Sophia's Doubt

"Sophia, what are you thinking, honey?" said Alfonso.

After finishing dinner, the man, who was still handsome at his young age, found the princess sitting dreamily on the balcony of his room. He watched for a moment until a few minutes passed just like that. Curious about what the princess thought, Alfonso decided to step in and rebuke her.

"Dad's been watching you." The man walked in a while, continuing to speak. "You don't want to share this story with your Papa?" he asked.

Sophia turned and smiled. Pulling an available chair on the balcony of his room, she asked her father to sit next to her.

"Here, Pa," she said, patting the chair's surface for Alfonso to sit down. "There's a lot I want to tell Papa."

Alfonso complied. Sitting right in the chair next to Sophia, he brought his hand to gently stroke the princess's hair. Still smiling, he said again.

"What is it that you want to tell me this time?"

Sophia tugged at the corners of her lips. Averting her eyes, she slightly looked up to notice the rows of stars that spread out in the night sky. The bright light seemed to compete with the moon, which was no less beautiful tonight.

"Before you met Mama, did Papa fall in love with many women?" Sophia asked quietly. "Never." Alfonso shook his head. "It's the exact opposite. The women chasing after Papa," the man joked, laughing softly.

Sophia turned around and chuckled. Even though she asked seriously, Alfonso asked her to gag. "Gosh ... Come on, Pa. I want to hear Papa's experience first. Who knows, it can be used as a reference, or maybe it can answer my worries now."

Still laughing, Alfonso nodded. Taking a deep breath, he tried to change the look on his face to be more serious now. "Wait a minute, Papa remember first," he said, raising his index finger in the air. "Ah, yes. Now Papa remembers. In the past, when I was in college, Papa once had a girlfriend whose family even knew your Grandpa and Grandma well. Her name was Thalia Muller. At that time, we had a long relationship. college can immediately proceed to the level of marriage."

Listening seriously, Sophia's brow furrowed deeply. Impatient, she immediately asked a question. "Then why did Papa suddenly turn to Mama?" Sophia asked curiously. Her face seemed to show an expression so curious about what his father told her.

"So, at that time, your Mama was a new student on campus. We accidentally passed each other while passing the library room. Sounds cliché. But maybe because of this meeting, Papa fell in love at first sight. Since our meeting and introduction, Papa hasn't stopped thinking about your mother for a day."

"Oh, Lord," Sophia exclaimed while covering her mouth with both hands. "Don't tell me Papa cheated on Thalia."

Alfonso immediately shook his head disapprovingly. "That's good! Even though your Papa is handsome, it never occurred to me to hurt a woman's heart, honey."

Sophia's blue beads twitched. She was trying to find gaps in the lie on the father's face. All she saw was honesty. Throughout her life, Sophia also knew that her father had never once lied to her. No matter how painful reality is, the man never covers it up.

"Then, what happened after that?"

Alfonso sighed. Averting his gaze, it was his turn to stare straight ahead, then tell the story again. "Papa and Thalia's relationship slowly drifted apart. It wasn't because of your Mama's real presence. But it was Papa who, at that time, didn't have much free time because she was busy learning how to manage the family business. Plus, as time went on, Papa became more and more aware that Thalia was not the soul mate that Papa had been. Look for it. If you ask, dear, Yes, Papa loves it. But for love? I don't think so. From there, slowly, the two of us discussed each other with cool heads. It was finally decided to end the relationship on good terms."

"And Papa went straight to Mama right then and there?"

Alfonso shook his head. "Of course not. There are many struggles that Papa has to go through. First, your Mama was close to a man at that time. Here, Papa is required to convince her that Papa is the best man she should choose. And secondly, once our relationship was established, Papa faced another problem: your Grandpa and Grandma didn't necessarily approve of our relationship. It takes a lot of proof that Papa and Mama have to give. Finally, they gave their blessing and allowed us to get married and live happily ever after."

"Ah, thank God," Sophia said with relief. "The important thing is that Papa didn't hurt other women's feelings."

"Yes." Alfonso nodded. "These are all good and open communication with each other. And of course, never play with feelings. If you like someone, say you like them. Otherwise, say no."

Sophia then didn't move. She digested carefully what her father had just suggested. For some reason, the advice hit her heart.

"Why Sophia?" asked Alfonso when he noticed the change in attitude towards the princess. currently busy choosing between Edward or Tristan?"

Sophia looked up again and glared sharply. How could her father know what was troubling her mind now. "Pa!" Sophia said a little squealed. "How could Papa think that."

Alfonso giggled amused seeing the princess who was pouting. He pinched the woman's cheek affectionately as she asked again.

"Oh, come on. Tell Papa what is going on?" There was a moment of silence again. Enjoying the evening breeze, Alfonso pulled the child in his arms. While gently stroking Sophia's hair, he reassured her. "Tell me everything. Papa will listen to you."

Sophia nodded and then let go of her father's embrace.

"Look..." Sophia finally started to talk. "Some time ago, Tristan had confessed his love for me." A little surprised, but quickly Alfonso nodded immediately.

"Okay. ... Continue your story."

"At the time, I didn't take it for granted. Many considerations make me have to think carefully. Even some time ago, Edward said the same thing when we were having lunch."

This is why Sophia got dizzy herself. The other day, after going to Tristan's office to deliver food, Edward came to see her at work. The man asked for lunch. at the same time expressing love.

"Sophia, I know this is very sudden. But honestly, I can't hide this any longer," Edward said as they both ate lunch at the Chiltern Firehouse.

"What are you saying, Ed?" Sophia wondered.

Edward then put the fork back in his hand. Sophia's hand then gripped it gently as she spoke quietly.

"Sophia, since the beginning of our meeting, I have had a crush on you. That's why today I you know that I love you. Do you want to be my lover as well as my fiancé?"

Sophia paused. Being bombarded with questions like this how could she immediately give an answer.

"But, Ed ---"

"Calm down, Sophia." Edward interrupted immediately. "You don't need to answer right now. I gave it a few days to think. Please give me an answer on Valentine's Day."

Sophia's brows furrowed together. "Valentine?"

Edward nodded of course. "Yes, I was planning to invite you to dinner. You can answer later after we finish dinner."

Recalling Tristan's and Edward's questions made Sophia feel confused. That's why she's been quiet these days, just to think clearly.

"Instead of Tristan..." Sophia said again. "I know Edward better because we've been friends for a long time. But it's undeniable that both of them are kind, understanding, and caring."

Alfonso cleared his throat slowly, then nodded. He understands the love dilemma that the princess is feeling.

"Dad, explain your story. You're afraid to accept one of them?"

This time it was Sophia's turn to nod. "Dad's right. I don't want their friendship to be ruined by accepting one of them. I don't want to be like that, Pa."

"Sophia ..." called Alfonso. Then he stared intently at his daughter's blue eyes. "They are both grown men. I'm sure both of them will understand when you choose one of them. Moreover, Papa can see the two are close, even like brothers." Alfonso then seemed to remember. "Even in the forest yesterday, the first person Edward worried about for his safety was Tristan. So Papa thinks that even if they initially feel bad for each other, they will be friends again. Papa was sure of it. And now the question is, who do you finally want to choose?"

Sophia fell silent again. Now it was her turn to struggle again. Trying to decide whether to stay with Tristan or switch to Edward, who had been very kind to her.

"These two men are good. Edward was so polite and able to put himself out there. So did Tristan. But when it comes to charisma, it seems that Tristan is the one that catches Papa's attention. For some reason, Papa felt clicked with that one man. Could it be because Tristan is the son of Papa's late friend? That's why Papa is more comfortable with him."

"Papa's best friend?"

Sophia looked confused. She seemed to have missed this one story.

"Yes, Sophia," said Alfonso. "Papa never told you. So Tristan turned out to be the son of a late friend who had an accident with Papa a few years ago. As Papa recalls, from a young age, Tristan was sent to school abroad by his parents. That's why Papa didn't recognize her face yesterday when we met."

"So you know the Tristan family well?" Sophia asked for sure.

"Very familiar, Sophia. Papa also just found out that Tristan is participating in a big project that Papa recently participated in. Of course, this is very proud. At a young age, he was able to bring his company forward and was even chosen as the number one vendor handling large projects," the man said with a look on his face full of admiration.

Alfonso certainly wasn't exaggerating. I was surprised to find Tristan sitting next to him a while ago. When attending an important meeting. He finally realized that his best friend's son's position needed to be considered.

At first, Alfonso thought this was a threat. But after thinking about it slowly, it's also good to be able to work on a big project with Tristan. That means he has a lot of opportunities or gaps to approach and then slowly convince the man of what he had told him earlier. Thank God that Tristan is finally willing to stand on his side and join in destroying the people who have been trying to hold him back.

"So, according to Papa, I'm more. Is it okay to choose Tristan?"

Alfonso, who had been daydreaming, finally returned to his senses after being reprimanded by the princess. The man smiled again and then nodded slowly.

"It's not like that,honey. Papa never told you to choose Tristan. The choice is still yours. You know best what is best for you. Because in the end, you will make that choice yourself." Alfonso has not stopped talking. The man then brought his index finger and pointed to his chest and forehead. "Remember, Sophia. Whatever it is, you must think about it with your heart and brain. Keep using your feelings but don't always forget to reason."

Alfonso then hugged Sophia tightly before finally getting up. Prepare to leave so the princess can rest.

"Now go to sleep. It's getting late. Papa is sure you can choose which one is best for you."

***

Fabio Saramossa has just come out of Raphael's study, which is on the top floor of the Foxtail Corporations building. A few minutes later, it was Tristan's turn to enter. Without much ado, let alone waiting to be told, the young man immediately took a sitting position directly opposite his Uncle.

"How was your meeting with Emaar a few days ago? Did it go well?"

Tristan unbuttoned the gray suit he was wearing. Taking a slightly relaxed position, he began to tell a story.

"Everything is going well. GroundBreaking will probably take place next week. Foxtail was the lead vendor to lay the groundwork for the construction project site."

Raphael smiled in satisfaction. Feeling proud of the achievements that Tristan has just achieved. Not in vain all this time the teaching he gave to the man. All the knowledge was immediately applied as soon as Tristan faced the real business world.

"Uncle is happy to see how your work is getting more and more taken into account by people. You are as talented as your father," he said proudly.

"No, Uncle," said Tristan. "I am like this because of Uncle, who has worked hard to shape me. If I had been down and even stupidly killed myself in the past, maybe I wouldn't be in this position."

Raphael laughed while thanking himself. What he worked so hard to do, is now gradually paying off. In just a few more steps, what he was aiming for would come true, and he believed in it.

"By the way, don't you want to tell Uncle something about your meeting yesterday? Who knows, you might have something interesting to share."

Raphael openly made this satire. Previously, Fabio had come to the room to provide information regarding Alfonso's involvement in the big project that Tristan and Emaar were participating in. He felt angry, but Raphael tried to accept it in the end.

"Yes, as long as Uncle knows, Alfonso Adelaide turns out to be the owner of Bechtel. One of the vendors suddenly occupied the same position as Foxtail in this smart city project. I'm sure Alfonso has a close relationship with one of Emaar's higher-ups, so he can immediately be in the safest position."

Raphael chuckled, then laughed softly. As if not surprised at Alfonso's behavior which might be a little underhanded. "Just follow how far Alfonso plays. For sure, you can't be careless in the slightest. There are advantages to having a project like this."

Tristan nodded in agreement. "Uncle is right. It would be even easier for me to destroy it slowly. If necessary, even to ashes."

After meeting with Raphael, Tristan was again surprised by Sophia's sudden presence in his office. This time, the woman returned with a lunch box that had no idea what menu she had prepared.

"Tristan ...sorry for interrupting your time."

"Don't be shy, Sophia. Please come in," said Tristan to Sophia, who was waiting in front of his room.

As soon as she entered, he led the woman to immediately sit on the sofa on the left of the room. "What's wrong, Sophia? Is there something you want to talk about?"

Sophia, who was already sitting comfortably, hastily handed over the box of food she had brought. "I just made you beef bulgogi. It's still warm, and please taste it. I'm sure you haven't eaten lunch yet," she said.

Tristan gasped. Then he suddenly remembered the last meeting with Sophia and Edward at the Chiltern Firehouse. Tristan was sure. Maybe Sophia was feeling bad. That's why today came back and maybe wanted to explain.

"Thank you very much, Sophia. But really, you don't need to bother like this."

Sophia shook her head many times. "No. I don't bother. For that, hurry up and eat before it gets cold."

"Okay." Tristan nodded, then opened the lid of the box in his hand. Meanwhile, Sophia helped open the plastic chopsticks and handed them to Tristan. "Thanks, Sophia. Have you eaten yourself?"

Sophia then nodded. "Of course. I ate before I visited you here." Aiming his chopsticks, Tristan put the beef belly into his mouth. She looks like she is enjoying the Korean specialties that Sophia specially made for him.

"I came here to apologize," squeaked Sophia with a bow. "I am sorry?" Tristan was surprised. "Apologize for what?" Sophia's chest looks like it's blooming and deflated. Trying to calm himself down, he finally spoke again. "About me having lunch with Edward the other day. I didn't mean to hurt you. That's why ---"

"Sophia..." Tristan interrupted. "No need to think about it. I'm nobody to you, right? So there's no need to explain anything. Besides, you're free to make friends and go with anyone," Tristan said with a hint of scorn.

"No, Tristan. You should hear my explanation. I felt uncomfortable hanging up your question the other day. That's why, today, I want to answer. If I ---"

In fact, Sophia never finished saying that sentence. Tristan deliberately silenced the woman's lips with the beef belly he was holding. "You have to share this delicious food," he said innocently.

"Tristan!" While chewing on the food Tristan gave her, Sophia shrieked in surprise. "Let me finish my sentence first."

"No need," Tristan said quickly. "You don't have to answer that now."

Sophia immediately pulled her face in. Why was she forbidden to answer now? Yesterday it was the man who urged her to provide certainty immediately.

"But why?" Putting on a relaxed face, Tristan then replied.

"Valentine is arriving in a few days, and I'd like to invite you to dinner together. There, you can give your answer."

"Valentine's Eve?" Sophia repeated once again. A moment later, she remembered about an appointment with another man. "But that night, I had an appointment with Edward."

Tristan shrugged nonchalantly. the rest of his food lifted his face and looked deeply at Sophia. "I know Edward has always liked you very much. If so, I'll make it easy. If you accept my offer to be your lover, please meet me at Aqua Sharp at 8 pm. But if you choose Edward to accompany you in the end, please come and meet him. I promise I'll never bother or appear in front of you again after that."

"Tristan ---"

"I'm serious, Sophia. The choice is yours now."

Drowning in confusion, there was a knock on Tristan's door. Mario came in to remind the man's schedule.

"Mr. Tristan, you are already waiting in the meeting room." Tristan nodded and got up from his seat. He turned to Sophia. Once again, he reminded. "I'm waiting for your answer on Valentine's Eve."