She’s Kind of Cute
1309 Words
1. The “Torture” of Etiquette Training
Alexander stood in the spacious living room, hands in his pockets, his sharp gaze fixed on Sophia.
She sat on the couch, frowning as she flipped through a thick etiquette manual, clearly struggling with the overwhelming rules and formalities.
"Do you really think I need etiquette classes?" she asked, a hint of frustration in her voice.
Alexander arched a brow, his tone cold and unquestionable. "If you want to survive in this world, you need to learn how to act like someone from high society. I won’t have you embarrassing yourself in public."
Sophia bit her lip. She hated to admit it, but he wasn’t wrong. She knew nothing about social etiquette, and in high-end business banquets, her clumsiness would make her stand out—in the worst way possible.
"Fine, I’ll go," she sighed, conceding.
Alexander’s lips curved slightly, as if satisfied with her obedience. He turned to the butler and ordered, "Arrange for the best etiquette instructor. Training starts tomorrow."
As she watched his retreating figure, Sophia made a silent vow—she wouldn’t let Alexander look down on her.
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2. The Nightmare of Elegant Dresses and High Heels
A few days later, Sophia’s closet was filled with an array of exquisite gowns, each more expensive than the last. Alexander had even personally chosen several pairs of high heels, insisting she wear them at formal events.
"Are these really necessary?" Sophia eyed the stilettos warily, dreading the thought of walking in them.
Alexander gave her a glance, his tone indifferent. "It’s basic etiquette. You wouldn’t want to attend William’s banquet in flats, would you?"
Sophia sighed in resignation and picked up the shoes, silently praying that she wouldn’t humiliate herself by falling at the banquet.
---
3. A Stunning Transformation
On the night of the banquet, Sophia stood before the mirror, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety.
She wore a deep blue gown adorned with delicate sequins that shimmered like stars against the night sky. Her hair was elegantly styled, with a few loose strands framing her face, adding a soft and graceful touch.
"Sophia, are you ready?" Alexander’s voice came from outside the door.
"Almost," she called back, taking a deep breath. She carefully slipped into her high heels, adjusted the hem of her dress, and opened the door.
Alexander stood outside, holding a suit jacket, about to put it on.
But the moment he saw her, he froze.
Sophia hesitated. "What? Is something wrong?"
Alexander didn’t respond immediately. His gaze lingered on her for a few seconds, as if seeing her for the first time. Her makeup was subtle yet refined, and the deep blue of her dress accentuated her fair skin, giving her an air of elegance and mystery.
"You…" He paused, his voice softer than usual. "You look good."
Sophia blinked in surprise. Did he just… compliment me?
A faint blush crept up her cheeks. She hadn’t expected him to say something like that, and while part of her was secretly pleased, she maintained a composed front. "Thanks. I hope I won’t embarrass you."
Alexander nodded slightly before turning toward the stairs. "Let’s go. We don’t want to be late."
Sophia followed behind him, but her heart was still fluttering at his unexpected remark. She sneaked a glance at him and noticed something—
Was he… smiling? Just a little?
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4. A Banquet Blunder
William’s banquet was held at a luxurious estate, where guests in glamorous attire sipped champagne and engaged in polite conversation.
Sophia clung to Alexander’s arm as they entered the ballroom, trying to ignore the discomfort in her aching feet. She maintained a poised expression, determined to blend in.
But things didn’t go as smoothly as she had hoped.
As she extended her hand to greet a business associate, she accidentally stepped on the hem of her dress, nearly tripping.
Thankfully, Alexander caught her in time, though a flicker of annoyance passed through his eyes.
"Be careful," he murmured, his voice carrying a hint of warning.
Sophia’s face burned with embarrassment. She tried to stay composed, but every step in those high heels felt like walking on a tightrope.
---
5. Getting Lost in the Garden… and a Rose Encounter
Unable to bear the suffocating atmosphere any longer, Sophia took advantage of Alexander being preoccupied with a conversation and quietly slipped out into the garden.
The night air was cool and refreshing. Moonlight bathed the rose bushes in a soft glow, and their fragrance filled the air.
Kicking off her heels, she walked barefoot on the grass, enjoying the soft earth beneath her feet. The tranquility reminded her of her flower shop, offering a fleeting sense of home.
She crouched down beside a bed of roses, gently brushing her fingers against the petals.
A gardener approached, holding pruning shears.
"These roses are beautiful," Sophia said with a smile.
The gardener nodded proudly. "They should be. I raised them myself, carefully tending to each one."
As they chatted, Sophia became completely absorbed in their discussion about rose cultivation, momentarily forgetting about the banquet.
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6. Alexander’s Search and a Rival’s Mockery
Meanwhile, Alexander had noticed Sophia’s absence. A frown creased his brow as unease settled in. He immediately stepped out of the ballroom to look for her.
As he approached the rose garden, an all-too-familiar voice sneered, "Alexander Knight, you haven’t changed. Still cold and heartless. Can’t even control your own fiancée."
Alexander’s expression darkened as he turned to face the speaker—John Blackwell, his long-time business rival.
"Watch your mouth, John," Alexander warned, his voice dangerously low.
But John smirked, unfazed. "I’ve heard rumors that after your parents died, you became even more ruthless. Seems the rumors were true."
Sophia, who had overheard the conversation, frowned in confusion. His parents? He never talks about them…
Before she could think further, she found herself stepping forward, standing beside Alexander. Her eyes met John’s defiantly.
"And what gives you the right to say that?" Her voice was calm but firm.
John was momentarily caught off guard. He hadn’t expected her to speak up.
After a brief pause, he scoffed, then turned and walked away.
Alexander watched Sophia, his expression unreadable. He hadn’t expected her to stand up for him—especially not in a public setting like this.
---
7. An Unexpected Warmth
After the banquet, they returned home. Sophia was utterly exhausted. Her feet ached with every step, and she could barely walk straight.
Just as she entered her bedroom, a sudden discomfort washed over her. Looking down, she realized—her period had started.
Her face turned red with panic. She hurried to her closet, only to find that she was out of supplies.
At that moment, Alexander happened to pass by her room. He stopped when he saw her looking pale and gripping the wardrobe handle anxiously.
"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice carrying a rare hint of concern.
Sophia forced a smile. "I’m fine. Just tired."
Alexander didn’t press further and walked away.
But something about her demeanor lingered in his mind. Later, in his study, he called the butler.
"Prepare some… women’s necessities and bring them to Sophia’s room," he instructed in a low voice.
The butler hesitated for a second before nodding. "Yes, sir."
A few minutes later, the butler discreetly delivered the items to Sophia’s room, along with a cup of warm water.
Sophia stared at the bedside table, where the supplies and water sat. A warmth spread in her chest.
Maybe Alexander wasn’t as heartless as she had thought.
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8. She’s Kind of Cute
Back in his study, Alexander leaned back in his chair, recalling the moment he had seen Sophia in the garden, passionately discussing roses.
A small, almost imperceptible smile tugged at his lips.
"She’s kind of cute."
- Writer
