Chapter 7: Playing the Perfect Couple

As the days turned into weeks, Harper found herself adjusting to her new reality. The initial shock of her engagement to Nathan Blackwood had worn off, replaced by a bizarre sense of routine. They were now a fixture in the company and the media, the ‘it’ couple of the moment, and Harper was starting to master the art of playing the perfect fiancée.

Their first few public appearances had been nerve-wracking, but with Nathan's guidance and a growing sense of confidence, she managed to navigate the spotlight. The whispers had subsided somewhat, though they still buzzed around her like bees, always present, always irritating.

But Nathan's presence made it easier. He was always there—charming, composed, and ready with a perfectly timed smile or a reassuring hand on her back.

Today, they were scheduled to attend a charity golf tournament, a lavish affair where the city’s elite would come together to raise money for a local children’s hospital. The event promised to be high-profile, filled with press and photographers.

Harper stood in front of her mirror, adjusting her mint-green sundress that Nathan had chosen for her. It was flattering, with delicate lace accents that made her feel feminine and put-together. She examined herself critically, wondering if she could ever get used to the scrutiny that came with being Nathan’s fiancée.

A knock on her door interrupted her thoughts.

“Harper, are you ready?” Nathan’s voice called from the other side.

“Just a minute!” she shouted back, taking one last look at her reflection before opening the door.

He stood there, looking effortlessly handsome in a crisp white polo shirt and tailored khakis, his sun-kissed skin glowing. Nathan’s gaze swept over her, and a genuine smile broke across his face. “You look incredible.”

“Thanks,” she replied, feeling her cheeks warm under his appraisal. “You don’t look too bad yourself.”

“Let’s get going before I change my mind,” he teased, gesturing for her to follow him down the hallway.

The drive to the tournament was filled with easy conversation, an unspoken understanding blossoming between them as they navigated the traffic. Harper felt a strange sense of comfort in Nathan’s presence. It was as if they were developing a rhythm, an unspoken connection that was growing deeper despite the façade of their relationship.

When they arrived at the golf course, the atmosphere was electric. Expensive cars lined the entrance, and well-dressed guests mingled on the manicured lawns. Nathan parked, and as they stepped out of the car, the cameras immediately turned their lenses toward them.

“Here we go,” Nathan murmured, taking her hand and leading her through the crowd.

Harper felt the weight of the world on her shoulders as they walked, but she forced herself to smile, leaning into the role she had to play. Nathan glanced down at her, a reassuring smile on his lips. “Remember, just be yourself.”

“Right,” she replied, her voice wavering slightly. “Just myself in front of a hundred cameras.”

“Exactly.”

As they approached the event's registration area, they were met by a PR representative from Blackwood Enterprises, a polished woman named Carla who had clearly been doing this for years. “Nathan, Harper! Glad to see you both.”

“Thanks, Carla,” Nathan said, his demeanor shifting seamlessly into that of a confident CEO. “What’s the agenda?”

“First, you’ll have some photos taken with the other sponsors, then you’ll participate in the opening ceremony. After that, it’s all about the golf,” Carla explained, her tone brisk and professional.

Harper nodded, trying to focus. She had never been much of a golfer, but she would manage. The real challenge was maintaining the appearance of a happy couple.

“Let’s do this,” Nathan said, taking her hand again as they walked toward the photo area.

---

The Photo Op

A small crowd of photographers gathered, their cameras snapping wildly as Nathan and Harper stepped into the designated spot.

“Smile!” Carla instructed, her voice almost drowned out by the clicking of shutters.

Harper forced her lips into a bright smile, leaning into Nathan as he wrapped an arm around her shoulder. She felt the warmth of his body next to hers and couldn’t help but notice how natural it felt.

“Look to your right!” one photographer shouted, prompting them to shift their attention.

Harper and Nathan turned, holding their smiles as flashes went off around them.

“Perfect!” another voice called out, and Harper felt herself relax a little.

“This isn’t so bad,” she whispered to Nathan.

He leaned closer, his lips brushing against her ear. “Just remember to stay in character.”

Harper suppressed a shiver, her heart racing. “Right.”

After what felt like an eternity, the photographers seemed satisfied, and they were finally allowed to step away.

“Now for the opening ceremony,” Carla said, leading them toward the stage area.

As they walked, Nathan turned to Harper. “You’re doing great.”

“Thanks. I think I’m starting to get the hang of this.”

He flashed her a proud smile that made her stomach flutter.

Once they reached the stage, the organizers of the tournament introduced Nathan as a key sponsor. Harper stood beside him, beaming as he spoke to the crowd, his confidence radiating.

“Thank you all for being here today to support this fantastic cause,” Nathan began, his voice smooth and commanding. “The children’s hospital relies on our generosity to provide care for those who need it most. Let’s show them our commitment to making a difference.”

The crowd erupted into applause, and Harper felt a surge of pride. Nathan was incredible in moments like this. She could see why he was so respected in the business world.

As he spoke, Harper scanned the crowd, taking in the smiling faces of guests who seemed genuinely excited to be there. She couldn’t help but feel a part of something larger—a shared purpose.

After Nathan finished speaking, he gestured for Harper to join him at the podium. “I’d like to introduce my fiancée, Harper Hayes. She has been instrumental in helping us make this event happen.”

Harper’s heart raced at the sudden spotlight, but she took a deep breath and stepped forward. “Thank you, Nathan. I’m honored to be here and to support such an important cause.”

The audience clapped again, and she felt Nathan’s hand on her back, steadying her.

“Together, we can make a real impact on the lives of these children,” she continued, finding her footing. “I’m excited for the tournament and hope everyone enjoys the day.”

Once she finished, she returned to Nathan’s side, and he leaned down, whispering, “You nailed it.”

“Thanks,” she replied, her pulse still racing.

With the opening ceremony complete, they moved to the golf course for the tournament. Guests paired off, some taking their swings while others enjoyed drinks and mingled. Harper stuck close to Nathan, and the two of them were constantly approached by fellow attendees.

“Is it true you’re both planning a summer wedding?” one woman asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“Not yet,” Nathan replied smoothly, “but we’re definitely excited about the future.”

Harper smiled, though internally she felt a pang of guilt. There was no wedding on the horizon—at least, not one that was real.

As the afternoon wore on, Harper began to feel more comfortable in her role. She laughed at Nathan’s jokes, enjoyed conversations with guests, and even swung a few golf clubs with surprising enthusiasm.

“Not bad for a beginner,” Nathan teased as they walked to the next hole.

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” she shot back, playfully bumping his shoulder.

As they continued their round, Nathan’s arm casually draped around her shoulder, and she felt a rush of warmth. There was something undeniably exhilarating about this—about being seen as a couple, about sharing these moments with him.

But as they reached the next hole, a familiar voice interrupted their banter.

“Well, if it isn’t the happy couple again!”

Harper turned to see Charlotte Kensington approaching with a smug smile, her presence cutting through the air like ice.

“Charlotte,” Nathan greeted, his tone neutral.

Harper straightened, trying to maintain her composure.

“Having fun?” Charlotte asked, her eyes glinting with mischief.

“Just enjoying the tournament,” Nathan replied smoothly, though Harper could sense the tension building.

Charlotte’s gaze shifted to Harper, a knowing smirk on her lips. “I must say, you look lovely today. How does it feel to be engaged to such a powerful man?”

Harper forced a smile. “It’s wonderful.”

“Is it?” Charlotte leaned in closer, her voice dropping conspiratorially. “Just be careful. Power can be intoxicating, but it can also be dangerous.”

Before Harper could respond, Nathan stepped in. “Charlotte, I think it’s time for you to move on.”

Charlotte raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in her eyes. “Oh, I’m just looking out for my replacement.”

Harper clenched her jaw, irritation bubbling beneath the surface.

Nathan’s grip on her shoulder tightened. “You’re mistaken if you think Harper is a replacement for anyone.”

“Of course,” Charlotte said, her tone dripping with sarcasm. “Good luck with your little game.”

With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Harper feeling unsettled.

“Are you okay?” Nathan asked, concern etching his features.

“Yeah, I just