Chapter 3: Preparation (Walter)

Walter's Point of View

My breath caught in my throat when Sid barged into the office without warning. One look at his face and it was obvious—he was stunned by what he just saw.

I immediately stepped away from Samantha. Without looking back, I said, “Leave us.”

She left with the folder I’d given her, bowing her head slightly as she passed Sid to show respect. Sid flashed her a quick smile.

When his gaze flicked to me, his brows shot up suggestively. I closed my eyes and shook my head before walking to my desk.

“I’m guessing she’s the fake girlfriend,” he said, following me with that unmistakable teasing tone. “In fairness, you’ve got great taste. She’s definitely a girlfriend material.”

“She’s not,” I said firmly, turning to face him.

His lips pushed forward in a dramatic pout as he held back laughter.

“She’s not,” he mocked, copying my tone and then burst out laughing. “She’s not, and yet you were kissing her.”

I shot him a glare. “I wasn’t kissing her, idiot. I was preparing her for the event.”

Sid nodded, though the smirk he was trying to hide was giving him away. He hopped onto my desk like he owned the place.

“Why are you even here?” I asked, sinking into my swivel chair.

He shook his head. “You asked me for a favor, remember? So, better not talk to me like that.”

I frowned and propped my chin on my hand, elbow resting on the armrest.

“I’m here to pick you both up,” he reminded me.

Right. After our last conversation, I’d asked him for help with the outfits we needed for the event.

His sister is a renowned fashion designer, one who chose to build her own name instead of riding on the family business. She has dressed celebrities and even international pageant candidates.

And since their family owns Marquez Jewelries, we had plenty of accessories to choose from. Though they weren’t for me, they were for Samantha. I didn’t want her looking like someone I’d just randomly hired. She’s undeniably beautiful, but her style is completely bland and boring.

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“Ruby wedding anniversary?” Sid’s sister asked as we walked down the hallway lined with mannequins dressed in stunning gowns and suits, each one unique and perfectly crafted.

Sid’s sister was breathtaking herself. Her style mirrored her artistry—a satin off-white blouse with a deep V-neck highlighting her pearl necklace, paired with wide-leg black trousers and sleek black heels. Effortlessly elegant.

“Yes,” I answered. She walked briskly, as if she was always racing the clock. Samantha silently followed us, probably lost in her own thoughts again.

“I wish you’d told me months earlier,” she said as she stopped before a door marked SVIP, the signage glowing. “I would’ve designed something just for her. Her face and figure are perfect—she’d be easy to dress.” She glanced at Samantha with genuine appreciation.

I looked at Samantha. She smiled—soft, shy. She should smile more often. It suits her.

“Anyway,” Sid’s sister continued, pushing the door open, “I have gowns here. It might take a while to find the perfect one. But don’t worry, I'll do everything I can to cater your needs.”

The room was overwhelming. Rows upon rows of gowns stored in glass compartments, each dress more stunning than the last. Several assistants in uniform stood waiting like well-trained butlers.

“This side is for the ladies,” she said. “The gentlemen’s section is on the right.”

Four assistants approached us. “Please assist him,” she instructed, touching my shoulder. Then she took Samantha’s hand. “And you, you’re with me.”

Samantha didn’t say a word, but I could tell she was excited. Maybe this was her first time trying something so luxurious.

“This way, sir,” one of the assistants said. Sid and I followed. I glanced back at Samantha.

Her eyes sparkled as she talked to Sid’s sister. The sight pulled something in my chest.

“You should be staring at the suits,” Sid said abruptly, grabbing my chin and turning my head forward.

I shoved his hand away instantly. Some of the assistants turned to look at us.

“I was staring at your sister,” I lied.

Sid laughed. “Did I mention who you were staring at? You sound awfully defensive.”

I clenched my jaw. “Just shut up and help me choose the best suit.”