Chapter 22: Fuck You
Downstairs, Elizabeth and Regina were waiting near the grand doors, coats in hand and shoes clicking lightly against the marble floor.
Regina looked up as Ruby approached. "That was brilliant," she whispered with a proud smile. "Absolutely brilliant."
Elizabeth gave a rare nod of approval. "He’s beginning to believe. But don’t let your guard down. He’s smart. If anything feels off, he’ll notice."
Ruby exhaled, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her dress. "It’s not easy... being someone I’m not."
"It was never going to be," Elizabeth said coolly. "But you’ve managed better than we could have hoped. Just treat him better, the way you would a lover. Only difference is, you’d have to break up in a year so put that at the back of your mind."
Regina stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on Ruby’s arm. "Yes, I agree with Elizabeth. Now that he’s starting to trust you, this is the time to show him love. Real affection. Even if it’s uncomfortable. You need to erase the remaining doubt, not by words but by your affection and actions."
Ruby looked between them, her heart heavy. "And what if I slip? What if he sees something I miss or what if I show him too much love than Ivy did?"
"Then you cover it up with care," Elizabeth said. "You distract him with tenderness. That’s how people fall in love... even with strangers. Besides, he’d only be happy if you show him more love, not suspect you."
Ruby swallowed hard. This wasn’t just a performance anymore—it was becoming real. Stefan was beginning to trust her. And that trust... terrified her.
"I’ll try," she whispered.
"You’re doing more than trying," Regina said gently. "You’re surviving. And one day, this will all be behind us."
Ruby nodded, her voice caught in her throat. As the door opened and the night breeze whispered in, she watched the two women disappear into the dark, leaving her alone in the vast, silent foyer.