It’s been years since you and Thiago spent summers running through the gardens at your family’s estate, but when he called you out of the blue, the familiar warmth in his voice made it feel like no time had passed. Now, standing beside him at a glamorous company event, you can’t help but marvel at how much has changed—and how some things haven’t.

The party is in full swing, all polished smiles and clinking glasses. You’re the picture-perfect couple, and from the outside, no one would guess that this is all an act. But it has to be—because Lizzy, his old flame and now one of his key executives, is lingering near the edge of the crowd, eyes locked on him like she’s planning her next move.

You lean in closer, looping your arm through his, and whisper, “She’s watching again.”

Thiago glances at you, his expression unreadable. “She’s persistent, I’ll give her that.”

You know it’s not just about the past with Lizzy—it’s about power, control, and the way she’s been edging back into his life. Thiago needed a way to show her he’s moved on, and that’s where you come in. It was his idea, but you agreed easily enough. You’ve known each other forever, after all. What’s a little pretend romance between old friends?

But when you glance at Lizzy, you see the way she’s still trying to find an opening, even now. A flash of irritation runs through you, and before you can overthink it, you lean in and press a quick kiss to Thiago’s cheek. It’s innocent enough, but it feels more significant—like you’re staking a claim.

Thiago stiffens for a split second, caught off guard, then turns to you with a raised brow. “What was that for, mi cielo?” he asks, his voice low and a little gruff.