Page 67 of DATE
The next morning, a nervous and eager guest arrived at the Palazzo Vecchio.
Not only did he come, but he also brought many gifts.
Lorenzo had always been generous with commoners and merchants. He not only sponsored many of the city's artists but also maintained relations with many people.
To Hedy's surprise, the one walking into the office with gifts was none other than Alejo.
"I... I would like to propose to the alchemist in your court, Miss Kiesler," he said, a blush appearing on his cheeks as he smiled.
The atmosphere in the office seemed a bit strange.
Cosimo shifted nervously.
"Why?" Lorenzo asked flatly.
"She saved my mother, and I simply don’t know how to repay her. And... she’s just too wonderful." Alejo was lost in his passionate thoughts, speaking with excitement, "Though I come from humble origins, I would treat her like the best woman in the world, never letting her suffer."
His family had businesses in Florence and Venice, and they were relatively wealthy.
If she married him, she wouldn’t have to be employed in the Palazzo Vecchio, always at the mercy of others' whims.
After marriage, if she liked, she could continue to work in the palace.
If not, she could live in their garden house by the small canals in Venice, or even stay at their estate in Milan.
Lorenzo, with an expressionless face, nodded slightly and instructed, "Send for her."
The busy alchemist was soon called into the office.
As soon as Hedy saw the familiar grocer, she instinctively greeted him, "How is your mother? Is her chest still hurting?"
"According to your instructions, she’s been much healthier than usual," Alejo replied, a sheepish expression on his face, his eyes gleaming with earnestness.
He took a step forward, his tone pleading. "Miss Hedy Kiesler, will you marry me?"
Hedy stood frozen for a few seconds. "What?"
"Please marry me," Alejo continued, taking another step closer. "You are so beautiful, kind, and graceful. You saved my mother without asking for anything in return. My whole family is so—"
Hedy took a few steps back, forcing a smile. "Thank you for your kindness, but there's no need."
Her six marriages in her past life had already given her enough lessons.
She once thought marriage was like escaping one refuge to another.
But in reality, it was just fleeing from one problem to an even bigger one.
Moreover, this proposal came out of nowhere, leaving her feeling utterly confused.
"I will give you happiness," Alejo said, his expression turning desperate as he tried to reassure her. "I just want you to be sheltered and protected, to have a place to call home. And after marriage, you can live a prosperous and comfortable life—"
Lorenzo, who had been silent, spoke slowly. "Are you implying that I’ve mistreated her at the Doge’s Palace?"
"No, no, no, I didn’t mean that."
The young man, awkward yet sincere, kept his eyes on her, seemingly still waiting for an answer.
Hedy began to seriously consider whether she had ever said anything that could have been misinterpreted as an invitation.
