The Proposal Revealed
Alaric is seated in his private office at Romanio Enterprises, surrounded by an aura of intense focus as he reviews a series of reports on his desk.
Just then, his father, Nikolai Romanio, walks in, his demeanor calm but purposeful. Alaric glances up, mildly surprised but respectfully nods, allowing his father to enter.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
*loses the door behind him*
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*raising an eyebrow* Father. This is unexpected. What brings you here?
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
*miling slightly, taking a seat across from him*
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
I wanted to speak with you directly, Alaric. I have news… something important.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*sighing, setting down his papers* Go on.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
I spoke to Andrio and Nina Martino last night at the reunion. We discussed a possible marriage arrangement between you… and their daughter, Natalya.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*leans back in his chair, expression turning colder*
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*warning tone* A marriage arrangement? And you decided this… without consulting me?
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
It was just a discussion. Alisa and I felt that Natalya would be a good match for you. She’s an intelligent and refined young woman, Alaric.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*coldly* Best for me? You think I need someone like her in my life? I run the most powerful company, I have no time for… distractions.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
Alaric, this is about more than just business. You may be successful, but you still need a partner. Natalya could bring balance to your life.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*coldly* Balance? I don’t need ‘balance.’ I’m perfectly fine managing my life on my own.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
Did it not occur to you to ask me first before making arrangements with another family?
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
Of course we would discuss it with you. But we also knew you’d react this way, Alaric. That’s why I’m here—to make you see reason.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
The Martinos are our oldest friends, and Natalya has agreed to this marriage as well.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*anger simmering, gritted teeth* She agreed? Without even knowing who I am?
Alaric Romanio (ML)
She agreed? Without even knowing who I am?
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
Natalya knows enough. She understands you’re driven, that you keep to yourself. And yet, she believes there’s more to you than that.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
She’s willing to try, Alaric.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*a dark chuckle escaping*
Alaric Romanio (ML)
She’s naive, then. And I’m not about to let her idealistic notions interfere with my life. I have no interest in marriage.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
Least of all with someone who barely knows me.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
Just give it a chance, Alaric. All we’re asking is for you to meet her. She’s a strong woman, Alaric. Perhaps you’d see she’s not as naive as you think.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*stiffening, tone icy* I won’t have someone forced upon me, no matter who she is.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
Fine, Alaric. But just remember this: there’s more to life than power and solitude.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
We want you to be happy, to build something meaningful, not just for the company, but for yourself.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
Natalya could help with that, if only you’d let her.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*gaze hardens as he listens, but doesn’t respond*
Nikolai stands, giving his son one last thoughtful look before he turns and heads for the door.
Nikolai Romanio (ML Father)
Think about it, son. I’ll leave it at that.
Nikolai leaves, closing the door behind him.
Alaric stares at the door, jaw clenched, frustration and doubt flickering across his usually controlled expression.
For the first time in a long time, he feels unsettled by something beyond his control.
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