Chapter Thirteen: A Conversation in the Spotlight
As they sat in the company's lobby, Ethan felt the weight of every curious gaze on them, an uncomfortable pressure that made it hard to focus. Still, he managed to push through. "So, umm, who's that guy?" he asked, unable to suppress his curiosity any longer.
Sophie giggled softly, a glint of mischief in her eyes as she enjoyed the moment. "That's my brother," she replied, clearly amused by Ethan's reaction.
Ethan's eyes widened in surprise. "S-since when do you have a brother?"
"I've had one since I was eight, thanks to my stepmother. But you probably haven't heard much about him; he's been studying in the States. I've always been recognized as the only heir because our age gap is significant, and, well…" She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "His grades are average."
Ethan tried to remain composed despite the stares around them. "Oh well, I'm here to tel you that I'm going to continue my doctoral degree," he said, trying to sound casual.
Sophie's eyes widened in surprise, her mind racing with thoughts. "But why? You already make more than enough as a surgeon. Surely you're smart, but it doesn't seem like you have a solid reason to keep studying unless…" Her voice trailed off, realization dawning on her.
At that moment, Sophie stood up, her expression shifting. "You're… going to pursue that because of me, aren't you?"
Ethan was intrigued by her response, a playful smirk creeping onto his lips. "Well, if I want to marry you someday, I'll need to make time for you, right?"
Sophie's cheeks flushed a light pink. "W-we aren't even in a relationship…" she stammered, a mix of surprise and flustered amusement evident on her face.
Ethan felt a wave of relief wash over him. The prospect of being a doctor was daunting, with the endless hours, but being a full time student felt like it would afford him at least a bit of time. "Well, that's a start, isn't it?" he teased, trying to gauge her reaction.
Sophie crossed her arms, a playful challenge in her eyes. "You really think you can just say something like that and expect me to take it seriously?"
Ethan leaned back, enjoying the banter. "Why not? You seem to be enjoying it."
A soft laugh escaped Sophie, and the tension in the air began to lift. In the days that followed their conversation in the lobby, Ethan found himself more determined than ever to pursue Sophie, but he wanted to do it in a way that felt natural and genuine—not overly dramatic or cringey.
A Coffee Break
One afternoon, Ethan learned that Sophie had a break between meetings. Seizing the opportunity, he dashed over to her office, a small coffee cup in hand. "Hey, thought you could use a pick-me-up," he said with a casual smile.
Sophie looked up, pleasantly surprised. "Ethan! You didn't have to do this."
"I know, but I wanted to," he replied, leaning against her desk. "Besides, it's not every day I get to see the President of Carter Enterprises taking a breather."
She chuckled, taking the cup from him. "Thanks! You're sweet."
As they chatted, Ethan made sure to keep the conversation light, sharing funny stories from the hospital. He noted the way her eyes sparkled when she laughed and how her smile seemed to brighten the room. He couldn't help but lean in a little closer, enjoying the comfortable atmosphere.
A Planned Lunch
Ethan also began to plan small lunches together. He would casually ask her if she wanted to grab a bite after her meetings. "I know this little café nearby that serves the best sandwiches," he suggested one day.
Sophie raised an eyebrow but smiled. "Okay, but only if you promise not to order anything too weird."
"I make no guarantees," Ethan teased, a grin on his face.
During their lunches, they'd talk about everything—her work, his studies, and their shared memories. He would find little ways to make it special, like remembering her favorite sandwich or subtly stealing bites of her fries, eliciting playful
protests from her.
Evening Walks
As the weeks went by, Ethan suggested they take evening walks after work. "There's a beautiful park nearby, and I think you'd love it," he proposed one day, his tone light but hopeful.
Sophie hesitated for a moment but then agreed. "Alright, but only if you promise not to talk about work the whole time."
Their strolls in the park became a cherished routine. Ethan would walk beside her, the golden hour light casting a warm glow around them. He'd point out little things—a squirrel scurrying up a tree, the way the flowers bloomed, and they'd share stories, laughter echoing through the quiet paths.
An Unexpected Gesture
One day, after one of their walks, Ethan planned a small surprise. He brought her a single flower—just a simple daisy. "For you," he said, handing it to her with a shy smile.
Sophie took it, her eyes widening. "Ethan, this is so cute!"
"Just a little something to brighten your day," he replied, trying to keep his tone nonchalant but feeling the warmth of her smile.
She tucked the flower behind her ear, glancing at him with a playful grin. "You're going to spoil me at this rate."
"That's the idea," he said, matching her playful tone. "I mean, if you let me."
Building a Connection
Ethan made sure to strike the right balance between charm and authenticity, often leaving little notes for Sophie in her office—a quote he thought she'd like or just a simple "Hope you have a great day!" He noticed how her smile would widen when she found them.
As they spent more time together, Ethan felt the bond between them growing stronger. He wasn't rushing anything; instead, he wanted to build a connection that felt right for both of them.
With each shared laugh and stolen moment, he found himself more enchanted by Sophie, and he hoped she felt the same way about him.