Page 18 of Marrying My Orc Boss

I refocus my mind. He’s offering me a business deal. That’s how I should be thinking about it.

When our conversation draws to a close, Drakar rises from his seat, his movements fluid and graceful despite his imposing size. He extends a hand towards me, a silent offer of assistance that I gratefully accept. Together, we navigate the crowded café, making our way toward the exit and the stormy night that awaits us.

Once outside, the rain continues to pour down in torrents, drenching the pavement and sending rivulets of water cascading down the gutters. Drakar wordlessly offers me his umbrella again, a gallant gesture that I find touching.

Drakar offers me a ride home, which I accept even when the voice in my head wonders why I’m getting in a car with a near stranger. On the walk there, Drakar remains a steadfast companion, his quiet presence a reassuring anchor amidst the chaos of my swirling thoughts. He doesn't press me for an answer to his proposal, nor does he offer any further arguments in its favor.

The rain pounds against the pavement, each droplet a reminder of the turmoil and uncertainty that threatens to overwhelm me. And yet as we make our way through the storm, I can't help but feel a sense of hope, as if the rain is washing away the doubts and fears that have been holding me back.

When we reach the car, I am a little relieved to see he has a driver. At least I’m not all alone in a car with a strange orc, who I’m still not quite sure why I trust so much.

When we finally reach my apartment building, Drakar hesitates for a moment, as if reluctant to part ways. Then, with a nod and a softly spoken farewell, he disappears into the night, leaving me standing beneath the awning, his umbrella still clutched tightly in my hands.

“But, Drakar…”

It’s no use. He’s already back in the car, pulling away.

I make my way upstairs, the weight of Drakar's proposal settling heavily upon me. The wheels in my head spin as fast as the raindrops on the window, his offer echoing in the back of my mind like the relentless patter of the storm. It's a decision that will undoubtedly change the course of my life, for better or for worse, and I can't help but wonder if I'm brave enough to take the leap of faith that Drakar is offering.

With a sigh, I close the door to my apartment, shutting out the rain and the turmoil of the outside world. And as I sink into the familiar comfort of my bed, I find myself praying for the wisdom and courage to make the right choice, whatever that might be.

CHAPTER 10

Drakar

“I’ve probably completely lost it.”

My voice echoes slightly throughout my bedroom, a muttered admission to the empty space around me.

Tossing in my bed, the sheets tangled around me like a knot of uncertainty, I find no solace in the darkness of the night. My mind replays the unexpected proposal I made to Sally, each word spoken echoing like a haunting melody in the stillness of my room.

Moonlight filters in through the window, casting ethereal shadows across my face as I sit up restlessly, grappling with the whirlwind of emotions that swirl within me. The weight of my impulsive decision hangs heavy in the air, a thread of doubt weaving through my thoughts like a persistent whisper of self-doubt.

“What the hell caused me to offer a contractual marriage in the first place?” I mutter scoldingly.

As I ponder the connection that compelled my offer, a cocktail of emotions churns within me. Was it the right choice? Was it an act of desperation or a moment of clarity? The lines blur in the dim light, leaving me grasping for a semblance of understanding in the midst of chaos.

I sigh deeply, running my fingers through my hair as I try to make sense of the tumultuous emotions that have taken hold of me. As I search within myself, I find a surprising answer that resonates with a part of my past that I had long tried to suppress.

"It's because I see myself in her," I admit softly, my voice barely audible in the quiet room.

I see glimpses of my own struggles in Sally. Her fight for her family, her determination to overcome adversity... it's all too familiar.

My mind wanders back to my past, recalling the days when I was barely scraping by, trying to keep my family afloat amidst the turmoil that life had thrown our way. I remember the desperate fight for survival, the countless sleepless nights spent worrying about how to make ends meet, and the overwhelming fear that threatened to consume me.

I can't help but see the parallels between Sally's situation and my own. The fierce determination that burns within her is a reflection of the same fire that once drove me to claw my way out of despair and forge a path towards success. It's a connection that runs deeper than I could have ever anticipated, and it's this shared understanding that compelled me to offer her a helping hand.

As I lay in the dimly lit room, my thoughts a jumbled mess of past and present, I realize that my proposal to Sally was not an act of desperation, but rather a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

That’s why I feel a jolt of anticipation when my phone suddenly rings the next morning, breaking the silence of the room. I glance at the screen and see Sally's name displayed, my heart skipping a beat. Taking a deep breath, I answer the call.

"Hello?" I say, trying to keep my voice steady.

"Hi," Sally responds, her tone cautious. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"No, not at all," I reassure her. "I'm just... glad you called."

There's a brief pause before she speaks again. "I've been thinking about your proposal. It's... a lot to take in."

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