TERMS OF AFFECTION THE REAL DEAL

Tristain entered the swanky restaurant, scanning the room for his real date, Jessica, whom his manager had set up for him. Jessica was seated at a table, waving enthusiastically as soon as she spotted him.

jessica

(grinning broadly) Oh my gosh, Tristain! You're even more handsome in person!

jessica

Tristain caine (ML)

(forcing a polite smile) Thank you, Jessica. Shall we get started?

jessica

(Leaning in eagerly) Absolutely! I can't believe I'm actually here with you. I’ve been dreaming about this moment. I would love to marry you!

Tristain caine (ML)

(thinking to himself) This is not what I need…

jessica

(giggling) We would look so perfect together, don't you think? I love everything about you already!

Tristain caine (ML)

(raising an eyebrow) Really? And what exactly do you know about me?

jessica

(smiling sweetly) Well, I know you're rich and powerful. That's enough for me!

Tristain realized quickly that Jessica was not suitable for his plan. He didn't need a contract wife who was so eager to fall in love.

Tristain caine (ML)

(sighing internally) Jessica, you're very… enthusiastic. But I think we might be looking for different things.

jessica

(pouting) Oh no, did I say something wrong?

Tristain caine (ML)

(Fake smile)Ah.. It's not that. I just think this won't work out. I hope you find someone who appreciates your… zeal.

Tristain caine (ML)

jessica

(protesting)Butt.. But we haven't even had dessert yet!!

Tristain caine (ML)

ah..ok!!(sits)

jessica

(making puppy eyes) Can we talk a little more?

jessica

Tristain caine (ML)

(making a disgusted face) "Ahh, I have to leave."

Tristain caine (ML)

jessica

But-!!

Tristain stood up, shaking his head slightly, and left the restaurant. He dialed his manager as soon as he was outside.

Tristain caine (ML)

Asaph, Jessica is a no-go. Set up another meeting with that girl Emi..!!

Asaph( ML manager )

Emily? Are you sure? She didn't seem very interested last time.

Tristain caine (ML)

Just call her. I have a feeling about this

Asaph Called Emily, who initially rejected the meeting.

Lethia vitalio (FL)

(Sighing deeply) I really don't think this is a good idea. I'm not interested in meeting your Mr.ree

Asaph( ML manager )

Emily, please reconsider.He believes you're the right fit

Lethia vitalio (FL)

(hesitating) Well, I suppose I could meet him, but only because I'm curious. Don't get your hopes up, though.

Asaph( ML manager )

Great, see you at The Grand tomorrow at 7 PM.

Emily reluctantly agrees to the meeting, driven more by curiosity than genuine interest.

Tristain caine (ML)

Asaph, how's my look? Am I rocking the 'perfect match' vibe?

Asaph( ML manager )

Tristain, chill out. You're looking sharp. Emily won't be sizing you up based on your tie.

Tristain caine (ML)

But what if she's a tie enthusiast? What if my tie game isn't up to her standards? I'll be toast!"

Asaph( ML manager )

Dude, calm down. Emily's not going to ditch you over a tie. Besides, your tie game is strong.

Tristain caine (ML)

You sure? What if she's all about symmetry and my tie's slightly askew? Disaster!

Asaph( ML manager )

Tristain, seriously, take a breath. You're worrying about tie knots like it's the end of the world. Just go be your charming self.

Tristain caine (ML)

Alright, fine. But if she starts critiquing my tie, I'm blaming you.

Asaph( ML manager )

Deal. Now go knock 'em dead, tie knots and all.

Tristain caine (ML)

And remember, Asaphi, this is strictly business. I don't want Emily falling in love with me, but I also don't want her rejecting the contract.

Asaph( ML manager )

Got it, Tristain. Just keep it professional.

Tristain caine (ML)

(Glancing at himself in the mirror) Wow, I'm looking so dashing today. My goodness, I'm falling more in love with myself every day!

Asaph( ML manager )

Tristain, focus! You're meeting Emily, not admiring yourself in the mirror.

Tristain caine (ML)

(Chuckling)Can't blame a guy for appreciating his own charm, can you?

Tristain caine (ML)

(Laughs at his own joke ) HAHA..HA..! Alright, enough admiring. Let's go seal the deal.

With a determined yet slightly amused expression, Tristain adjusted his tie and put on a straight face before heading out to meet Emily.

At The Grand He nervously awaited his meeting with Emily, knowing that if this deal failed, his parents would hassle him endlessly. "I just want this to work out," he murmured, straightening his tie. "I don't need any love in my life."