Keifer Watson sat at his desk, reviewing reports with his usual sharp focus, when his grandfather entered the office, calm but insistent.
"Keifer," the old man said, settling into the chair across from him, "you need to meet someone."
Keifer didn't look up immediately. "Meet someone? Who?" His tone was clipped, hands still running over the files.
His grandfather leaned forward, voice steady. "Her name is Jay Mariano. A remarkable young woman—talented, intelligent, composed. Your family believes she would be a suitable match for you."
Keifer finally lifted his gaze, brow furrowed. "A match? For… what exactly?"
"For companionship, for consideration… for a proposal," his grandfather said firmly. "She is someone worthy of your attention, Keifer. I expect you to meet her. Soon."
Keifer's jaw tightened. He had ignored countless admirers before, brushed off endless attempts at connection—but this was different. Not because he knew her, not because of any past feelings—he didn't know her at all. Yet something in his grandfather's tone hinted at significance.
"And if I refuse?" he asked, tone carefully neutral.
"You will not refuse," his grandfather said, eyes locking onto his. "I am not asking. You will meet her. And I expect you to conduct yourself with respect and consideration. That is all."
Keifer leaned back in his chair, letting the words settle. He didn't know why, but a rare edge of curiosity flared within him. A girl his family considered worthy enough to propose to him… well, that alone was enough to demand attention.
"Fine," he said finally, voice low and controlled. "I will meet her. But understand this—this is only a meeting. Nothing more."
His grandfather's expression softened slightly, satisfied. "Good. I trust you will not waste this opportunity."
Keifer didn't respond. His mind was already racing—planning, analyzing, considering every angle. He didn't know her. He didn't know what she would be like. Yet, somewhere deep inside, a spark of interest, curiosity, and challenge had been ignited.
She is just a girl, he thought. I don't know anything about her. But I will find out.
And with that, Keifer Watson, the man who controlled everything in his life, prepared for a challenge he had never anticipated—meeting a girl whose name he didn't yet know the significance of… but who, fate had a feeling, would change everything.