Ethan stepped out onto the balcony, resting his hand on the iron railing as the golden light of late afternoon spilled across the yard. The fountain sparkled under the sun, scattering tiny diamonds into the air, while the trimmed hedges and wide marble paths gave the place an almost unreal perfection. Beyond the walls of the mansion, the city stretched quietly in the distance, its rooftops glowing under the fading sun. The atmosphere was calm, yet inside him nothing felt calm at all.
He leaned forward slightly, his eyes tracing the horizon but his thoughts sinking deep into the decision he had just made. What would have happened if he had refused Duke's offer? Would his father have looked at him with disappointment, or would Rowan have remained as unbothered and cold as always? The uncertainty pressed at him, and though he had spoken with confidence in front of Duke, a storm of doubt brewed beneath the surface.
But more than his father, it was Duke himself who unsettled him. Why had the man been so insistent? Why push him into a corner, shaping the moment so that refusal felt impossible? Ethan knew this wasn't generosity or admiration. It was strategy. Duke wanted him for a reason, one hidden behind that smooth smile and those carefully chosen words. It wasn't just a job. It was something else—something he couldn't yet see.
The light of the evening grew softer, stretching long shadows across the yard, and Ethan's grip on the railing tightened. He had never felt so powerless, like a piece already moved into place on a board he hadn't even realized he was standing on. And for the first time, he wondered if accepting the offer had been a brave choice… or a dangerous mistake. Then a voice came, soft yet firm, slicing through the quiet air. "You're so careless, Ethan. You don't even close the door properly."
Ethan turned sharply, and the world seemed to pause. His eyes locked onto hers—warm brown, alive with a spark that both scolded and enchanted him at once. Her brown hair shimmered under the soft afternoon light, falling gracefully against her shoulders. She wore a gown of pale yellow, the kind that caught the breeze ever so lightly, making her appear less like a woman and more like a vision. For a heartbeat, Ethan forgot himself. He simply stared, as if his soul had been pulled into hers, as if there was no one else in the world but her.
It was Alicia Whitemore.
In Ethan's eyes, she wasn't merely beautiful, she was elegance made flesh, the kind of presence that lingered long after the moment had passed. With the poise of nobility, she approached the balcony, holding her gown delicately with both hands, her steps light, her posture unshaken. She lowered her head in a graceful bow, her lips curving into the faintest smile. "So finally our gaze meets, Mister Ethan Ashford."
Her greeting was formal, almost theatrical, yet the warmth in her tone betrayed a secret familiarity. Ethan, regaining his composure, let a soft smile spread across his face. He placed a hand over his heart, bowed slightly, and replied like a gentleman from an old tale. "Yes, it is, Miss Alicia Whitemore."
Alicia's lips curved wider, the light catching in her eyes. "Well, as always, a gentleman, aren't you?"
"I'm flattered by your compliment," Ethan answered, his voice calm yet tinged with sincerity. For a moment, silence lingered between them, followed by a light laugh shared by both. The sound echoed softly in the air, fragile but comforting, as if the balcony itself had been waiting for it.
Her gaze drifted outward, past him, to the world stretching beyond the railings. "So, what are you looking at from here?" she asked with curiosity, her tone less formal now, almost playful.
Ethan turned to the view, letting the wind brush against his face. "Nothing, just appreciating the beauty of nature," he murmured, his words calm, but his thoughts still orbiting around her presence rather than the scenery.
Alicia tilted her head, studying him with the hint of a mischievous smile. "You are strange… perhaps even a little weird."
He chuckled under his breath, glancing back at her. "All humans seem weird—"
But before he could finish, she stepped forward, her eyes catching his with quiet intensity, and softly completed his sentence. "Until you see life from their perspective, right?"
The words hung between them, glowing with memory. Ethan's heart tightened, not with pain but with an emotion he struggled to name. His smile deepened, touched by the familiarity. "So you still remember our meeting… that night at the ball."
Her lips curved again, softer this time, more real. "Yes, I do," she replied, her voice gentle, carrying both certainty and something unspoken, something that lingered between their gazes longer than any bow or polite word. The two of them stood side by side on the balcony, the golden afternoon light stretching across the garden and spilling into the city beyond. Their laughter had faded into a soft stillness, the kind of silence that felt warm rather than heavy.
Alicia tilted her head, her brown eyes studying him. "I heard my father wants you to work for him. Is it true?" she asked, her voice carrying both curiosity and an undertone of worry.
Ethan's shoulders tensed slightly. He kept his gaze on the horizon as if the view could shield him from the truth. "Yes. My father and I signed a contract. If I work with your father, he'll create a collaborative company with mine. My father holds eighty percent, and he'll keep the rest. That's why I accepted—it benefits my father, and Daniel too. He even said Daniel would be working with me. I thought… it was the least I could do to repay him."
Alicia frowned, her expression soft but tinged with frustration. "So you agreed only for your father and Daniel's sake? You didn't even think about yourself? About what you truly want?"
Ethan's lips pressed into a thin line, his voice quiet, almost broken. "No. I didn't." His head lowered, the weight of his choice dragging him down.
Without a second thought, Alicia stepped closer and placed her hand gently on his back. "You did what you felt was right. Don't regret it. You don't have to carry it alone." Her touch was steady, reassuring, yet her presence stirred something deeper in him.
Ethan gave a small nod, still avoiding her gaze, but Alicia wasn't about to let him hide. With deliberate care, she brushed aside the lock of hair that fell near his temple, revealing the crescent-moon scar beneath his left eye. The same scar she had noticed at the past ball. Her fingers lingered on his cheek, warm and tender, as though her touch could erase every burden he carried.
"If there's something you're hiding, something you can't say," she whispered, her voice barely louder than the breeze, "don't keep it from me. I'll embrace you whenever you need me. I'll be by your side, always."
This time Ethan looked at her, truly looked. The depth in her eyes pulled him in, and for a moment he forgot the contracts, the pressure, even his own doubts. A soft smile curved across his lips. "I will. Thank you, Alicia."
Their eyes locked, lingering far longer than either intended. The world outside—the city, the garden, the sprawling estate—faded into the background. On that balcony, beneath the golden light, it felt as though only the two of them existed, bound in a quiet promise neither of them dared to break. A silence settled between them, thick and unspoken. Both gazes locked, yet their thoughts swirled in different storms. Ethan's mind raced with doubt: Am I deserving of this comfort from Alicia? Am I worthy to stand beside her, even though she doesn't feel the way I do?
Meanwhile, Alicia studied him carefully. Something in his eyes had shifted. The charming, confident spark she remembered from their last meeting seemed muted, almost hidden. What happened to him? Why does he seem… different now? she wondered, her concern threaded with curiosity and something gentler, unspoken.
Ethan drew a steadying breath, forcing himself to regain composure. Slowly, he removed her hands from his face and took both of hers in his, grounding himself in the warmth and reassurance of her touch. "Alicia… I want to tell you somet—"
Before he could finish, a knock echoed through the room. A servant's voice called out, polite yet insistent: "Sir, ma'am, it's time for the ball event. Daniel is ready and will follow me."
Both of them looked toward the evening sky; the day had slipped away unnoticed, giving way to the soft glow of night. Alicia's voice, gentle, broke the moment. "Time passes like the wind, don't you agree?"
Ethan nodded, his eyes following the fading light. "Yeah… it does."
Alicia turned to the servant with a calm smile. "We'll be there in a moment. You may take Daniel ahead first," she said softly, buying Ethan a little more time.
Outside, Daniel paused, his sharp instincts catching on. He smirked knowingly. "Leave them… let them take their time," he told the servant before following him toward the ballroom.
Inside, Alicia glanced back at Ethan, tilting her head slightly. "Have you decided what you'll wear for the ball?"
Ethan shrugged. "No…"
Alicia sighed, her tone caught between irritation and fondness. "You really are careless, aren't you? Fine, I'll choose for you." She grabbed his hand and tugged him back into the room from the balcony, heading toward the wardrobe stand. With graceful determination, she pulled out all the suits and laid them on the bed.
"Let's see… which one suits you best? What do you say?" she asked, folding her arms as her eyes flicked between the options.
Ethan pointed at the black suit. "What about this one?"
Her brows shot up as she looked at him. "Do you have an allergy to colors or something?"
Ethan opened his mouth but found no defense. "Okay, ma'am, you choose," he muttered helplessly.
Her eyes landed on a deep-blue suit. Picking it up, she held it against him and said, "What do you think about this?"
"It's okay."
She narrowed her eyes in mock annoyance. "Really? That's it? Do you even know girls like compliments when they make choices?"
Ethan threw up his hands. "Alright, alright… it's beautiful."
Alicia smirked with satisfaction. "Good. Now wear it. I'll wait outside in the hall. We'll go together."
"Yes, ma'am, as you wish," Ethan said with a crooked smile.
When she left, Ethan looked down at the suit and chuckled softly to himself. I think I've just found my favorite color. He got dressed, and when he finally stepped outside, Alicia was still waiting. Her gaze softened when she saw him. "You're looking handsome," she said sincerely.
"Thanks for the compliment," Ethan replied, his eyes drifting over her. "But… aren't you going to change?"
She lifted a brow. "Why should I? Am I not looking beautiful enough already?"
Ethan smiled warmly, his words carrying weight. "You're beyond any words of admiration."
Alicia's cheeks flushed pink as she turned her head away. "Stop flattering me… let's go."
Together, they walked down the long corridor until the grand ballroom doors stood before them. Alicia reached out suddenly and laid her hand lightly on his shoulder, the gesture soft yet steady, almost like a wife standing beside her husband.
Ethan felt his heart jolt. "What are you doing?" His voice was barely steady.
She smiled mischievously. "What do you mean? This is what a girl does when she attends a ball with a boy. Don't you know that?"
He cleared his throat, trying to mask the heat rising in his face. "Oh… I see. Shall we go inside then, darling?" he teased.
Alicia blushed deeper and nudged him with her elbow. "Stop teasing me, Ethan… and yes, let's go."
They stepped into the ballroom together. Chandeliers bathed the hall in golden light, violins played a soft melody, and the polished floor reflected every shimmer of the grand event. Guests turned their heads almost instantly, whispers rippling as they saw the pair walk in together.
At the center of the room, Duke Whitmore and Rowan Ashford stood side by side, with Daniel close by. Rowan sipped his wine, expression unreadable, while Duke broke into a booming laugh. "Hahaha! Look at them! Don't they look perfect together?"
Rowan said nothing, only lifting his glass again with cool detachment. Daniel, however, couldn't stop grinning. His joy was genuine.
Ethan and Alicia made their way across the hall, hand in hand, their steps in rhythm with the music. Upon reaching their fathers, they released each other and bowed politely.
"You're looking good, Alicia. And you too, Ethan," Rowan said, his tone flat but his words sincere.
"Thank you for the compliment, Sir Rowan," Alicia replied with grace.
"Hahaha! A cold man giving praise—what a rare sight indeed!" Duke chuckled, slapping Rowan lightly on the back. Then, turning serious, he said, "Rowan, let's go. I'll introduce you to my friends."
Rowan gave a small nod, and the two men walked away together, leaving the young ones behind.
Almost immediately, Daniel appeared behind Ethan and Alicia with a grin. "The way you two were holding each other… it looked like you're already married! Hahaha!"
Both Ethan and Alicia flushed, avoiding each other's eyes. Daniel kept chuckling. "Anyway, come on, let's enjoy the event—and the food!"
Ethan rolled his eyes. "You really are a foodie, aren't you?"
Daniel smirked. "Do I look like one?" His mischievous grin answered for him.
Alicia giggled softly. "I want you both to meet some of the guests, too."
Daniel waved his hand dramatically. "No thanks. I'll stick to the food. Take Ethan with you; he's better at pretending to be polite."
She laughed politely. "Okay, foodie, as you wish." Turning to Ethan, she slipped her arm gently through his and looked into his eyes. "Shall we?"
"Yes," Ethan replied warmly.
Together, they walked deeper into the glittering crowd, her hand still resting lightly on his arm. Daniel watched from behind, smiling faintly to himself. It's better this way, he thought. Spend some time with her, Ethan.
And as Alicia began introducing him to the distinguished guests, Ethan realized something—whatever this night would bring, it was only the beginning.
Alicia guided Ethan through the crowd, introducing him to the guests, and he impressed them effortlessly with his gentlemanly manners and smooth conversation. After a few introductions, Alicia turned to him with a playful smirk. "Pretty good with your smooth talks, aren't you?"
Ethan met her gaze, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. "Should I take that as a compliment… or flirting?"
Their eyes locked for a brief, charged moment, until the sound of girls calling Alicia broke the tension. She waved at them and then gently let go of Ethan's hand. "I'll be back," she said, moving gracefully toward her friends. Ethan watched her, captivated by her smile and the way she carried herself, ignoring the curious stares of the other guests.
One of the girls subtly pointed at Ethan, whispering questions about him, but he didn't notice. His focus remained entirely on Alicia. Lost in admiration, he barely registered the voice behind him.
"You like her, right?"
Startled, Ethan turned to see an old man grinning knowingly. He had been so absorbed in Alicia that he had answered subconsciously. "Yes… I do," he muttered, before immediately regaining his composure and stammering, "What… huh? No, no… I don't like her!"
The old man chuckled warmly. "What a funny guy you are."
Ethan's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as he realized how obvious his feelings had been, and he quickly looked away, trying to hide his sudden awkwardness.
Ethan felt his cheeks heat up as he looked at the old man, whose white beard and composed demeanor gave him an air of authority—but there was a spark of mischief in his eyes. "Are you from Japan?" he asked, curiosity bubbling beneath his nerves.
The man's smile was easy, almost teasing. "Yes, I am. Haruto Kenji, 57 years old, owner of ten companies in Japan."
Ethan's mind briefly froze. Ten companies… and the age? Was that really necessary? Still, he straightened and bowed. "It's an honor to meet you, Sir."
Kenji laughed, a deep, rolling sound that made the air feel lighter. "Hahaha! No need for formalities, kid. I'm still young at heart."
Ethan nodded, unsure whether to laugh or stay serious. "Alright, sir."
Then Kenji leaned in slightly, his eyes twinkling like he already knew Ethan's secrets. "So… you like that girl, am I right?"
Ethan's gaze dropped, a shy warmth creeping into his chest. "Yes," he admitted softly, his voice barely audible.
Kenji's chuckle was playful, knowing, and somehow comforting. "And… you still haven't proposed, right?"
Ethan's eyes widened, a mix of shock and panic. "How… how did you know?"
"Fifty-seven years of experience, kid," Kenji said with a grin, shaking his head as if Ethan's flustered expression was the funniest thing he'd seen all day. Ethan couldn't help but let out a small, embarrassed laugh, realizing that even in this intimidating mansion, some things—like confessing your heart—were universally nerve-wracking. Kenji leaned back, stroking his white beard thoughtfully, though his eyes danced with amusement. "Kid, I've been around long enough to see many young men freeze in front of a girl they like. You… are no different."
Ethan's cheeks burned hotter. "I… I'm not frozen! I just… need to think."
Kenji laughed, the sound echoing softly through the ballroom. "Think? Think too long, and she'll think you're a statue! Look at her," he said, pointing subtly toward Alicia, who was chatting gracefully with another guest, her laughter like music. "Do you really want to be the guy who waits until she's gone to realize what you feel?"
Ethan swallowed hard, his gaze fixed on her. "I… I don't know if I'm ready."
Kenji chuckled again, leaning closer like he was sharing a secret. "Kid, let me give it to you straight. Life doesn't wait for the perfect moment, and neither do girls. You want her to remember you, not your hesitation."
Ethan opened his mouth, about to reply, but Kenji held up a hand. "And listen—confidence is half the game. Flustered is cute, but indecisive? Not so much. Trust me, I've seen enough young men waste chances."
Ethan blinked, trying to take in the advice, while a small laugh escaped him. "You really make it sound like a battle strategy."
Kenji grinned. "It is, kid. Love is a battlefield. And right now, you're holding the wrong weapon."
Ethan glanced at Alicia again, her golden gown catching the chandelier's light, her smile so effortless, so captivating. His heart raced, but Kenji's teasing words had lit a spark of courage. "Okay… okay, I'll try," he muttered.
Kenji slapped him gently on the shoulder. "Good. And remember, even if you stumble, at least don't trip over your own feet in front of her. That's basic protocol."
Ethan couldn't help but chuckle nervously, imagining himself clumsily bowing—or worse, falling—while Alicia looked on. He realized something important: Kenji wasn't just teasing him; he was pushing him to step forward. And for the first time that evening, Ethan felt a flicker of determination beneath his nerves Kenji said, "If you don't want to carry regret, be honest about your feelings. It's far better to face rejection than to live with a heart full of false hope." Ethan laughed lightly. "Well, now you're demotivating me."
Kenji smirked, his eyes glinting with wisdom. "Not demotivating, kid. Just telling you the truth."
Ethan shook his head, smiling. "Alright, alright. Thanks for the motivation."
Kenji straightened, slipping a small card into Ethan's hand. "Here. Call me if you ever need help. Who knows, I might be able to give you a better offer than the Duke."
Ethan froze, staring at the card in shock. His mind raced. How… how does he know about the Duke's offer? I never said a word. But before Ethan could ask, Kenji chuckled, gave a knowing nod, and disappeared into the sea of guests as if he had melted into the crowd.
The sudden sound of glass chiming against a spoon cut through the ballroom chatter. Everyone turned their heads toward the grand staircase, where the Duke stood tall with Rowan Ashford beside him. The Duke's presence alone silenced the hall.
"Thank you, my friends, for attending this ball," the Duke's deep voice echoed. "Tonight, I would like to make an important announcement."
A ripple of whispers spread quickly. Guests leaned close to one another, speculating, gossiping. What was he going to reveal?
With a casual flick of his hand, the Duke signaled a servant. The man hurried in, carrying a polished folder. The Duke took it, holding it high for everyone to see. "Behold, my friends. This is the official contract between myself and my dear friend Rowan Ashford. Together, we will establish a new collaborative company."
Gasps and murmurs filled the air. Shocked expressions spread across the ballroom. The Duke, forming a company with Rowan Ashford, was no small matter. Some whispered words of praise, others exchanged bitter looks, already cursing under their breath.
Ethan's eyes scanned the room, reading the emotions etched on every face. So it begins… some will cheer for them, others will loathe them. But nothing will stay the same after tonight.The Duke's commanding voice rang out again. "Ethan! Daniel! Come here."
The two young men stepped forward through the crowd, moving to stand at the Duke's side, one on his left, the other on his right. The Duke placed a hand firmly on each of their shoulders, his grip heavy with authority.
"Everyone, allow me to present these young men. Ethan Ashford, son of my esteemed friend Rowan Ashford. And Daniel Foster, his loyal companion. You have surely heard the rumors of their bravery—how Ethan uncovered the truth and sent Edward Kingsley behind bars for aiding his own son in a drug smuggling racket, and how Daniel stood at his side through it all. Together, they proved themselves to be brilliant, courageous, and loyal. They will now work with me. "The hall erupted in applause. Some clapped with genuine admiration, others with forced politeness, their eyes still filled with doubt or envy.
Daniel's face lit up with pride, smiling as the sound of recognition washed over him. Ethan, however, wore only a faint smile. His expression carried no joy, no sorrow, just calm acceptance, as though his heart refused to reveal what it truly felt. Ethan's eyes wandered through the crowd until they landed on Alicia, who was still standing with her friends. Their gazes met across the ballroom, and in that fleeting moment of eye contact, Alicia smiled at him. It wasn't just a casual smile; it carried warmth and pride, as if she were silently telling him that he had done well. Ethan felt a faint sense of happiness stir in his chest, a small reward for the evening's burdens.
Soon, guests surrounded him and Daniel, eager to know more about how they had managed to bring Edward Kingsley to justice. Some marveled at their courage, others pressed for details. Meanwhile, Rowan and Duke were busy entertaining another circle of curious businessmen who fired questions about their newly announced company. Alicia, on the other hand, drifted away with her friends, blending into the sparkling crowd.
After what felt like hours, Ethan and Daniel finally managed to slip away from the endless questions. Daniel stretched and let out a dramatic sigh. "These rich people sure talk a lot."
Ethan chuckled lightly. "Yeah, they do."
Daniel shot him a side glance, then smirked. "So… did you propose to Alicia yet?"
Ethan shook his head, his voice calm. "Not yet."
Daniel rolled his eyes and sighed. "Well, okay… but don't wait too long. Propose when you get the chance."
Before Ethan could reply, the soft, rich sound of violins filled the air as a group of musicians took their places. The chatter dimmed, replaced by graceful melodies. Daniel's expression lit up. "Dance time."
Ethan said nothing, but his silence didn't go unnoticed. Daniel scanned the dance floor, watching as people paired off quickly. Couples began moving toward the center, gliding gracefully across the polished floor. Then Daniel's eyes caught Alicia—her friends had already found their partners, leaving her standing alone.
Daniel nudged Ethan sharply with his elbow. "Bro, go dance with her before someone else does."
Ethan hesitated. "Seriously?"
"Stop asking questions and just go!" Daniel grinned and gave him a playful shove forward.
Ethan's steps carried him closer to Alicia, each one heavier than the last as nerves tangled inside him. She turned her head just then, and their eyes locked once more. There was no one else in that moment, no guests, no music—only the quiet connection between them.
Ethan stopped before her and extended his hand, his voice steady but laced with emotion. "Would you do me the honor of dancing with me, Miss Alicia Whitmore?"
For a second, Alicia looked shy, her cheeks tinged with pink. Then, gathering her courage, she met his gaze and smiled softly. "Yes, I will, Mister Ethan Ashford."
Her hand slipped gracefully into his, and together they walked to the center of the ballroom. Ethan placed his hand gently on her waist, and Alicia rested hers on his shoulder. The violins swelled, and the two began to move in rhythm with the circle of couples around them.
The atmosphere shifted, becoming tender and magical. Chandeliers sparkled above them, shadows swirled with the dance, and for Ethan, the world felt quieter than ever. In that moment, as they moved together beneath the golden glow of the ballroom, everything else faded away. The only thing Ethan's eyes could see was Alicia. The laughter, the crowd, the glow of chandeliers—all of it faded into a soft blur as they danced. His hand rested gently on her waist, her touch light on his shoulder, and together they moved in perfect rhythm. Every spin, every step felt weightless, as if the world had shrunk down to just the two of them. Their eyes never left each other's, locked in a quiet exchange that spoke more than words ever could. It was as if time itself had forgotten to move.
Then, the final note of the violin lingered in the air and faded away. The music stopped. All around them, dancers paused and bowed politely to their partners. Ethan and Alicia did the same, still smiling, still lost in that spell they had created together. Applause filled the ballroom, warm and sincere. As the crowd clapped, Ethan and Alicia shared a look—soft, lingering, and full of unspoken feelings neither dared to confess. From a distance, Duke and Rowan stood quietly, their gazes fixed on Ethan and Alicia as the two laughed and spoke with ease among the crowd. Duke took a slow sip of his drink, then glanced at Rowan with a faint smile. "They do look good together," he said thoughtfully. A small sigh escaped him as he added, "You should have come sooner, Rowan."
Rowan turned his head slightly, a hint of confusion in his calm expression. "What do you mean by that?" he asked, but Duke didn't answer, his eyes still following the young pair.
Across the room, Daniel leaned against a pillar, watching Ethan and Alicia with a content grin. Seeing Ethan laugh so freely made Daniel's chest feel light. His friend, who had always hidden behind silence and restraint, was finally showing emotion. "Good for you, man," Daniel muttered to himself with a smile before wandering off to enjoy the food and music.
Meanwhile, Ethan and Alicia stood close together, their laughter soft and genuine. After a while, Ethan spoke, his tone gentle. "It's getting too noisy here. Shall we head to the balcony?"
Alicia nodded in agreement. "Yeah, you're right. It's a bit too loud for my liking."
They quietly slipped away from the bustling crowd and stepped onto the grand balcony. The night greeted them with cool air and a peaceful silence. Above, the crescent moon hung like a silver smile in the dark sky. From where they stood, the mansion's yard stretched out below, the fountain gleaming faintly under moonlight, the tea spot faintly lit by garden lamps.
Leaning against the iron railing, both stared at the moon in quiet reflection. Alicia broke the silence first. "You remember that night? The ball where I first met you… we were standing on a balcony just like this, looking at the same moon."
Ethan's lips curved into a nostalgic smile. "Yeah, you're right."
Alicia looked at him softly. "When I first saw you, I thought… you were carrying something heavy inside you. Like you were fighting a storm no one else could see. A boy who couldn't show his feelings… maybe because he was scared, or maybe because something was holding him back."
Ethan gave a quiet laugh, one that sounded half amused and half broken. "Yeah… I do. I still do." and Ethan looked at her, his voice quiet but steady. "When I saw your eyes that night, I felt like you were fighting something too. Something I couldn't see… a burden you were carrying. A dream you wanted to reach, but something kept holding you back."
Alicia let out a soft laugh, her gaze drifting toward the moon again. "Well… you're right," she admitted gently. "Maybe we both hide our storms behind a smile."
For a moment, silence settled between them, warm and peaceful. The wind brushed past, carrying the faint scent of roses from the garden below. The moonlight fell across their faces, softening their expressions as if the night itself was listening to their unspoken words. With courage, both looked into each other's eyes and spoke at the same time. "I want to tell you something," they said together, then laughed softly at the coincidence. The night breeze brushed past them, carrying the faint music from the ballroom.
"You first," Ethan said, smiling nervously.
"No, you first," Alicia replied with a small laugh.
"Ladies first," Ethan insisted.
"Well, I don't mind being second," she teased gently.
"Oh, alright then, as you wish, miss," Ethan said with a faint chuckle.
For a moment, silence filled the air. Ethan's heart began to race. His palms felt warm, and the words trembled on his lips. "Alicia," he began quietly, "there's something I need to confess before it's too late, or I'm going to regret it."
Alicia straightened slightly, her expression soft but nervous. "Okay," she said in a low voice. "Say it."
Ethan took a deep breath, his chest tightening. "I love you, Alicia. I love you, Alicia Whitemore."
Alicia froze for a moment. Her cheeks turned red, and confusion flickered in her eyes. Ethan continued, his voice trembling but sincere. "When you left the last ballroom, I felt incomplete, like something very important had gone missing. Like a part of my life had disappeared."
Alicia looked down, unable to meet his eyes. "Why are you telling me this now?" she asked softly. "Why didn't you tell me before?"
"I was scared," Ethan said. "I was scared I'd lose you. I was scared too much, and I thought if I said it, I'd push you away."
The air turned still. Moonlight wrapped them in a soft glow, and the cold breeze brushed their faces. Somewhere below, the fountain's water shimmered quietly in the dark.
Ethan took another breath and whispered, "I love you, Alicia, for an eternity."
Alicia laughed weakly, tears forming in her eyes as she finally looked at him. "For an eternity," she repeated. "Will you love me for an eternity, Ethan?"
He held her hands gently and smiled. "Yes, for an eternity, Alicia."
Her tears slipped down as she smiled faintly and placed her hand on his cheek. Ethan held it softly, feeling the warmth of her touch. But then her voice trembled. "I'm happy, Ethan," she said. "I'm happy that you love me. I'm so happy… but it's meaningless."
Ethan's smile faded. Confusion filled his eyes. "What do you mean, Alicia?"
She slowly stepped back, her hands slipping away from his. The distance between them suddenly felt endless. "I can't be with you," she whispered.
Ethan's heart sank, his eyes wide and desperate. "What do you mean by that, Alicia?"
Alicia sobbed, her voice barely holding together. "I… I like someone else."
The words hit him like a cold wind. Time stopped. The world around him blurred—the fountain, the moon, the music—all fading into silence. The girl who once brightened his darkest days, whose smile had given him peace, whose eyes had once held his reason to breathe, was slipping away. He felt as if he was losing a part of himself again, but this time, it was forever.
Ethan's voice trembled as he spoke, his chest tightening with every word. "Who?" he asked, barely able to breathe, fear and sorrow tangled in his tone.
Alicia hesitated, her lips quivering as if the name itself would hurt to say. "Sebastian Blackwood," she whispered.
Ethan's eyes widened. He repeated the name quietly, as if trying to understand it. "Sebastian Blackwood?"
Alicia nodded slowly, her gaze falling to the ground. "Yes… Sebastian Blackwood. His father is a friend of my father."
The name echoed in Ethan's mind, heavy and sharp like the final note of a sad melody. The air around him felt colder now. The moonlight that once felt gentle seemed distant, pale, almost cruel. He looked at Alicia, trying to find any trace of doubt in her eyes, any hint that she might still feel the same. But all he found was quiet honesty, and that broke him even more. Alicia's eyes lifted toward the crescent moon as she spoke, her voice low and trembling.
"It was the summer of 1998," she began softly. "My father's old friend, Mr. Blackwood, came to stay at our house for a few days. They had some business to discuss and decided it would be easier to do it in person. He brought his son along. Sebastian Blackwood."
She took a quiet breath, the corners of her lips twitching into a faint smile. "We were the same age back then, both young and curious about everything. The day he arrived, I remember running through the hallways, helping the maids set up the guest rooms. I was excited—my father didn't have visitors very often. That evening, after dinner, while our fathers talked in the study, I stepped out into the garden. That's when I saw him for the first time."
Her voice softened. "He was sitting under the old oak tree, reading, with the moonlight falling right over him. It was a crescent moon that night. I asked him, 'You read even when everyone else is asleep?' He looked up and smiled in this calm, gentle way. Then he said, 'Only when the moon looks lonely.' I didn't understand what he meant, but it felt… beautiful somehow."
Ethan stayed quiet, listening, his heart tightening as she continued.
"Sebastian wasn't like the other boys I knew. He didn't talk loudly or try to get attention. He was soft-spoken, respectful, and… poetic, I guess. He noticed small things—like how the flowers leaned toward the wind Those few days, we spent a lot of time talking in the garden. About books, dreams, places we wanted to go. I was so young, but I remember feeling safe around him, like the world slowed down when he spoke."
Her voice wavered for a moment, her gaze distant. "On the last night before he left, we walked through the garden again. Neither of us said much. When his father called for him, he looked at me and said, 'Maybe we'll meet again someday, under a moon that isn't broken this time.' Then he smiled and left."
The silence that followed was filled with the sound of wind brushing past them.
"I didn't see him again for years," she said quietly. "Life went on. "My father got busier, I grew up, and that summer became just a quiet memory. Then one day, a few months ago, Father told me that Mr. Blackwood was visiting again. When I came downstairs to greet them… there he was. Sebastian. Calmer, still the same kind eyes. It felt strange, like the past had suddenly stepped back into my life."
She paused, her tone heavier now. "Our fathers had already started discussing a business partnership. And soon, those talks turned toward family ties. They said it would be good for both families if we married. I didn't say anything then. I tried to refuse later, but Father insisted it was best. He said Sebastian was a good man, and I knew he was right. Sebastian himself never forced anything. He only said, 'If it makes you unhappy, I'll speak to my father.' But I couldn't let him do that. It would have hurt both our families."
Her voice softened into a whisper. "So I agreed. Quietly."
Alicia turned to Ethan, her eyes shimmering under the cold light of the crescent moon. "That's how it happened. I also love him… and it's a family matter, a decision made by people who stopped believing in choices."
Ethan stood there for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, in a low sorrowful voice, he said, "I see." His eyes lifted toward the moon. "Looks like it's the same moon that shone the night you met Sebastian."
Alicia's gaze followed his. "Yeah… it was the same moon."
When Ethan looked back at her, his lips parted slightly as if to speak, but no words came. Instead, Alicia saw something that froze her breath—the glint of tears in his eyes. It was the look of someone who had quietly given up. He didn't need to say anything. She already understood.
"Ethan…" she whispered, lowering her eyes. "I'm sorry."
Ethan shook his head gently, his voice almost breaking. "It's not your fault. It's just fate. Don't worry, you don't need to do anything. It's good that you like him too. I have no reason to hold you back… neither did I before."
The wind carried their silence across the balcony. The fountain below murmured faintly, and the moonlight fell between them like a quiet farewell. The silence that followed felt endless. The night seemed to hold its breath, as if even the wind feared breaking the fragile moment between them. The faint rustle of leaves echoed softly, blending with the distant hum of the city below.
Alicia's throat tightened. She wanted to speak, to say something that could ease the weight pressing on both of them, but no words came. The guilt in her chest ached like a bruise. Ethan stood still, his eyes glimmering with the pale reflection of the moonlight, his expression calm yet broken.
He smiled faintly, but it was the kind of smile that hurt to see. "You know," he said slowly, "I used to think love was something we could fight for. That if we wanted it badly enough, we could change anything." He paused, glancing at her with tired eyes. "But maybe love isn't about winning. Maybe it's about learning when to let go."
Alicia felt tears sting her eyes. "Ethan, please don't say that…"
He shook his head, his voice gentle but firm. "It's alright. You don't have to say anything. I just wanted you to know how I felt before silence took the chance away."
The moonlight traced the side of his face, catching the faint tremor in his jaw as he tried to hold himself together. For a moment, it looked as though he might reach for her again, but his hand froze midway before falling back to his side.
"I hope he makes you happy," he said quietly. "You deserve that, Alicia."
Her lips parted, but no sound came out. The words she wanted to say drowned under the weight of everything unsaid.
Ethan turned toward the edge of the balcony. The cold wind swept past, brushing through his hair as if to carry away the remnants of his confession. He glanced once more at the crescent moon, its light fractured by thin clouds drifting across the sky.
Without another word, he stepped back, bowing his head slightly—a final gesture of respect, or maybe farewell—and began to walk away.
Alicia's hand twitched, as though to reach for him, but she stopped herself. The distance between them stretched wider with each of his steps. The sound of his shoes against the stone floor faded until only the night remained.
When he disappeared beyond the corridor's shadow, Alicia's composure crumbled. A single tear slipped down her cheek, falling like a quiet echo of everything she couldn't say. She looked up at the moon once more
The moon hung still, its pale glow flickering through the drifting clouds, as if mourning alongside her. Ethan entered the ballroom from the balcony, the faint murmur of music and laughter fading behind him. He walked quietly through the golden-lit hall, heading toward his room. Before he could leave, Daniel approached from behind and asked softly, "What happened?" Ethan didn't turn around. His voice was low and steady, yet filled with quiet sorrow. "Daniel, I finally understand something… If you truly love someone, you have to let them go. Because love isn't about control or possession, it's about sacrifice—the kind that asks you to step back even when your heart wants to hold on." Without saying another word, he walked away and disappeared down the corridor toward his room.
Daniel stood there for a moment, speechless. Then he walked to the balcony doors and saw Alicia standing outside, looking down, lost in thought. There was sadness in her eyes, a trace of regret, and a confusion that words could not explain. Daniel realized something had happened between them, but he couldn't do anything. Neither could he force Alicia to change her heart, nor could he step in Ethan's way. He remained there, silent and heavy-hearted, knowing that all he could do was watch.