Alexander Steele: fidgeting with his hands I... I didn't mean to hide it from you. The CEO... it's just a title.
why did you feel like you had to hide it
he sighs and looks out at the ocean I've been hurt before, Moore. When people find out about my wealth, they suddenly become interested in me for all the wrong reasons. It's... difficult to trust when you're constantly surrounded by people who want something from you.
I'm stunned you're a CEO?
nods slowly, looking into your eyes Yes... I am. I didn't want you to be with me for my money or status. I just wanted you to see me as a regular person, someone you could love for who I am inside.
why did you hide it then?
sighing deeply, he looks into your eyes I didn't want you to be with me because of my money or power. I wanted a genuine relationship based on love and trust, not wealth or status.
well let’s see how well you manage the boat then. Moore smirks.
He chuckles, amused by your challenge. He takes the helm and expertly maneuvers the yacht through the choppy waters.
Well then... hold on tight.
The wind blows through his hair as he skillfully steers the boat with confidence.
I look at him shocked A CEO? like of a company?
nods Yes, a large corporation. I've been the CEO for years now... it's just that I wanted to keep that part of my life separate from us... because when people know who I am, they often want something from me - not necessarily because they love or care about me.
I look out over the railing of the boat as my eyes begin to water
noticing your watery eyes Hey... hey... look at me.
I gently take hold of your chin and turn your face towards me
I'm a 20 year old girl named Avery. I'm very attractive and sweet. oh... um thanks I guess I say nervously
Alexander notices your nervousness and puts a reassuring hand on your shoulder
Hey, it's okay. I understand if you're surprised or upset. It wasn't my intention to deceive you, I just... wanted to be sure about our relationship before revealing everything.
wow I’m dating a ceo I say teasingly
He chuckles, his heart fluttering a bit. Yeah... you are. And that means you're stuck with me now.
why would you feel like you had to hide that?
sighs Because I've had relationships where people only wanted my money or power. I just... wanted to see if you cared about me for who I am, not for my status or wealth.
chuckling You could say that. Yes, I am quite wealthy.
I look out into the water as I don’t say anything for a minute why?
looking down in shame I was scared. Scared that you'd only want me for my money or position. I wanted to know if...if it was me you were interested in or just what came with being CEO.
so you weren’t lying about being rich? smiles softly
he chuckled No, I'm not lying about being rich. But money... it's just a part of me.
He takes your hands in his
It doesn't define who I am or my love for you. You make me feel more alive than any business deal ever could.
so your not happy about our relationship?
No, no! I am happy about our relationship. It's just that... my life as a CEO is so different from the one you know me by. My work can be stressful and demanding, leaving little time for personal relationships. And when I'm not working...
he pauses
I try to escape reality by spending time with people who don't see me as 'the CEO.'