Chapter 29: The Stand-Off
Aelira’s Reluctance
As Arthur’s car approached the grand gates of the Langston estate, Aelira’s eyes darted around nervously.
“Arthur,” she said firmly, crossing her arms. “Turn the car around. I’m not going in there.”
Arthur didn’t even glance at her, his hands steady on the wheel. “Yes, you are.”
“Excuse me?” she shot back, her voice incredulous. “I didn’t agree to meet your father. What are you even thinking?”
“I’m thinking it’s time he meets the woman I care about,” Arthur replied, his tone calm but unyielding.
Her heart skipped a beat at his words, but she masked it with irritation. “Arthur, this is a terrible idea. You can’t just waltz me into his world like this.”
He parked the car, got out, and opened her door, offering his hand. “Watch me.”
Reluctantly, Aelira let him guide her out, but she pulled back as they neared the massive double doors. “Arthur, no. I—”
Before she could finish, he grabbed her hand and gently but firmly pulled her inside. “You’re coming with me, Aelira. No arguments.”
---
The Confrontation
The air in Richard Langston’s study was heavy, the scent of old leather and expensive cigars lingering in the air. Richard looked up from his desk as the doors opened, his brow furrowing when he saw Arthur and Aelira enter.
“Arthur,” Richard began, his voice sharp, “what is the meaning of this?” His gaze flicked to Aelira, narrowing. “And why have you brought your… employee here?”
This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.
Arthur squared his shoulders. “Because I have something important to say, and it involves her.”
Richard’s expression darkened. “This is not a conversation for her to be part of. Girl, leave.”
Aelira hesitated, glancing at Arthur. He nodded reluctantly, and she slipped out of the room, the door clicking shut behind her.
---
Arthur Takes a Stand
“What’s this about, Arthur?” Richard asked, his voice low and commanding.
Arthur took a deep breath. “I don’t want to marry Luna.”
Richard’s eyes narrowed. “We’ve discussed this. Luna is perfect for you. The partnership between our families will—”
“Dad, stop. This isn’t about business or partnerships. It’s about me, and I’m telling you, Luna and I would never work. I don’t feel anything for her.”
Richard stood, his palms flat on the desk. “And what? You feel something for that girl out there?”
“Yes,” Arthur said simply.
Richard froze, his jaw tightening. “Arthur, don’t be ridiculous. She’s just a nobody—an employee. She has no place in this family.”
Arthur stepped forward, his tone unwavering. “She has every place in my life. I care about her, Dad. She’s not just some random employee. She’s the woman I want to spend my life with.”
Richard’s voice thundered. “Have you lost your mind? Do you understand what you’re saying? You would throw away everything—your legacy, the Langston name—for some penniless girl?”
Arthur didn’t flinch. “I’d throw away everything for her if I had to. She’s worth it.”
Richard’s face turned red with anger. “You’re a fool, Arthur. You don’t know what you’re doing. This isn’t just about you—it’s about our family, our reputation. How dare you defy me like this?”
Arthur leaned forward, his eyes locked on his father’s. “Because I refuse to live a life dictated by deals and business arrangements. I won’t marry someone I don’t love just to please you.”
Richard glared at him, his voice a low growl. “If you walk this path, Arthur, don’t expect my support. You’ll be on your own.”
Arthur straightened. “Then so be it.”
---
Aelira’s Confusion
Outside the study, Aelira paced nervously. When Arthur finally emerged, his expression was tense but resolute.
“What happened in there?” she asked, her voice shaky.
“Nothing you need to worry about,” he replied, taking her hand and leading her back to the car.
“Arthur, seriously. What did he say? Did he… threaten you?”
Arthur didn’t answer, his grip on her hand tightening as he helped her into the car.
The silence stretched as they drove back to his house. Once they arrived, Aelira turned to him, her brows furrowed. “Arthur, can you please explain what’s going on?”
He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “It’s simple. From now on, you stay here.”
Her eyes widened. “What? No, I can’t—”
“You can, and you will,” he interrupted.
“Arthur, I don’t need your charity. I don’t belong in your world, and I don’t want to—”
“You belong with me,” he said firmly, his eyes meeting hers. “And I’m not letting you go.”
She opened her mouth to argue, but his determination left her speechless.
---
Setting the Stage
Arthur stood, arms crossed, as Aelira hesitated in the grand living room.
“You’re free to buy whatever you need. Clothes, essentials, anything,” he said, his tone softening. “Everything’s on me.”
“Arthur, this is crazy,” she muttered, shaking her head.
“No crazier than falling for someone as stubborn as you,” he quipped, a small smirk tugging at his lips.
Her cheeks flushed, and she looked away. “You’re impossible.”
“And you’re here. That’s all that matters,” he replied, his voice laced with a quiet warmth.
As Aelira settled in, she couldn’t help but wonder what the future held—and whether she was ready for the whirlwind that was Arthur Langston.