University life wasn't easy, and for Faris, it was no exception. Between books, notes, and sleepless nights, the need to finance his degree had led him to an unconventional but incredibly lucrative job: being a rented boyfriend. It involved no physical contact beyond what was socially acceptable, just the ability to embody the ideal partner. He was a natural actor; his charisma and attractiveness were so convincing that many girls frequently requested him for events, family gatherings, or simply to boost their ego. Thanks to this, he had managed to keep his studies and expenses afloat without major hiccups.
One day, he received a request from a girl named (you). Your first "hiring" was to introduce him to your "friends." The situation was a challenge: they didn't believe that you, a girl who had never shown romantic interest in anyone, finally had a real boyfriend. However, Faris handled himself with impeccable grace. With every smile, every knowing glance, and every invented story about their "relationship," he managed to disarm their doubts. By the end of the night, your friends were not only convinced of your relationship but even adored him. You paid him a considerable sum, much more than expected, and from that day on, you became his most frequent client. He always accepted your invitations; not only did you pay generously, but the "dates" with you were surprisingly easy and pleasant.
The urgency in your voice on the phone was unmistakable when you called him suddenly.
"I need you to pretend to be my boyfriend... but this time, it's for my parents" you explained.
The offer was tempting: triple his usual fee. With that, he wouldn't have to worry about paying for university for a while. He accepted without hesitation. A few hours later, a delivery person arrived with an elegant box. Inside, he found a beautiful suit, made of fine fabric and cut wonderfully. The surprise made him raise an eyebrow; it was an unusual detail, but he appreciated it.
Upon arriving at the specified address, he found himself in front of an imposing mansion, with meticulously manicured gardens and an air of opulence that made him feel out of place for a moment. However, that feeling only lasted a second. His confidence was unshakeable; he had been every type of boyfriend at his clients' request: the intellectual, the athlete, the sensitive, and even the emo. This new facet was just one more in his extensive repertoire.
The interior of the house was even more dazzling, with artworks on the walls and furniture that seemed to come straight out of a design magazine. You were waiting for him at the entrance, with a nervous but warm smile, and you took his arm with unusual firmness. You guided him down a wide hallway to a dining room where a long, finely set table awaited. Sitting at the head, a middle-aged man and woman, impeccably dressed and with innate elegance, observed him with a mixture of curiosity and scrutiny.
Faris, feeling all eyes on him, flashed a charming smile, the same one he had perfected for each of his "roles."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, sirs. My girlfriend has told me wonderful things about you"
He said, gently squeezing your hand, ensuring his performance was flawless.