Chapter 7 : Uncertain Beginnings

Alexander's touch brought a wave of reassurance over Elena, but the tension between her and David was palpable. David's eyes darted between their clasped hands and Alexander's concerned expression.

"Yes, Alexander. Everything is fine," Elena said, trying to muster a convincing smile.

David wasn't buying it. "Elena, we need to talk more about this. But for now, I'll let you get back to… whatever this is."

David walked away, leaving Elena feeling a mix of guilt and relief. She watched as he disappeared inside, then turned back to Alexander.

"I'm sorry about that," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "David is just very protective of me."

Alexander nodded, his thumb gently stroking the back of her hand. "I understand. It's good to have friends who care. But you're alright?"

Elena nodded, even though she felt anything but alright. "Yes, I'll be fine. Thank you for stepping in."

He gave her hand a final squeeze before releasing it. "We should head back inside. We have a lot to discuss."

As they re-entered the house, they found Margaret chatting animatedly with David. She looked up and smiled brightly at them.

"Alexander, would you like to stay for lunch?" Margaret asked. "It's been a while since we've had a guest."

Alexander smiled graciously. "I would love to, Mrs. Carter."

Elena and Alexander settled into the kitchen, preparing the rest of the meal. The small, familiar space was filled with the comforting aroma of cooking, and Elena found herself relaxing a little.

"Your friend David seems very loyal," Alexander said as he chopped vegetables. "It's good to have someone like that in your life."

"He is," Elena agreed, stirring a pot on the stove. "We've been friends since childhood. He's like a brother to me."

Alexander nodded thoughtfully. "I understand his concern, then. This situation must be very confusing for him."

Elena sighed. "It is. I hate lying to him, but I don't have a choice."

"We'll just have to make sure our story is solid," Alexander said, his tone pragmatic. "The last thing we need is more complications."

They worked in silence for a while, each lost in their own thoughts. When lunch was ready, they joined Margaret and David at the table.

As they all sat around the dining table, the atmosphere was filled with the delicious aroma of the meal Elena and Alexander had prepared. Margaret was delighted to have guests, especially someone like Alexander, and her eyes shone with happiness.

David, however, was not as easily charmed. His skepticism was palpable, and Elena could sense that he was about to put their story to the test. She felt a knot tighten in her stomach as she glanced at Alexander, who seemed perfectly composed.

"So, Alexander," David began, his tone casual but his eyes sharp, "how did you and Elena meet?"

Alexander smiled, looking at Elena for a brief moment before answering. "We met through a mutual friend. It was at a charity event, actually. We started talking and just… clicked."

Elena breathed a little easier; Alexander was handling this well. But David wasn't done.

"That's interesting," David said, leaning back in his chair. "What do you like about Elena?"

Alexander glanced at Elena, and for a second, they both understood the gravity of the situation. He hadn't been briefed about her personal details, and this could be a huge problem.

"Well," Alexander began, his voice steady, "Elena is incredibly kind and selfless. She's always thinking of others, especially her mother. She's hardworking and determined. And, of course, she's beautiful inside and out." He glanced at Margaret, whose eyes were starting to glisten with tears of joy.

David wasn't satisfied. He leaned forward, locking eyes with Alexander. "And what do you hate about her?"

Elena's heart skipped a beat. This was unexpected and clearly meant to trip them up. She looked at Alexander, who remained calm and composed.

Alexander gave a light smirk, clearly thinking on his feet. "Well, if I had to pick something, I'd say I hate how hard she works. She's so determined to do everything on her own, and I just wish she would let me help and support her more."

Elena took his cue and added, "Well, I think it's not just the best time. If I need help, I'll let you know," she said, blushing slightly to keep up the act.

Alexander smiled, turning to Margaret and David. "You see how stubborn Elena is?" he said with a playful tone.

Margaret chuckled, clearly charmed by Alexander's response, but David remained unconvinced. He studied Alexander closely, searching for any cracks in the facade.

"So, Alexander," David said, his tone more serious, "what are your intentions with Elena?"

Elena's heart pounded in her chest. This was the big question, the one that could make or break their story. She hoped Alexander had a convincing answer.

"My intentions are to support and care for Elena," Alexander replied, his tone sincere. "I want to be there for her and her family. I want to make her happy and give her the life she deserves."

Elena felt a surge of gratitude toward Alexander for his convincing performance. David, however, still seemed skeptical.

"Alright," David said, leaning back again. "I just want to make sure Elena is with someone who truly cares about her."

"I understand," Alexander said, meeting David's gaze steadily. "I would expect nothing less from a good friend."

As the meal continued, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, and the tension began to ease slightly. Margaret was in high spirits, clearly pleased with Alexander's presence and the apparent happiness of her daughter.