Chapter 0199 Ella POV Alexander knew exactly what he was doing to me the closeness of his body , the heat radiating from his workout , and the effortless way he carried himself .
There was no way my reaction was unexpected , and I refused to let him see just how much he was affecting me .
Without overthinking , I placed both of my hands against his chest .
The contact drew a startled sound from him , and for a moment , a heated look flickered in his eyes .
My pulse raced , but before I could give in to the pull between us , I shoved hard , sending him splashing backward into the water .
What I didnt anticipate was his lightning fast reflexes .
His hands shot out , grabbing my waist as he fell , and I let out a yelp of surprise as we both plunged into the pool .
When I resurfaced , water streaming down my face , I couldnt stop the helpless giggles that bubbled up .
Alexander didnt let me enjoy the moment for long .
He reached for my leg and tugged , sending me crashing back under the water with a startled squeal .
I emerged again , spluttering and pushing my hair out of my face , only to see him grinning victoriously , his Maughter rich and unapologetic .
This is a side of you I havent seen , I commented , trying to sound composed despite the flush spreading across my cheeks .
He smirked , his voice low and amused .
I could say the same to you .
I dont think Ive ever seen you be playful before .
I suppose we really are getting to know each other , I said , offering a small smile .
Its only natural after so long .
11 I suppose thats true , Alexander replied , though his expression turned slightly guarded .
Sensing the shift , I decided to steer the conversation away from anything that might become awkward .
So , tomorrow morning , were going to the castle ? Thats right , he confirmed .

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Ive spoken to Topher , and everythings ready for the visit .
He seemed quite excited about showing you around .
Thats kind of him .
Alexanders expression soured slightly .
I suppose so .
You told me that you and Christopher used to be friends .
Did something happen between the two of you ? Did you have a fight or something ? You dont seem all that thrilled to have his help .
Its nothing quite so dramatic , Alexander said , his tone measured .
Topher and I were friends when we were young , but … there are areas where I feel he hasnt matured since then .
I dont know if youve noticed or if youve chosen to ignore it but hes been quite flirtatious with you .
And I want to warn you , thats likely going to continue .
I blinked , caught off guard .
Why would he be flirting with your fiancée ? To get under my skin , Alexander answered , his tone tinged with irritation , as if it were obvious .
He enjoys bothering me .
He finds it amusing to get a rise out of people .
1/2 +25 BONUS Chapter 0199 I see .
I nodded thoughtfully .
Well , thank you for the warning .
Ill make sure to stay on guard around him tomorrow .
I wouldnt want him getting the wrong idea .
Alexanders expression softened , and he looked almost relieved .
It shouldnt take too long , which is good , because weve got plenty of other things to sort out for the wedding .
I cant believe its coming up so soon .
Youre the one who wanted an early winter date , I reminded him with a playful raise of my brow .
Even so , it still feels like its snuck up on me , he admitted .
After you texted me last night , I called my mother .
Shes excited about the dress shopping trip .
Ive made all the arrangements for you to go on Monday .
Thats quite soon , I murmured , though I wasnt entirely surprised .
Alexander was right , we were running out of time .
It wont take too long , Im sure , Alexander said , offering me a reassuring smile .
Youve already been through this once .
I imagine you have some idea of what you want .
Im sure itll be pleasant , I replied , though my tone lacked conviction .
Theres no need to worry about that .
I still didnt feel right telling him about what Diana had said to me .
It wasnt my place to interfere in his relationship with his mother .
But deep down , I knew that if she crossed a line again , Id have no choice but to tell him the truth .