A Perfect Couple

The next morning after their extravagant shopping trip, the internet buzzed with photos and headlines. 

"Leo Langston and Quinn: The City's Most Elegant Couple?" 

"A Day of Luxury: The Langston' Public Display of Affection Stuns Fans."

Quinn's phone was flooded with messages. Friends and acquaintances congratulated her on her "perfect" relationship, and employees at "Quinn's Group" showered her with compliments when she arrived at the office. 

"You're so lucky, Mrs. Langston," one junior employee gushed. "President Langston must adore you. The way he held your hand at the mall—it was like something out of a movie!" 

Quinn forced a smile, nodding politely before excusing herself to her office. Behind closed doors, she leaned against the desk, staring blankly at her phone. 

The outing had been surreal—Leo's hand in hers, the whispered instructions to smile and act in love, the carefully staged gestures. And yet, despite knowing it was all fake, she couldn't deny the fleeting warmth she'd felt. 

Her thoughts were interrupted when her office phone buzzed. It was Mia. 

"Mrs. Langston," Mia said hesitantly, "President Langston is on line one. He said it's urgent." 

Quinn straightened, surprised. "Thank you, Mia. I'll take it." 

She picked up the receiver. "Leo?" 

His voice was calm but firm. "We're going to dinner at my parents' place this weekend. Your parents will be there too." 

Quinn frowned. "Another public display?" 

"Call it what you want," Leo replied. "Just be ready. And wear something elegant." 

Before she could respond, he hung up. 

When the weekend arrived, Quinn stood in front of her closet, selecting her outfit with care. She finally settled on a floor-length gown in deep sapphire blue, the silk fabric hugging her figure elegantly before flaring slightly at the hem. The dress featured an off-the-shoulder neckline adorned with subtle sequins that shimmered when she moved. 

She paired it with silver stilettos and a delicate diamond necklace—one of the pieces from their shopping trip. Her hair was swept into an elegant chignon, with a few loose strands framing her face. Soft makeup completed the look, with a bold red lip adding a touch of drama. 

When she descended the staircase, she found Leo waiting for her in the foyer. He was dressed in a classic black tuxedo, tailored to perfection. A silver pocket square added a hint of contrast, and his hair was neatly styled. 

Leo's eyes flickered briefly as he took her in.

Quinn met his gaze, her expression neutral. "Let's go." 

The Langston estate was aglow with warm lights, the sprawling gardens perfectly manicured as always. Mr. and Mrs. Langston greeted them at the door, their faces lighting up when they saw Leo and Quinn arrive hand in hand. 

"Quinn, my dear," Mrs. Langston said warmly, pulling her into a hug. "You look stunning! Doesn't she look stunning, darling?" she said, turning to her husband. 

"She does," Mr. Langston agreed, nodding approvingly. 

"Thank you, Mum," Quinn replied, her smile gracious but restrained. 

Leo leaned down to kiss his mother's cheek. "Mum. Dad." 

Moments later, Mr. and Mrs. Shaw arrived. Leo greeted them with an easy smile, extending a hand to Mr. Shaw before pulling Mrs. Shaw into a hug. "Mum, Dad. It's good to see you." 

Mrs. Shaw beamed. "Leo, you look dashing as always. And, Quinn, darling, you're positively glowing!" 

"Thank you, Mum," Quinn replied, the word tasting foreign but oddly comforting. 

The dinner table was a masterpiece of elegance, with crystal glasses, fine china, and a centerpiece of fresh white roses. Leo pulled out Quinn's chair for her, earning an approving look from Mrs. Langston. 

Throughout the meal, Leo was the picture of a devoted husband. He leaned in to whisper comments to Quinn, poured her wine, and even brushed a strand of hair from her face. 

"You two are such a lovely couple," Mrs. Shaw said, clasping her hands together. "It's wonderful to see how close you've become." 

Quinn smiled, glancing at Leo. "Leo's been so attentive lately. I feel very lucky." 

"And I'm lucky to have her," Leo added smoothly, taking Quinn's hand and pressing a kiss to her knuckles. 

Mrs. Langston sighed happily. "You're a perfect match." 

As the conversation flowed, Mrs. Shaw and Mrs. Langston asked Quinn about married life. 

"So, Quinn," Mrs. Langston began, her tone curious, "how's life with our Leo? Is he treating you well?" 

Quinn took a sip of her wine before replying. "He's been wonderful, Mum. Always supportive, always caring." 

Mrs. Shaw chimed in, "That's good to hear. And Leo, I hope you're keeping up with your promises to her?" 

Leo smiled easily. "Of course, Mum. I'd do anything for Quinn." 

Across the table, Mr. Langston and Mr. Shaw were deep in their own conversation. 

"What's this I've been hearing about Sofia?" Mr. Langston asked, his tone pointed. 

Leo set his glass down, his expression calm. "Dad, you know how the media is. They'll twist anything into a story. Sofia and I grew up together abroad. She's a childhood friend, nothing more." 

"And you expect me to believe that?" Mr. Langston asked, his eyebrows raised. 

"I do," Leo said firmly. "The rumors are likely from a rival trying to damage the company and my marriage." 

Mr. Langston studied his son for a moment before nodding. "Then handle it. I won't have this family dragged through the mud because of careless whispers." 

"I will," Leo replied, his tone resolute. 

After the meal, the group moved to the sitting room for tea. Quinn sat beside Mrs. Langston and Mrs. Shaw, who continued their inquiries. 

"Quinn, darling," Mrs. Shaw began, "what's the secret to keeping a marriage so strong?" 

Quinn smiled faintly. "Patience, I think. And understanding." 

Mrs. Langston patted her hand. "You've done wonderfully, my dear. We couldn't have asked for a better match for Leo." 

Across the room, Leo and Mr. Langston sat by the fireplace, their voices low as they discussed company matters. 

"Keep Sofia out of sight," Mr. Langston warned. "Even if there's nothing there, the optics are terrible." 

"I know," Leo said, his tone clipped. "I've already taken steps to clean things up." 

"Good," Mr. Langston said. "And make sure Quinn knows where she stands. She's an asset—don't lose her." 

Leo's gaze flicked briefly to where Quinn sat, laughing softly with their mothers. "I won't," he replied. 

As they drove home that night, the atmosphere in the car was heavy with silence. Leo kept his eyes on the road, while Quinn stared out the window. 

When they arrived back at the mansion, Leo opened her door for her, his hand brushing against hers as she stepped out. 

"Goodnight," she said softly, walking inside without waiting for a reply. 

Leo watched her go, his jaw tightening. For all their perfect performances, the cracks in their relationship seemed wider than ever. 

The dinner had been a flawless act, convincing their parents and the world that they were the perfect couple. But as Quinn lay in bed that night, the weight of the charade pressed heavily on her chest. 

How much longer could they keep up the illusion?