Alina’s POV
“You can’t be serious, right?” I asked, searching his face for a hint of humor.
He only smiled and nodded.
“I’m sorry, sir, I can’t accept this. A house? That’s… too much.” I pushed the envelope back across the table. “I appreciate it, but I can’t.”
“Alina, dear,” he said in that calm, assured tone of his, “you know I don’t take no for an answer. It’s a gift from me to you—just accept it.”
“But… why, sir?” I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
He leaned back, eyes glinting with amusement. “I’m a generous man, and I like to show it. Besides, I know you need the house. You’re moving out of your old place, aren’t you?”
My brow twitched. “Zayn told you that?” The edge in my voice slipped out before I could hide it.
He laughed softly. “Zayn wouldn’t even let me say your n
