Fake love ( 1 )

I stepped inside my apartment, shutting the door behind me with more force than necessary. Veronica followed, her heels clicking against the wooden floor, filling the silence between us. 

"You didn't have to push me away like that," she huffed, tossing her purse onto the couch. "I came all this way for you."

I exhaled sharply, running a hand through my hair. "Veronica, why are you here?" 

She rolled her eyes, moving toward me. "I already told you. I missed you. Is that such a crime?"

I turned away, my jaw clenching. "You shouldn't be here. You know that."

Her arms wrapped around me from behind, her voice lowering. "Why are you acting so cold? We're engaged, Liam. You can't just ignore me."

I pulled her hands off me and stepped away. "You don't get it, do you?" I muttered. "Things aren't the same."

She sighed, stepping back with an air of resignation. "Fine. Don't answer. It doesn't change anything."

I exhaled, my patience wearing thin. "Veronica, just leave."

She tilted her head, studying me. "You really want me to?"

"Yes."

For a moment, she said nothing, then let out a dry laugh. "I guess that's that then."

She grabbed her purse, pausing by the door. "Not like it matters, anyway. We both know this engagement ended years ago."

My fists clenched. "Then why the act?"

She smirked, but there was no real amusement behind it. "Because my father sent someone to watch me, and you know how that goes."

I cursed under my breath. Of course he did. That man never let anything slip out of his control.

Veronica sighed. "Look, I don't love you, and you don't love me. But we both know what our families are like."

I ran a hand through my hair. "Yeah. I know. But I'm done playing along."

She held my gaze for a moment before nodding. "Then I guess I'll see you around, Liam."

She turned and walked out, shutting the door quietly behind her. And finally, I was alone.