It had been a week since the Charis banquet, yet the conversation with Alexander Wilder lingered in Thalia's mind. She hadn't expected the head of the Wilder family to be so intrigued by her ideas—or by her, for that matter.
It seemed he hadn't forgotten her either. That morning, a letter had arrived at the Astoria estate, addressed to her.
Lady Astoria,
Your ideas have sparked something truly exciting within the Wilder estate. I find myself eager to hear more from you—perhaps over tea at my family's medicinal garden. I promise it will be worth your time.
—Alexander Wilder
Thalia chuckled as she read the letter. The man was direct, yet there was a certain charm to his words. Curiosity won out, and she sent back a short reply, agreeing to meet him.
---
The Wilder estate was as impressive as she'd imagined, sprawling fields of lush green plants interspersed with vibrant flowers used for medicine. Alexander greeted her near the entrance, dressed in a tailored suit that accentuated his lean but strong build.
"Lady Astoria," he said warmly, bowing slightly. "Thank you for accepting my invitation. I was beginning to worry I'd scared you off."
Thalia raised an eyebrow, a small smile tugging at her lips. "It takes more than a letter to scare me, Lord Wilder."
He laughed, the sound rich and genuine. "Fair enough. Please, let me show you around."
As they walked, Alexander explained the various herbs and their medicinal properties. Thalia listened intently, occasionally offering modern insights that left him wide-eyed with admiration.
"You're a fascinating woman, Lady Astoria," Alexander said as they stopped near a small pond surrounded by lavender. "Most people see only what's in front of them, but you seem to see what could be."
Thalia tilted her head, her crimson eyes meeting his blue ones. "Perhaps it's because I don't limit myself to the traditions of this world."
Alexander's brows furrowed slightly, but before he could question her, Thalia changed the subject. "So, why did you invite me here, really? Surely you didn't bring me just to discuss medicine."
He smiled sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck. "You caught me. I suppose I also wanted to know more about you, Lady Astoria. You're not like anyone I've met."
Thalia's cheeks warmed slightly, but she kept her composure. "Flattery, Lord Wilder? I didn't think you'd resort to such tactics."
"It's not flattery if it's true," he countered smoothly, his gaze softening. "You're intelligent, innovative, and unapologetically bold. It's... refreshing."
Thalia looked away, unsure how to respond. She wasn't used to such direct compliments, especially in her new life.
"Alexander," she began, surprising both of them by using his first name, "what do you want from me? Truly."
He stepped closer, his expression serious but gentle. "Nothing you're not willing to give. I simply want to understand you better. And perhaps... to work alongside you. Your ideas could change the world, Thalia."
Her name on his lips sent a strange flutter through her chest. She took a step back, needing space to think.
"I'm not sure if I'm ready for that," she admitted softly.
Alexander nodded, his smile returning but tinged with understanding. "Then let's start with this. An alliance. You help me with your brilliant ideas, and I'll support you however I can. No strings, just mutual respect."
Thalia studied him for a long moment, then extended her hand. "An alliance, then."
He took her hand, his grip firm but warm. "To a partnership that will change the world."
For the first time in a long while, Thalia felt a genuine connection forming—not just for business, but perhaps something more. Yet she pushed the thought aside. There was too much at stake for her to lose focus now.