Chapter 15

"I can't believe what I'm hearing," I exclaimed, my disbelief evident in my voice.

"I assure you, I'm not joking," he replied calmly. "Your father genuinely stated that I must earn your affection before I can ask for your hand in marriage. So, Bella, do you have feelings for me?"

Before I could respond, the waiter arrived with our food. I remained silent as the waiter placed the dishes on the table.

"Enjoy your dinner date, ma'am, sir," the waiter said with a bow before leaving us.

"Did my dad really say that? It seems odd. I expected him to pressure me into liking you, rather than waiting for it to happen naturally."

"I believe your father was deeply concerned about you, Bella. Otherwise, why would he reject my marriage proposal?" he explained.

"He might be using reverse psychology to hide his true feelings for you. Even if he genuinely likes you for who you are, he might refuse to acknowledge it because he doesn't want to appear vulnerable," I pondered. Despite knowing my dad w