(Sophie)
We drove back to my estate in silence after returning home from our trip. Alexander’s hand rested over mine on the gearshift. I stared out the window at the trees and gardens I had walked through so many times, but it felt different now. The trip had been what I needed, but now reality was waiting for me.
When we pulled into the driveway, I turned to him.
“Alexander,” I said.
“Yes?” His eyes met mine, calm but curious.
“I’ve been thinking,” I began, my hands tightening around mine. “You know before, when you suggested I move in with you? I wasn’t sure. I wanted to keep this place."
He nodded, waiting. “And now?”
“Now I am ready,” I said. “I want to be with you. Not in two places, but in one. I want to leave this estate to my cousin. He has a family. He can manage it better
