Page 27 of Possession

We leave for an unknown destination. Anita never told me where her stop was, but it doesn’t matter. My job is to play the fiancé. Keep my head down and do as I am expected. If my days are anything like this, spending the next year with Viktor won’t be hard at all. Our car stops in front of a boutique. I don’t think much of it. We get out of the car and walk inside. Inside , two women are waiting. One I recognize from last night in the restaurant.

“Hi, Auntie,” she greets.

“Hi, Tina. Thanks for meeting us.”

“I was in the neighborhood. We weren’t formally introduced yesterday. My name is Tina. I’m Viktor’s and Oliver’s cousin.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m…”

“Ava, I know.” She has a sweet smile.

“Right.” I smile back.

“We don’t have much time ladies. Viktor is expecting us in an hour. What options do we have, Tina?” I’m confused about what’s happening.

“I pulled out a few outfits. I’m sure you will find something you like, Ava.”

“Something I like?” I am confused. They are both looking at me like it should be obvious.

“I thought it would be perfect to end a spa day with a new outfit. I always love wearing something new after a spa day.” She winks.

“I’m ok,” I feel out of my element.

“I want to spoil my future daughter-in-law. The closest I get to a daughter is Tina. She won’t let me spoil her anymore.”

“Anita, I wouldn’t feel right.” I say.

“Lucky for you I feel right for the both of us. So off you go. Try on what Tina has picked.”

I want to argue with her and tell her she doesn’t have to spoil me. But I am not going to lie, it feels good to have someone who wants to spoil me. I tried on a few outfits looking for the right one. Anita and Tina are really opinionated. Anyone else might find it annoying but I find it nice. I happen to look at the price tags as I try them on. One outfit can pay my rent for a month. This is a luxury I can’t get used to or rather shouldn’t. This is temporary. In a year this life will be a closed chapter in my life. A distant memory.

“That’s the one.” Tina says.

“Are you sure?” I ask looking in the mirror.

“It’s perfect, Sweetheart.” Anita adds in a tender voice.

I look in the mirror. I’m wearing an off-white knee-length dress and patterned stilettos. It’s a simple classic look. It’s the perfect look for Viktor Manarch’s fiancé. At least I think it is. They finish my look with soft makeup, making me look elegant. I feel like an imposter. In fact, I am. But I can’t deny that I’ve never felt more beautiful. Tina passes me a pair of sunglasses and a Burch purse. For now, I need to make myself feel comfortable. I need to play the role.

“You are stunning.” Anita says looking from behind me.

“Thank you.” I swear I see her eyes water. But it could probably be me projecting.

“We need to get going. Tina, are you coming?” Anita asks.

“No. I need to finish some errands. I’ll be at the restaurant later. Ava, it was nice meeting you. I’m sure we will see more of each other.” She comes over and gives me a quick hug.

“I hope so.”

“You will.” Anita tells me.

“Bye, Auntie.”

“Bye, Tina. I’m sure you must be anxious to see Viktor. He is going to be pleasantly surprised.” I smile because I don’t exactly know what to say. But I can agree with her on something. I was pleasantly surprised by how different I look. I take my phone out while we drive. I don’t know why since no one has my number, but I do just the same. Maybe out of habit. I have a few texts waiting.

Viktor: I hope you are enjoying time with my mother. Call if you need anything

Viktor: It’s been a few hours since I’ve heard from you. I’m sure everything is going great. Relax and enjoy yourself

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