But He's My Fake Fiancé (But He's a Carter Brother #3)

by Annah Conwell

I pull out of the parking lot and drive through the Atlanta suburbs with my music blasting. I create a custom playlist for each novel I write, and I spend the entire time I’m writing said book listening to that playlist on repeat. This one is filled with powerful and sultry hits with deep bass. Something that makes you want to wear leather and red lipstick, face off against the killer in one scene and make out with your love interest in the next. By the time I pull up to the valet station I feel good, or maybe bad is a better word for it. I’m ready to take on the world, including my judgmental stepmother. I hand my keys to the valet, then walk inside the doors to Willowbrook Country Club, the place where both my father and stepmother spend much of their time. My father stays on the course or in the card room, while my stepmother can be found on the patio or in the spa. When seen together, they’re often dining in the esteemed Willowbrook Hall, where I’m headed today for lunch. My sneakers squeak on the tile floors, earning me a look from the receptionist. I avert my gaze and squeak faster down the hall to the dining room. This whole place reeks of judgment. I never liked it here growing up. My mom rarely came, but sometimes we’d have to make an appearance as a family and I’d have to wear an itchy dress and sit up tall while my parents pretended to like each other. They used to love each other, but once my dad got a taste of wealth, my mom says he turned into someone she did...