Calm Before The Storm

Alice studied Andrew intently, a spark of recognition lighting up in her eyes. "What brings you here, Mr. Kingston?" she asked hurriedly, her tone tinged with nervousness.

"I came to verify Miss Brown's aunt's well-being but observed something peculiar between you and Mason Rex. Is everything in order?" Andrew discarded the disguise and adopted a solemn demeanor.

Alice paused, taking a few deep breaths. "I can't confidently say yes."

She shared a half-truth, wrestling with the dilemma of whether to bring Andrew into her problems.

"Tell me"

It was an authoritative demand, Andrew's face adorned with the customary frown. Alice lowered her eyelashes in response.

"He unexpectedly appeared to spring the next date for our marriage registration on me, set for the upcoming week." She felt awkward revealing this to Andrew.

"I see..."

"Under the condition that I endorse his fashion company as a brand ambassador," Alice continued with a sense of dismay.

"Hmm, then....."

Alice raised her eyes to