2: Xander's Past

As Amelia and Xander enjoyed a peaceful afternoon in Central Park, Xander was reminded of his own childhood. He had grown up in a wealthy family, the only child of successful business people. He'd had everything he could possibly want, but he'd always felt like something was missing.He'd thrown himself into work, striving for more and more success, until he had become one of the richest men in the country. But now, as he looked at Amelia, he realized that what he'd been missing all along was love.

As Xander thought about his past, he was struck by a profound sense of gratitude for Amelia. She had shown him what it meant to truly live, to open himself up to the world around him. He wanted to share his life with her, to make her a part of everything he had worked so hard to build.But he knew that it wouldn't be easy.

As Xander thought about his past, he was struck by a profound sense of gratitude for Amelia. She had shown him what it meant to truly live, to open himself up to the world around him. He wanted to share his life with her, to make her a part of everything he had worked so hard to build.

As Xander pondered his thoughts, he saw Amelia's smile, and he felt his fears begin to melt away. He knew that she was the one for him, and he would do whatever it took to make their relationship work.

Over the next few weeks, Xander began to introduce Amelia to his world. He took her to exclusive parties and events, and she charmed everyone she met with her warmth and charm.Xander's friends and colleagues were impressed with Amelia, and many of them commented on how good she was for him.

Xander was relieved that his friends accepted Amelia, but he knew that the real test would be introducing her to his parents. They were used to Xander dating women from their social circle, and he worried that they might not approve of Amelia.One day, Xander decided to bite the bullet and invite Amelia to dinner with his parents. As they arrived at his parents' sprawling Upper East Side penthouse, Xander felt his heart racing."Are you sure about this?" he whispered to Amelia.ContinueAmelia gave Xander a reassuring smile. "I'm sure," she said. "We've got this."As they stepped inside, Xander's parents greeted them warmly. His mother, Eleanor, was a stylish and elegant woman, while his father, William, was a tall and imposing figure.They welcomed Amelia with open arms, and Xander was surprised by how easily Amelia fit in with them. She chatted effortlessly with Eleanor about fashion and art, while William seemed impressed by Amelia's wit and intelligence.

After dinner, they moved into the living room for drinks and conversation. As they sat, William turned to Amelia."Xander tells us that you're a recent graduate," he said. "What are your plans for the future?"Amelia smiled. "Well, I'm still trying to figure that out," she said. "But I'm passionate about helping people, so I'm considering a career in social work."William nodded, impressed. Eleanor, who had been quietly sipping her wine, spoke up. "That's admirable, Amelia," she said. "Xander's father and I have always been involved in charitable work, and we believe that it's important to give back to those less fortunate."Amelia smiled. "I couldn't agree more," she said. "I think that everyone should try to do their part to make the world a better place."As they talked, Xander looked on with pride.

Eleanor smiled at her son. "I'm glad you've found someone who makes you happy, Xander," she said. "And I must say, Amelia, you are a breath of fresh air. You've brought a warmth and vitality to Xander that I haven't seen in him for a long time."Amelia blushed. "Thank you, Eleanor," she said. "I'm just trying to be myself."William stood up. "Well, I think it's time for us to call it a night," he said. "Thank you both for coming."

As Amelia and Xander prepared to leave, Eleanor turned to Xander with a grave expression."Xander, dear, I need to talk to you alone for a moment." She said, her voice low and serious.Xander felt a sense of dread wash over him as he followed his mother into the foyer."What's wrong, Mom?" he asked, concerned."Xander, I'm worried about your relationship with Amelia," Eleanor said, her eyes darting towards the living room where Amelia was still chatting with William."Why?" Xander asked, feeling a knot forming in his stomach. "I thought you liked her."Eleanor sighed. "I do like her, but that's not the point. Amelia is from a different world than ours, Xander. She's not part of our society, and I'm worried that she might not be able to fit in with our way of life."Xander's heart sank. "What do you mean?" he asked, his voice hoarse."She's a nice girl, but she's not one of us," Eleanor said, her voice firm.

Eleanor continued, "Xander, you're the heir to our family's legacy. You're going to inherit everything we've built. You need to think about the future of the Thompson name. Amelia doesn't come from money, and she doesn't have the social standing to be a part of our world."Xander felt a surge of anger rising inside him. "Mom, I don't care about that," he said, his voice shaking. "I love Amelia, and I want her to be a part of my life, no matter what you think."Eleanor's eyes widened."Xander, listen to me," Eleanor said, her voice rising. "I'm trying to protect you, to protect our family. You may think you love Amelia, but she's not the right choice for you. You need to end this relationship now before it goes any further."Xander was stunned. "Mom, I can't believe you're saying this. Amelia is the best thing that's ever happened to me. I won't give her up, no matter what you say."Eleanor's face hardened. "Then you leave me no choice, Xander," she said, her voice cold.Yes"I'm giving you an ultimatum," Eleanor said, her gaze boring into Xander. "Either you break up with Amelia, or you'll be cut off from the family fortune. You won't get a single cent."Xander's mouth dropped open. "You can't be serious," he said, shaking his head in disbelief."I'm deadly serious," Eleanor replied. "You can have your money or Amelia, but not both."Xander felt like his world was crumbling around him. Xander stood there, feeling numb. "I can't believe you're doing this," he said, his voice quiet and trembling.Eleanor's expression remained steely. "You have 24 hours to make your decision, Xander. And I want to see proof that you've broken up with Amelia. Otherwise, you'll be disinherited."Xander felt like he was in a nightmare. He couldn't believe his mother was giving him such an ultimatum, and he couldn't bear the thought of losing Amelia.