Chapter 1
Chapter 1 — The Proposal
POV: Thompson Mansion
Elizabeth walked into her father’s office.
Elizabeth: Hi, Dad.
Mr. Thompson: Hi, sweetheart. What’s wrong? You look… worried.
Elizabeth: I was just thinking about how we’re going to win the land without losing something in exchange.
Mr. Thompson: Don’t stress your pretty head. You trust me, don’t you?
Elizabeth: Of course. I always have, and I always will.
Just then, Mrs. Thompson walked in.
Mrs. Thompson: Is this a father-daughter moment that I’m not invited to?
Elizabeth smiled.
Elizabeth: Of course you’re invited, Mom. You’re always invited. We were just talking about business.
Mrs. Thompson: Hmm… business, as always.
She turned to Elizabeth.
Mrs. Thompson: Why don’t you take a walk to Maria’s house? I heard her sister gave birth. Go say hello.
Elizabeth: Okay, Mom.
Mrs. Thompson: Wait.
Elizabeth turned back.
Elizabeth: What now, Mom?
Mrs. Thompson: Take some gifts. It’s a blessing.
Elizabeth: Oh my… I didn’t even think of that.
Mrs. Thompson: That’s why you still need me.
Elizabeth: Mom, I know, okay?
Mr. Thompson leaned closer to his wife and whispered:
Mr. Thompson: You know she needs you… and always will.
Mrs. Thompson smiled softly.
Mrs. Thompson: I know. But sometimes I feel like she’s growing up too fast.
Mr. Thompson: I have the meeting with the Sharmas tonight. I might be late.
Mrs. Thompson: I’ll wait for you.
Mr. Thompson: Bye. I love you.
POV: Maria’s House
The door opened. Dogs barked loudly.
Maria: Hi, stinky!
Elizabeth: Hi, stinky. I missed you.
They laughed and hugged.
Maria: Come in.
Elizabeth: I heard Mary gave birth. Where’s the long-awaited angel?
Maria chuckled.
Maria: The doctor said she’s not strong enough to come home yet. So John stayed with her.
Elizabeth: That’s so kind of him. I pray for that kind of love one day.
Maria smiled knowingly.
Maria: Time will tell, stinky.
She sat beside her.
Maria: Enough about me. Let’s talk about you. How are you?
Elizabeth: I’m good… just thinking about university.
Maria: Oh! I forgot — we wrote the test last week.
She smirked.
Maria: So what’s next? Any boyfriend?
Elizabeth: There is no boyfriend. And there will be none.
Maria: Girl, don’t be boring.
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow.
Elizabeth: And what about you?
Maria grinned.
Maria: I’m seeing someone.
Elizabeth: Which someone?
Maria: The guy from the cafeteria.
Elizabeth gasped.
Elizabeth: What?! You met him two days ago!
Maria: Baby, in life you have to move fast. Time doesn’t stop when you do.
Elizabeth shook her head, laughing.
Maria: It’s late. Want me to walk you out?
Elizabeth: I’m fine. Dad said the driver is waiting.
Maria: Daddy’s girl.
Elizabeth: Always.
POV: The Sharma Household
Francis: Man, relax.
Alexander: How can I relax when the deal isn’t settled?
Francis: They’ll be here soon.
The door opened. Mr. Thompson walked in.
Mr. Thompson: Good evening, gentlemen.
Alexander: You’re late.
Mr. Thompson: I see you haven’t changed, Alexander. Where is your father?
Alexander: He had other business. I’m handling this.
Mr. Thompson placed the files on the table.
Mr. Thompson: Everything is clean. No back and forth. We want half of the Mississippi landscape.
Alexander: And what do we get?
Mr. Thompson studied him.
Mr. Thompson: That depends on what you want.
He stood.
Mr. Thompson: Join us for dinner tomorrow at my house. Six o’clock sharp. Don’t be late.
Alexander smirked.
The Next Evening — Thompson Mansion
The doorbell rang.
Elizabeth: I’ll get it!
She opened the door.
Standing there was a tall, serious-looking man.
Elizabeth: Hi. How can I help you?
Alexander (coldly): Who are you? Move.
Francis quickly stepped in.
Francis: What he means is — we’re here to see Mr. Thompson about a business deal.
Elizabeth: Oh. That’s my dad. Please, come in.
They walked inside.
Mr. Thompson: Welcome, gentlemen. This is my daughter, Elizabeth.
Alexander’s eyes locked onto her.
Alexander: Yes… we’ve met.
He smirked.
Alexander: The beautiful daughter.
Elizabeth stiffened.
They all sat.
Mr. Thompson: As I said before, we want half of the Mississippi land.
Alexander: And as I asked before — what do we get?
Mr. Thompson: What do you want?
Alexander leaned back calmly.
Alexander: i want Your daughter.
Silence filled the room.
Elizabeth: Excuse me?
Mr. Thompson’s face went pale.
Mr. Thompson: What did you say?
Alexander: You heard me.
Elizabeth let out a short laugh.
Elizabeth: For a second, I thought I heard my name.
Alexander: You did, princess.
Elizabeth stood up.
Elizabeth: Who do you think I am? A business transaction?
Her voice trembled with anger.
Elizabeth: The audacity!
Alexander didn’t move.
Alexander: Mr. Thompson. Is this a deal… or not?
The room felt heavy.
Mr. Thompson swallowed.
Mr. Thompson: Give me seven days to think.
Alexander stood.
Alexander: Take your time. If I were you… I wouldn’t miss this opportunity.
He turned to Francis.
Alexander: Get the car. We’re done here.
The door shut behind them.
And everything changed.
POV: Elizabeth’s Room
Elizabeth paced back and forth before finally calling Maria.
Phone ringing…
Maria: What’s wrong? Your voice sounds… offended.
Elizabeth: I am more than offended. I’m annoyed, shocked, disappointed, and angry.
Maria: Wait — girl, breathe first. Take a deep breath.
Elizabeth: I need to vent.
Maria: Then vent. I’m listening.
Elizabeth: Ahhh! I hate this life!
Maria: Okay… now tell me what happened.
Elizabeth: You know the Sharma deal my dad was about to close?
Maria: Yes… what about it?
Elizabeth: That stupid, annoying guy — Alexander — said he wants to marry me in exchange for signing the deal.
Maria: WHAT?! Wait — are you serious?
Elizabeth: Do I look like I joke about things like this?
Maria: So what did your dad say?
Elizabeth: He asked for seven days to think.
Maria: Don’t tell me he’s actually considering it.
Elizabeth stopped pacing.
Elizabeth: I don’t know… It feels like my world is crashing right in front of me.
Maria: Do you want me to come over?
Elizabeth: It’s late.
Maria: Fine. But I promise — exactly 8 a.m., I’ll be there.
Elizabeth smiled faintly.
Elizabeth: Will you bring me a lollipop?
Maria laughed.
Maria: Even when you’re sad, you still want those?
Elizabeth: They sweeten my bitterness.
Maria: See you in the morning. Bye.
(Phone ringing again)
Elizabeth looked at her screen.
Elizabeth: Strange number…
She answered cautiously.
Elizabeth: Hello? Who is this?
Alexander: Hi, princess.
Elizabeth froze.
Elizabeth: How did you get my number?
Alexander: I’m not called the richest man in the city for nothing. I have connections.
Elizabeth: Richest man in the city? What do you want?
Alexander: I called to check on you.
Elizabeth laughed sarcastically.
Elizabeth: Check on who?
Alexander: You, princess.
Elizabeth: Don’t call me that.
Alexander: I call you what I want.
Elizabeth: Goodbye—
Alexander: Don’t hang up.
His tone lowered — calm but firm.
Alexander: I took time out of my schedule to call you. The least you can do is answer properly.
There was silence.
Elizabeth: …I’m not fine.
His voice softened slightly.
Alexander: What happened? Do you need anything?
Elizabeth: Stop pretending this isn’t your fault.
Alexander: My fault?
Elizabeth: Yes. You asking to marry me before signing the deal. You know my dad needs that land for his company.
Alexander: I know.
Elizabeth: Then why would you suggest something like that?
A pause.
Then quietly —
Alexander: Because I like you.
Elizabeth blinked.
Elizabeth: It’s late. Goodbye.
Alexander: Wait.
She didn’t hang up.
Alexander: Let me suggest something.
Elizabeth: What?
Alexander: Have dinner with me tomorrow. Get to know me before you decide to hate me.
She hesitated.
Elizabeth: What time?
Alexander: You choose.
She sighed.
Elizabeth: Six.
Alexander: Then six it is.
A small pause.
Alexander: Sweet dreams, princess.
Elizabeth rolled her eyes.
Elizabeth: Goodnight.
She ended the call.
But she didn’t move.
And for the first time that night… she wasn’t just angry.
She was curious.
POV: Elizabeth
6:00 PM.
Elizabeth stepped out of the car, staring up at the tallest building in the city.
Elizabeth (murmuring): Extra much.
The driver nodded toward the entrance.
Driver: He’s waiting for you at the top, miss.
She inhaled slowly and walked inside.
The elevator ride felt longer than it should have.
When the doors opened—
Wind brushed against her face.
Soft lights.
Candles flickering.
The entire city glowing beneath them.
And there he was.
Alexander.
Hands in his pockets. Calm. Watching her like he expected her.
Alexander: You’re on time.
Elizabeth: You said six.
Alexander: I like punctual people.
She crossed her arms.
Elizabeth: Let’s not pretend this is romantic.
He smirked slightly.
Alexander: I never said it was.
She walked toward the edge, looking at the city lights.
Elizabeth: So this is how you impress girls?
Alexander: I don’t impress. I choose.
She turned sharply.
Elizabeth: Excuse me?
He stepped closer — not too close.
Alexander: I don’t chase women. I don’t beg. I don’t entertain nonsense.
A pause.
Alexander: But I don’t make decisions lightly either.
Silence stretched between them.
Elizabeth: You don’t even know me.
Alexander: I know enough.
Elizabeth: Oh really? Enlighten me.
He studied her.
Alexander: You’re loyal to your father. You overthink when you’re stressed. You pretend to be tougher than you feel. And when you’re upset—
He tilted his head slightly.
Alexander: You eat lollipops.
Her eyes widened.
Elizabeth: How do you know that?
He didn’t answer immediately.
Alexander: I pay attention.
For the first time that evening… she didn’t have a comeback.
He pulled out a small box from the table.
He placed it in front of her.
Alexander: Open it.
She hesitated.
Elizabeth: If this is a ring, I’m leaving.
He almost smiled.
Alexander: Relax.
She opened it.
Inside were lollipops.
Her favorite brand.
She blinked.
Elizabeth: This is—
Alexander: Sweetens your bitterness, right?
Her heart skipped — but she straightened her posture quickly.
Elizabeth: This doesn’t change anything.
Alexander: I know.
He walked to the table and pulled out a chair for her.
Alexander: Sit. Eat. Then tell me honestly — do you hate me because of the proposal…
He met her eyes.
Alexander: Or because you’re afraid you might not?
The wind grew stronger.
Her heartbeat louder.
She slowly sat down.
Elizabeth: You’re very confident for someone who might get rejected.
He leaned back in his chair.
Alexander: I don’t fear rejection.
A pause.
Alexander: I fear missed opportunities.
Silence again.
Then—
Elizabeth: Why me?
He didn’t look away this time.
Alexander: Because when I walked into your house… you were the only one who didn’t look at me like I was money.
The city lights shimmered behind them.
And for the first time…
The deal wasn’t the only thing on the table.
POV: Rooftop — Later That Night
Dinner was quieter now.
The candles burned lower.
Elizabeth stood near the edge again, holding one of the lollipops.
Elizabeth: So what happens if my father says no?
Alexander didn’t hesitate.
Alexander: Then the deal collapses.
She turned slowly.
Elizabeth: Just like that?
Alexander: Business doesn’t wait for emotions.
She studied him.
Elizabeth: And this? Is this business?
For once… he didn’t answer immediately.
Before he could speak, his phone buzzed.
He glanced at the screen.
His expression shifted — serious.
Alexander: Excuse me.
He stepped away, lowering his voice.
Elizabeth wasn’t trying to listen.
But the wind carried his words.
Alexander (low voice): I told you I’ll handle it.
Pause.
Alexander: No. The Thompson deal is bigger than the land.
Another pause.
Elizabeth frowned.
Bigger than the land?
Alexander: Once the marriage is sealed, their shares transfer. Control shifts automatically.
Elizabeth froze.
Her grip tightened around the lollipop stick.
Alexander: Yes. That’s the point. We secure influence in Mississippi and weaken their board power.
Her heart dropped.
Weaken their board?
This wasn’t romance.
This was strategy.
He turned slightly.
She quickly looked away, pretending she hadn’t heard anything.
A few seconds later, he returned.
Alexander: Sorry about that.
She smiled.
But it wasn’t warm anymore.
Elizabeth: Important call?
Alexander: Just business.
She nodded slowly.
Elizabeth: Of course. Business.
He noticed the change.
Alexander: What’s wrong?
She stepped back from him.
Elizabeth: Nothing.
Alexander: Elizabeth—
Elizabeth: Don’t.
Her voice was colder now.
Elizabeth: You said you don’t make decisions lightly.
Alexander: I don’t.
She looked straight into his eyes.
Elizabeth: Then tell me something honestly.
A pause.
Elizabeth: If there was no land deal… would you still want to marry me?
Silence.
For the first time…
Alexander didn’t have an immediate answer.
And that was answer enough.
Her eyes softened — but not in affection.
In disappointment.
She placed the unopened lollipop back on the table.
Elizabeth: Thank you for dinner.
She walked toward the elevator.
He followed.
Alexander: It’s not what you think.
She stopped but didn’t turn.
Elizabeth: Then next time… don’t let me overhear the truth.
The elevator doors opened.
She stepped inside.
And this time—
She didn’t look back.
POV: Elizabeth — University Campus
The morning sun was bright, but Elizabeth’s mood wasn’t.
Maria walked beside her, holding two lollipops.
Maria: So you’re telling me… he basically used marriage as a strategy?
Elizabeth: I heard it with my own ears.
Maria: And he had the audacity to say he likes you?
Elizabeth: Exactly.
Maria scoffed.
Maria: Rich men and their egos.
Elizabeth stopped walking suddenly.
Students around them were whispering.
Phones were out.
People staring toward the entrance.
Maria: Why is everyone acting like a celebrity just walked in—
She froze.
A black luxury car was parked near the campus gate.
And leaning against it…
Alexander.
In a perfectly fitted suit.
Calm. Unbothered.
Watching.
Maria: Oh my goodness.
Elizabeth: What is he doing here?
As if on cue, his eyes locked onto hers.
He pushed off the car and walked toward her.
Students moved aside.
Whispers grew louder.
Student 1 (whispering): That’s Alexander Sharma.
Student 2: The billionaire’s son?
Maria leaned closer.
Maria: Do you want me to stay?
Elizabeth swallowed.
Elizabeth: No. I can handle him.
Maria squeezed her hand and stepped back.
Alexander stopped a few feet away.
Close enough to feel intimidating.
Not close enough to touch.
Alexander: Good morning.
Elizabeth: This is a university. Not your office.
Alexander: I’m aware.
Elizabeth: Then what are you doing here?
He didn’t smile.
Didn’t smirk.
His tone was different today.
Less sharp.
Alexander: I came to apologize.
She blinked.
Elizabeth: For which part? The manipulation? Or the spying?
A few students gasped softly.
He ignored them.
Alexander: For not explaining properly.
She crossed her arms.
Elizabeth: You explained enough.
He lowered his voice.
Alexander: You overheard half a conversation.
Elizabeth: I heard enough to know I was part of a strategy.
For the first time… frustration flashed across his face.
Alexander: Yes. The deal strengthens my company.
He didn’t deny it.
Alexander: But that doesn’t mean my interest in you is fake.
She laughed — not amused.
Elizabeth: Do you even hear yourself?
He stepped slightly closer.
Not aggressive.
But intentional.
Alexander: I grew up in a world where business and personal life are never separate.
Pause.
Alexander: That doesn’t mean I don’t feel.
The crowd was pretending not to watch now.
But everyone was watching.
Elizabeth’s voice lowered.
Elizabeth: You want honesty?
Alexander: Always.
Elizabeth: I don’t want to be chosen because I’m useful.
Silence.
That hit him.
Harder than she expected.
His jaw tightened.
Alexander: You’re not useful.
She raised an eyebrow.
Elizabeth: That’s not better.
He almost — almost — smiled.
Then he became serious again.
Alexander: You’re unpredictable. You’re stubborn. You challenge me. You don’t look at me like I’m powerful.
A pause.
Alexander: And I’m not used to that.
Her heartbeat betrayed her for a second.
But she stood firm.
Elizabeth: That still doesn’t fix the fact that you tied me to a land deal.
He inhaled slowly.
Alexander: Then let me untie it.
She frowned.
Elizabeth: What does that mean?
Alexander: I’ll sign the deal. Without conditions.
Her eyes widened.
Elizabeth: What?
Alexander: No marriage clause. No pressure.
The whispers around them grew louder.
Elizabeth: Why would you do that?
His answer came without hesitation this time.
Alexander: Because I don’t want you thinking I need to trade land to have a chance with you.
Silence.
Even Maria, watching from a distance, looked shocked.
Elizabeth searched his face for manipulation.
For calculation.
But he looked… sincere.
Elizabeth: And what happens after you sign?
He straightened.
Alexander: After that?
A small pause.
Alexander: I pursue you properly.
Her breath caught slightly.
Elizabeth: And if I say no?
His eyes softened — just a little.
Alexander: Then I accept it.
For once…
He wasn’t controlling the room.
She was.
She stepped back.
Elizabeth: Sign the deal first.
He nodded once.
Alexander: You’ll hear from your father today.
He turned to leave.
Then stopped.
Without looking back—
Alexander: And Elizabeth?
She didn’t respond.
But she was listening.
Alexander: I don’t apologize twice.
And just like that—
He walked away.
Leaving the entire campus in chaos.
And Elizabeth…
Confused in a way she didn’t want to be.
POV: Thompson Mansion — Evening
Elizabeth had barely taken off her shoes when she heard her father’s voice.
Mr. Thompson: Elizabeth. Come to my office.
Her stomach tightened.
That tone.
She walked down the hallway slowly and knocked once before entering.
He was standing near the window, papers in his hand.
Serious. Quiet.
Elizabeth: You wanted to see me?
He turned around.
His expression wasn’t angry.
It was… complicated.
Mr. Thompson: Sit.
She sat.
The silence stretched longer than she liked.
Elizabeth: What happened?
He studied her face carefully.
Mr. Thompson: Alexander came to see me today.
Her heart skipped.
Elizabeth: Oh.
Mr. Thompson: He signed the contract.
She blinked.
Elizabeth: What?
He walked closer and placed the document on the desk in front of her.
There it was.
The Sharma signature.
Stamped.
Official.
Mr. Thompson: No conditions. No marriage clause.
Her breath caught.
Elizabeth: He actually did it?
Mr. Thompson: Yes.
She didn’t know why that affected her so much.
Relief?
Shock?
Something else?
Her father sat across from her.
Mr. Thompson: Did you speak to him today?
She hesitated.
Elizabeth: He came to my university.
Her father’s jaw tightened slightly.
Mr. Thompson: I see.
Elizabeth: He said he would remove the condition.
Mr. Thompson: And he did.
Silence.
He leaned forward slightly.
Mr. Thompson: Elizabeth… I need to ask you something.
She looked up.
Mr. Thompson: If the marriage had secured our future — would you have considered it?
Her eyes widened.
Elizabeth: Dad.
Mr. Thompson: I’m asking as a businessman.
She stood up immediately.
Elizabeth: And I’m answering as your daughter.
Her voice was steady.
But emotional.
Elizabeth: I am not an asset. I am not a share transfer. I am not a negotiation strategy.
Her father didn’t interrupt.
Elizabeth: If you ever choose land over me—
Her voice cracked slightly, but she kept going.
Elizabeth: You lose more than a deal.
Silence filled the office.
Then—
He stood up and walked toward her.
Not as a businessman.
As a father.
He placed his hands on her shoulders.
Mr. Thompson: I would never sell my daughter for land.
Her eyes softened.
Mr. Thompson: I asked because I needed to know if you felt pressured.
A pause.
Mr. Thompson: You are my only child. The company can collapse tomorrow — and I would rebuild it. But I cannot rebuild you.
That hit her.
She blinked away tears.
Elizabeth: Then why did you ask for seven days?
He exhaled slowly.
Mr. Thompson: Because power respects power.
She frowned slightly.
Mr. Thompson: If I had rejected him immediately, he would have seen weakness. I needed time to understand his intentions.
A pause.
Mr. Thompson: And now I do.
Elizabeth: What do you mean?
He walked back to the desk.
Mr. Thompson: He signed the deal knowing it weakens his control.
Her brows furrowed.
Elizabeth: Why would he do that?
Her father looked directly at her.
Mr. Thompson: That’s what I’m trying to figure out.
Silence.
Her phone buzzed.
She glanced down.
Unknown message.
She opened it.
From Alexander.
“I keep my word.”
Her heartbeat quickened.
Her father noticed the shift in her expression.
Mr. Thompson: Is it him?
She didn’t answer.
But she didn’t deny it either.
Her father leaned back slightly.
Observing.
Calculating.
Mr. Thompson: Be careful, Elizabeth.
A pause.
Mr. Thompson: Men like Alexander don’t move without reason.
She swallowed.
Because deep down…
She wasn’t sure anymore if this was strategy.
Or something more dangerous.
POV: Elizabeth — Her Bedroom
Her phone was still in her hand.
Alexander: I keep my word.
She stared at the message longer than she should have.
Her mind said: Ignore him.
Her heart said: Reply.
She typed.
Deleted.
Typed again.
Deleted.
Then finally —
Elizabeth: Why?
The three dots appeared almost immediately.
Alexander: You already know why.
She rolled her eyes.
Elizabeth: No. I don’t.
A pause this time.
Longer.
Then—
Alexander: Because I don’t want you thinking I need leverage to stand beside you.
Her breathing slowed.
She typed carefully.
Elizabeth: Stand beside me? That’s a bold statement for someone I barely know.
His reply came slower now.
Alexander: Then get to know me.
She frowned at her screen.
Elizabeth: Without contracts attached?
Alexander: Without contracts.
Silence filled her room.
She walked toward her window, looking out at the dark city.
Her phone buzzed again.
Alexander: Dinner was not a strategy.
She hesitated before answering.
Elizabeth: You’re not used to people doubting you, are you?
Alexander: No.
At least he was honest.
Elizabeth: Then get used to it.
A minute passed.
Two.
Then—
Alexander: Fair.
Her lips almost curved into a smile.
Almost.
Another message came.
Alexander: I won’t pressure you again.
That surprised her.
Elizabeth: That’s new.
Alexander: You don’t respond well to pressure.
Her heart skipped.
Elizabeth: You observe too much.
Alexander: I told you. I pay attention.
She sat on the edge of her bed.
Something felt different now.
Less hostile.
Still guarded.
But calmer.
Her phone buzzed again.
Alexander: One question.
She hesitated… then typed.
Elizabeth: What?
There was a longer pause this time.
Long enough for her heartbeat to rise.
Then—
Alexander: If I had never mentioned marriage… would you have given me a chance?
Her fingers froze above the screen.
She didn’t expect that.
She stared at the question.
Honesty?
Or defense?
She typed slowly.
Elizabeth: I don’t know.
Three dots.
Gone.
Three dots again.
Alexander: That’s better than no.
Her chest tightened.
She shook her head slightly.
Elizabeth: Don’t read too much into it.
Alexander: Too late.
She inhaled slowly.
Why was this conversation… easier than she expected?
Another message.
Alexander: Goodnight, Elizabeth.
Not princess.
Not teasing.
Just her name.
She noticed that.
And for some reason…
It mattered.
She stared at the screen for a few seconds.
Then typed back.
Elizabeth: Goodnight, Alexander.
She placed her phone down.
But she didn’t sleep immediately.
Because something had shifted.
Not trust.
Not forgiveness.
But possibility.
And that was more dangerous than anger.
POV: Elizabeth — Three Days Later
Her phone was quiet.
Too quiet.
Elizabeth sat in the university library, staring at her screen.
No “Good morning.”
No “Princess.”
No random late-night message.
Nothing.
Maria slid into the chair across from her.
Maria: You look distracted.
Elizabeth: I’m not.
Maria leaned forward.
Maria: You checked your phone four times in one minute.
Elizabeth quickly locked her screen.
Elizabeth: I was checking the time.
Maria raised an eyebrow.
Maria: Sure.
Silence.
Elizabeth tapped her pen against her notebook.
It had been three days.
Three full days since Alexander said:
“I won’t pressure you again.”
And he meant it.
No texts.
No calls.
No unexpected appearances.
Nothing.
Later That Night — Elizabeth’s Room
She lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling.
Her phone rested beside her.
Still nothing.
She picked it up.
Opened their chat.
Read the last message.
Alexander: Goodnight, Elizabeth.
She swallowed.
Why did she miss it?
She missed the confidence.
The irritation.
The way he said her name.
She quickly shook her head.
Elizabeth (to herself): This is ridiculous.
She tossed the phone aside.
Two minutes later—
She grabbed it again.
Still nothing.
Her chest felt… empty.
And that scared her more than anger ever did.
POV: Alexander — His Office
Alexander stared at his phone.
Her chat was open.
He hadn’t typed in three days.
He wanted to.
But he didn’t.
Francis leaned against the doorway.
Francis: You’re really doing this?
Alexander: She asked for space.
Francis: No. She asked for respect.
He didn’t respond.
Francis crossed his arms.
Francis: You look miserable.
Alexander: I’m not.
Silence.
His phone lit up.
His eyes moved instantly.
But it wasn’t her.
He locked the screen again.
Francis: Just text her.
Alexander: No.
His jaw tightened slightly.
Alexander: If she misses me… she’ll show it.
Back to Elizabeth
Her phone buzzed.
Her heart jumped.
She grabbed it quickly.
Unknown notification.
Not him.
She exhaled slowly.
Why does it feel like something is missing?
She opened her messages.
Her fingers hovered over the keyboard.
She typed:
Are you alive?
Deleted.
Typed again:
So you disappeared?
Deleted.
She locked the phone again.
Pride and curiosity fighting inside her.
And for the first time—
She understood something.
It wasn’t his pressure that affected her.
It was his presence.
And now that it was gone…
She felt it.
Final Scene — Same Night
Her phone lit up.
She froze.
One message.
From Alexander.
I hope you’re okay.
That was it.
Simple.
No nickname.
No teasing.
Just concern.
Her heart softened before she could stop it.
She stared at the message for a long time.
Then slowly—
She smiled.
Because maybe…
Space wasn’t distance.
Maybe it was tension stretching…
Before something real begins.
POV: Elizabeth — Midnight
Her room was dark.
Only the light from her phone illuminated her face.
She stared at his message again.
Alexander: I hope you’re okay.
Why was that so simple… yet so heavy?
She inhaled slowly.
Fine.
She would reply.
But casually.
Very casually.
She typed:
Elizabeth: I’m alive.
She stared at it.
Too dry?
Too obvious?
She added:
You?
She pressed send before she could overthink it.
Her heart started racing immediately.
Why is my heartbeat this loud over a text?
The three dots appeared.
Disappeared.
Appeared again.
Then—
Alexander: I was beginning to think you blocked me.
Her lips twitched.
Elizabeth: Don’t flatter yourself.
A pause.
Alexander: So you missed me?
Her eyes widened.
Of course he would go there.
She typed fast:
Elizabeth: Relax.
Three dots.
Alexander: That didn’t answer my question.
She rolled onto her back, staring at the ceiling.
Should she dodge?
Should she lie?
Her fingers moved slowly this time.
Elizabeth: You were quiet.
Seconds passed.
Then—
Alexander: You said I pressure you.
Alexander: So I stopped.
Her chest tightened.
Elizabeth: I didn’t say disappear.
The reply came almost instantly.
Alexander: Noted.
She could almost see him smirking.
Silence for a few seconds.
Then—
Alexander: Did you want me to text?
There it was.
Direct.
She hesitated.
Her pride screamed.
Her honesty whispered.
She chose something in between.
Elizabeth: I’m just not used to silence.
His reply came slower this time.
Alexander: Neither am I.
That line felt… different.
Softer.
She swallowed.
Elizabeth: You’re very dramatic for a businessman.
Alexander: Only when necessary.
Her heart was calmer now.
Warmer.
Another message came.
Alexander: Can I ask something?
She stared at it.
Why does he always ask dangerous questions?
Elizabeth: Depends.
Alexander: When you realized I stopped texting… what did you feel?
Her breath caught.
Why does he go straight to the point?
She sat up slowly.
Typing…
Deleting…
Typing again.
Then finally—
Elizabeth: Annoyed.
Pause.
Then she added:
Maybe a little curious.
The three dots appeared instantly.
Alexander: Curious about what?
She bit her lip slightly.
Elizabeth: If you meant what you said.
The reply took longer this time.
Long enough to make her nervous.
Then—
Alexander: I don’t chase things I don’t intend to keep.
Her heartbeat skipped.
That was not casual.
That was intentional.
She stared at the screen.
Heat rising to her cheeks.
He sent another message.
Alexander: But I also don’t rush things that matter.
Silence filled her room.
For the first time…
This didn’t feel like a game.
It felt steady.
She typed softly:
Elizabeth: Then don’t rush.
His reply:
Alexander: I won’t.
A pause.
Then—
Alexander: Goodnight, Elizabeth.
She smiled slightly.
No nickname again.
She typed:
Elizabeth: Goodnight.
She placed her phone on her chest.
Heart steady.
Mind confused.
But one thing was clear now—
She didn’t text him because she was weak.
She texted him because she wanted to.
And that scared her just a little.
POV: Elizabeth — 10:47 PM
Her phone buzzed.
She glanced at it casually.
Then froze.
Alexander calling…
Her heart immediately betrayed her.
Why is he calling?
We were texting fine.
It rang once.
Twice.
She picked up before it could ring a third time.
Elizabeth: Hello?
There was a slight pause.
Then his voice.
Lower. Calmer. Closer than text.
Alexander: You answer fast.
Her stomach flipped.
Elizabeth: I was holding my phone.
A soft exhale on the other end.
Not quite a laugh.
Not quite serious.
Alexander: Right.
Silence lingered.
Not awkward.
Just aware.
Elizabeth: So… why are you calling?
Alexander: I wanted to hear your voice.
Her breath caught.
Elizabeth: That’s dramatic.
Alexander: Maybe.
Another pause.
Alexander: You sound different.
She frowned slightly.
Elizabeth: Different how?
Alexander: Less angry.
She walked toward her window again, looking out at the city.
Elizabeth: Maybe I’m tired of being angry.
There was something softer in his tone now.
Alexander: I didn’t want to fight you.
Elizabeth: You proposed marriage during a land negotiation.
Alexander: I know.
His voice didn’t defend it this time.
It accepted it.
Alexander: I handled it wrong.
That surprised her.
Alexander Sharma admitting he was wrong?
Elizabeth: That’s new.
Alexander: Don’t get used to it.
She smiled despite herself.
Silence again.
But this time it felt comfortable.
She could hear faint city noise on his side.
Elizabeth: Where are you?
Alexander: Balcony.
Elizabeth: Of course you are.
He almost laughed.
Alexander: And you?
Elizabeth: Window.
Pause.
Alexander: Same sky.
Her heartbeat softened.
Why does that sound… intimate?
She quickly shifted tone.
Elizabeth: Don’t start being poetic now.
Alexander: I’m not poetic.
A small pause.
Alexander: I’m intentional.
That word again.
Intentional.
Her fingers tightened slightly around her phone.
Elizabeth: Why me?
She hadn’t planned to ask that again.
But it slipped out.
He didn’t answer immediately.
When he did, his voice was steady.
Alexander: Because you didn’t flinch.
She blinked.
Elizabeth: From what?
Alexander: From me.
Silence.
Alexander: Most people either fear me… or want something from me.
A beat.
Alexander: You just challenged me.
Her throat felt dry.
Elizabeth: That’s not a reason to want to marry someone.
Alexander: It’s a reason to want to know them.
The way he said that…
Not possessive.
Not demanding.
Just honest.
She leaned her head against the wall.
Elizabeth: You’re very persistent.
Alexander: Only when it matters.
Her heart did that thing again.
The annoying little skip.
Elizabeth: And what if I’m not what you think?
His reply came immediately.
Alexander: Then I’ll adjust.
That answer… unsettled her.
Because it wasn’t ego.
It was certainty.
Another silence.
Then—
Alexander: Can I ask something dangerous?
She narrowed her eyes slightly.
Elizabeth: You always do anyway.
A small breath on the other side.
Alexander: When I stopped texting… did you notice?
Her honesty warred with her pride.
She chose controlled truth.
Elizabeth: Yes.
Pause.
Alexander: Did it bother you?
Her heart pounded louder.
She stared at the skyline.
Then answered softly—
Elizabeth: A little.
The silence that followed was heavy.
Not awkward.
Just charged.
When he spoke again, his voice was lower.
Alexander: Good.
Her eyes widened.
Elizabeth: Excuse me?
Alexander: It means I matter.
Her breath caught.
This was no longer light teasing.
This was shifting.
Elizabeth: Don’t assume too much.
Alexander: I don’t assume.
A pause.
Alexander: I observe.
The wind moved softly outside her window.
Her voice dropped slightly.
Elizabeth: You’re dangerous.
His answer came calm.
Alexander: Only if you let me be.
Her heart beat harder.
Too hard.
She needed air.
Elizabeth: It’s late.
Alexander: I know.
But he didn’t hang up.
Neither did she.
The silence stretched.
Comfortable.
Electric.
Then softly—
Alexander: Goodnight, Elizabeth.
He said her name slower this time.
Intentional.
She swallowed.
Elizabeth: Goodnight, Alexander.
She waited.
He ended the call first.
She stared at her phone long after the screen went dark.
And for the first time—
She wasn’t afraid of the proposal.
She was afraid of how easily he was getting under her skin.
POV: Elizabeth — Late Afternoon
The sun was warm, but her heart felt hotter.
Her phone buzzed.
Alexander: Meet me at the rooftop. 5 PM. Alone.
She raised an eyebrow.
Elizabeth (to herself): He really loves this view.
She left the university a bit early, her thoughts spinning.
POV: Alexander — Rooftop
The candles were set again. No dinner. No distractions. Just the city and the quiet.
He checked his watch. 4:59 PM.
Then he saw her.
Elizabeth. Confident, composed, walking toward him.
Alexander: You’re late.
Elizabeth: You said 5.
Alexander: Close enough.
He gestured to the edge, overlooking the city.
Alexander: Sit.
She hesitated. But she did.
Silence for a few seconds. Comfortable.
Then he leaned slightly forward.
Alexander: Elizabeth… I’ve tried my way.
Elizabeth: Your way?
Alexander: Texts. Calls. Disappearing. Testing patience. All of it.
She crossed her arms, trying not to smile.
Elizabeth: And?
Alexander: It’s not working anymore.
Her breath caught.
Alexander: I can’t keep pretending I’m just… interested. I’m serious.
She studied him. Careful.
Elizabeth: Serious how?
He leaned back slightly. Calm. Confident. The Alexander she had slowly… started to understand.
Alexander: I want us.
Elizabeth: …Excuse me?
Alexander: I want you to be my girlfriend.
Her heart skipped.
Elizabeth: You… what?
Alexander: I’ve been patient. I’ve given you space. I’ve waited for you to notice me. Now… I’m asking properly.
Elizabeth: And what if I say no?
He didn’t flinch.
Alexander: Then I accept it. But I don’t think you will.
She blinked. Angry, amused, and… flustered all at once.
Elizabeth: You’re very confident.
Alexander: Not confident. Certain.
A pause.
Alexander: You’ve already crossed my mind too many times to let you go.
She stared at him.
Elizabeth: And all those texts… and that silence… that was part of this?
Alexander: Not part. Preparation.
Her chest tightened.
Elizabeth: …You’re ridiculous.
He smirked.
Alexander: Maybe. But I’m serious.
Elizabeth leaned back, letting the wind hit her face. The city stretched endlessly behind them.
Her lips twitched, fighting a smile.
Elizabeth: You’re asking me… to be your girlfriend?
Alexander: I am.
She studied him.
Elizabeth: Alexander… I don’t know if I can… trust you fully yet.
He nodded.
Alexander: Then start small.
Alexander: Just… be mine. Let me prove it.
Her heart raced.
Elizabeth: That’s… bold.
Alexander: That’s me.
She exhaled slowly, shaking her head.
Elizabeth: Fine.
His smile widened. Dangerous, confident, victorious.
Alexander: Say it.
She smiled. A little shy, a little triumphant.
Elizabeth: Okay… Alexander. I’ll be your girlfriend.
He leaned slightly closer. Not too much. Not yet.
Alexander: That’s all I needed to hear.
Elizabeth: Don’t get used to me being easy.
Alexander: I wouldn’t dream of it.
They sat in silence, city lights below, wind in their hair, both aware that this was not the end of challenges — but the start of their story.
