chapter 1- unwanted union

In the vibrant city of Serendell, two lives intersected unexpectedly.

Alexander Montgomery, a man scarred by past heartbreak, believed love to be treacherous. Successful but emotionally distant, he had resigned himself to solitude.

Isabella Rodriguez, a vivacious dreamer with culinary aspirations, radiated warmth and beauty. Beneath her charm, she yearned for independence.

**Alexander's parents, Margaret and Richard, sit down with him to discuss their concerns.**

Margaret is mother of Alexander

Richard is father of Alexander

Margaret: (concerned) Alexander, we've seen how you've closed yourself off after Emily. We just want you to be happy again.

Alexander: (sipping his scotch) Happiness is overrated, Mother.

Richard: (sternly) We worry about your well-being, son.

Alexander: (resigned) I know, Father, but what can be done?

Margaret: (softly) We've found a solution, Alexander. We think it's time for you to marry someone who can bring warmth back into your life.

Alexander: (raising an eyebrow) Marry? You want me to marry?

Richard: (firmly) Yes, son. It's time you settled down, for your sake and for ours.

Alexander: (sighs) Alright, for your sake, I'll consider it. But don't expect me to be thrilled about it.

Margaret: (smiling) That's all we ask, dear.

_Conversation end here at Alexander's house_

**Isabella's parents, Maria and Antonio, reveal the proposal to their daughter.**

Maria is mother of Isabelle

Antonio is father of Isabelle

Maria: (tenderly) Isabella, dear, there's something we need to talk to you about.

Isabella: (curious) What is it, Mama?

Antonio: (clearing his throat) We've been approached by a family, the Montgomerys, who are looking for a suitable match for their son, Alexander. They've proposed a marriage between you and him.

Isabella: (astonished) Marriage? But I... I have so many dreams, Papa.

Maria: (reassuringly) We know, sweetheart, but this could be an opportunity for both families. We believe in your strength and dreams, and we think you can make the best of any situation.

Isabella: (nervously) But what if he doesn't like me?

Antonio: (encouragingly) That's something we'll have to discuss, Isabella, but we believe in you.

Isabella: (thoughtful) I'll do it for you, Mama and Papa, but I hope he's not as cold as the rumors say.

Antonio: (smiling) We'll cross that bridge together, my dear.

_Conversation end here at Isabelle's house_

**Isabella discussing the proposal with her friends, Sophia and Lucas.**

Isabella: (excited) Sophia, Lucas, you won't believe what Mama and Papa just told me!

Sophia: (curious) What's got you so worked up, Isabella?

Lucas: (interested) Yeah, spill the beans.

Isabella: (grinning) The Montgomery want me to marry their son, Alexander!

Sophia: (surprised) Marry? Isabella, that's huge!

Lucas: (supportive) Congratulations, Isabella. But what do you think about it?

Isabella: (thoughtful) Well, I've always dreamt of having my own restaurant, but maybe this could be a chance for me to help our families and follow my dreams at the same time.

Sophia: (encouraging) Isabella, you're amazing! I'm sure you can make the best of this situation.

Lucas: (nodding) You're strong, Isabella. And who knows, maybe this Alexander is a decent guy.

Isabella: (grateful) Thank you both for being so supportive. I'll give it my best shot.

continued.....

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***