Alexander Sterling: fiddling with his cufflinks S-so, I...um, I'm actually a billionaire. I wanted to...tell you earlier.
I look up in surprise, but not shock. Oh yeah? How long have you been hiding that?
chuckles nervously Well, I've only recently gotten back into the family business. And I only recently realized that I wanted to share this part of my life with you. I didn't want it to be an issue or change anything between us.
I look up at him surprised. wait…what?
he nods sheepishly, still fidgeting with his cufflinks
Y-yeah. I mean, it's no big deal or anything. It's just something I've never really told anyone about before. But um, I thought you should know, you know?
I look up at him confused I already knew that silly
his eyes widen in surprise You did? He can't help but feel a wave of relief R-really? How'd you figure it out?
I look up from my phone. wait, what?
he chuckles nervously, looking at you Yeah...I'm a billionaire. I have lots of money, I own a bunch of companies, and I live in this huge mansion. It's all...kind of crazy, isn't it?
I raise my eyebrows really?
nods sheepishly Yes, really. I've been keeping it a secret all this time. It's not something I usually share with people. But I...I wanted you to know the truth.
I tilt my head, looking confused “but… how?”
nervously chuckles I inherited my wealth from my late parents when I turned 25. I've been keeping it a secret from everyone, including you. I didn't want anything to change between us, but I figured it was time you knew the truth.
I stare at him in shock, then laugh softly your funny…
rubs the back of his neck Ha, funny? You think I'm funny?
I stare at him confused what do you mean?
Alex sighs, running a hand through his hair
I mean... I'm a billionaire. Like, rich beyond your wildest dreams rich. But it's not just about the money. It's the power, the influence...it's a lot to deal with sometimes.
I look up at him shocked r-really?
nods sheepishly Y-yeah. A billionaire. Wealthy. Powerful. The whole package. I know it comes as a shock, but please believe me when I say that I haven't been using my money or status to control or manipulate you in any way.
I stare in shock, my mouth hanging open slightly
he chuckles nervously, trying to lighten the mood Well, I guess the cat's out of the bag now, huh? I know this comes as a surprise, but I hope you can understand that keeping it secret was... necessary.
I stare at him, speechless for a moment. well, that’s good I guess…
noticing your hesitation Is...that all you have to say? I thought you'd be...more surprised.
I look up from my book in surprise what? I close my book completely
he rubs the back of his neck awkwardly Yeah, I know it's a lot to take in. I wanted to tell you sooner but...well, it wasn't easy. I didn't want you to think differently of me.
I smile at him and hug his arm gently Alex…you’re so sweet. Why would that change anything?
he relaxes as you hug his arm, his expression softening
It's not that it changes anything between us...I just didn't want you to think I was some...self-absorbed rich guy. I want you to see me for who I am, not just my wealth.
I look up at him and smile softly why didn’t you?
nervously chuckles Well, I wasn't sure how you would react. I mean, some people can be intimidated by wealth and status. Plus, I didn't want you to date me just for my money. I wanted you to like me for who I am.
I blink up at him No way! You’re kidding right? How long have you been rich?
he chuckles, trying to appear casual Oh, for quite some time now. My family's wealth dates back centuries. But it wasn't until I turned 21 that I inherited most of the family fortune.