She’s in

They sat curled on the couch, a warm cup of herbal tea in June’s hands and Xander’s arm draped casually around her shoulder. The TV played softly in the background, but neither of them was paying much attention.

Xander turned slightly toward her, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “You know,” he began, his tone casual but careful, “you’ve met my friends, we’ve spent time with your dad… but there’s one person you haven’t met.”

June raised an eyebrow, smiling. “Who’s that?”

“My father.”

June straightened up. “Really?”

Xander nodded. “Since we’re getting serious… and well, with the wedding plans coming closer”—he glanced at her, gauging her reaction—“I think it’s only right you meet him. He’s been asking about you. He wants to meet the woman who’s managed to tame his wild son.”

June laughed softly, a light blush touching her cheeks. “I’d love that. When do we go?”

“Now,” he said with a smirk. “If you’re ready.”

June’s eyes widened in surprise. “Now now?”

“There’s no time like the present, right?” Xander stood and offered her his hand. “Come on, let’s give him a surprise visit.”

As they drove, June gazed out the window, taking in the change of scenery as the city slowly gave way to the lush, upscale countryside. The route was serene—winding roads lined with tall trees and immaculate hedges. She turned to Xander, smiling.

“I’m nervous,” she admitted. “I mean… it’s your dad.”

“You’ll be fine,” Xander reassured her, squeezing her hand gently. “He’s going to love you.”

He has to, he thought silently.

The car pulled up to a sprawling estate nestled between tall iron gates. The mansion stood regal and imposing, surrounded by perfectly trimmed gardens, a marble fountain bubbling gently in front of the grand steps.

June’s jaw dropped. “Xander… this is a palace.”

He chuckled. “Welcome to my childhood.”

A butler opened the door, bowing slightly. “Mr. Stone. Miss Williams. Welcome.”

Xander held June’s hand tightly as they walked in. The grandeur of the home was even more impressive inside vaulted ceilings, glistening chandeliers, oil paintings of old patriarchs on the walls, and the faint scent of cedar and expensive cologne hanging in the air.

Then came the sound of footsteps.

Maxwell descended the staircase with the commanding presence of a man who had once run boardrooms with a mere look. Salt-and-pepper hair slicked back, eyes sharp and calculating.

“Son,” he said, arms open.

Xander hugged him briefly. “Dad, meet June Williams.”

Maxwell turned to June and smiled with carefully practiced charm. “Ah, so this is the famous June. Even more stunning in person.”

June smiled warmly. “It’s lovely to finally meet you, sir”.

“Please,” Maxwell said smoothly, taking her hand, “call me Maxwell. Or better yet Dad.”

June blushed at the endearment. “Okay… Dad.”

In the lush sitting room, soft classical music played in the background as the trio sat down. A maid poured wine into fine crystal glasses as Maxwell engaged June in conversation, masterfully walking the line between charm and probing curiosity.

“So tell me, June,” Maxwell asked, “what is it like being the daughter of Williams? I’ve always admired his business mind. Tough, but fair.”

June lit up. “My dad’s my hero. He taught me everything I know. I’ve been helping with the foundation in my mom’s name and trying to grow parts of the company to align with that vision.”

Maxwell nodded with interest. “That’s admirable. Family legacy matters. One day, you’ll understand just how important it is to protect what your parents built.”

“I do already,” June replied sincerely. “That’s why I’ve been cautious about who I let in.”

Maxwell’s smile lingered. “Well, you’ve chosen wisely. My son may be rough around the edges, but he has a good heart.”

Xander coughed slightly, shifting uncomfortably. June reached for his hand, her eyes glowing.

“I know. I trust him.”

That’s what I’m counting on, Maxwell thought.

As the sun began to dip, painting the skies with hues of gold and blush, June and Xander walked through the estate’s garden. She leaned her head on his shoulder.

“I think your dad likes me.”

“I think he’s obsessed with you,” Xander said, laughing.

“I’m glad,” she whispered. “It feels good to be… wanted.”

That word sliced through Xander like a dagger. Wanted. She wanted love, stability, truth.

And yet, here he was—building a lie on all three.

He paused, turning her gently to face him. “You are wanted, June. By me. In every way.”

She smiled, unaware of the war inside him.

In his study, Maxwell swirled bourbon in a heavy glass, speaking in a hushed but firm voice on his phone.

“She’s completely in. No suspicion. The shares will be ours the moment the marriage is signed.”

He chuckled. “We’ve played the long game well. The Williams girl won’t know what hit her.”