Chapter 13

Zaviya's Pov

I sank into the plush leather seat of Alastair's private jet, letting out a soft sigh as the plane began its journey back to the Philippines. The hum of the engines was almost soothing after the whirlwind of our 12-day fake honeymoon. Switzerland, Italy, Peru, and Turkey — each destination had its own charm, but I couldn't help but feel like I was living someone else's life.

Beside me, Alastair was tapping away on her laptop, no doubt catching up on the business she had been pretending to neglect for the sake of our charade. Her profile was sharp, the faintest hint of stubble adding a rugged edge to her otherwise polished appearance. She looked every bit the successful tech mogul she was, and for a moment, I found myself admiring her.

But admiration wasn't part of our agreement.

We had both entered this marriage for practical reasons. Our parents had orchestrated this union, believing it was the best way to secure our futures. Little did they know, Alastair and I had concocted our own plan. Agreeing to the marriage meant we could each secure our inheritance and save our businesses from jeopardy. In two years, we'd file for divorce and go our separate ways, free to live our lives as we saw fit.

I glanced at my left hand, where a simple yet elegant diamond ring sparkled. It felt heavy, not just because of its carat size, but because of what it represented. A façade. A promise to play the role of the dutiful wife for the next two years, all while navigating the complicated feelings that came with being tied to my childhood rival.

We had been at each other's throats since elementary school. Every competition, every debate, every event — we had always been on opposite sides, pushing each other to be better, to be more. And now, here we were, legally bound to each other, forced to share the same space, the same bed, the same life.

What would happen next? That question had been gnawing at me since the day we exchanged vows in front of our beaming parents. We had managed to maintain the pretense of a loving couple on our honeymoon, complete with staged photos and carefully crafted social media posts. But now, back in the real world, the stakes were higher. Our parents would expect us to play the part convincingly, not just in public but in private too.

Could we do it? Could we keep up this act without letting our true feelings — the rivalry, the frustration, the occasional moments of unexpected camaraderie — get in the way?

I turned to look at Alastair, catching her mid-sentence as she spoke into her phone, discussing some urgent matter with one of her executives. Her voice was calm and authoritative, a stark contrast to the playful, often teasing tone she used with me. It was strange, seeing this side of her, the side that was responsible and reliable. It made me wonder if there was more to her than the arrogant, competitive persona she usually showed me.

As she ended the call and turned to meet my gaze, a small smile played on her lips. "Thinking about our next move?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

I nodded, not trusting myself to speak. The truth was, I didn't know what our next move should be. We had agreed to this arrangement out of necessity, but living it day by day was proving to be more challenging than I had anticipated.

"We'll figure it out," she said softly, surprising me with the gentle tone. "We've always found a way to make things work, even if it meant driving each other crazy in the process."

I couldn't help but chuckle at that. "That's true. We do have a knack for making the impossible possible."

She reached out, taking my hand in hers. The gesture was meant to be reassuring, but it sent a jolt of electricity through me. For a moment, I allowed myself to believe that maybe, just maybe, there was a chance for us to find common ground, to be more than just rivals forced into a marriage of convenience.

But then reality set in. This was a temporary arrangement, a means to an end. And once our two years were up, we'd go back to being the independent, ambitious individuals we were always meant to be.

Until then, we'd continue to play our parts, navigating the complexities of this unexpected partnership, and hoping that we could keep our true feelings — whatever they might be — from getting in the way.

As the plane soared through the sky, I leaned back in my seat, closing my eyes and letting the steady rhythm of the engines lull me into a sense of calm. There was still a long journey ahead, both literally and figuratively. And despite the uncertainty of what lay ahead, I knew one thing for sure: Alastair and I were in this together, for better or for worse.

******************

The private jet hummed quietly as it settled onto the runway, its sleek frame a testament to the luxurious life Zaviya and Alastair were now obligated to live. Inside the cabin, the two women sat in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. They had just returned from a whirlwind 12-day honeymoon, meticulously planned by their parents to showcase the best of Switzerland, Italy, Peru, and Turkey. The experience had been as extravagant as it was exhausting—a curated spectacle meant to convince the world of their supposed love story.

As the plane taxied to a halt, the crew began their routine preparations for disembarkation. Outside, a chauffeur stood waiting beside a sleek, black Cadillac, its polished surface gleaming under the late afternoon sun.

Descending the steps of the aircraft, Alastair and Zaviya were greeted with polite bows from the crew. The formality of it all felt suffocating to Zaviya, but she kept her expression neutral. They climbed into the waiting vehicle, their chauffeur already opening the door with a practiced grace.

"Welcome back, Mrs. and Mrs. Dee," the chauffeur said warmly as he slid into the driver’s seat. "The car is ready to take you to the Porsild mansion."

Settling into the plush interior, Zaviya crossed her arms and muttered under her breath, "I still can't believe we have to go through with this charade."

Beside her, Alastair gave a small, knowing smile. "Just two years, Zavi. We can handle it."

The Cadillac glided through the bustling streets of Manila, the city alive with its usual chaos. Zaviya stared out of the window, her mind a whirl of frustration and resignation.

"Twelve days of pretending, and we survived," Alastair whispered, her tone light but laced with amusement. "Ready for the next act?"

Zaviya sighed deeply, turning her gaze away from the vibrant cityscape. "Do we really have a choice?"

Soon, the car pulled into the driveway of the grand Porsild mansion. The entrance was adorned with dazzling lights, as if the house itself were celebrating their return. Alastair and Zaviya stepped out, their expressions schooled into ones of polite interest as their parents—Morten, Nee, Derek, and Melanie—eagerly approached.

"Welcome back, dears!" Nee exclaimed, her voice warm with maternal affection. "How was the honeymoon?"

"Eventful, to say the least," Zaviya replied, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

"Come," Derek said, gesturing toward the mansion. "Let's have dinner. We have so much to discuss."

The dining room was a picture of opulence, the grand table set with the finest china and an array of exquisite dishes that could have easily fed a small army. They took their seats, the atmosphere one of forced cheerfulness.

"So, tell us about your travels," Melanie began, her curiosity genuine. "Switzerland, Italy, Peru, and Turkey must have been spectacular!"

"Each country had its own charm," Alastair replied smoothly. "We enjoyed the scenery and the experiences."

Morten beamed, clearly pleased. "We're glad to hear that. Tonight, we have a little surprise for you both."

After dinner, they moved to the garden, where the evening air was fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers. Tea was served as the family sat under a canopy of stars, the relaxed atmosphere tinged with anticipation.

A maid approached with a silver tray, an envelope perched delicately atop it. She handed it to Morten, who passed it to Alastair and Zaviya.

"This is for you both," Morten announced, his voice brimming with excitement.

Zaviya opened the envelope, her brow furrowing as she pulled out two gleaming keys and a property title.

"What is this?" she asked, puzzled.

Nee’s smile widened. "Tonight, you start living together under one roof. Your new home."

Melanie added with pride, "It’s a house in Forbes Park, Makati. Five bedrooms, one master bedroom, an infinity pool, a basketball court, a tennis court, and a garden full of sunflowers."

"But my things are in my penthouse," Zaviya protested, her voice sharp. "Alastair and I need to discuss where we'll live first."

Morten waved a dismissive hand. "This is our gift to you. Everything you need is already there."

Derek nodded in agreement. "We’ve taken care of everything. Your belongings are already organized in your new home."

Groaning softly, Zaviya turned to Alastair, her expression pleading. "What do you think?"

Alastair leaned closer, her voice low and reassuring. "Let’s just go along with it for now. We need to keep them happy."

Reluctantly, Zaviya nodded. They bid their parents goodnight and made their way to the driveway, where Alastair’s Bugatti waited. As they settled into the car, Zaviya couldn’t help but grumble. "This house better be worth it."

Alastair chuckled as she started the engine. "It’s only for two years. We can handle it."

And with that, they drove off into the night, the weight of their arrangement settling heavily between them.

The car pulled up to a sprawling mansion, a true architectural masterpiece, hidden behind high gates and surrounded by lush, manicured gardens. The air was thick with the scent of freshly cut grass and blooming flowers, the ambiance fitting for the grandeur of their arrival. As the vehicle came to a halt, a guard and two maids stepped forward, their postures straight and their faces welcoming.

“Well, here it is,” Alastair said, gesturing at the house with a slight smile.

The mansion was nothing short of breathtaking. Its exterior boasted large, gleaming glass windows that reflected the setting sun, sleek, modern lines that gave it a contemporary yet timeless appeal, and a front lawn so vast it could host a garden party for dozens. The double doors at the entrance were framed by marble steps, exuding a sense of understated opulence.

“Welcome, Mrs. and Mrs. Dee,” the guard said with a respectful bow, his words striking a chord that made Zaviya’s eyebrow twitch ever so slightly.

The maids didn’t miss a beat as they led them inside, pointing out the luxurious details of their new shared space. The living room sprawled out like a magazine spread, complete with an elegant grand piano positioned near the wide, open windows. The kitchen gleamed with state-of-the-art appliances that seemed too sophisticated for anyone but a professional chef to touch. The dining room was a vision of refined taste, with a table that could comfortably seat a dozen, adorned by a crystal chandelier that cast a soft, warm glow.

As they stepped into the backyard, an infinity pool stretched out before them, shimmering under the evening sky and blending seamlessly into the horizon. The lush greenery around the pool gave it a resort-like vibe, a little slice of paradise tucked within city limits.

“And here is your master bedroom,” one of the maids announced, opening the doors to what could only be described as a sanctuary of luxury.

Zaviya stepped inside, her jaw tightening slightly as her eyes darted around the room. The king-sized bed, dressed in immaculate high-thread-count linens, commanded attention. A cozy sitting area in the corner, complete with plush sofas and a modern fireplace, added a sense of warmth. The massive windows provided a panoramic view of the city skyline, each light twinkling like stars in the distance.

The tour continued with a walk-in closet that could rival a boutique store and a bathroom straight out of a five-star hotel—complete with a Jacuzzi, a rain shower, and double sinks.

“This is… extravagant,” Zaviya said, her voice tinged with a mixture of awe and reluctance to admit she was impressed.

Alastair smiled, leaning against the doorframe. “Welcome to our new home. Why don’t you freshen up? I’ll use the other bathroom.”

Without waiting for a response, Alastair disappeared down the hall. Zaviya stood there for a moment longer, taking in her surroundings before heading to the bathroom to wash away the weariness of their journey.

Later that evening, they both lay in the enormous bed, a chasm of space between them. The silence was companionable but filled with unspoken thoughts.

“So, what now?” Alastair broke the quiet, her voice soft but edged with curiosity. “We’re living together for the next two years.”

Zaviya turned her head slightly, her gaze meeting Alastair’s. “We need to talk about living together. Ground rules,” she stated firmly.

“Agreed,” Alastair said with a nod. “Let’s make this as smooth as possible. For two years, at least.”

Zaviya sighed, her voice tinged with resignation. “Two years. Then we get our inheritance and part ways.”

Alastair smirked, the corners of her lips tugging upward in a playful challenge. “Think we can manage?”

Zaviya couldn’t help the small smile that escaped her, though it was tinged with skepticism. “We’ll see. Let’s get some rest.”

The lights were turned off, plunging the room into a comforting darkness. Both women lay still, each lost in her own thoughts about the strange, uncertain future awaiting them under the same roof.

The morning was painted in luxury, a symphony of elegance and warmth. The room was adorned with intricately designed furniture, silk curtains that swayed gently with the breeze, and a crystal chandelier that caught the sunlight streaming through the grand windows. The enormous bed, draped in high-thread-count sheets and heaped with plush pillows, was the centerpiece of the space, basking in the golden glow of the sun.

Zaviya stirred first, blinking slowly as she adjusted to the light. It took her a moment to register the warmth beside her. There lay Alastair, sound asleep, her features soft and peaceful in slumber. Zaviya’s gaze lingered on her for a moment, her face a mix of emotions—irritation, curiosity, and something deeper that she wouldn’t dare name. With careful precision, she untangled herself from Alastair’s hold and slipped out of bed, her movements as quiet as a whisper.

The bathroom, just like the bedroom, was an ode to opulence. Marble countertops gleamed under the soft light, and the oversized bathtub seemed inviting enough to melt away anyone’s worries. Zaviya began her morning routine with her characteristic efficiency. She washed her face, brushed her teeth, and applied a touch of makeup, just enough to enhance her already striking features.

Descending the grand staircase, Zaviya took in the sprawling grandeur of their temporary home. The mansion was a masterpiece, with priceless artworks adorning the walls, antique furniture lending an air of history, and intricate woodwork that spoke of unparalleled craftsmanship. Crystal chandeliers hung like celestial bodies, casting a warm, golden light across the expansive spaces.

The kitchen was no less impressive—a chef’s paradise equipped with every modern appliance imaginable. The granite countertops gleamed, and a large island stood proudly in the center, already laden with breakfast preparations. The familiar, comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling sausages wafted through the air, making Zaviya’s stomach rumble softly.

Manang Celia, their cook, was bustling about with practiced ease. Her warm smile greeted Zaviya as she stepped into the room.

“Good morning, Ma’am Zaviya. Breakfast is ready,” Manang Celia said, her voice kind and welcoming.

“Thank you po,” Zaviya replied, her tone polite but restrained.

The table was set perfectly, laden with her favorite dishes—avocado toast, sausages, crispy bacon, and a steaming cup of brewed coffee. Zaviya took her seat and began to settle into the comforting rhythm of her meal. She had barely taken a bite when the sound of approaching footsteps reached her ears.

Alastair made her entrance, her casual attire of a plain white shirt and denim pants doing nothing to dull her natural charm. Her hair, still damp from a recent shower, framed her face in soft waves. Zaviya’s eyes flicked to her briefly before returning to her plate, unwilling to let Alastair see how effortlessly she commanded attention.

“Good morning, Manang Celia!” Alastair greeted cheerfully, her smile as warm as the sunlight streaming through the windows. Without hesitation, she enveloped the older woman in a heartfelt hug.

Manang Celia chuckled, her eyes crinkling with affection. “Good morning, Alastair! You look as fresh as a daisy.”

“Thank you po!” Alastair replied, her laughter infectious. Then, with a playful grin, she added, “Manang, this is my wife, Zaviya.”

The words hung in the air, drawing a sharp glance from Zaviya, but she quickly masked her irritation. She exchanged pleasantries with Manang Celia, the older woman’s genuine warmth softening her edges despite herself.

“It’s nice to finally meet you, Ma’am Zaviya,” Manang Celia said, her smile unwavering.

“You too, Manang Celia. Thank you for the wonderful breakfast,” Zaviya replied, her tone measured but sincere.

Together, the two women made their way to the dining room—a grand space with a table large enough to seat an army but set intimately for two. The morning light danced on the polished surface as they settled into their seats and began their meal.

“How did you sleep?” Alastair asked, her tone casual but curious.

Zaviya took a sip of her coffee before answering. “Pretty well, considering. How about you?”

“Like a rock,” Alastair replied with a grin. “What’s your agenda for today?”

“We still have a week of vacation before we dive back into CEO duties,” Zaviya said, her voice tinged with practicality. “I thought I’d explore the house more. And you?”

“Same here,” Alastair said, leaning back slightly in her chair. “Let’s enjoy our time off while we can.”

After breakfast, they found themselves in the garden, a breathtaking expanse of vibrant blooms and tall, golden sunflowers. The air was thick with the sweet scent of flowers, and the gentle sound of water trickling from a small fountain in the center added to the serene atmosphere. It was the perfect setting for the conversation they were about to have, though neither seemed particularly thrilled about it.

Zaviya, ever the meticulous planner, pulled out a pen and a piece of paper. Her determined expression was impossible to miss. Alastair leaned back in her chair, an amused grin playing on her lips as she watched Zaviya’s no-nonsense demeanor.

“So,” Alastair said, folding her arms. “Since we’re living under the same roof for two years, I assume you have a plan. Let’s hear it.”

Zaviya didn’t bother with pleasantries. She dove straight into her list. “First rule,” she began, her pen poised over the paper. “We only act sweet and lovey-dovey when our parents are around or when we’re out in public. That means hand-holding, light kisses, and sweet talk. No exceptions.”

Alastair nodded, her expression serious for once. “Agreed. No need to overdo it when it’s just us.”

“Second rule,” Zaviya continued, scribbling furiously. “We live under the same roof but in separate bedrooms. I need my space.”

Alastair chuckled softly, the corners of her mouth twitching upward. “Fine by me. Separate rooms it is. And no entering each other’s rooms without permission.”

Zaviya smirked, satisfied with Alastair’s compliance. “Third rule, we split the chores equally. Yes, we have maids, but as dedicated wives, we need to do our part. And just to be clear, I’m not your maid.”

“Like you even know how to do chores,” Alastair teased, her grin widening. “But fine. Agreed.”

Zaviya ignored the jab and moved on. “What about social media?” Alastair interjected. “Do we post stuff together?”

Zaviya tapped her pen against her chin, thinking. “Only when necessary. We don’t need to be all over each other’s profiles.”

“Okay,” Alastair said, jotting it down. “Fourth rule: we don’t interfere in each other’s personal business.”

“Except for one thing,” Zaviya countered, her gaze sharp. “No dating or having sex with other people while we’re married. Also, no bringing anyone else into our home. This is our space, and our charade needs to be airtight.”

Alastair’s brows shot up in protest. “Wait, what? That’s a bit much, don’t you think? Do you have any idea how many girls are vying for my attention?”

“And do you have any idea how much I don’t want to be plastered all over the tabloids as the poor wife who gets cheated on?” Zaviya shot back, her glare intensifying.

“Fine,” Alastair relented, sighing dramatically. “But the same goes for you. No men. For the next two years, you’re mine.”

Zaviya’s lips curled into a smug smile. “Deal. Now, sixth rule: we maintain our independence. No one needs to know our financial details or business dealings.”

Alastair nodded, already scribbling. “Agreed. Seventh rule: we have a weekly check-in to discuss how things are going. Communication is key.”

Zaviya raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised. “Surprising maturity from you. Okay, eighth rule: we attend all family events together. No exceptions.”

“Sure,” Alastair replied easily, flashing a grin. “I can handle that. Ninth rule: no discussing our arrangement with anyone except some of our friends who helped us come up with this plan. This stays between us.”

“And lastly,” Zaviya said, her tone serious, “rule number ten: no falling in love. This is a business arrangement, nothing more.”

Alastair met her gaze, her expression equally somber. “No falling in love. Got it. Wouldn’t dream of it.”

When the list was complete, they both leaned forward and signed their names at the bottom of the page, sealing their pact.

Zaviya looked up, her eyes locking with Alastair’s. “Remember, Alastair, this is just for two years. After that, we go our separate ways.”

Alastair nodded, matching Zaviya’s serious tone. “Two years. No more, no less.”

For a moment, they stared at each other, a strange mix of determination and uncertainty flickering in their eyes. Finally, Alastair extended her hand toward Zaviya. “Deal?”

Zaviya took her hand and shook it firmly. “Deal.”

Alastair smirked, leaning back with her trademark confidence. “I still can’t believe we’re doing this.”

Zaviya rolled her eyes, letting out an exasperated sigh. “Me neither. But if we stick to the rules, we might just survive.”

**********************

A few days later, the luxurious house shared by Zaviya and Alastair seemed to bask in the glow of the late afternoon sun. The infinity pool sparkled invitingly, its surface catching the golden light as Zaviya reclined on a plush lounge chair. Surrounding her were her closest friends, their laughter and chatter filling the tranquil air. It was the perfect kind of day — relaxed, carefree, and void of any complications.

"This is exactly what I needed," Zaviya said with a smile, tipping her sunglasses down slightly. "A relaxing afternoon with you guys."

Khali grinned, splashing water toward the edge of the pool. "Right? And this pool? Amazing. I could stay here forever."

Cass, lounging nearby with a drink in hand, took a moment to look around. "This place is incredible, Zaviya. You and Alastair are so lucky."

Zaviya responded with a soft smile. "Thanks. It’s a gift from our parents."

The mention of the couple’s shared life prompted Oliana to chime in. "Your wedding was so beautiful, Zaviya. If I didn’t know it was all an arrangement, I would’ve thought it was one of the sweetest weddings ever."

Cass laughed, leaning forward to splash water playfully toward Zaviya. "Yes, Zavi, your wedding was like a fairy tale. If I didn’t know better, I’d believe it was the real deal."

Zaviya waved off the comments, though her smirk gave away a hint of amusement. "Let’s just say we had some top-notch planners. But yeah, it was all fake. A means to an end."

"Alastair’s vow, though," Reika added as she leaned on the edge of the pool, her voice carrying a note of admiration. "It was so heartfelt. It sounded like she really meant every word."

Zaviya rolled her eyes, a playful glint in her expression. "She’s a good actress, I’ll give her that. We just played our parts well."

Cass, clearly enjoying the light teasing, raised an eyebrow. "And the honeymoon? Switzerland, Italy, Peru, and Turkey? That sounds like a dream trip. You both looked like you were having the time of your lives."

At this, Zaviya let out a laugh. "Our fake honeymoon was definitely the highlight. We made sure to enjoy every moment, even if it was just for show. We had to keep up appearances, but we also got to see some incredible places. Plus, it was a nice break from work."

The group dissolved into laughter, the lighthearted mood perfectly matching the sun-drenched atmosphere. Drinks clinked as they continued their conversation.

"So," Violet said, sipping on a mocktail, "how’s living with Alastair been for these few days? Any major fights yet?"

Zaviya sighed, brushing her hair back from her face. "Surprisingly, no. We actually made a set of rules to survive this fake marriage. Ten, to be exact."

"Ten rules?" Yevhen asked, her eyebrow lifting in intrigue. "That’s pretty thorough. What kind of rules?"

Zaviya began counting on her fingers, her tone casual but amused. "Things like respecting each other’s personal space, no interference in business matters, and definitely no bringing dates home. And the most important one: no falling in love. Just basic stuff to keep things civil."

Khali laughed, the sound echoing across the pool. "No falling in love? That’s impossible!"

Oliana grinned knowingly. "Especially considering how well you two get along in public."

"Trust me," Zaviya replied, rolling her eyes, "it’s not going to happen. We’re too different."

"Well," Oliana said with a smile, "it sounds like you’ve got it all figured out."

"Let’s hope it stays that way," Zaviya quipped, though a flicker of something unspoken passed across her face.

As the sun began its slow descent, casting a warm golden glow over the pool, the teasing continued.

"So, Zaviya," Khali said, leaning forward with a mischievous grin, "spill the tea. What’s your ideal partner like?"

Zaviya paused, a thoughtful smile creeping onto her lips. "Hmm, tall and good-looking, of course. Someone who has a great sense of humor, intelligent, and just generally has all the good qualities."

Oliana nudged her playfully. "That sounds like someone we know..."

Cass, unable to resist, joined in. "Yeah, Zaviya, that sounds a lot like Alastair!"

"No way!" Zaviya said quickly, her cheeks flushing slightly as she waved off the comment. "Alastair is my nemesis in everything. There’s no way she’d be my ideal partner."

Reika leaned in with a teasing glint in her eye. "Come on, Zaviya. You’re just in denial. We see the way you two interact."

Violet giggled, sipping her drink. "Exactly. You guys have such strong chemistry."

"And besides," Yevhen added with a smirk, "a little rivalry never hurt anyone. Maybe it’s just a cover for deeper feelings?"

Zaviya shook her head, laughing despite herself. "You guys are impossible. Alastair and I have been rivals since elementary school. There’s no way I’d ever see her as my ideal partner."

Khali winked. "Sometimes, the best relationships come from the most unexpected places."

Oliana sighed dramatically, her tone playful. "Just imagine, Zaviya. Tall, handsome, funny, smart... Alastair fits the bill."

"And don’t forget," Cass added, her voice full of mockery, "she’s got those dreamy eyes."

Zaviya, now visibly flustered though trying to hide it, held up her hands in surrender. "Okay, okay, enough about Alastair. Let’s change the subject."

Her friends burst into laughter again, their banter filling the air as the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the sparkling water. For now, it was just another carefree afternoon among friends, but beneath the surface, the story was far from over.

It was a little past five in the evening when Alastair finally returned home from her basketball game. The air was heavy with the scent of chlorine from the infinity pool, mingling with the lingering warmth of the setting sun. Clad in just her jersey shorts and a sports bra, Alastair’s athletic figure glistened under the fading light, her toned abs catching the attention of everyone lounging by the pool.

Khali leaned toward Oliana, her voice barely above a whisper. "Wow, she’s got quite the physique."

Oliana nodded in agreement, her eyes trailing briefly over Alastair's form. "Totally."

Yevhen, not one to miss the opportunity for banter, smirked. "Damn, Alastair's abs are something else."

Cass, sitting nearby, let out an approving nod. "She looks amazing."

Alastair approached the group with an easygoing smile, her dark hair still damp from the game. "Hey, ladies. Hope you’re enjoying the pool."

Reika, ever the playful one, grinned up at her. "We are, thanks! Nice game?"

Alastair gave a confident shrug, her lips curving into a grin. "Yeah, it was good. We won, of course." She punctuated her words with a wink in Zaviya's direction, her usual target for teasing.

Zaviya, perched on the edge of a lounge chair with her legs crossed, met Alastair's gaze with a smirk. "Nice to see you, Alastair."

"Nice to see you too, Zav," Alastair replied, the grin never leaving her face. "Hey, I just noticed you’re all smiley today. What’s all the excitement about?"

Khali, sensing an opportunity, smirked mischievously. "Oh, nothing. Just talking about Zaviya’s ideal partner."

Alastair arched a brow, her teasing nature taking over. "Oh really? And did my name come up?"

Zaviya laughed, shaking her head as she tried to maintain her composure. "In your dreams, Alastair."

Alastair feigned a wounded expression, clutching her chest dramatically. "Ouch. That stings, Zav."

Reika chimed in, giggling as she added fuel to the fire. "We were just saying how some of her ideal qualities match you, Alastair."

Alastair’s smirk deepened as she shrugged. "Well, I can’t help it if I’m just that great."

Zaviya rolled her eyes, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "You wish."

Unbothered, Alastair turned toward the house, throwing a cheeky parting remark over her shoulder. "Haha, keep on denying, dear wife. By the way, girls, I’m gonna hit the shower. You all have fun."

Violet called out playfully after her, "Sure, take your time, superstar."

As Alastair disappeared inside, Zaviya watched her go, leaning back in her chair. "See? We’re surviving."

Cass glanced at her with a knowing smile. "For now. Let’s see how long you can keep it up."

Zaviya laughed, brushing off the comment with ease. "Challenge accepted."

Reika leaned closer to Zaviya, her voice barely audible. "How do you not fall for that?"

Zaviya’s lips curled into a small, private smile. "Easy. I just remember rule number ten."

Cass, shaking her head in amusement, added once Alastair was out of earshot, "Seriously, Zaviya, if we didn’t know better, we’d say you two were a real couple. The chemistry is undeniable."

Zaviya shrugged, her tone casual but firm. "It’s all an act, guys. Remember, it’s just for two years. Then we get our inheritance and can go our separate ways."

Violet, thoughtful as ever, swirled the drink in her glass. "Still, it must be nice to have someone around, even if it’s just for appearances."

"It has its moments," Zaviya admitted. "But we’re sticking to our rules. It’s the only way to make this work without driving each other crazy."

Khali raised her glass in a toast, her smile sly but warm. "Well, here’s to surviving the next two years with your sanity intact!"

Everyone joined in, their glasses clinking together in the golden light of the setting sun. "Cheers!"

Their laughter echoed softly as the afternoon slipped into evening. The sky above the infinity pool turned shades of orange and purple, casting a serene glow over the group. And so, another day unfolded in the strange, tangled web of Alastair and Zaviya’s complicated yet oddly harmonious life.

------------------------------Update ✨🤙😍

ABF 13