From a distance, I observed the scene unfolding. Raphael’s parents strategically positioned him and Colette together, ensuring that no one missed the picture-perfect image of them side by side.
Colette, always one to seize an opportunity, played her part flawlessly. Her fingers trailed teasingly along Raphael’s sleeve, her eyes shimmering with a coy glint.
"Raphael, praise me, our parents are watching," Colette whispered, leaning in ever so slightly.
Raphael exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck before reluctantly giving in to the act. His arm snaked around Colette’s waist, pulling her closer. "You're so beautiful tonight, sweetheart."
Colette’s lips curled in satisfaction. She did not even bother hiding her triumph as she deliberately glanced in my direction, her eyes gleaming with silent mockery.
Then, as if to drive the dagger deeper, she moved in closer, her body pressing against his as she rubbed against him in an almost indecent manner.
Raphael stiffened slightly, clearly uncomfortable, but before he could step back, Colette went on tiptoe and kissed his cheek.
"Thank you, honey," she purred, her voice dripping with sweetness.
Whispers rippled through the room.
Guests murmured about how radiant they looked together, how perfectly matched they seemed.
Raphael’s parents beamed with pride, their eyes gleaming with satisfaction at how smoothly their plan was falling into place.
But no one except me seemed to notice Raphael’s scold as he leaned into Colette’s ear. “You’ve crossed the line, Colette.”
So, I just chuckled in satisfaction.
To any outsider, it would have seemed like an intimate exchange, a clandestine confession between lovers. But I saw it for what it was—a warning veiled in pretense.
Colette’s confident smirk wavered for just a moment, her mask of seduction slipping, but she recovered quickly. Her father-in-law’s voice cut through the moment, calling for her attention.
“Sorry to interrupt your little moment, lovebirds,” he said, his voice dripping with amusement. “But tonight is Raphael’s introduction to the business world. You’ll have to restrain yourselves.”
Colette’s expression shifted instantly, the practiced charm returning.
“No problem at all,” she purred. “I was just about to greet some of my friends anyway.”
Then, her gaze landed on Raphael. “Find me when you’re done, honey.”