Chapter 2

I was puzzled, but William remained completely composed, staring at me unblinkingly, clearly expecting an answer.

I could only force myself to speak. "Of course not... I don't even know him."

He chuckled. "Then me substituting for him—that's okay, right?"

I swallowed. "I... guess..."

Of course it was okay with me.

William seemed very happy with my answer.

He pulled out thick documents from somewhere, stood, and leaned over to place them in front of me.

"Good. This contains my assets and background information. I believe this file demonstrates my sincerity."

He paused, looking at me with focused intensity, his voice low and magnetic. "I hope you'll consider me."

Up close, his voice became even more appealing, making my head spin a little.

Was this some fantasy I was having after Alexander drove me crazy?

Under the table, I pinched my thigh hard.

Ow! That hurt. Not a dream.

Perhaps my expression was growing increasingly blank, because William smiled and retreated to his seat.

I snapped back to attention, realizing I'd lost my composure again. I quickly grabbed my glass and took a sip of water to hide my embarrassment, then forced myself to speak calmly.

"Mr. Carter. Do you mean... you want to marry me?"

The air seemed to freeze for a moment. Something almost scorching flashed in his eyes, but was quickly suppressed, leaving only pure earnestness.

"Yes. Miss Summers, I hope to have the honor of becoming your husband."

His attitude was clear and resolute. I truly didn't know what to do.

Who proposes marriage on the first meeting?

And the person was William Carter... a man I'd always thought completely out of reach.

"But... why me?"

He seemed to have anticipated this question. He leaned back casually, tilting his head. "A woman as outstanding as you in ability, personality, and looks—does wanting to marry you need a reason?"

He even raised an eyebrow at me with a smile.

His tone and demeanor were so serious that I felt embarrassed instead.

I touched my nose. "But aren't your qualifications even better?"

William paused for two seconds, looking directly into my eyes. "Then do you think I'm good?"

I froze, silently looking at the table full of dishes that perfectly matched my tastes.

I'd contacted him so late yesterday, yet he'd still managed to research my preferences this thoroughly.

At least as a date, he was extremely sincere.

His manner was nothing like the cold, ruthless reputation he had.

Add his excellent personal qualities and family background... who wouldn't think he was good?

I hesitated a moment. "You're... pretty great."

William brightened noticeably, lowering his head to chuckle quietly, pushing the documents closer to me. "Then will you try this with me?"

Realizing he meant marriage, my instinct was to retreat.

After all, this wasn't anywhere in my life plans right now.

But William's emotions seemed so genuine that I wanted to be honest too. "We can try getting to know each other. But marriage... isn't that a bit too fast?"

At my answer, darkness flashed through his eyes, quickly concealed. "Alright. Whatever you say."