Seraphina called Troy and informed him that she wanted to meet him. His curiosity increased when she told him that she wanted to meet him alone.

"At least give me a clue. Is it a business meeting?" He couldn't stop himself from asking.

"No, not a business trip, "After a few moments of silence, she continued, "You know, it's actually a business meeting. It's for a good sake."

After finalising time and place, she cut the call.

♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡

When Seraphina arrived at the spot, she saw that Troy was already there. The chai spot was peaceful and cosy; it looked like a traditional and well-decorated living room. It was not only the perfect space to socialize and spend quality time, but also a space to relax. It was a calm spot that any and everyone that wanted to escape the noise of the city came to. Some people went with their family and friends to hang out in this colourfully decorated space and others went there to read as they sipped on their creamy chai, just to sit down and relax. There were no chairs, instead of soft and comfortable carpets, mattresses and cushions are provided that completed the comfort of this space.

He greeted her and offered her tea, but she rejected.

"I am actually here to talk to you about something important," she straightforwardly stated.

"I am listening," He immediately responded.

"I want you to marry Florence, my daughter," she said.

He was still, trembled and a chill spreading through his limbs to his heart. He couldn't find the words for the reply, words we're stuck in his throat.

After a few seconds, she asked, "So, what do you say?"

He felt like he had suddenly fallen into the dark abyss and couldn't get out of it. He took a deep breath that was loud in the tense silence.

"Trust me and just say yes. To me, you're the best fit for her." She nodded.

"Thanks, Aunty. I'd never object to a decision of yours, but..." He squeezed the words out through his teeth. He can't breathe properly. "I have no intention of getting married. I hope I didn't upset you by saying that, Aunty. On the other hand, she only sees me as a friend, so it'd be impossible."

"She'll see you as something else once we make it official. But you should help me to make that happen," she recommended.

"I don't know her, and she doesn't know me... I'm sure she wouldn't want this, either," he answered.

"If I had time, I'd have handled it differently. I'd have introduced you to each other as a life partner, or arrange a proper engagement ceremony and let you two take it from there. Either way, I'm sure the outcome would be the same," she spoke determinedly, her back straight and voice firm.

Troy spoke, confused, "What do you mean by 'If I had the time?'"

"Listen, son, I'm really sick...and it's incurable." When she said that, tears formed in his eyes. As she felt his sadness, she apologized, "Sorry, I didn't mean to upset you by telling you about my condition. But I had to tell you so you could understand why I want this marriage to happen."

The thunder broke through the sky, brooming loudly. He searched for words, "Why do you say its incurable? Why don't you get treatment from abroad?"

She chuckled, "Oh, money can't buy anything. If it could, I'd have spent my last few months in peace. I'm going to leave my family. But I want to do enough to bring them peace and happiness. That's why I want you to marry my daughter. Come on, say yes for my sake. Marry Florence; I believe it will be good for you, too."

He moved his head, giving her a 'yes' symbol. She put her hand on his head and gave him a smile and then left.

As she reached home, Zemira was there to meet her. She told her whole conversation with Troy to Zemira.

Seraphina apologized, "Maybe you're mad at me because I forced him into something he's never thought of before, but it's going to end well."

"You don't need to worry. From now on, Florence will be under my protection. Just like you beautified everything you touched. You've raised a wonderful daughter. She's become a grounded, good-hearted, skilful and beautiful young woman," Zemira added as she was so happy for Troy and Florence.

♡♡♡♡♡