Chapter 5 : The Inevitable

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A few weeks after the art gallery event, the inevitable happened: a formal dinner where Alexis and Damien's families would meet. Alexis's father, Richard, a stern yet loving man, and her brother, Ethan, known for his intense and protective nature, were both eager to scrutinize Damien.

The dinner was held at Richard's grand estate, a testament to his years of hard work and success. Alexis arrived early to help her mother with the preparations and to mentally brace herself for the evening.

"You know they're going to grill him," Ethan said as he helped set the table. "Dad's already suspicious, and you know how he gets."

Alexis nodded. "I know, Ethan. But Damien can handle himself. We just have to make it through tonight without any drama."

As Damien arrived, impeccably dressed and carrying a bouquet of flowers for Alexis's mother, he exuded the confidence and charm that had captivated the public. Alexis met him at the door, her smile reassuring despite the tension in her eyes.

"Ready for this?" she asked.

"Absolutely," Damien replied with a smile. "Let's make a good impression."

Dinner began with polite conversation, but it wasn't long before Richard and Ethan began their subtle interrogation.

"So, Damien," Richard started, his tone neutral but his eyes sharp, "tell us more about your family and background. We don't know much about you."

Damien smiled, maintaining his composure. "Of course, Mr. Carter. My family has been in the business world for generations. My father built our company from the ground up, and I've been working hard to expand and modernize it."

Ethan leaned forward, his expression skeptical. "And what are your intentions with Alexis?"

Alexis felt the heat rise in her cheeks but stayed silent, letting Damien handle the question.

"To be honest, Ethan, my relationship with Alexis began as a business arrangement," Damien admitted, glancing at Alexis before continuing.

"But over time, I've come to respect and admire her greatly. My intention is to support her in every way possible, both professionally and personally."

The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of Damien's words hanging in the air.
Richard finally nodded, seemingly satisfied with the answer. "That's good to hear. Alexis deserves someone who will treat her well and support her ambitions."

As the evening wore on, the tension gradually eased. Damien's genuine charm and sincerity began to win over Richard and Ethan, though they remained cautious.

By the end of the night, Alexis felt a glimmer of hope that perhaps, with time, her family might come to accept Damien.

After dinner, as Damien and Alexis stood on the porch, he took her hand gently. "I think that went well, all things considered."

Alexis smiled, relieved. "Yes, it did. Thank you for handling their questions so gracefully."

Damien squeezed her hand, a silent promise of his commitment to their arrangement. "We're in this together, Alexis. No matter what."

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