After Katherine's plan failed, the media became even more fascinated with our marriage. Everyone wanted to know the story of the "couple of the century."

To temporarily escape from it all, Alexander suggested we spend a belated honeymoon on his private island in the Maldives.


"Just the two of us," he said. "No media, no Katherine, no family drama. Just... us."

The proposal was too tempting to refuse. A few days later, we boarded Alexander's private jet, heading for paradise.

The islands of Maldives are breathtakingly beautiful—crystal clear waters, pristine white beaches, and luxurious overwater villas. When we arrived, the sunset was casting its glow over the ocean, creating a stunning picture.


"It's so beautiful," I whispered, standing on the deck of our villa.

Alexander stood behind me, gently placing his hand on my waist. "Yes, it truly is."


But when I turned to look at him, I realized he wasn't looking at the scenery, but at me.

Our relationship had subtly changed over the past few weeks. Since that kiss at the charity gala, a new intimacy had developed between us. No longer just business partners, no longer just together for convenience, but... something more.

On the first evening, we had dinner at a private table on the beach, surrounded by candles, with a sky full of stars overhead.

"Tell me something about you that I don't know," Alexander said, pouring me a glass of red wine.

I thought for a moment. "When I was six, I wanted to become an astronaut."

He laughed. "Really? Why?"

"I wanted to see what Earth looks like, from space. Imagine seeing the whole world, all the continents and oceans, beneath your feet." I paused. "But then I discovered art, and found that I could create my own worlds through canvas."

Alexander's eyes softened. "You're an amazing artist, Ella. I've seen your work. They're full of... soul."

I looked at him in surprise. "You've seen my work?"

"Yes," he admitted. "After we first met at the museum, I went to your gallery. I was blown away by your talent."

This was something I never expected. In my past life, Alexander had never shown any interest in my art.

"Now it's your turn," I said. "Tell me something about yourself that I don't know."

Alexander pondered for a moment. "I'm afraid of water."

"What?" I asked in surprise. "But we're on an island!"

He smiled. "Yes, ironic, isn't it? I almost drowned as a child. I've had this fear ever since."

"Then why choose this place for your honeymoon?"

His gaze grew profound. "Because some fears are worth overcoming. Especially for the right person."

I felt my heart race, unsure how to respond to such an obvious display of emotion.

After dinner, we walked along the beach, with moonlight illuminating our path. Alexander's hand lightly touched mine, then held it, this simple gesture making my heart beat faster.

"Ella," he suddenly stopped and turned to me. "I need to tell you something."

His expression was serious, making me feel a wave of uneasiness. "What is it?"

"I've been investigating Katherine and her father's company. I've discovered some... disturbing things."

"What kind of things?"

"Money laundering, fraud, possibly more." He paused. "I think Katherine might be more dangerous than we imagined."

I felt a chill. "What do you think she might do?"

"I'm not sure," Alexander admitted. "But I've increased security measures, just in case."

At that moment, I noticed a moving shadow in the distance on the beach.

"Alexander," I whispered, pointing in that direction. "Someone's there."

He immediately became alert and pulled me behind him. "Go back to the villa," he ordered. "Now."

But it was too late. The shadow moved quickly, turning into the shape of a man holding something—a gun?

Alexander pushed me away just as the shot rang out. I fell onto the sand, hearing Alexander's painful groan.

"Alexander!" I screamed, crawling toward him.

He was clutching his arm, blood seeping through his fingers. "I'm fine," he said through gritted teeth. "Just a graze."

The shooter was running toward us, but suddenly, security personnel from the island emerged from all directions, surrounding him. The gunman realized he was trapped and quickly turned to run toward the beach, jumping into a waiting speedboat.

Security personnel immediately escorted us back to the villa, and a doctor was called to treat Alexander's wounds.

"Just surface injuries," the doctor confirmed, bandaging the wound. "But he needs rest."

When we were finally alone, I sat by Alexander's bedside, holding his hand.

"You saved me again," I said softly, tears in my eyes.

He smiled, despite his pale face. "I would do it again and again."

"Why?" I asked, my voice almost a whisper.

Alexander's gaze softened. "Because I love you, Ella. I know our marriage began as just an arrangement, but for me, it has become so much more."

I felt tears sliding down my cheeks. In my past life, Alexander had never said these words to me. He had never put himself in danger to protect me. He had never... loved me.

"I love you too," I admitted, the words flowing from deep within my heart. "I tried not to love you, because I was afraid. Afraid of getting hurt. But I couldn't help it."

Alexander reached out to caress my cheek. "You never need to be afraid of me, Ella. I swear."

He gently pulled me toward him, and our lips met in a kiss filled with all the emotions we couldn't express in words—fear, relief, promise, and most importantly, love.

But even in this perfect moment, I couldn't completely shake off my fear. Katherine clearly wouldn't give up easily. She had sent people to harm us, and this was just the beginning.

Our honeymoon was forced to be cut short, and the security team arranged for us to secretly return to New York.

As our plane landed, Alexander squeezed my hand. "I won't let anyone hurt you, Ella. I promise."

I nodded, but knew in my heart that the battle ahead was just beginning.