Fake affection

The tension that had once filled the air seemed to have cooled off, replaced now by conversations and laughter. Annabelle glanced at her wristwatch and realized that it was getting late. Just as she was about to mention it, a middle-aged woman entered the room.

"The tables are set for dinner, sir," she informed Edward's father before swiftly exiting the room.

"I'm starving," Edward's father declared with a chuckle, making his way towards the dining table. His wife followed suit, and Edward turned to Annabelle.

"Let's eat dinner before I drop you off," he said, pulling her up from her seat. They made their way towards the table, a sense of contentment and ease enveloping them.

During dinner, Edward started to act all loving and romantic in the presence of his parents. He passed various dishes to Annabelle, ensuring her plate was stacked with protein and an assortment of flavorful foods. Annabelle couldn't help but smile, feeling overwhelmed by his gestures. She fed him a mouthful of food, which he gladly reciprocated. He even helped her wipe off the stains of food from the corner of her mouth, causing his parents to exchange glances, both amused and touched by their son's affection for his fiancée.

After the last bite had been savored, Edward announced that he needed to drop Annabelle off. His mother asked them to wait for a moment, disappearing into her room. She returned shortly with a gift bag in her hands, a warm smile present on her face.

"It's a gift for you, Annabelle. Welcome to the family," she said, her eyes filled with genuine warmth. Annabelle took the bag, her heart fluttering with gratitude and joy. She waved it at Edward, who pulled her closer into his embrace, placing a tender peck on her forehead.

"Thanks for choosing me," he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity.

His parents chuckled at the display of affection, clearly delighted with their son's happiness. "Enjoy yourselves," his mother said, heading upstairs with her husband.

As Edward and Annabelle walked out of the house and towards the car, the night sky was filled with a gentle breeze. Edward broke the silence, his voice filled with gratitude.

"Thank you for handling the situation so well," he said to Annabelle, a touch of appreciation in his eyes.

"It's fine," Annabelle replied, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. Deep down, she wished the kiss had been genuine, not for show. She couldn't help but feel an overwhelming affection for Edward, even with the knowledge that their relationship was ultimately a facade.

"I'm sorry about the kiss. I needed to put up an act in the presence of my parents. I hope you don't mind," Edward confessed, sincerity lacing his tone.

Annabelle nodded, her heart yearning for something more real, wanting to believe that the family's warm welcome had not been just a show. She loved Edward, and in that moment, she wished with all her heart that their relationship was genuine.

They entered the car, Edward at the wheel, and he drove off into the night. The soft hum of the engine created a comforting ambiance, allowing them a moment of reflection in the midst of the darkness.

As they rode in silence, the stars twinkling above, Annabelle couldn't help but ponder the depth of her feelings. She hoped that one day, this charade would become reality, that the love and affection they displayed in front of his parents would no longer be an act, but a reflection of their true emotions.