Alex POV:
I concluded my instructions regarding the spices production and returned home, the evening air crisp and cool. After dinner, I retreated to my opulent study room, the soft glow of the crystal lamp casting a warm, golden ambiance.
The plush carpet beneath my feet and the rich, mahogany wood paneling enveloped me in a sense of refined luxury. I checked the time - 3:20 AM. Still plenty of time.
My phone pierced the silence, shrill in the stillness. I answered, my voice calm and detached. "Hello, sis. What's the problem now?"
"Nothing, I just wanted to ask if you'll do what I told you to do," she replied, her tone laced with a hint of persuasion. "If not, I'll give you three reasons why you should."
I leaned back in my chair, steepling my fingers. "I'm not doing it. Tell me."
"Number one: you act differently around her. I was surprised when I heard you told Macos' daughter to pay one million for slapping her. This was something you wouldn't do for anyone."
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself.
"Number two: you want her, but you're denying yourself. Why? Because of your past, and you feel she'll be in danger if she's with you."
My gaze drifted to the window, the city lights twinkling like diamonds.
"Number three: because she's meant to be with you. I saw the video of you two, and I sensed a deep connection, a sense of belonging."
I remained silent, her words echoing in my mind.
"Big bro, are you there?" she asked, breaking the silence.
"Yes," I replied finally. "I'll marry her."
The words hung in the air, a commitment made.
"Good, but aren't you rushing things? You should get to know her better before marrying her," she cautioned.
"I can't. I just left Father's house, and he demands I bring a wife or else I'll lose my CEO position."
Her gasp was audible. "No wonder you asked me that question. Well, marry her then, and you can get to know each other later. But I hope she agrees to your request."
"She will," I said, my tone firm.
With that, the call ended. I checked the time - 3:55 AM. I stood up, leaving the study room behind, the darkness of the night swallowing me whole.
Jenny POV:
"Who was that, Jenny?" Dad asked, his voice laced with concern, as he wiped the sweat from his forehead with a worn cloth.
"It's my aunt, the one I told you about," I replied, my eyes gazing out the window, where the evening sun cast a warm orange glow. "She's claiming we owe her and wants to take ownership of the restaurant."
Dad's expression turned grave. "This is really bad. We need to find a good lawyer to fight for us."
I placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry, Dad. I've got this covered. I know who can help me."
He nodded, his eyes filled with trust, and returned to prepping for the evening rush.
As the evening break approached, I hesitated, but knew I had no choice. Annie was my only hope. I picked up the phone, the worn keypad familiar beneath my fingers, and dialed her number.