Jayson gazed at Marianne, who seemed lost in her thoughts. For a fleeting moment, his eyes drifted to her lips—something he hadn't tasted in the five years they had known each other. Their interactions had been limited to kisses on the cheek and, more often, gentle kisses on her forehead during events. This was all possible because others perceived them as a real couple, oblivious to the fact that their relationship was merely a façade.

After staring too long at her, he swiftly approached, closing the gap between them. He cupped her face in his hands and softly pressed his lips against hers.

Caught off guard, Marianne froze, struggling to...