Chapter 8
Alexander's mind is consumed by confusion, anger, and possessiveness, unable to comprehend why Rose would want to leave him.
Alexander's thoughts were interrupted by Tyler's voice: "Alexander, what are your thoughts on the marketing strategy?"
He blinked, refocusing on the meeting. The client, Mr. Jensen, looked expectant.
"Ah, yes... the marketing strategy," Alexander stammered, buying time.
He glanced at the presentation slides, trying to clear his mind. Rose's face still lingered in his thoughts.
"Alexander?" Tyler prompted, his tone subtle but urgent.
Alexander shook off his distraction. "Yes, I think we should... um... emphasize social media campaigns to reach a wider audience."
Mr. Jensen nodded, scribbling notes. "That's a good point. What about influencer partnerships?"
Alexander forced himself to engage, pushing Rose to the back of his mind. "Influencers can be effective, but we need to carefully select those aligned with our brand values."
The meeting continued, with Alexander struggling to maintain his focus. His mind kept drifting back to Rose and the mysterious reasons behind her sudden distance.
As the meeting concluded, Alexander felt a sense of relief. He needed to resolve the Rose situation quickly before it affected his business dealings.
"Tyler, can I have a word with you?" Alexander asked, his tone low.
Tyler nodded, following Alexander out of the meeting room. "What's on your mind?"
Alexander's expression turned serious. "It's Rose. I need to know what's going on with her."
Alexander's expression turned neutral, masking his concern. "Tyler, what's the status on the Smith account?"
Tyler raised an eyebrow, sensing a sudden change in topic. "It's on track, Alexander. What's bothering you?"
Alexander shrugged, feigning nonchalance. "Nothing. Just focusing on business."
Tyler's gaze lingered, searching for cracks in Alexander's facade. "You sure? You seemed distracted in the meeting."
Alexander's jaw clenched, his male ego kicking in. "I'm fine. Just tired."
Tyler nodded, dropping the subject. "Alright, I'll send you the updated reports."
As Tyler walked away, Alexander's eyes narrowed, his thoughts drifting back to Rose.
"No one leaves me," he whispered to himself, his voice laced with determination. "Especially not her."
Alexander's mask of indifference remained firmly in place, hiding the turmoil brewing inside. His pride and ego wouldn't allow him to show vulnerability, not even to Tyler.
But the seed of concern had been planted, and Alexander couldn't shake the feeling that Rose was slipping through his fingers.
Tyler Pov
"As I walked away from Alexander's office, I couldn't help but wonder what was really bothering him. He's always been a master of hiding his emotions, but I've known him long enough to recognize the subtle cracks in his facade.
"But my mind quickly shifted to Rose, as it often does. That sweet, gentle soul has been a ray of sunshine in this cold, calculating world. Her warm smile and kind words always make my day brighter.
"I've had the privilege of witnessing Rose's beauty shine from within, untainted by the superficial glamour of Alexander's family. They've always treated her like a maid, a mere accessory to their wealth and status. But I see the real Rose—a heart of gold, full of compassion and empathy.
"It angers me to think about how they've exploited her kindness, taking advantage of her innocence. Alexander's family has no idea what a gem they have in Rose. They're blinded by their own arrogance and entitlement.
"But Rose... she's different. She treats me like a brother, with a sincerity that's hard to find. I've watched her quietly endure Alexander's condescending behavior, her dignity unwavering.
"Sometimes I wish I could shield her from the toxicity that surrounds her. Rose deserves so much more—love, respect, and happiness. Not the cold, calculating manipulation of Alexander's world.
"I've often wondered how she ended up with Alexander. She's too good for him, too pure. He doesn't deserve her.
"As I returned to my desk, my thoughts lingered on Rose, hoping she'd find the strength to break free from the chains that bind her. She deserves a life filled with joy, laughter, and love—not the suffocating grip of Alexander's family."
