Ella's mind was racing as she processed Alexander's words. She had assumed that he was on board with the arranged marriage, but now she wasn't so sure. "What do you mean?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Alexander leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I mean, I've always thought that I'd find someone on my own, you know? Someone who shares my interests, my values... someone who loves me for who I am. Not someone who's chosen for me by our parents."
Ella nodded, understanding where he was coming from. "I know what you mean," she said. "I've always dreamed of finding someone who loves me for who I am, not just because of my family or social status."
Alexander's eyes locked onto hers, and Ella felt a spark of connection. "Exactly," he said. "But I guess our parents have other plans for us."
They sat in silence for a moment, sipping their drinks and contemplating the situation. Ella couldn't help but wonder what Alexander's plans were, what he wanted to do with his life. And she couldn't help but feel a sense of solidarity with him, a sense that they were in this together.
As they talked, Ella found herself opening up to Alexander in ways she hadn't expected. She told him about her dreams, her aspirations, her fears. And Alexander listened, his eyes sparkling with interest and understanding.
But as the hours passed, Ella began to realize that there was more to Alexander than met the eye. There were depths to him, complexities that she couldn't quite grasp. And she found herself wanting to know more, to understand him better.
As the sun began to set, Alexander glanced at his watch and stood up. "I'm sorry, Ella, but I have to go," he said. "I have a meeting with my business partner in an hour."
Ella stood up, feeling a pang of disappointment. She didn't want the evening to end, didn't want to say goodbye to Alexander just yet. "Okay," she said, trying to sound casual. "It was great meeting you, Alexander."
Alexander smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "The pleasure was mine, Ella," he said. "I'll walk you out."
As they walked out of the coffee shop, Ella felt a sense of uncertainty wash over her. What did the future hold for them? Would they be able to make this arranged marriage work? And what did Alexander's reservations mean for their relationship?
As they stood outside the coffee shop, Alexander turned to her and said, "Ella, can I ask you something?"
"Of course," she replied, her heart racing with anticipation.
"Do you think we could... maybe... get to know each other better before the wedding?" Alexander asked, his eyes searching hers. "I know it's not traditional, but I feel like we could really connect if we had more time."
Ella's heart skipped a beat as she considered his request. It was a glimmer of hope, a chance to make this arranged marriage work. "I'd like that," she said, smiling up at him.
Alexander's face lit up with a smile, and Ella felt a sense of excitement. Maybe, just maybe, this arranged marriage wouldn't be so bad after all. Maybe it would even be... good.