Chapter 97
Lily undeniably had feelings for Alexander, but she questioned whether they constituted love. She wasn't sure if her feelings had deepened into that.
Alexander was handsome, rich, kind, and considerate. He prioritized Lily; how could she not fall for him? Yet, was it love?
He smiled softly at her uncertainty, unsurprised. Gently tracing her lips with his thumb, he reassured her, "It's okay. We have plenty of time; there's no need to rush. You'll love me eventually." He paused. "But I won't take that next step until then. We'll move forward only when you're sure and willing to accept me wholeheartedly."
When he released her hand and rose to leave, Lily, snapping out of her daze, hurriedly asked, "What about you? Do you love me?"
Turning, he smiled, his eyes gleaming like stars. "Of course I love you."
Lily was astonished. She'd expected hesitation, a subject change, even denial—not an outright confession. Given their recent acquaintance, it seemed impossible. How could he already love her?
She was about to question him when he continued, "Please try to stay awake in the bathtub next time. I'd hate to lose you before I could get you to fall in love with me. If you're still up for it, get dressed and come down for dinner."
After he left, Lily sat on the bed, her heart racing. Soon, she dressed and went downstairs, the aroma of delicious food guiding her. Alexander waited at the dining table, the cutlery set.
"Did you order takeout?" Lily asked, glancing at the tempting dishes. The portions were perfect. "You could say that," Alexander replied, a partial truth. A five-star chef had prepared the meal and delivered it. Technically, it was takeout.
He meticulously deboned her fish and replaced it on her plate. It seemed natural to him, but Lily felt uneasy. She looked at her plate, then at him as he began shelling shrimp. "It's okay," she said. "I can do it myself. You don't have to."
"Why would you think I'm doing it for you? I just love taking things apart and removing shells," he commented nonchalantly, placing the peeled shrimp on her plate.
Lily's plate overflowed with fish, shrimp, meat, and vegetables. A warm feeling filled her heart. It had been a long time since anyone had shown her such love and care. Since childhood, she'd been under strict guidance and rigorous training.
Coming of age, she'd pursued her passion, but it led to poor performance in a competition, resulting in ridicule and mockery. Her falling out with Nathaniel was the final blow, estranging her from her family.