Chapter 76
Alex found himself in a bustling city for a week-long business conference. Amidst the sea of faces at the welcome reception, he noticed Dawn, her vibrant energy illuminating the room. They struck up a conversation over their shared enthusiasm for local cuisine, and soon they were exchanging stories about their favorite travel destinations.
Their outings became a routine during the evenings. They visited quirky cafes, attended art exhibitions, and explored the city's vibrant nightlife. Their conversations flowed effortlessly, seamlessly transitioning from light-hearted jokes to deep discussions about life and ambitions.
Emily, ever diligent in managing Alex's affairs, couldn't help but notice the frequency of his outings with Dawn. Concerned about the optics and the impact it might have on Alex's relationship, she gently voiced her worries.
" Alex, I'm not trying to pry, but perhaps you should consider how this might look to your girlfriend. You've been spending quite a lot of time with Dawn " Emily expressed, careful not to overstep her boundaries.
Alex, appreciative of Emily's concern, assured her, " Emily, I understand your point, but Dawn and I are simply enjoying each other's company. It's purely platonic. I'll make sure to be transparent with Ava about our friendship "
Their adventures continued, creating lasting memories. One evening, while watching a street performance, Dawn turned to Alex and remarked, " You know, I admire the bond you have with your girlfriend. It's evident that she means a lot to you "
Alex nodded, appreciating Dawn's understanding. " She does. Our relationship is something I deeply value "
Dawn grinned, " And I respect that. Friendship doesn't have to blur boundaries "
As the days passed, Alex and Dawn's friendship blossomed. Their outings became a delightful routine, exploring the city's diverse offerings, from vibrant street markets to serene art galleries. Each adventure revealed a new facet of their personalities, and their conversations flowed effortlessly, filled with laughter and shared anecdotes.
One afternoon, while sipping coffee at a quaint café, Emily approached Alex discreetly, her concern etched on her face. " Alex, I don't mean to intrude, but I've noticed you spending a lot of time with Dawn. Have you considered how this might affect your relationship? "
Alex leaned back, a faint furrow on his brow. " Emily, I understand your concern, but Dawn and I are just friends. I value her company and conversation, but my heart belongs to my girlfriend. I'll ensure there's no misunderstanding "
Satisfied with Alex's assurance, Emily nodded. " As long as you're clear about it, that's what matters. Just be cautious, alright? "
Meanwhile, Dawn, perceptive and understanding, caught wind of Emily's worry. Over their next outing to a local art exhibit, she brought it up, her voice gentle but direct " Alex, I've noticed a hint of worry in Emily's eyes when she sees us together. I respect your relationship, and I don't want to cause any tension "
Alex sighed, appreciative of Dawn's consideration. " I've reassured Emily that our friendship is platonic. I value what we share, Dawn, but you understand where my heart truly lies "
" Of course " Dawn replied with a warm smile. " I enjoy our time together, Alex, and I respect your commitment. Friendship shouldn't complicate things; it should enrich our lives "
Their explorations continued unabated. They wandered through historic landmarks, shared exotic cuisines, and exchanged stories of their past adventures. With each passing day, their bond strengthened, characterized by mutual understanding and respect.
One evening, as they admired the city skyline from a rooftop bar, Dawn raised her glass. " To wonderful friendships and the beauty of understanding boundaries "
Alex clinked his glass against hers, a smile lighting up his face. " To genuine connections that enrich our lives without overshadowing the ones we hold dear "
Just then, a camera clicked behind down and the unidentified man walked away.
The following morning, his name was on Tabloid and it read, " Popular Billionaire Spotted With No Other Person Than Dawn Everton On Business Trip, Is This A Beginning Of The Journey To The Altar?? "
" Shit! " Came out of Alex's mouth when he read the news. The only thought which came to his mind was Ava. He really hoped she hadn't seen it.
Grabbing his phone, he dialed Ava's line but it wasn't reachable. He started to panic, had she seen it already?? He quickly called Maggie and she picked up on the first ring
" Hello dear " She said cheerfully.
" Hi Maggie, can you put Ava on the phone please? I need to talk to her " He said quickly, his voice sounding urgent.
Maggie felt the urgency in his voice " I'm sorry Alex, Ava is not awake. I'll tell her to call you when she wakes up, okay? "
" Okay thank you " He said and was about to hang up when he remembered he had one more request to ask of her.
" And Maggie? " He called, sounding uncertain.
" Yeah? "
" Can you please be with her? I mean, do not leave her alone for a second? " He pleaded.
" Sure " Maggie answered immediately, not asking him the reason. Alex said his goodbye and hung up. Another call came through and it was Dawn.
" Hey " He greeted.
Dawn sounded a bit down " Hi Alex, are you okay? " She asked nervously.
" Of course I'm fine, is anything the matter? " He asked, even though he knew what might be wrong with her.
" Have you read the news today? " She asked curiously.
" Yeah, what's up? " He asked casually.
" What's up?? Alex, did you read it at all? You saw our supposedly love affair, didn't you? " She asked, sounding desperate.
" I saw it. I don't think we have to worry since it's not true, I know it'll die down very soon " He assured, not sounding worried at all.
