LILY
I don’t like heavy makeup. I don’t understand why I have to be glammed up like this. Arlo is just introducing me to his parents. They even chose what I’d wear. Everything is luxurious and branded—you can tell just by the material that it’s not local.
I don’t want to look too extravagant when they first see me; they might ask questions.
I opted for beige sailor pants, a sleeveless silk top, and a blazer. Simple but elegant. They liked it, too, and didn’t have a hard time fixing me up because, as they said, even with just lipstick, my beauty stands out.
“You’re so beautiful, girl. You must come from a line of goddesses,” the makeup artist complimented me. I felt shy at her praise.
Even Arlo’s secretary, Mia, was stunned. Despite my simple look, they were still in awe of me. I had no idea what time Arlo and I were leaving. Honestly, I was nervous about what would happen later.
“We’re leaving, Miss Lily,” Mia informed me.
“Thank you,” I said gratefully to both of them.
While waiting for Arlo in the living room, I picked up my phone to check if there were any messages. When I opened it, I saw missed calls from Katerine and Violet. They had also sent me messages. Katerine and Violet seemed so worried about me. Even Mom sent me a message.
I couldn’t call Mom back because her phone definitely has a tracking device. Once I get out, I plan to buy a basic keypad phone. I also logged out of all my social media accounts. They wouldn’t be able to search for me anyway, as I used a different name and set all my posts to private.
I felt relieved when I heard Violet’s voice message saying she had already explained everything to Katerine and that I didn’t need to worry. I sent both of them a message to let them know I was okay.
I didn’t tell them I ended up here in Alabama.
A few moments later, Arlo arrived. When I saw him, my cheeks flushed. Even though his face looked a bit haggard, he was still so handsome.
I’ve met many attractive guys, but there’s something unique about Arlo’s charisma. He smiled at me—10 bonus points for that gorgeous smile. My heart pounded even harder as he stared at me intently. Did he not like what I was wearing? He looked me over from head to toe.
I wanted to ask if something was wrong with my outfit, but I felt too shy to speak. Besides, I felt self-conscious around him.
“Hi, Lily,” he greeted me. His voice made me want to scream internally.
“Hello,” I replied, summoning all my courage.
“I’ll just change clothes,” he said. I nodded.
A few moments later, he descended the stairs. His masculine scent filled the air—it felt like his cologne had stuck inside my nose. In his simple long-sleeve shirt, he looked like a model. His s*x appeal was overpowering.
“Let’s go,” he said.
He opened the door of his red Ferrari for me. Once inside, I fastened my seatbelt. As he started the car, his phone rang. He didn’t answer it; instead, he turned it off.
“Arlo, how am I supposed to face your parents? Why are you introducing me to them so soon? Couldn’t we have done this tomorrow? We needed more practice to prepare for this. I just arrived at your house last night, and now I have to do this,” I said, my nerves getting the better of me. Why did this have to be his condition?
