The Substitute Heiress

The Engagement Announcement

Chapter 5: The Engagement Announcement

Cassandra

The dinner with our families wasn't as terrible as I expected, but the next day, everything changed. Warrick and I met at an elegant café to discuss the day he would have to put a ring on my finger, and no, I wasn't at all prepared for that conversation. The press quickly picked up on our "relationship," and our parents insisted we should officially announce our engagement.

"So, when should we do it?" I asked, stirring my coffee nervously.

"My parents suggested a date in two weeks. There's a charity gala in the city. We could use that occasion to make the announcement," said Warrick, with his usual arrogant confidence.

I nodded, knowing I had no other choice. "Alright. I guess it'll be for the best."

***

Over the next two weeks, Warrick and I made several public appearances together, acting as if we were madly in love. Though I tried to keep a smile, the truth was everything felt exhausting and fake.

One night, we went to a five-star restaurant, one of those places where reservations are made months in advance, but of course, Warrick just had to mention his last name to be offered the best table in less than 3 seconds. Honestly, I didn't think it would be a good plan until I got there; the dim lights and soft music created an intimate and luxurious atmosphere, quite welcoming despite my doubts. Warrick, as always, looked impeccable in his black suit, and I wore a blue dress that brought out my eyes.

"Tonight we have to be especially convincing," Warrick whispered to me as the maître led us to our table.

"I know," I replied, forcing a smile.

We sat down, and as we waited for our dishes, Warrick took my hand across the table. The photographers stationed at the entrance didn't miss the opportunity to capture the moment.

"What do you think they all think?" I asked, looking around.

"They think we're the perfect couple," Warrick said, with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. "And that's exactly what we need them to believe."

The dinner passed in superficial conversation. Our talk was pretty basic, for we had almost nothing, to say absolutely nothing, in common. His tastes and mine were polar opposites. Warrick was so different from me that every day and every moment we spent together I learned a little more from him, and he learned a little more about me. Having frequented the same places when we were young and in fact for a short time did not mean that our behavior or friendships were the same; and yes, after so many years, now is when I began to really know him. But, getting on with what is important, every time Warrick said something sweet, I smiled and nodded, aware of the looks we had on us.

Another outing was to an outdoor concert in a city park. The night was clear, and the stars shone brightly in the sky. Warrick and I walked hand in hand along the paths illuminated with festive lights, greeting people who recognized the "new couple" in town.

"I feel like I'm in a fake fairy tale," I murmured as we walked.

“Exactly what it is,” Warrick replied, squeezing my hand. “A fairy tale for everyone else.”

We ran into some acquaintances, and Warrick didn't miss the chance to place his arm around my waist, pulling me close to him. The gestures were smooth but calculated. During the concert, we sat on a blanket, very close to each other. Warrick wrapped his arm around me and whispered in my ear.

“Relax, Cassandra. All of this will be over soon.”

I tried to heed his advice, but every gesture, every fake smile reminded me how far removed from reality I was. When the music ended and the crowd applauded, Warrick looked at me and smiled, a gesture that felt as empty as our relationship.

Finally, the night of the gala in London arrived. I dressed meticulously, choosing a crimson evening gown that accentuated my curves. Nicole, my best friend, helped me with my hair and makeup.

"Nicole, I swear this is madness. I can't believe we're going through with this," I said as Nicole applied eyeliner.

“Cass, you look stunning. You're going to leave everyone speechless,” she said, giving me a hug and ignoring my apprehension about what would happen today.

“Thank you, Nicole. Wish me luck,” I replied, trying to stay calm.

The dress I chose was my own design, a scarlet silk gown with a deep V-neck and a skirt that flowed in soft folds to the floor. My hair was styled in an elegant low bun, with a few loose strands framing my face. The makeup was sophisticated, with red lips and smoky eyes that accentuated my features.

Warrick arrived on time to pick me up, looking impeccable in a black tuxedo with a perfectly tied bowtie. He offered his arm, and together we headed to the gala.

The main hall of the London hotel was decorated with dazzling opulence. White and gold floral arrangements adorned each table, crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and candlelight created a warm and elegant atmosphere. The jazz band played softly in the background, filling the air with a smooth and sophisticated melody.

We walked the red carpet, greeting acquaintances and posing for the cameras. Warrick kept a firm hand on the small of my back, guiding me confidently through the crowd. The smiles and greetings were a routine we had perfected over the past few weeks.

In the midst of the evening, Warrick took my hand and led me to the center of the ballroom. I felt a wave of nervousness as all eyes turned toward us. Warrick took a microphone and addressed the crowd.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for joining us tonight at this special gala," he began, his voice firm and assured. "I have a very special announcement to make."

My heart raced. We hadn't discussed this in detail, but I knew today would be the day my future changed forever and this time I could no longer turn back. Warrick looked at me with a smile that didn't reach his eyes, but it was something that only I noticed and knelt in front of me.

“Cassandra, from the moment I first saw you, I knew my life would change forever. Your beauty goes beyond the physical; it's the sparkle in your eyes when you speak of your dreams, the strength with which you face every challenge, and the kindness you always share with others. You are my inspiration, my confidante, and my companion in every step we take together. In your hands, I see not only my future but the home and peace I've always sought. I want to spend the rest of my life showing you what you mean to me. Cassandra Carlisle, would you accept to be my wife? I promise to love you with every beat of my heart, honor you in every word and action, and build a future where every dream we share comes true.”

The silence fell over the ballroom, all eyes were on us. Warrick's words were perfect, too perfect. I felt a lump in my throat and tears welled up in my eyes. Not because he said them, but because I desperately wished those words were real, spoken by someone who truly loved me.

"Yes, Warrick. I will marry you," I replied, my voice trembling.

The crowd erupted in applause and cheers as Warrick stood up and slid a spectacular ring onto my finger. He embraced me and whispered in my ear.

"We're in this together, remember."

I nodded, trying to compose myself. Warrick took me by the waist and, to everyone's surprise, kissed me. It was a slow, brief kiss, our first kiss. I felt his firm lips against mine and, for a moment, I almost forgot it was all a charade. The crowd cheered and camera flashes blinded us.

The press soon proclaimed it as the most beautiful proposal of the year. Photos of our kiss flooded the headlines, and everyone talked about the perfect couple we were.

The headlines were extravagant:

"Proposal of the Year: Warrick Renfield and Cassandra Carlisle"

“Love in the Air: Renfield and Carlisle's Magnificent Engagement"

"Dream Romance: Warrick and Cassandra Seal their Love with a Kiss"

But in my heart, I knew perfection was just an illusion. Warrick and I were two strangers bound by a lie, and though we had to keep acting, I couldn't help but wonder how long I could bear this charade before the truth came to light.

The show had to go on, and we had to keep playing our parts.