Chapter 3 An offer wrapped in romance

Abigail kept silent for a moment, taking time to think over his words.

Was it right to go out with Eden, considering her father's current struggles? Would it be selfish of her to hang out while her dad was drenched in pain?

But on a second thought, why not?

Eden had told her their meeting was to brainstorm on ways to revive her father's business, and that was all she wanted to do.

"Okay," she said finally.

"Great," Eden replied swiftly, leaving no room for her to reconsider. "I'll wait while you get dressed."

Abigail nodded and excused herself to her room.

As she made her way to her room, she peeked into her father's room to check on him. His gentle snores reached her before she caught sight of him; he was fast asleep. She quickly stepped back and tiptoed into her room.

She browsed through her wardrobe, seeking a casual outfit. She settled on a sundress with understated accessories, perfectly reflecting her mood: calm, yet polished. She styled her hair in loose waves, added a light touch of makeup, and slipped into a comfortable pair of sandals.

She skipped checking herself in the mirror; she simply left the room and hurriedly joined Eden in the living room.

When Eden saw her, he was captivated by her effortless elegance.

"Wow, you look stunning," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

"Thanks, Eden," Abigail's cheeks flushed slightly.

Eden rose from the couch, a charming smile spreading across his face. "Ready?" he asked, offering his arm.

Abigail took it, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, let's go."

He escorted her to his modest sedan, a practical vehicle that suited his humble lifestyle as a 9-to-5 worker. He opened the passenger's door, inviting her to settle in, and walked around to the driver's side. He turned the key in the ignition with a smooth, practiced motion, and the engine purred to life. He shifted into gear, and the car glided away from the curb, merging seamlessly into the evening traffic.

Abigail was surprised to see that the location was a quiet seaside. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the waves.

The atmosphere was peaceful and serene, with the sound of the waves gently lapping at the shore. It was a spot where lovers and couples often came to enjoy a romantic evening, but it also felt like a great place for a casual dinner and conversation.

They walked towards a secluded thatched hut, nestled among the palm trees. The hut was one of several scattered along the beach, each one situated about a mile apart. The structures were designed to accommodate only two people, making them the perfect retreat for couples seeking solitude and romance.

Eden led her into the hut, and they sat down quietly on the neatly arranged mats, which were adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

Abigail's thoughts turned to Eden, wondering if he had intentionally chosen this location. She glanced at him, trying to read his expression, but his face was neutral. The surroundings seemed to be at odds with the purpose of their meeting, leaving her feeling slightly uncertain about how the evening would unfold.

"Eden," Abigail called softly, breaking the silence.

"Yes, baby?" Eden replied, moving closer to her.

Abigail maintained her distance, wary of being swept away by his charm. "Do you think we can work something out?" she asked, steadying her gaze on him.

"Work it out?" he replied ignorantly, before quickly recalling their earlier conversation. "Oh, yeah, sure," he said, attempting to sound convincing.

Abigail swallowed hard, her eyes locked on his. "Do you have a plan?"

Eden's thoughts whirled in a frantic search for ideas. "Yeah, I do," he said, avoiding eye contact. "I'm looking into getting you hired at my workplace; I'll discuss it with my supervisor tomorrow to check for an opening."

Abigail's eyes sparkled with hope. "Really?" You'd do that for me?"

"For us, Abi," he replied assertively. "Once your job is secured, we will start paying the debt together," he assured.

Abigail's face lit up. "You're joining me to pay off the debt?"

"Yes, baby." He nodded, Anything for you."

"This means a lot to me," she wept, as she flung herself into his arms, pressing her face into his chest.

He wrapped his arms around her, gently stroking her hair with his fingers.

This was it -the perfect moment he'd been planning. He'd carefully chosen this secluded spot for its romantic vibe, hoping to create an unforgettable experience with Abigail. But when he arrived at her house, the tension was palpable. Still, he'd manage to persuade her to join him, and now was his opportunity.

He knew Abigail had a soft spot for him, and he knew exactly how to influence her to do what he wanted, because she was deeply in love with him.

"Abi, I know this isn't the best time," he said, subduing her with his gaze.

Best time for what? She turned to face him, searching for a clue, but he was unreadable.

He took a deep breath and squeezed her hands gently,

"This fight with your Dad's company..."

"Yeah?"

"I want to face it with you."

Abigail's face glowed with gratitude. "Oh, Eden, you've said so before, am so lucky to have you, I can't thank you enough."

Eden held her firmly, allowing her to feel the impact of his grip, while he held her spellbound with his gaze, his eyes locked onto hers. "Yes, baby, but I want us to face it together, as a family. I want us to get married."

Get married? She repeated, her eyes widened with surprise.

"Yes, baby, I want to be with you in your trying days, to love and protect you. To cry and laugh with, I want to raise a family with you and build a home with you."

Abigail stared deeper into his eyes, her expression reflected a mixture of shock, excitement, and vulnerability. She couldn't believe this was happening.

Eden was proposing to her...

The only thing missing was a ring. An engagement ring. But it doesn't matter; she loved him, and his words were perfect; he was perfect for her.

She tried to say something, but she couldn't move her lips; her eyes just kept searching his face as if trying to process the sudden revelation.