The cashier’s stare burned into you as you stared at your phone screen. $0.80. That was all you had left.

Panic rose in your chest as you dialed your dad.

"I gave it to your brother," he admitted casually. "He needed it."

Your grip tightened around your phone. “That was my tuition. My rent. My food.”

"I’ll pay you back—"

You hung up. Your body felt numb.

“Miss, do you have another form of payment?” the cashier asked.

Before you could answer, a deep voice cut in. “I’ve got it.”

You turned to see a man—tall, sharp-jawed, dressed in a sleek black suit—handing over a black card. The name clicked instantly. Alexander Sterling. The richest man in the city.

Outside, you finally found your voice. “Why did you help me?”

He studied you for a moment. “Because I can.”

You swallowed. “Do I owe you something?”

A smirk tugged at his lips. “Just one thing.” He stepped closer, his voice low.

“Marry me.”