Alexander stopped in front of her.
For a moment neither of them spoke.
Then he said quietly,
"The contract was supposed to be temporary."
Emily smiled slightly.
"I remember."
Alexander continued,
"But somewhere along the way…"
His voice softened.
"It stopped feeling fake."
Emily's heart raced.
Alexander looked directly into her eyes.
"I care about you, Emily."
Emily felt her breath catch.
The room felt smaller.
Warmer.
More dangerous.
She whispered,
"I care about you too."
Alexander's expression softened for the first time in days.
Emily laughed nervously.
"This is bad for the contract."
Alexander smirked.
"Very bad."
Emily stood up slowly.
"So what do we do now?"
Alexander didn't hesitate.
He gently pulled her closer.
Then he kissed her.
This time—
There were no cameras.
No acting.
Just the truth.