Chapter 71: Chapter 71

Chapter 0071 +25 BONUS There was a quiet intensity in his words, as if he was making a promise more to himself than to my father. The room seemed to still, waiting for my father’s response.

“How long have you felt this way about Ella?” my father asked, his voice probing.

Alexander looked away thoughtfully before responding. “I’ve always found her beautiful,” he said. “But it wasn’t until we met and spoke recently that I started to fall for her “And when exactly was that?” my father pressed, his sharp eyes flicking between the two of us.

Alexander shot me a quick glance, and I felt a pang of regret. We should have discussed how we were going to explain this–

what we’d tell people. Everything was happening so quickly, spiraling beyond what I had anticipated since my second chance began. I wasn’t ready for this.

“At the Alpha Council meeting, shortly after her engagement was announced,” Alexander said confidently. “I was impressed by the way she handled the questions Alpha Derrick unfairly aimed at her.”

My father smiled, clearly proud. “Yes, she did handle that very well.”

“Beauty and intelligence like that are a rare combination,” Alexander continued. “I’m sure you know that Ella is an exceptional woman. I couldn’t help but begin to fall for her. Of course, I knew she was in a committed, long- term relationship, so I kept my feelings to myself and did my best to remain professional.”

“I see,” my father said thoughtfully. “And that extravagant diamond jewelry set was your idea of professionalism?

11 Alexander rubbed the back of his neck, looking slightly nervous. “Yes, well... I suppose that was a bit over the top, ” he admitted. “I honestly didn’t mean it as an insult to David. I had no idea the diamond he was going to give her was so...”

He trailed off and glanced at me.

“It was a very simple ring,” I said quietly.

“Too simple,” Alexander replied. “Too simple as a symbol of love for a woman like you.”

My face grew warm at his words. I knew Alexander was playing his role, but the compliment was flattering nonetheless. I couldn’t fully hide my reaction, but in this moment, that was an advantage. My father, noticing the effect Alexander’s words had on me, would only see that as a positive sign.

“I’ll consider your request to date my daughter,” my father said at last, his tone measured, though his eyes never left Alexander’s.

“And I want you to know I appreciate you standing up for Ella.”

“Of course,” Alexander replied smoothly, his expression unreadable. “I couldn’t simply stand by while her name was being insulted.”

Then, my father turned to me, his gaze searching, making my heart race. “Ella, how do you feel about this? Are you interested in Alexander?”

I hadn’t expected to be asked so directly, and my face heated, betraying my nervousness. I stammered, feeling the weight of both their eyes on me.

“I’m... very flattered,” I managed to say softly, glancing briefly at Alexander. “And he’s been nothing but kind to me.”

My father’s expression remained firm as he pressed further. “So, is this what you want?”

1/2 Chapter 0071 +25 BONUS I nodded, though my stomach fluttered with a mix of nerves and excitement. I hated being dishonest with my father, and I didn’t like deceiving him. But strangely, in this moment, I didn’t feel like I was. He had asked me if I was interested in Alexander, and the truth was–he interested me very much.

I could feel both of their eyes on me, my heart racing under the weight of their attention. My mind scrambled, searching for the perfect response. A million thoughts swirled through my head, but I knew the only answer I could give my father was the simple truth.

“Yes.”