Today's dinner was far from relaxing for Victor and Kaylee. Both had something they wanted to tell each other so much, but it was like they were both waiting for the right time.
The day had been tough, filled with the weight of past stories uncovered during their afternoon conversation.
Now that Kaylee could move around better, they had agreed to begin their nightly worship on weekdays at Victor's home office after dinner.
Following the quieter-than-usual meal, they headed to Victor's home office.
It was Kaylee's first time in Victor's workspace at home, which resembled the interior design of his office at Langford Group headquarters. The familiarity of the setting brought a sense of ease, recalling their first work meeting.
As she reflected on how much they had both gone through together in the last week alone, Kaylee sighed lightly in her heart, deciding to gather the courage to raise her request later after their worship, a request she had been contemplating since earlier.
Settling comfortably on the plush carpet in the seating area, surrounded by soft throw pillows and blankets Victor had arranged before dinner, they exchanged polite smiles, a silent agreement to begin the session.
The atmosphere felt slightly strained; they were not as at ease with each other as they had been before uncovering the deep connection between their past and present.
Just as they had done during their first worship together yesterday morning, Kaylee began with a prayer. Though she hesitated briefly, she extended her hand to invite Victor's, thinking this might be her last opportunity to pray and worship with President Victor.
However, she noticed a flicker of nervousness on Victor’s face, which intrigued her. What could he possibly be nervous about? Pushing the thought aside, she focused on preparing her heart for prayer.
"Dear heavenly Father, You know all things and You are sovereign. We humbly come before You, asking for forgiveness for any wrongs we have committed today. Help us lay down the burdens of our hearts so that we may worship and glorify You wholeheartedly," she began.
As she prayed about laying down their burdens, she noticed Victor's grip on her hand tighten momentarily before relaxing again.
She continued, "We ask that Your Holy Spirit teach us Your Word tonight. In Jesus Christ's most powerful name we pray," and they both said, "Amen."
Kaylee opened her eyes, feeling a sense of relief after the prayer. Returning to her usual calm and professional demeanor, she smiled as she noticed the masculine black Bible on the coffee table in front of her, positioned towards Victor, who was seated on the carpet across from her.
Victor gave a shy smile and said, "Thank you for getting me this Bible. I like it very much."
Kaylee's heart fluttered at his rare display of cuteness. I’m really going to miss you... she thought to herself, feeling a twinge of sadness about the conversation she needed to have after worship.
As she managed her surge of emotion, Victor carefully suggested, "Do you mind if I choose a scripture for our reading tonight?"
Kaylee considered his request and thought it was perfectly fine. "Sure, which book would you like?" she responded, trying to put aside her disturbing emotion.
Victor’s next words took her by surprise. "Let's read Proverbs 31, from verses 10 to 31," he said, his expression surprisingly innocent.
Kaylee’s initial reaction was that Proverbs 31 didn't seem like a scripture that Victor would choose, though she couldn’t quite pinpoint why until she turned to the passage and saw verse 10. The sight of it made her stiffen.
Slowly, she raised her eyes from the Bible to Victor’s face, her expression seemed to ask, Are you sure this is the correct scripture you wanted to read tonight? He smiled innocently and said, "Shall we read together?"
"A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life..." they began reading together from verse 10, one feeling awkward, the other motivated but nervous.
"...She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night..." they continued reading through verses 16 to 18.
"...Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate," they concluded their reading at verse 31.
Intrigued to know why Victor chose this scripture tonight, Kaylee probed, "So, what message have you received from this scripture?"
Victor looked at Kaylee with his appreciative eyes and gave her an ambiguous response. "It reminds me of someone very precious to me."
He then turned the question back to her, "What about you? What are your thoughts on this scripture?"
Kaylee glanced at the scripture in her Bible, reflecting seriously before she spoke. "I've always measured myself against this model of a noble wife. Even though I'm not yet someone's wife, this scripture has always been the guideline for my personal growth, helping me reflect on my maturity and prepare myself to be a woman who fears the LORD, a woman worthy of a great husband."
Victor admired her humility and maturity. Her final words especially pleased his heart very much.
Kaylee's mind snapped back to the matter she wanted to discuss with Victor, and her face grew troubled. She had been struggling internally to suppress her growing feelings for him. After reflecting once more on the scripture about the character of a noble wife, she felt convicted for allowing herself to enjoy Victor’s care and kindness while knowing there was no future for them together.
Resolved to find the best way out for both of them, she took a deep breath and began to speak.
"Victor..."
"Kaylee..."
They both called each other’s names at the same time.
Victor offered a polite smile and said, "You go first."
Kaylee took a deep breath and started, "Victor, I want you to know how much I appreciate and thank you for all your care and kindness during my recovery."
Victor's heart skipped a beat. Why does it sound like she's saying goodbye? The smile on his face faded, and cold sweat began to build on his tightly clenched fists.
Sure enough, what he didn't hope the most came when Kaylee continued, "My cousin Xiang Er is back, and I’ve recovered quite well. I’m thinking of moving back to my apartment tomorrow. If you don’t mind, I’d like to take over Corinna’s employment so she can continue assisting me at my place." She tried to keep her voice steady, maintaining her usual calm demeanor.
Victor's eyes betrayed his panic. He fell silent for a moment, his heart aching with a pain he had never known, as if he were losing the most precious thing in his life. After a pause, he asked carefully, almost pleading, "...Is something wrong? Have I done something to make you uncomfortable? If there’s anything that’s not right, please let me know. I’m willing to make changes. I..."
"No, Victor, it’s not about anything you’ve done wrong. You’ve been incredibly kind and supportive. It’s just that, despite everything, I’ve developed feelings I wasn’t prepared for. It’s not that I don’t appreciate all you’ve done – quite the opposite," Kaylee blurted out, feeling a pang of guilt for making Victor think he was to blame.
Victor’s confusion was evident, but his concern was genuine. "Then what is it? I just want to understand."
Kaylee’s cheeks flushed deep red as she took a moment to gather her thoughts. "Victor, every moment we’ve spent together has been wonderful. You’ve been so kind and thoughtful, and I’ve come to realize that my feelings for you have grown beyond what I expected. I thought we were just friends or working partners, but now I’m not sure if I’m confusing your kindness for something more."
Her heart raced as she continued, "I’ve been trying to control my emotions and keep my heart from crossing boundaries, especially since I’ve been hurt before. I didn’t want to make things awkward or difficult between us since we still have important projects to work on together, but it seems I’ve let my feelings get the better of me. I’m so sorry for any confusion I’ve caused."
Victor’s heart swelled with relief and affection as he saw her struggle with her emotions. "Kaylee, you don’t need to apologize for your feelings. I’m glad you’ve shared them with me. We’ve been through so much together, and I want you to know that my feelings are genuine. I care for you more than I ever thought possible."
Kaylee looked up at him, her eyes glistening as she searched for the depth of truth in his gaze.
Victor continued with a warm smile, "I’ve been unsure of how to express this, but I want you to know how much you mean to me. I’d like to pray for us, if that’s alright."
Kaylee was surprised by the sudden suggestion but felt a sense of calm wash over her. "Okay."
Victor reached out his hand, and Kaylee respectfully placed hers in his. They closed their eyes, and the silence in the room was soothing as Victor began his prayer.
"Almighty God, I thank You for the time we’ve shared together. I am deeply grateful for Kaylee’s presence in my life. I ask for Your guidance and wisdom in showing me how to care for and love her in the way she deserves. Please protect her from any more hurt and provide her with the security and comfort she needs. If it is Your will, I ask that You help us build a future together, guiding us on this path in ways that honor You."
Kaylee’s heart raced as she absorbed Victor’s words. The sincerity and depth of his prayer touched her deeply, and she realized their feelings for each other were mutual. The revelation left her in awe.
As the prayer concluded, Victor opened his eyes and looked at Kaylee. "That’s what I wanted to tell you just now. And you're the precious one I was reminded of when I read Proverbs 31. I’ve fallen in love with you, Kaylee. I’m not sure when it happened or how, but I’ve felt my heart longing for you since the first time I saw you at the lounge before the auction. After everything we’ve been through together, I can’t imagine my life without you. Even though this is all new to me, I know that I want to be with you, if you'll have me."
Kaylee’s face flushed deeply, and she was left speechless by his confession.
Victor tightened his grip on her hands and pleaded, "So, please, if you’re happy here, would you stay for another week until your parents come to pick you up? I’d love to spend more time with you. But if you feel uncomfortable or burdened, I’ll respect your decision and won’t pressure you."
Kaylee noticed how vulnerable Victor was being, and it touched her deeply. She held his hands back, her cheeks still warm, and replied softly, "I... I like being with you too. I didn’t realize you felt the same way. I’m just really afraid of opening my heart again and getting hurt."
Victor’s demeanor softened as he leaned forward, gently cupping Kaylee’s left cheek with his right hand and stroking it tenderly with his thumb. "Kaylee, not every man is the same. I have my flaws too, and your patience and grace in embracing all of me would mean so much. But I'm willing to follow God closely so that I can always do the right thing and love you as you deserve. Will you give me the chance to take care of you from now on?"
Tears began to roll down Kaylee’s cheeks, which had been welling up for a while.
How long had she yearned to be loved and cared for by someone she could rely on for a lifetime? After her first relationship ended seven years ago, she had struggled to heal, pouring her energy into her budding career in architecture. It was only then that genuine smiles and laughter began to return to her life. Yet, a part of her heart remained numbed and locked away, a place she had thought she would never revisit or hope to fill again.
But that was then. Her encounter with Victor at the charity auction had shifted everything. President Victor Langford, whom she had only admired from afar in the past several years, was someone she never imagined would notice her, let alone fall in love with her.
Victor gently rubbed her right hand and knuckles, giving her silent confidence and courage as he gazed affectionately at her tear-streaked face.
Kaylee turned her right hand to hold his back, sniffled a little, and said, her cheeks still flushed, "Victor, I wasn’t expecting this... I’ve been struggling with my feelings, but I know now that I want to give this a chance. I want to trust in love again, with you. But you’ll need to be patient with me as I learn to love again."
Victor’s smile widened, and he gently squeezed her hand. "Thank you for being honest with me. Let’s take this one step at a time and face whatever comes our way together."
At Victor’s words, the corners of Kaylee’s lips curved into a gentle smile.
"So, not moving back yet tomorrow, um?" he asked, his voice almost a whisper, his eyes filled with hope.
Kaylee’s cheeks warmed again. She hesitated, then her face clouded with a hint of worry.
"Why?" Victor asked, intrigued by her troubled expression.
"My cousin Xiang Er wants to see me. I haven’t told her that I’m staying here," she explained, her concern evident as she considered how to handle her demanding cousin's visit, especially while she was at Victor’s place.
"How about Friday? We could host a dinner and have her over," Victor suggested, still smiling and calm.
Kaylee stared at him in shock. Were they really going public this soon, and with an overexcited Xiang Er? Her mind raced through the possible implications when Victor added, "Gavin will be around to deliver my new suit."
"Gavin?"
"Um. My personal tailor, Gavin Mel. He’s been eager to meet you ever since I told him you designed and hand-embroidered your blouse for the auction."
Interesting... Kaylee thought to herself, imagining the potential dynamics of Xiang Er meeting Gavin.
Then she recalled a more important concern, "You... don't mind them knowing about us?"
Victor’s eyes softened with affection. "I’d be proud for the world to know that you’re the woman in my life. I see no reason to hide our relationship. Or do you have any concerns about that?" he asked, making sure that he took care of Kaylee's needs.
Who said this man was inexperienced in love? His spontaneous sweetness was overwhelming for Kaylee’s newly opened heart.
Victor noticed the way Kaylee’s shyness made her gaze lower. His voice grew husky, laden with emotion as he spoke. "Kaylee, I want to be honest with you. I sincerely want to marry you. We’re not getting any younger, and I want to embark on this journey of love with you."
He held her gaze, his eyes searching hers for any sign of her true feelings. "You don’t have to give me an answer now. All I ask is for the chance to spend more time with you in the coming week. Let us continue to explore our connection, and before your parents arrive to pick you up next week, I hope you’ll tell me how you feel. Can we do that?"
Kaylee’s voice wavered as she responded, "Isn’t this moving too fast? We’ve only known each other for nine days..." She wanted to be sure this wasn’t an impulsive decision on Victor’s part. She was seeking something enduring if they truly began this journey together.
Victor shook his head gently, a smile of understanding touching his lips. "I don’t think so. It’s been only nine days, but we’ve shared some of the most intense experiences of our lives, things many couples might never face together even once in their entire marriage. We’ve faced challenges and grown together in ways that have profoundly affected me."
Kaylee nodded lightly, recognizing the truth in his words. The depth of their shared experiences had been remarkable, and she felt it too.
Victor continued, his eyes returning to the table, struggling to articulate his feelings. "Kaylee, I want to give you my highest honor and respect." He closed his eyes briefly, wrestling with his emotions, then opened them with raw honesty. "I'm a normal man, with desires. You're an incredible and very attractive woman. I’d be lying if I said I’ve never thought about kissing you, holding you, and being close to you."
Kaylee’s heart fluttered at his candor. His straightforwardness and vulnerability deeply moved her. Nothing was more significant to her than honesty and openness in a relationship.
Victor met her gaze with sincerity, his eyes filled with unwavering affection, choosing his words very carefully. "These feelings are intense, and it’s hard for me to fight them, but I'm committed to honoring you and respecting our boundaries until we are married and become one in God's witness. I want to be transparent about my feelings and intentions. I hope you understand that my commitment to you goes beyond physical desire. I am dedicated to building a future with you, grounded in respect and love."
After a thoughtful silence, Kaylee looked into Victor’s eyes, reflecting on his sincerity. "Thank you for sharing your feelings so openly. I promise I’ll think about it deeply and consider our future together."
Victor’s relief was palpable. He smiled widely, a genuine expression of joy and gratitude that spoke of the hope and anticipation he felt, trusting that they could navigate this journey together. No one knew how nervous he had been; he hadn’t known how to confess or propose, but he had poured his heart into this moment, regardless of the uncertainty.
***
"Will you still be long before you come back, Leely Jie? I'm waiting in front of your apartment" Xiang Er's petulant voice complained over the phone.
After a few seconds, "What!" her eyebrows shot up in disbelief at what she heard from the other end. Her high-pitched voice echoed through the quiet hallway outside Kaylee's apartment.
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