The Substitute Husband.

a's

to face the music, to dive headfirst into the whirlwind of scrutiny from the media. I couldn't help

that?" One of the women began to fire questions at me. I vaguely recognized her as a famou

ne?" The reporter from Devine Margot chimed in, her excitement was palpable. I silently celebrated as the questions veered precisely

candalous inquiry our way, his expression laden with i

briefly flicking to my parents. All my life, I had yearned for this moment, the day when I could openly acknowledge them as my family. "You see, they've done an incre

of having me pretend they weren't my parents. I had only been photographed with them four times in my entire life, and my father's PR tea

everyone? Is that why Daniel brok

date approached, it became clear that he was falling out of love. I realized he wasn't the one for me.

n we came across each other. We attended high school together and stuck by each o

ued our fabricated story, my words flowing effortlessly as if they were the gospel t

y, instead featured Alana Jordan, the only daughter and

t," I replied w

Daniel's name had been plastered all over the original decorations and despite our effor

ers, but somehow, Daniel's name still crept in. But it's not a big deal; those things are

e Margot sighed, her eyes brimming with enthu

esponded eagerly, grateful that

meeting, then,"

eky grin, attracting the attention of the women around us. I couldn't help but fee

r brow. "You must be thrilled to be reunited with your high s

ped in, "That sounds wonderful.

eople treated me once they learned of my true identity as a Jordan. Their pr

ourself to that interview?" I scolded Alec i

onfidently, brushing my curls away from my face as he challenged me. "Unless, of course, you want to gamble and

nobody," I retorted, though I couldn't deny the logic behind hi

ow to persuade the public that I'm your husband and not some substitute," Alec whispered i

enjoy our wedding," he teased, ta

e buffet tables. My mother had taken charge of the catering, given that I had been too preoccupied with other matters, and she had done an outs

te the illusion of a close-knit father-daughter relationship. In reality, our bond was far from that, but no one would ever s

that your industry will flourish. Only then can I consider handing the Jordan Empire ove

eplied, trying to

to me that you're worthy, Alana," he contin

y this time, my gaze shifting

informed, and I've just told you, but don't worry, I've had your belongings moved for you, so y

" I said h

k you'?"

r me," I replied sincerely, even though a little more g

rience had been surreal, to say the least. My first wedding felt like it might not be my last, given that Alec was undou

ced at our guests, my parents, and everyone who believed he was my husband. I decided to keep up the charade, especi