A chance encounter.

Eliza trudged back home from work, exhausted, but she didn't let fatigue get the better of her. She spent the evening cleaning up her room, restoring a sense of order to her chaotic life. As she finished up, she took a deep breath, feeling a semblance of calm wash over her.

Next, she checked her account balance, her mind wandering to the financial struggles that had derailed her dreams. Eliza had always wanted to become a teacher, inspiring young minds and making a difference in her community. However, the harsh reality of her financial situation had forced her to make a difficult choice.

In her final year of college, Eliza had applied for an internship, prioritizing financial stability over her passion for teaching. Yet, she refused to give up on her dream entirely. Whenever she had a spare moment, she studied for the teacher eligibility test, holding onto the hope that one day she'd be able to return to her true calling.

Eliza's study plan was disrupted by the ringing of her phone. She smiled as she saw her grandmother's name on the screen. "Hello, Grandma! How are you?" she greeted, her voice filled with warmth.

"I'm living well, but I'm feeling a bit lonely," her grandmother replied, her tone tinged with emotion. "How can you never visit me, Eliza? You're always busy with work and studies. Don't you have time for your old grandma?"

Eliza's heart swelled with love and guilt. "I'm sorry, Grandma. I'll visit you soon, I promise," she assured her, making a mental note to clear her schedule and make time for her beloved grandmother.

Changing the subject, Grandma asked, "Eli, do you remember Aunty Julia's son, Edward?"

Eliza's lips pressed together, a subtle sign that she knew exactly why her grandmother was bringing up Aunty Julia. "Yes, why?" she asked blandly, trying to feign nonchalance.

Grandma's tone turned persuasive. "You know how much Aunty Julia adored you. She's always wanted you to meet her son."

Eliza's response was immediate and emphatic. "Grandma, I already told you."

But Grandma wouldn't let up. "Did I force you to date him? Just meet him once, that's all I'm asking. You don't have to commit to anything," she coaxed.

Eliza remained silent, her reluctance palpable. Grandma's patience began to wear thin, and she exclaimed, "I'll take that as a yes!"

Eliza's words were cut off mid-sentence as she tried to protest. "Grandma, I—"

But before she could finish, the line went dead. Grandma had suddenly hung up the phone, leaving Eliza staring at her phone in frustration.

------

As the evening unfolded, Eliza finished her work earlier than expected and headed to a nearby restaurant. She was dressed in her usual understated style, with a simple yet elegant makeup look.

As she entered the restaurant, her eyes scanned the room, and suddenly, she caught sight of a familiar figure.

The man, sensing her gaze, stood up from his seat, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Eliza," he said, his voice low and smooth, as he greeted her with a gentle nod.

Edward's eyes sparkled with warmth as he praised, "It's been a long time. You've become very pretty."

Eliza's response was polite but brief. "Thanks."

Edward continued, "I heard you got a job. Congratulations!"

Eliza's tone was plain and unenthusiastic. "Ah, I'm just an intern."

As they sat down to dinner, Eliza's mind wandered to her grandmother, who had been instrumental in arranging this meeting. She knew her grandma was unhappy with her for not visiting often enough, and Eliza had reluctantly agreed to this dinner to appease her. Now, she just wanted to get through the evening as quickly as possible.

Edward's expression turned sympathetic. "It's okay, you don't even have to try. Don't take on too much stress. I understand your situation," he said, his tone gentle.

Eliza's eyes narrowed slightly, her expression unreadable. She didn't appreciate his condescending tone, implying that she was somehow struggling or inadequate. Without a word, she picked up her utensils and took a bite of her food, her silence a subtle rebuke.

Edward's eyes locked onto Eliza's, his expression sincere. "Eliza, it's not just because my mom adored you. I also respect you," he said, his voice low and genuine.

Eliza's gaze faltered, and she lowered her spoon, her voice taking on a cautious tone. "Edward... I don't want to be in a relationship. Please don't take this the wrong way. I..." Her words trailed off abruptly as her eyes locked onto a sharp, masculine gaze belonging to a man sitting not too far from them.

For a moment, Eliza's attention was completely hijacked by the stranger's piercing stare, and she forgot all about Edward and their conversation.

Edward's brow furrowed in concern. "What happened?" he asked, noticing Eliza's sudden distraction.

Eliza quickly averted her gaze, trying to brush off the moment. "Nothing," she said, attempting to sound nonchalant.

Composing herself, she turned her attention back to Edward and said, "Edward, I'm sorry. I know you're a good man, but I'm not for you." Her voice was gentle, yet firm.

Edward's expression turned sad, but he didn't pressure Eliza or try to change her mind. Instead, he nodded graciously, and they continued eating in silence.

Despite herself, Eliza's gaze drifted back to the man who had caught her attention earlier. He was now laughing and chatting with a woman who had striking red hair. The woman's designer handbag and elegant demeanor suggested a life of luxury.