Fourth

Over the next few weeks, Alex and Michael went on several dates, exploring the city and getting to know each other. Alex found herself enjoying Michael's company more and more, as they talked about everything from their childhoods to their dreams for the future.

But despite the fun they were having, Alex couldn't shake off the feeling that something wasn't right. She still couldn't believe that Michael had asked her to be his wife, and she didn't know how to navigate the strange, new dynamic between them.

One evening, as they were strolling through a park, Michael stopped in front of a beautiful fountain and turned to face her. "Alex, I want to be honest with you," he said, his voice low.

Alex braced herself, wondering what he was going to say.

"I know that this situation is not ideal," Michael continued. "And I don't want you to feel like you're being forced into anything. If you don't want to be my wife, I'll understand."

Alex felt a pang of guilt as she looked into Michael's eyes. She knew that he was being sincere, and that he truly wanted her to be happy. But she couldn't ignore the nagging doubts in her mind.

"Michael, I appreciate your honesty," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "But I need more time to think about this. I don't want to rush into anything, especially not something as important as marriage."

Michael nodded, his expression understanding. "I understand, Alex. Just know that I'm here for you, whatever you decide."

They hugged, and Alex felt a wave of emotions wash over her. She wasn't sure where this was all headed, but she knew that she had to take it one step at a time.

As they parted ways, Alex felt a sense of relief mixed with anxiety. She wasn't ready to commit to Michael, but she also wasn't ready to let him go. She wondered if they could find a middle ground, something that would allow them to explore their feelings without rushing into marriage.

The days passed by, and Alex found herself caught up in the whirlwind of her new job and her complicated relationship with Michael. She tried to focus on work, but her mind kept wandering to thoughts of Michael and what might come next.

Little did she know that she was about to face a new challenge, one that would test her in ways she never could have imagined.