GRANDMA'S LAST WISH

Soft, rhythmic beeping medical equipment filled the room, contrasting with the sterile white walls that surrounded it. Sunlight filtered through the partially drawn curtains casting a gentle glow over the frail figure lying in the hospital bed. Amelia sat beside her grandmother, clutching her hand, feeling the coolness of her skin against her own.

Margaret, Amelia's grandmother, had always been a source of strength for her. While she fought the illness that had ravaged her body, she still had a determined gleam in her eyes. She gently squeezed Amelia's hand and motioned for her to come closer. Amelia,' Margaret whispered, her voice a mere shadow of its former vibrant self. There's something important I need to tell you. Amelia's heart was heavy with dread and sorrow as she leaned in. I'm here, Grandma. What is it?

Margaret took a quick breath, never letting her eyes leave her granddaughter's. “I need you to do something for me It’s my last wish and I wouldn’t ask if it weren’t so vital.

“Anything Grandma, You are aware that I would do anything for you, There's a man a good man, who was a dear friend of your late grandfather. Alexander, his son, has been a person I've known since he was young, His father and I always hoped that our families would be joined one day.”

There was a moment when Amelia's heart skipped a beat, She had heard of Alexander Sterling Stories,Of his incredible business acumen, his relentless drive, and his rise to become one of the wealthiest men in the city. She did not have the opportunity to meet him in person.

“Grandma, what are you saying?”

“I want you to marry Alexander, Amelia your grandfather and I had always dreamed of it, I’ve spoken to his father and they agree. My dear, keeping a promise isn't all there is to it I think Alexander is a good match for you

Tears welled up in Amelia’s eyes. But Grandma, I don’t even know him,And marriage… it’s such a big step.

Margaret's grip tightened slightly, causing Amelia to be surprised by its unexpected strength. “I know it’s a lot to ask, my sweet girl But trust me Sometimes the heart knows what it wants before the mind catches up, Give him a chance I would appreciate it if you could do it for me.

Amelia’s mind raced, She wanted to plead with her grandmother to reconsider but looking into Margaret’s eyes she saw the unwavering determination and love. How could she deny her grandmother’s final wish?

She slowly nodded her cheeks,brimming with tears “I’ll do it Grandma I’ll meet Alexander and give him a chance.

Margaret's face became relieved and she closed her eyes, a small smile on her lips “Thank you” Amelia you have made an old woman happy.

As the sun sets outside, bathing the room in a warm, golden hue, Amelia sat quietly by her grandmother’s side, her heart heavy with the promise she had just made,she was unaware of the future or how this arrangement would unfold, but she pledged to honor her grandmother's last wish no matter the cost.

Amelia left the hospital with a mix of emotions swirling inside her: sadness, confusion, and a deep sense of obligation, Amelia needed to talk to her parents, to understand why they had never mentioned this arrangement before.

The family owned a two-story house on the outskirts of the city that was both cozy and comfortable. The chill she felt inside was starkly contrasted by the warm light spilling from the windows. Amelia found her parents in the living room, her mother engrossed in a book and her father sorting through some old photographs.

“Mum, Dad, we need to talk,” Amelia said, her voice trembling slightly.

Her parents looked up, concern etched on their faces, “What’s wrong, sweetheart?” her mother Helen asked, setting her book aside,

Amelia took a deep breath trying to calm her nerves “I just came back from visiting Grandma,She she…(Amelia stuttered) she asked me to marry Alexander Sterling, She stated that it was a wish shared by her and Grandpa.

Her parents gazed at each other knowingly, as silence filled the room. Her father, Robert was the first to speak,We were hoping she wouldn't bring that up at least not now.

“Why didn’t you tell me? Amelia demanded, feeling a surge of frustration. “How could something this important be kept from me?”

Helen's eyes softened with empathy as she sighed “We wanted to honey,We also wanted to ensure that you had the freedom to choose your path We did not want you to feel pressured to fulfil a promise that was made so long ago Robert nodded in agreement, Your grandparents were very close to the Sterling, They believed that a union between our families would be advantageous for all those involved But we would rather not force that on you.

Amelia took a seat in a chair, her thoughts racing “So, this was all planned? Is an arranged marriage possible?

“In a way, yes,” Robert admitted. “But it wasn’t meant to be forced upon you We hoped that you would naturally meet Alexander and make your own decisions.

Helen grabbed Amelia's hand. We wanted what's best for you, and we know how much your grandmother's wishes mean to you. It's important to remember that this decision is ultimately your choice If it doesn't make you feel comfortable, it's your right to say no.

Amelia felt a tear slide down her cheek,But Grandma… she was so insistent she believes Alexander could be a good match for me What if she’s right? Robert placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, “Then give him a chance, Meet him, get to know him, If there is a connection, that would be wonderful, If that's not the case, we'll be there for you regardless.

Helen gave a soft smile ,Just remember, you’re not alone in this, We are here to support you and we have faith in you to make the appropriate choice for your happiness.

Amelia felt relief and anxiety simultaneously as she nodded,She knew she had to honor her grandmother’s wish, but she also needed to be true to herself. The path ahead was uncertain, but she felt more prepared to face it with the help of her family.

As the night grew darker outside, Amelia resolved to contact Alexander Sterling Meeting him was her grandmother's wish and seeing where this unexpected journey would take her.

The following afternoon, the hospital room was unusually quiet, except for the steady hum of machinery,Margaret was able to rest peacefully now that her condition had stabilized for the moment. A woman of grace and elegance entered the door, carrying an air of quiet confidence,Evelyn Sterling was the mother of Alexander and a longtime friend of Margaret.

Margaret, my dear said Evelyn softly as she approached the bed, “How are you holding up”?Margaret's eyes popped open, and a faint smile spread across her face Evelyn you came,

“Of course I did, Evelyn replied, sitting down beside her friend “How could I stay away at a time like this”(Evelyn said),Margaret reached for Evelyn's hand, her grip weak but firm “I spoke to Amelia I told her about our wish”Evelyn's eyes shone brightly “And how did she take it?”

“She was shocked, of course,” Margaret sighed, “But she promised to give it a chance,

She’s such a good girl, She wants to honor our wishes.

Evelyn bowed thoughtfully. “Alexander needs a good woman in his life, someone like AmeliaI have faith that they could make a wonderful pair”hope filled Margaret's eyes,I just want to see them happy Evelyn, I would like to make sure they at least have a chance.

Evelyn squeezed her friend’s hand gently, “I’ll speak to Alexander and explain the situation he respects our family traditions, and I believe he will understand the importance of this. Relief washed over Margaret as she closed her eyes, “Thank you, Evelyn. You've always been there to help me.

Evelyn smiled, her eyes moistening with emotion and I always will be, Margaret. Now let’s get this started would it be possible for me to talk to Amelia about moving forward with the marriage contract? Margaret nodded. “Yes, please do, She’s staying at the house with her parent she’ll need your guidance.”

Evelyn rose from her seat and gently patted Margaret's hand Rest now, my dear Everything will be taken care of by me.

As Evelyn left the hospital room, she felt a renewed sense of purpose, She was determined to honor her friend’s last wish and ensure that their families’ bond would be solidified through this union. Amelia was in the living room, lost in thought, when the doorbell rang, After opening the door, Helen saw Evelyn Sterling standing there, with a warm yet purposeful look on her face.

“Evelyn, what a surprise!” Helen exclaimed. “Please, come in.”

Evelyn entered and quickly found Amelia with her eyes, “dear Amelia, I’m Evelyn Sterling, Your grandmother and I have been friends for a long time as Amelia stood up, she felt a mix of curiosity and apprehension. "Hello, Mrs. Sterling It's a pleasure to meet you,

Evelyn gave a kind smile,Please call me Evelyn I’m here to discuss an important matter with you concerning the conversation you had with your grandmother, Amelia nodded and looked to her parents for help, Helen and Robert gave her smiles of encouragement

Your grandmother and I have long hoped for our families to be united,” Evelyn began her declining health has made it more urgent I have had a conversation with Alexander, and he is open to meeting you and discussing the possibility of marriage. If you're willing we can initiate a meeting and then proceed to discuss the marriage contract.

Amelia exhaled deeply I understand Mrs. Sterling I mean Evelyn Not only that, but I promised my grandmother that I would give this a chance, and I am committing to keeping that promise. Evelyn's smile became wider that's all we ask dear. Alexander is a decent man and I am confident that you will appreciate him greatly. We'll make arrangements for a meeting as soon as we can. Amelia nodded, her mind racing with thoughts of the future I'm grateful Evelyn, I am eagerly awaiting to meet Alexander.

When Evelyn left, Amelia felt a mix of emotions that included apprehension about what was unknown and a faint hope that her grandmother's wish could lead to something beautiful.

The day had come for Amelia to have a meeting with Alexander Sterling standing before the mirror, she smoothed her simple yet elegant dress her heart racing with anticipation and nervousness. Her parents had reassured her repeatedly but the uncertainty of what lay ahead weighed heavily on her mind.

As the doorbell rang Amelia took a deep breath before going downstairs. Alexander Sterling stood there when Robert opened the door looking like the polished businessman he was. Confidence and charm emanated from his presence, which was tall and impeccably dressed in a tailored suit. Mr. Sterling welcome Robert greeted him warmly. Please come inside.

Thank you Mr. Thompson, Alexander replied with a polite nod. Amelia's descent down the stairs caused him to shift his gaze. Amelia, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you.

Although her nerves were prickling beneath the surface amelia still smiled. Hello, Alexander. It's a pleasure to meet you as well.

After a few moments of polite conversation, Alexander offered his arm to Amelia. Shall we go? I've made arrangements for us to have lunch in a quiet location where we can converse.

Amelia grasped his arm with a mixture of fear and curiosity. “That sounds impressive. Thank you.”

Alexander kept the conversation light while driving through the city, inquiring about her interests and sharing a bit about himself. Amelia found him to be surprisingly approachable, his calm demeanor putting her slightly at ease.

They arrived at an upscale restaurant, and a private table was waiting for them. The atmosphere was serene, offering the perfect setting for their important conversation after placing their meal orders Alexander looked at Amelia with a serious expression.

“Amelia, I know this situation is unusual to say the least,” he began our parents and grandparents wishes have brought us together under unique circumstances I want you to know that I recognize your wishes, but I also recognize your right to make your own choices.

Amelia nodded appreciating his sincerity. “Thank you, Alexander. I made a promise to my grandmother that I would give it a try, and I am committed to keeping it. It's important to me that this is suitable for both of us.

Alexander reached into his briefcase and pulled out a folder. I have prepared a marriage contract outlining the terms and conditions. It’s straightforward and focuses on mutual respect and cooperation I want you to read it carefully, and you are welcome to ask any questions or request any changes.

Amelia received the folder from him, opened it and started reading the document It details financial arrangements living conditions and expectations of mutual support and respect. Alexander had included a clause emphasizing the importance of getting to know each other and allowing for annulment if either party felt the arrangement wasn't working.

This is very thorough, Amelia said, looking up at Alexander. I appreciate that you have considered our autonomy in this

Alexander nodded. I believe in fairness and transparency. The purpose of this arrangement is both to honor our families and to find a path that works for both of us. If you have any concerns or want to make any changes we can talk about it.

Amelia took a deep breath feeling a sense of relief but also apprehension. I need some time to go over this and have a discussion with my parents. I am grateful for your honesty and willingness to make this work.

“Take all the time you require,” Alexander replied gently there's no rush. I want both of us to feel comfortable moving forward.

Amelia experienced a glimmer of hope they finished their lunch. Maybe this unconventional arrangement can lead to something meaningful in the end her determination to give her best effort was matched by her grandmother's wishes.

For the next few days, Amelia carefully reviewed the marriage contract with her parents, they went through every clause, discussing its implications and ensuring that she was comfortable with each term after careful consideration and a few minor modifications Amelia was prepared to take the next step.

Amelia and Alexander met at a small café near the courthouse on a bright Monday morning during a quiet moment over coffee, they both comprehended the significance of what they were about to do.