A charming woman’s $500 offer to act as her boyfriend for a lunch seemed like a win, but it pulled me into a dangerous game. I’m Noah, 31, and this is how I faced her manipulation, stood my ground, and protected my career and family.
Six months ago, my life was on track. I worked at a digital agency, lived simply, and supported my mom, who raised me solo since Dad bailed when I was 13. Friends urged me to date, but I was all about work—late nights, big projects, and a promotion in sight. “Live a little, Noah,” my colleague Mia said. I’d shrug, focused on paying Mom’s hospital bills. My job was my pride, with happy clients and a boss, Claire, who saw my drive. A leadership role was close, and I was determined to grab it.
One Sunday, at my go-to diner, a woman interrupted my work. She was gorgeous—dark hair, hazel eyes, confident. “I’m Vanessa,” she said, sitting down. “$500 for three hours as my boyfriend?” I froze, suspicious. She explained her strict dad pushed marriage, so she’d claimed a boyfriend. Her helper ditched, and she needed me for lunch with her parents. “Easy money,” she said. The cash could cover Mom’s meds, so I said yes, ignoring my gut. We walked to a chic restaurant, Vanessa prepping our “story.” Then I saw her dad—my boss, Claire. My stomach dropped.
Claire’s sharp look told me she knew me. Vanessa introduced me as her boyfriend, clueless about my job. Lunch was a nightmare. Claire grilled me on work deadlines, not love, asking about a campaign. “Ready soon,” I choked out, as Vanessa’s mom praised our “cute” bond. Claire’s warning was blunt: “I want a driven man for Vanessa. Cross her, and you’re done in this field.” I smiled, panicking. After, I urged Vanessa to confess. “Too complicated,” she dismissed, adding, “Next event’s Friday.” I refused, but she smirked, “You’ll show.”
Friday’s gala was worse. Claire hinted at “long-term plans,” while Vanessa clung to me. Driving her home, I offered to return the money. She scoffed. “I know you’re Claire’s employee. Quit, and I’ll say you harassed me. Guess who wins?” Her control was chilling. I’d recorded her words. The next day, I went to Claire, shaking, and told all—Vanessa’s deal, my mom’s bills, her threats. I played the audio, bracing for dismissal. Claire laughed. “Vanessa’s gay, pulling this to fool her mom. You’re not the first.” She admired my honesty, kept me on, and handled Vanessa. I deleted the recording—saving a copy. Promoted to lead strategist, I secured Mom’s future. That $500 was a trap, but truth set me free.