How could I make you love me?

Chapter 1

Proposal

I am looking at a clown right now.

That clown is standing in front of a full-length mirror and is dressed beautifully, sporting a red tube dress that matches her golden-brown skin, her black hair is in a high ponytail, and is wearing a glittery peep-toe heels.

Yes, I am that clown. My parents have been trying to persuade me to marry a boy that matches our status, but I've stood firm in my refusal and explained to them that marriage should be based on love and that both parties should be in love.

The funny thing is, currently, I'm on my way to a restaurant because I agreed on a proposal my parents had. To marry Demetri, a boy who caught my eyes. And yes, love is missing in this arrangement.

So, where is the Sky who protested that marriage should involve love? She sank, deeply, into the oceanic eyes of that gorgeous man.

My phone rang, and I saw an unknown number texted me.

From: 09*********

Received at 6:17pm

I won't pick you up, but I'll be waiting in the lobby.

So this is what it feels like to be a young teenager in love? Don't get me wrong, I'm already 22, but I did not experience romance in my whole life. I was kind of anti-romantic for the reason my friend, Nery, always has her heart broken every two months. This led me to conclude that love is not for me. I prefer to be single than date a hundred guys who wouldn't take me seriously.

But why the hell am I smiling for a one single sentenced message? My mood has instantly improved. Love indeed is a terrifying thing to experience.

To: 09********

Send at 6:20 pm

Who is this?

Okay, call me stupid, but I need assurance at everything, as well as a little bit of acting hard to get.

From: 09*********

Received at 6:20pm

Demetri.

I composed a couple of messages but ended up not replying to maintain my image— a girl who is not interested in him. I don't want him knowing that I've taken a liking to him despite not having any interaction.

I knew him because he was the talk of the town, the hottest bachelor. My friends kept on gossiping about his life which made me develop the slightest fondness. But it was that night that pushed me to the depth of admiration.

I fished my clutch and checked the things I needed. After that, I drove myself to the restaurant.

Upon arriving, I scanned myself in the rearview mirror to check if I was still presentable. I got up and disembarked from my Bentley convertible car. It was a cold night here in Davao, and I did not expect that. I should have bought a cardigan with me.

He was among the crowd, but I could recognize him from a mile. He was the one leaning against the column. He was smoking, which is something I despise. When I smell cigarette smoke, I always feel dizzy. Though I was still approaching him, my legs were getting jelly. I haven't smelled the cigarette yet, but I am now getting lightheaded. I giggled at the realization that I was feeling giddy because I really got a crush on him.

"hey." I saw how he was startled. That little jump in his shoulder that he made didn't go unnoticed.

He threw his cigarette and stepped on it. "Let's talk."

"Okay." I said, nodding slowly while pursing my lips.

I followed him and ended up at the parking lot again. He was highly formal; the way he moved made me think that I was just a business partner to him, and of course, his formal attire, a matched gray suit with a black necktie.

He came to a complete halt and turned to face me. Both hands are in his pocket. "I don't like you."

I literally burst into laughter. "Really? Well, it's quite obvious."

He snorted. I could feel that he did not foresee how I would act. Like, come on, it takes more to hurt my feelings.

"Then why agree? Mr. Felian told me you were delighted to hear the proposal."

My left eyebrow rose. Dad didn't need to bust my feelings like that. "My dad must like you then to make up stories like that." Sorry, but I would never admit that.

"So don't expect a loving husband."

My jaw dropped. Okay, this man is a freaking red flag, but maybe this is a test? Or is it? Or am I being blinded by my attraction? Heck, countless questions popped out of my mind, but I needed to keep my composure. I managed to laugh it off.

"Don't expect me cooking and cleaning in the house then."

"That never crossed my mind. I see you as a.." he then looks at me from head to toes. Analyzing me, those blue eyes nearly pierce through my soul "boss lady, not in the house, certainly."

"Don't flatter me too much, Mister."

"It's Mr. Hercadeza. Mister has a dull ring to it. You should know it cause by the end of the month; it will be your last name too." He then turns away. "I believe we should go meet your parents, miss Felian."

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My dad has this wide grin on his face. He's in his late fifties, but he's still as handsome as ever. He has this tan skin that I inherited, and white hairs are still nonexistent in his head, making him look younger. I could ask for a billion right now, and I bet he would immediately give me that in a second—that's how happy he is. "I can't wait to have a grandchild. When will you give me?"

I almost choke myself with the food I'm chewing. I saw mom patted dad's shoulder to stop him from saying absurd remarks. "Honey, this is their first meeting. They still need to know each other." She smiled at me warmly then. Mom has this mestiza beauty in her, dressed in a channel tweed jacket and skirt. She looks classic and elegant.

"Oh, stop it. Nowadays, one-night stands are a thing now." and with that, I gag myself. I saw Demetri fetching the glass of water. I inadvertently grabbed the glass while Demetri was still holding it since I was in a rush. That was the first time I held his hands.

I don't know if my vision was trippin, but I saw him blushing.

"Dad! stop spouting nonsense!"

"Sweetie, I'm not getting younger. Your mom and I want to experience having a grandchild while we're alive." Said my dad while looking at my mother lovingly. They're the epitome of lovers, and I want someone to look at me like that. That drew my attention to Demetri, who was sitting beside me. He was also looking at me, and as he pulled his eyes away, a smile appeared on his face.

"Don't worry, Sir. We will try hard to deliver a baby as soon as possible." God, that took me off guard. I can sense the whole blood on my head. I saw him smirked when he glanced at him.

I suppose this isn't such a horrible deal. I sense the possibility of love blooming.

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This was an impromptu upload since I was overjoyed that someone commented on the prologue. I made every effort to complete this chapter as quickly as possible. I know it's short but I hope you like it! duhh_itzzSunShine