Chapter 6 Marriage proposal

CHAPTER 6

Alexander's phone rang, shrill in the silence. He glanced at the screen, his eyes widening in surprise. Godfather. The Pillar rarely called him directly." Alexander," Salvador's voice was low, urgent."I need to see you. Come to the Manor immediately." Alexander remained calm, unfazed by the summons. He arrived at the Manor in record time, the imposing structure looming before him, its European-inspired architecture a testament to its rich history.Towering spires and grand archways seemed to stretch on forever,the stone façade glowing warmly in the fading. As he entered, Alexander was enveloped by opulence, crystal chandeliers refracting light, casting rainbow hues across polished marble floors that gleamed like mirrors.

Salvador awaited him in the grand study, surrounded by shelves of leather-bound tomes.The old man looked energised, his eyes sparkling with a fire that belied his advanced age. He gestured for Alexander to take a seat. Salvador motioned for Alexander to take a seat across from him, his eyes locked in a piercing gaze. Alexander complied, and Salvador poured him a cup of tea, which he gratefully accepted, instinctively offering to reciprocate the gesture as a token of respect. Within their exclusive fraternity, protocol and hierarchy dictated every interaction, and Alexander, having been personally mentored by Salvador, was well-versed in these customs. Salvador's countenance turned solemn as he began to speak. "Alexander, over the years, I've taken you under my wing, imparting the intricacies of our world. As I grow older, it's evident that I can no longer oversee every aspect of our organization. The time has come for you to assume greater responsibility and leadership."

Alexander's response was immediate. "Rest assured, Father, I will ensure the seamless operation of our collective endeavors," he said, pouring Salvador another cup of tea as a gesture of filial devotion. Salvador nodded in approval, his eyes never leaving Alexander's face. "There's no need for subterfuge between us, Alexander. You're aware that I have another matter of great importance that I wish to entrust to your care." Alexander's head dipped slightly in acknowledgment, and after a moment of contemplation, he replied, "I am cognizant of your concerns." Salvador's gaze intensified. "Given your understanding, I'm perplexed as to why you declined the marriage proposal. Be forthright with me, Alexander – is it due to a lack of affinity for Ember, or perhaps your affections lie elsewhere?"In response to his Godfather's question, Alexander remained silent, his expression changing but Salvador remained unfazed.

His next words threw Alexander off guard, "Alexander, I have a proposal for you, "Salvador continued, his voice measured. "I want you to marry Ember. "Alexander's jaw dropped. "Marry her? After what she did?" Salvador's expression remained serene."Hear me out,Alexander. Ember's betrayal was expected. But that doesn't mean we can't use it to our advantage."Alexander's skepticism was evident,but Salvador continued,his words dripping with conviction. "You see, Alexander, Ember's connection to the Owls is invaluable. And with her by your side, we can-"Alexander cut him off, incredulous."You want me to marry her for political gain? "Salvador leaned forward,his eyes glinting. "I want you to marry her because she's the only one who can save you from yourself."

Alexander's eyes narrowed,his mind raking.What did Salvador mean? And why did he sense the old man was hiding something?Alexander's eyes blazed with indignation. "Marry her? You can't be serious, Godfather."Salvador's expression remained calm, serene. "I am perfectly serious,Alexander.This is an opportunity you cannot afford to miss."Alexander's laughter was incredulous. "An opportunity? She betrayed us, Godfather. She nearly destroyed everything we've worked for." Salvador's eyes clouded,his gaze drifting into the past."I know what she did, Alexander. But I also know what she can do. And what she can become."Alexander's frustration boiled over. "What are you talking about?You're not making any sense. "Salvador's gaze snapped back to Alexander,his eyes piercing."You will understand, Alexander. When the time is right."

Salvador's gaze snapped back to the present,his eyes locking onto Alexander's."I'm talking about the future, Alexander.Your future.And the future of the Manor. "Alexander's gaze wandered around the room,taking in the familiar sights and sounds of the Manor. He had grown up within these walls,spent countless hours exploring its secrets. A pang of nostalgia struck him,and for a moment,he was a child again. But the memory was bittersweet, tainted by Ember's betrayal. Alexander's jaw clenched, his anger and resentment simmering."I won't do it, Godfather, "he said,firm."I won't marry her."Salvador's expression didn't change,his eyes boring into Alexander's soul. "You will, Alexander.You will, because it's the only way to save yourself."