𝐕𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

Chapter 19 : Unwanted Advice

Alexander

My mother's disapproval of Scarlett was relentless. She called me into her office one afternoon, her expression severe. "Alexander, we need to talk."

I braced myself for another lecture. "Yes, Mom?"

She sighed, her frustration evident. "Scarlett is from a simple background. She won't be useful for our company. You need someone who understands our world, someone who can support you in your role."

I frowned, knowing where this was going. "And who do you suggest?"

"Elena," she replied without hesitation. "She's been a part of our lives since you were children. She understands our lifestyle, our business. She's perfect for you."

Elena and I had been childhood friends, but we had grown apart over the years. I knew my mother had always hoped for a match between us, but I had never seen Elena that way.

"Mom, Elena and I are just friends," I said, trying to keep my voice calm.

"Spend time with her," she insisted. "Give it a chance. You'll see the difference between her and Scarlett."

Scarlett

The tension in the office was palpable, and it only grew worse when Elena appeared. She was beautiful, poised, and every inch the perfect match for Alexander in his mother's eyes. It didn't take long for the rumors to start.

"Have you seen Elena?" Lily whispered to me one afternoon. "She's been spending a lot of time with Mr. Blackwood."

I nodded, trying to keep my emotions in check. "Yes, I noticed."

Ben leaned in, his expression sympathetic. "It's obvious his mother is behind this. She's trying to push you out."

I sighed, the weight of the situation pressing down on me. "I know. But Alexander assured me that he won't let her come between us."

Alexander

My mother wasted no time arranging for me to spend time with Elena. She organized dinners, meetings, and even social events where we were expected to appear together. Elena was kind and understanding, but I couldn't shake the feeling that this wasn't right.

One evening, after yet another dinner with Elena, I confronted my mother. "Mom, I won't be manipulated into a relationship with Elena. I care about Scarlett."

Vivian's expression hardened. "Alexander, you're being stubborn. Elena is perfect for you. She understands our world, our business. Scarlett is a distraction."

"She's more than that," I said firmly. "She means everything to me."

My mother sighed, clearly exasperated. "Just give Elena a chance. You owe it to yourself, and to the company."

Scarlett

The pressure from Alexander's mother and the constant presence of Elena were taking their toll. I could see the strain on Alexander, and it broke my heart. One evening, as we sat together in his penthouse, I voiced my fears.

"Alexander, maybe your mother is right," I said softly. "Maybe Elena is a better match for you."

He looked at me, his eyes filled with pain. "Scarlett, don't say that. I love you. I don't care about the differences."

"But the pressure, the expectations... it's too much," I whispered, tears welling up in my eyes.

He pulled me into his arms, his hold tight and reassuring. "We'll get through this. Together."

Alexander's unwavering support gave me the strength I needed. Despite the challenges, I knew our love was strong. One evening, as we sat together, he made a promise that melted my heart.

"Scarlett, I will always choose you," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "No matter what my mother says, no matter the pressure, you are the one I want."

Tears filled my eyes, and I leaned in to kiss him. "I love you, Alexander. And I will stand by you, no matter what."

Alexander

Spending time with Elena only confirmed what I already knew. While she was wonderful in her own way, my heart belonged to Scarlett. One afternoon, after yet another arranged meeting with Elena, I made my decision.

"Mom, I'm done," I said, walking into her office. "I'm not seeing Elena anymore. My heart is with Scarlett, and nothing you say will change that."

Vivian's eyes flashed with anger. "Alexander, you're making a mistake. Think about the company, about our legacy."

"I am," I replied, my voice steady. "And Scarlett is a part of my future. You need to accept that."

She shook her head, her expression one of disappointment. "Very well. But don't expect my support in this."

Defying my mother had consequences, but I was prepared to face them. She made it clear that she wouldn't support my decision, but I didn't care. Scarlett was worth the risk, worth the fight.

We continued to face challenges, but our love grew stronger with each passing day. And as we navigated the complexities of our lives, we knew that together, we could overcome anything.

Our journey was far from over, but our love was a beacon in the darkness, guiding us through the toughest times. And no matter what the future held, we would face it together, united in our love and our determination to be together.