As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city, Sophia and James knew that their love, born from an unconventional ride, was the greatest adventure of all...
Chapter 1 The Proposal
Sophia De Luca fiddled with her pearl necklace in front of the mirror, her eyes raking over the reflection of her designer gown. She was a vision of elegance, the perfect image for the charity gala her family's company was hosting tonight. But a knot of nervousness twisted in her gut.
"Miss De Luca, your car is ready," her butler announced with a slight bow.
"Thank you, Robert," she said, her voice even despite the nervousness she felt inside.
Coming down the great staircase of her mansion, she was met by James, her trusted chauffeur. Tall, with a chiseled jawline and bright blue eyes, James had been working for the De Luca family for almost five years.
His professionalism was unquestionable, and Sophia trusted him with her life.
"Evening, Miss De Luca," James greeted her as he opened the car door. His British accent added a touch of sophistication to his already polished demeanor.
"Good evening, James. Thank you for being punctual," Sophia replied as she settled into the back seat.
On the way to the gala, Sophia was thinking fast. She needed someone to accompany her for the night, to keep the constant barrage of questions concerning her love life from both the media and her nosy relatives at bay. Her last relationship had gone terribly wrong, and she did not feel like parading a new suitor so soon.
"James, can I ask you something personal?" Sophia broke the silence.
"Of course, Miss De Luca. I'm here to help in any way I can," he replied, looking at her in the rearview mirror.
"I need you to be my date tonight," she blurted out.
James's eyes widened slightly, but he quickly hid his surprise. "Your date, Miss De Luca?"
"Yes. I need someone to act as my husband for the evening. It's just for show, to keep the press and my family off my back."
James considered her request. It was unconventional, but he understood the pressure she was under. "If you believe it's the best course of action, I would be honored to assist you."
Relief washed over Sophia's face. "Thank you, James. You're a lifesaver."