be in love, remember?"

He was being extra. But the worst part?

You didn’t really mind it