And then, in front of dozens of stunned witnesses, she said the unthinkable.
“I’ve seen you around here,” she murmured. “You talk about algorithms and global markets like someone who belongs in that world. I don’t know your story, but I believe you deserve a second chance.”
She inhaled deeply, her heart pounding.
“I’m going to ask you something insane… Elias Carter, will you marry me?”
The street went silent.
Elias stared, his mouth falling open. Then a sad smile flickered across his face.
“If you really mean that… go inside this store, buy a ring, come back, kneel down, and ask again. For real.”
Gasps exploded from the bystanders.
Was he crazy?
Who rejects a billionaire?
But Alexandra didn’t flinch.
Five minutes later, she returned holding a diamond ring worth more than most houses.
Right there on the sidewalk, she bent onto one knee.
“Elias Carter… will you marry me?”
His eyes filled. Cameras filmed. Strangers choked on disbelief.
And slowly, trembling, he whispered, “Yes.”
She slid the ring onto his finger.
Then she opened the car door.
“Come on,” she said gently.
He hesitated, looking at his filthy clothes. “I’ll ruin your seats.”
“I don’t care.”