18 The Start of Something

Alex attempted to justify his extravagant bid, "I'm sorry what I️ meant was that I️ wanted to saved you. Please, don't misunderstand me. I was just trying to help you. I could tell that you didn't want to go along with Malon Nang. I did not plan to spend this much either. You should be thanking me, Miss Bai." He hurriedly fabricated an explanation, attempting to cover up his straightforwardness.

Zunnie, momentarily convinced by his explanation, sighed and extended her hand, "Zunnie Bai, pleased to meet you. Thank you for spending ten billion dollars to help a lady in distress. I promise your money will not go to waste."

Alex smiled and, for a brief moment, contemplated teasing her. Eventually, he took her hand for a handshake, chuckling at the amusement of the situation.

Zunnie furrowed her brow upon hearing his laughter. "So, now that I've thanked you for helping me. Must we still have dinner?" she asked, maintaining her cautious demeanor.

"Saying only thank you to me is not worth ten billion dollars. Have dinner with me on Wednesday."

"Why do I feel like I don't have a choice?"

"I'm glad you understand the situation you are in." Alex smiled at her.

"I need to check my schedule. We may have to negotiate if I can't make it."

"Please note that there is no rush…I can make time when you're available."

"Mr. Zi, I'm…"

"Alex...Call me Alex," he interrupted before she could finish.

"Alex, I'm was wondering why did you choose to bid so much money to help someone you've never met. I'm sure I could have managed without your interference. Malon Nang works for our company and I'm absolutely certain he's smart enough to not cause me any form of distress. So, be honest with me. What is it that you really want?"

"What can I say? Honestly, I'm not a fan of Malon Nang. I️ am also fascinated by you. I saw how you were admiring each of the paintings earlier, and it made me curious. Are you a painter?"

"No, I am not. I know someone who loves to paint." Zunnie smiled, thinking of her little darling Nyo. She hadn't seen him for two weeks, and the thought of him made her miss him.

Observing her smile, Alex felt a pang of jealousy. 'So, the captivating smile that could melt a man's heart belongs to someone else.' Even though Alex had dated a few girls, he had never fallen in love with them. As he stared at the girl sitting across from him, his heart began acting strangely. Suppressing the urge to lean over the table to kiss her, he decided to end the conversation. Although she was reserved, he sensed Zunnie's uneasiness and the peculiar feelings he began having while speaking with her bothered him.

"It was nice chatting with you Miss Bai. I should leave." Alex stood up and walked away, turning back to say, "Also, when the time comes, don't refuse me for dinner. I will be hurt if you do."

A dazed Zunnie stared at Alex's back as he blended into the crowd. She had no idea what to make of the conversation she just had. Her heart pounded against her chest, her cheeks flushed. Placing her hand over her chest to compose her heart, she wondered, "What's wrong with my heart, and why the hell is it beating so fast?" She mumbled to herself, then decided to focus on the cakes on her plate.

Before she could finish, Eyan Bai walked over to where she sat, grinning. "Hey, ten-billion-dollar sis."

"I'm glad you find it funny. By the way, what do you know of Alexander Zi?"

"He's the heir and current brains of Arch.deZIgns…very successful and handsome too. I hear a lot of the ladies are interested in him. I still think he's crazy for spending that much money tonight."

"Ohh…he said he did it to help me because he knows of Malon Nang's reputation. Do you think he has other motives?"

"Who knows... He wouldn't spend this much money carelessly without a plan. He's a genius. But if he did it because he likes you, I won't object. I️ hear he's single as well. Sis, Alex seems like a much better option than Malon Nang. You're in good hands. " Eyan winked at Zunnie.

"Hmph, so quick to marry your only sister off." Zunnie pouted and stuffed the last piece of cake into her mouth.

Zunnie and Eyan were busy chatting when someone walked over to them.

"I forgot to give you my number. You won't have an excuse for not showing up to dinner." Alex handed Zunnie a card with his cell number written on the back.

"You're right, thanks" Zunnie smiled, took the card, and placed it in her bag.

"Eyan Bai, you did a good job for the gala tonight." Alex acknowledged Eyan.

"Mr. Zi, thank you; and for your generosity tonight, thank you. I promise you that Zunnie here will make good use of your money. She's the goddess in charge of the Bai Children's Hospital. Please take care of her during the dinner." Eyan shook Alex's hand as he explained.

Alex grinned then glanced over at Zunnie. "Don't worry; she will be in good hands. If she shows up."