The proposal

Annabelle was taken aback as Edwards reached into his pockets and pulled out a small ring box. He opened it and moved closer to her, squatting down to reach her eye level. She could feel her heart racing, unsure of what was about to happen. Was this yet another one of Edwards' games, or was there something genuine behind this display?

"What are you up to?" Annabelle whispered, her voice betraying her confusion and apprehension.

"Marry me," Edwards said firmly, his eyes searching hers for a reaction. He took her hand and slid the ring onto her middle finger as a small smile played on his lips.

Annabelle's hopes soared for a moment as she processed his words. Could it be true? But just as quickly as her hopes rose, they were crushed once again as Edwards chuckled.

"I figured out you needed a ring to compliment our fake marriage since we are engaged," he revealed, his tone laced with amusement.

Annabelle's lips curved into a forced smile as she let out a quiet "Oh." She felt her heart sink, realizing that Edwards was once again playing with her emotions. It was becoming all too clear that he was a true master of manipulation, a perpetual playboy who enjoyed toying with women's feelings.

Deciding that she had had enough, Annabelle stood up and made her way back to her desk, resolutely focusing on her work. She refused to give Edwards the satisfaction of seeing how deeply he had hurt her. As she sat at her computer, she couldn't help but wonder how someone could switch emotions so easily. It was a stark reminder of the kind of person Edwards truly was, and how little regard he had for the feelings of others.

Edwards, sensing the tension in the air, finally spoke up. "I'll leave you to your work," he said, his voice tinged with regret. He turned and walked out of the office, leaving Annabelle alone with her thoughts.

She watched him leave, her gaze still fixed on the computer screen. She purposely avoided looking in his direction, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of seeing her hurt. But inside, her heart was aching. She couldn't understand why Edwards had chosen to play with her emotions in such a cruel way. It was as if he derived some sick pleasure from it.

Annabelle paused and stared at the ring on her finger. It was a beautiful diamond ring. She loved it and wished it was given out of love, not ambition. As she turned it around, the sunlight caught the facets, reflecting the glamorous life she was expected to lead. But deep down, she couldn't shake off the feeling that something was missing.

Just as Annabelle was lost in her thoughts, she was startled by her phone ringing. She looked at the screen to discover it was a call from her brother, Alex. He was her confidant, the one person she trusted completely. Annabelle quickly reached for the phone, her heart racing with anticipation.

"Hello cupcakes," her brother's voice echoed through the phone, instantly causing a smile to spread across her face. "How's my favorite sister doing today?"

Annabelle laughed, grateful for the distraction. "I'm doing well, Alex. Just deep in thought, you know? How about you? What's going on?"

The siblings talked for a while, catching up on each other's lives and sharing anecdotes. They were both successful in their own fields, each following a different path but always being there for one another. Despite their busy lives, they made it a point to stay connected.

However, Alex finally told his sister the main reason for his call. He informed her that the people she needed to play the role of her relatives would reach out to her soon. "That was quick," she said.

As they were talking, a text popped up from an unknown number. It stated that her brother had contacted them and asked her to meet up. Annabelle's heart skipped a beat. Who were these people, and how did they know about their conversation?

Annabelle hesitated, unsure if she should trust the message. She quickly informed her brother of the text, contemplating whether she should ignore it or not.

Alex's voice soothed her worries. "Annie, it's probably the people I mentioned earlier. They're the ones. I'm sure it's safe. It wouldn't hurt to at least meet up with them and discuss the details, right?"

Reluctantly, Annabelle agreed, deciding to take the chance. With the utmost caution, Annabelle texted back the unknown number and arranged to meet them at a café the next day at 2 PM. She wanted to make sure it was a public place where she would feel safe. The location wasn't far from her apartment, so it seemed like a convenient choice.

Her mind was filled with questions like if they can carry out their roles effectively, but she had to trust her brother's judgment.

Alex wished her good luck and promised to be there for support. Annabelle hung up the phone, a mix of excitement and trepidation swirling within her. She was now fully assured now that her plans were moving sweetly.