Later that night the office was quiet again.
Emily stood by the window looking at the city lights.
Alexander walked over.
"The scandal will disappear soon."
Emily nodded.
"I know."
She turned toward him.
"Thank you for protecting me today."
Alexander looked at her calmly.
"I protected the truth."
Emily smiled.
"You're terrible at accepting gratitude."
Alexander almost smiled.
For a moment neither of them spoke.
Then Alexander said something unexpected.
"The rumors about us… might continue."
Emily raised an eyebrow.
"You mean the fake girlfriend rumors?"
Alexander nodded.
Emily laughed.
"That's your problem, not mine."
Alexander studied her expression.
Then he said slowly,
"What if we used them?"
Emily blinked.
"Used them?"
Alexander leaned slightly closer.
"A fake relationship could solve several problems."
Emily stared at him.
"You're serious?"
Alexander nodded.
"Very."
Emily crossed her arms.
"You're asking me to pretend to be your girlfriend?"
Alexander answered calmly.
"Yes."
Emily laughed nervously.
"This is crazy."
Alexander looked at her with complete confidence.
"Think about it."
Emily hesitated.
Because somehow…
The idea didn't sound completely impossible.
And so—
A new chapter of their story was about to begin.