'N.E.L.S.O.N.'
I typed it into the search bar, hitting each letter with growing frustration. My fault—I never asked for his full name. Now I had no clue which "Nelson" he actually was.
The screen loaded, flooding with countless results. I scrolled slowly, unsure what I was even looking for… until something caught my eye. A headline from a business news site. The date was recent—just a few days ago.
My thumb hesitated for a second before I tapped to open it.
BREAKING: Nelson Van Alistair Named Youngest CEO of Velmeria's Largest Law Firm — Engagement Rumors with Orabella Vincentina Spark Buzz
Velmeria City, May 18 — Nelson Van Alistair, a prominent legal mind and former star attorney, has officially taken the reins as CEO of Aegis & Alistair, Velmeria's most powerful law firm. At just 29 years old, he becomes the youngest person ever to lead the firm, marking a new era for the country's legal and corporate scene.
Alistair, starting his career in Gallia country, best known for his string of courtroom victories and sharp legal reforms, transitioned from his role as senior partner to chief executive following a unanimous board vote. The firm cited his "visionary leadership" and "commitment to justice" as key reasons behind the appointment.
"Nelson has always been ahead of his time," said former CEO Harold Van Alistair. "His ability to combine law, business, and compassion is unmatched. We're confident the future of Aegis & Alistair is in excellent hands."
A Legal Career Built on Excellence
A graduate of the prestigious Velmerian Royal Law Academy, Nelson Van Alistair gained national attention after successfully defending several human rights cases early in his career overseas. He soon became a public figure, earning the nickname "The People's Advocate" for his focus on accessible legal aid and anti-corruption reforms. Recently, he also launched the Alistair Foundation, which offers free legal services to underserved communities.
Romance on the Radar?
While the professional world applauds his rise, social media is abuzz with personal speculation. Nelson has been spotted multiple times alongside Orabella Vincentina, heiress of the Vincentina family empire. Though neither has publicly confirmed their relationship, insiders suggest an engagement announcement may be imminent. The pair appeared together at the Velmerian Spring Gala and were recently seen dining privately at the Vincentina family restaurant– Le Fleur, sparking further rumors.
What's Next?
With Aegis & Alistair poised for global expansion and whispers of a high-profile wedding on the horizon, Nelson Van Alistair's life seems to be unfolding like a modern-day success story.
Whether in the courtroom or at the center of high society, he remains one of Velmeria's most watched and admired figures.
Reporting by: Elira Wensley, Velmeria Times
***
I read the article carefully, scanning for any clues—until I spotted the name of the restaurant: Le Fleur. The same place I had gone to before my allergic reaction. That was it. I was now one hundred percent sure—the article was about him. The same Nelson who had just called me. The so-called neighbor's older brother.
Seriously? A lawyer turned into a powerful CEO? Just how many domineering CEOs exist in this world? And Mia Isabella, why do you always get tangled up with this kind of guy?
But…can I trust what Nelson said? Who should I ask? Mike? Alex? Then again, should I even bring it up? Neither of them ever mentioned him. Not even once. And Nelson sounded hesitant when I asked who he was. Just a neighbor's older brother? Doesn't feel that simple.
Should I meet him someday? But he has a fiancée. What if that causes misunderstandings? I don't want to get dragged into another mess.
ARGHHH—what should I do now?!
I was still lost in my chaotic thoughts when someone knocked on the door. It opened slightly, and I quickly put my phone down.
It was Alexius.
He stepped in with that soft, familiar smile. "Why are you all dressed already? Can't wait to go home?"
"Yes," I answered honestly as he sat beside me on the bed. "This hospital feels stuffy. I don't like it here."
"That's why you need to start taking better care of yourself," he said gently. "Be careful with everything you eat. No more 'accidental' allergic reactions."
"Stop it, Alex," I groaned. "You lecture me about this every single day. I'm tired of hearing it."
His expression tightened as he turned to me, brows furrowed. "I'm only saying it because I care, Mia. In just a few weeks, you've nearly died—twice."
"…Alright, alright. I get it," I said, waving my hand. "Let's just go. I'm tired and want to leave already."
"I'll go sign the discharge papers. Wait here for me."
I nodded, and he smiled—soft, warm, and enough to melt me on the spot. He reached out to stroke my hair gently before walking out with long strides, leaving me with a thumping heart and a very red face.
Arghhh, this guy—he's going to drive me crazy!
***
"Let's go eat first. I'm starving," I said the moment we stepped out of the elevator into the basement parking lot.
"Alright," Alex replied, glancing at his watch. "I haven't had lunch yet either. What do you want to eat?"
"Spicy ramen," I said instantly, my eyes lighting up at the thought.
He stopped walking and turned to me with a sharp look, brows furrowing. "Are you serious right now? You can't eat spicy food."
"Why not?" I blinked, confused.
"You have low spice tolerance and a sensitive stomach," he reminded me with a sigh. "Gastric issues, remember? Did you forget that too?"
I nodded slowly, already feeling sulky. "That's so unfair…"
Alex exhaled deeply, sensing trouble ahead. "Mia, listen. From now on, if you're unsure whether you can eat something, just message me or one of your brothers first, alright? Don't just eat whatever you want without checking."
"But that's no fun," I muttered, pouting. "Okay then…what about fried chicken?"
"No greasy food either. It'll mess up your stomach even worse."
"You're impossible!"
He crossed his arms and looked me squarely in the eye. "Mia Isabella, listen just this once. No spicy, no greasy food. Everything else is fine."
"Ugh, okay! Then… just let me eat this one thing. Please, please, please!" I clasped my hands together in dramatic pleading.
Alex raised an eyebrow. "Depends. What is it?"
"Triple patty tower hamburger!" I grinned.
He stared at me, clearly unimpressed, then rubbed his temples like he had a headache coming. "Mia…"
I gave him my best puppy eyes.
He looked away, muttering, "You're going to be the death of me."