The Backup Fiancé's Hidden Agenda Chapter 2

Early the next morning, I saw Ethan downstairs.

He was leaning against the car window, holding a folder, having waited who knows how long.

When he saw me, his eyes lit up.

"Sister-in-law."

He walked over quickly, his pace a bit hurried.

"I brought the contract."

I reached out to take it, but he put it behind his back again.

"No rush. Let's go pick out wedding rings today first, okay?"

I was taken aback.

"Is this your brother's idea too?"

I was having trouble suppressing my anger, but Ethan's tone was sincere.

"No choice, he's busy."

Fortunately, Ethan was very humorous and handsome. He chatted with me all the way.

It put me in a much better mood.

He took me to a high-end luxury design boutique, which surprised me a bit.

I knew this boutique; my friend had her wedding rings custom-made here.

But the lead time was very long. For a marriage alliance like ours, it was usually just a formality.

"Sister-in-law, the lead time depends on whether the money is right."

Ethan was very serious.

"Within three days, I can get you the ring you desire."

After taking my measurements, I hadn't even figured out how to get Arthur's size when Ethan already extended his hand.

I was dumbfounded.

He flashed a wide grin at me.

"Sister-in-law, my brother and I have very similar builds. If I can wear it, he definitely can."

Suppressing the weird feeling in my heart, the corner of my mouth twitched.

What a good brother. He handles everything, and looks incredibly happy doing it.

The sales assistant didn't hear what we were saying and looked at me enviously.

"Your boyfriend is so good to you. He's handsome and rich. Our boss usually doesn't take rush orders; I wonder how much he paid to cut in line like this..."

Another sales assistant chimed in.

"And the lady is so pretty, just like that celebrity I used to see on TV. A handsome guy and a beautiful girl. Your boyfriend's eyes are practically glued to you."

No one dislikes being praised.

My face felt hot, and I instinctively tried to explain.

"No, he's..."

Before I could finish, Ethan leaned in.

"Thank you. We'll come pick up the rings in three days."

A masculine scent enveloped me. Ethan stood behind me, one hand casually resting on the counter.

Although he kept a respectful distance, I could smell the faint scent of cedar mixed with soap on him.

There was a mirror behind the sales assistant. At first glance, it looked like he had me half-embraced in his arms, exactly like a couple deeply in love.

Seeing the man in the mirror looking down at me with a burning gaze, my heart suddenly skipped a beat.

Before I could turn around, he sat up straight.

"Let's go."

After picking out the rings, I brought up signing the contract again.

But the moment I opened it, my gaze froze.

Ethan Vance...

I frowned and looked up at him.

"Why isn't it Arthur Vance's name?"

Ethan blinked and leaned in to look too. The cold scent on him was stronger. We were so close I could even see the fine peach fuzz on his face.

"Oh no, messed it up again."

I almost wondered if he was doing it on purpose.

The man frowned, rubbing his head in frustration.

"I'm so clumsy to make a mistake like this. Sister-in-law, you're not mad, are you?"

A strong scent of manipulative sweetness.

Seeing his tightly pressed lips and pitiful look, all my anger vanished instantly.

"Forget it. I'll follow up with your brother later."

But he shook his head.

"My brother is too busy. You guys can sign the contract when you meet later."

I nodded.

"That's the only way."

He added.

"But my brother hasn't had any free time lately. He even finds it annoying when I text him. Sister-in-law, let's talk about this when he contacts you."

I choked, feeling something was very off.

But looking into his sincere eyes, I couldn't bring myself to say anything.

"Okay, I understand."

Seeing my agreement, the corner of Ethan's mouth curled up slightly.

"Then I'll take you to pick up the rings in three days to see if they fit?"

What else could I say? I just nodded and agreed.

The three days passed quickly. Except for Ethan sharing a bunch of useless daily updates with me every day, Arthur's Snapchat was dead silent.