The will remains on the coffee table between us.
"I've been thinking about your situation," I say.
Emmy tenses, her posture defensive.
"I have a solution. Unconventional, but logical." I pause. "I'll pose as your boyfriend."
For a few seconds, we just stare at each other, and I can almost see her debating whether she thinks I'm joking... or a psycho.
Then, Emmy puts down her coffee. Deliberately. She doesn't move but chuckles. "You can't be serious."
"I am serious."
"We hate each other, Adrian."
"We don't hate each other. We have different communication styles and worldviews."
"So we're incompatible. Great foundation for fake dating. Not!"
"On the contrary. Our antagonism makes the eventual relationship more believable. I believe enemies-to-lovers is a popular trope. But of course, you'd know that better than me."
She stares at me. "Did you just reference a romance trope?"
"I've done my research."
"Did you read any of my novels?"
"I tried, couldn't finish them."
"Harsh, but... thank you for that vote of confidence."
"It's just not for me, okay? I don't like fiction in general."
"Okay, so let me get this straight. You don't read my books, we have nothing in common, and we can't even talk without raising voices." She narrows her eyes. "Why would you want to help me?"
"In my defense, you're the only one who ever raises your voice." I take a deep breath and massage my temples, already feeling the start of a headache. I've prepared for this question."I knew Violet well. I understand what she would consider an authentic relationship. I'm already professionally connected to your family. The arrangement benefits both of us."
"Both of us? What could you possibly get out of this?"
I meet her gaze steadily. "The firm is considering me for managing partner."
"And, so?—?"
"Judith Morrison thinks I'm too isolated, too focused on work. She believes I lack the interpersonal skills to manage people effectively."
Emmy snorts, "Shocking. She's not wrong, though."
I ignore that. "She's been encouraging me to develop a life outside the office. A serious relationship demonstrates work-life balance."
"So I'm just a box to check on your career advancement plan?"
"That's reductive."
"Is it? What's in it for you besides a promotion?"
I hesitate. This part is more difficult to articulate. "Also, Violet was important to me."
Something in Emmy's expression shifts.
