Chapter 6: Secrets Unveiled

Elena was in the kitchen, preparing lunch, when she heard a knock on the door. Wiping her hands on a towel, she went to open it and found her old friend David standing there, a warm smile on his face.

"Hey, David!" Elena exclaimed, giving him a hug. "It's so good to see you."

"You too, Elena," David replied, stepping inside. "I thought I'd drop by and see how you're doing. I know things have been tough lately."

Elena smiled, appreciating his concern. "Thanks, David. I really appreciate it. Come on in. Mom will be happy to see you."

They walked into the living room, where Margaret was sitting. Her face lit up when she saw David.

"David, my dear!" Margaret said, reaching out to him. "It's been so long."

David leaned down and kissed her cheek. "Hi, Mrs. Carter. How are you feeling?"

"Oh, you know, the same as always," Margaret said with a gentle laugh. "But we're getting through it, thanks to Elena and… well, Alexander."

David's brow furrowed. "Alexander?"

"Yes," Margaret said, beaming. "Elena's boyfriend. He was here the other day. Such a charming young man."

David turned to Elena, shock evident on his face. "Boyfriend? Elena, can we talk outside for a minute?"

Elena nodded, feeling a knot tighten in her stomach. "Sure, David. Let's step outside."

They walked out onto the small porch, the air cool and fresh. David turned to her, his eyes filled with confusion and concern.

"What's going on, Elena?" he demanded. "Since when do you have a boyfriend? You've never mentioned him before."

Elena took a deep breath, remembering the contract and the conditions she had agreed to. She couldn't tell David the truth—it would jeopardize everything. But she also couldn't lie to him outright. She needed to find a way to explain without revealing too much.

"David," she began, choosing her words carefully, "I and Alexander have been secretly dating. I never planned on not telling you… it's just that… I don't even know. He brought up the topic of us getting married, and I think that's why he visited my mom."

David's eyes widened in disbelief. "Secretly dating? Marriage? Elena, this isn't like you. You never keep secrets from me."

Elena could see the hurt in his eyes, and it pained her. "I know, David. I'm sorry. Everything happened so fast. I didn't know how to tell you."

David ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident. "I don't understand, Elena. Why didn't you tell me sooner? Is he pressuring you into this?"

Just as Elena was about to respond, she saw Alexander approaching. He had been nearby, keeping an eye on things, and now his protective instincts kicked in. He reached them and immediately sensed the tension.

"Elena, is everything alright?" Alexander asked, taking her hand in his.