~AFTERMATH~

"And with that he bowed and left as if the entire fiasco did not happen"

Looking at his card, he ponders the every moment that happen between the two.

Awestruck by him, she decided to keep it and see if it will really help her from now on.

"Let's see if this will really benefit me…" she thought to herself, raising her right eyebrow

~END OF FLASHBACK~

"That ends my side of the story"

"It's like hearing it again for the first time"

"Fate does have a funny way of putting people together, don't you agree?" she simply nodded

"Say my dear, your father and I want to know your thoughts on that whole fiasco?"

"I agree with your mother, we are wondering"

The lovebirds agreed and did not hesitate to their curiosity

"I believe I've told enough of my side our fateful encounter; I believe it's your turn, beautiful"

"Why of course" *smooches Lee on the cheek*

"Now for my side of the story; in this case, the aftermath"

~LILI'S PERSPECTIVE~

Looking at the mirror, she tries on various hair accessories to see which matches her outfit

"It's been weeks since my fateful encounter with…him. Am I proud he rescued me? Absolutely."

On her bed is the card he gave her on that day

"Hmm, he was quite the individual that day..."

The blonde beauty stares at her bedroom window for a brief moment, admiring the view

"I couldn't imagine what would happened to me had he not been there"

A random dove landed on the window's perch, catching her attention

"Oh my feathered friend, what does life have to offer this time?" she curiously asked it, simply replying with tweets.

"I guess you're right" whether or not she was able to comprehend what it said is unconfirmed; she gently pets the bird.

"Guess the best things in life come when you least expect it" muttering under her breath, she looks on as the dove flies away.

"Oh my, I can't seem to figure out what best suits my hair" she bemoans when…

*knock knock*

"Come in"

"Ms. Lili"

"Oh Sebastian, what is it?"

"Pardon the interruption but there seems to be a limousine in front our gates…and by it, a suave looking young man and he seems to be waiting for you-"

"Oh my! He's earlier than I thought! I didn't expect him to be this punctual! "

"Ms. Lili, if I may-"

"Sebastian, how do I look? Which accessory fits my hair?"

"Your hair is already lovely at its own, with or without any accessory of any kind"

"Oh my you're right, I must be overreacting…"

Meanwhile…

"Are you sure this is the one?" his chauffeur asks, checking the vehicle's exterior

"I guarantee you this is where she lives" Lee assured him while reading a magazine

"She's quite taking her time"

"Well you know women; they want to look their very best for a date" checking his watch, he patiently waits for her arrival while leaning against the limousine's trunk

Quickly tidying herself and grabbing her belongings, she heads downstairs, almost losing her balance

"Wait, Ms. Lili! Do your parents know about this?" concern in his voice

"Mother and Father are quite busy people and they know well enough I am old enough to take care of myself; I am positive that they won't mind this occasion"

"I hope you are right, Ms. Lili"

All dressed up, she comes out running towards the gate.

Getting a glimpse of her, Lee adjusts his shades

"Just in time" muttering with a smile on his face

"Freakin' finally" muttered the chauffeur

"Sorry if I'm a bit tardy, I couldn't figure out what headwear fits my outfit!" while waving

"My, my. You took your time, dear" *chuckles*

"I wanted to make myself as fabulous as possible"

"You look fabulous…and beautiful since the day I rescued you"

"Oh stop it you, you're just flattering me"

Lee wiped off a bit of sweat from her forehead

"Hey, what're you doing? It's just sweat"

"After your encounter with those 4 lowlifes who tried to…well you know what I mean"

"Hmm, you've quite become the overprotective one ever since that day"

"Have you forgotten? Knight in Shining Armor" he said with enthusiasm

"Still clinging on to that title are we? Fine then, I'll play along"

"Very wise, now the fun is just beginning"

"Oh you" both shared their first laugh together

"Too bad I couldn't find a hat for this occasion"

"And cover that lovely hair of yours, that won't be necessary"

"You really think so?"

"Really really"

"Are you quoting 'Shrek'?"

"The one and only"

"I always loved that movie"

"It never fails to tickle someone's funny bone"

"Guess we have more in common than we thought"

As she's about to exit the gate…

"Ms. Lili, wait!"

"What is it now, Sebastian?" she grimaced

"You forgot this!"

She sees that he's holding the I.D. card Lee gave her that fateful day

"Oh my! How careless of me! Thank you so much Sebastian!"

"I always make sure you have everything with you on your daily trips!"

"You never cease to amaze and impress me Sebastian"

"He must really be the miracle worker" Lee added

"Oh my *chuckles* that would be an understatement, young man"

"Lee Chaolan, CEO of Violet Systems"

"Sebastian, butler for Ms. Rochefort and loyal servant to the family"

The two shook hands

"Tell me good sir, how does it feel serving the Rochefort family?"

"It's a huge honor doing so; it makes me feel like I'm part of the family as well"

"Happy to hear that"

"If I may Mr. Chaolan-"

"Please, call me Lee" he insisted

"Oh"

"It's alright Sebastian, he told me that also back when first met"

"I suppose I see no harm in doing so…" he obliged to his request

"Now then, what is it that you were going to ask me?"

"What was it…ah yes, since you ask me how I find serving the Rochefort family, I'm curious on how you find Ms. Lili on the day you saved her…"

"The day I saved this little princess, it was the beginning of something beautiful"

That statement made her blush…

"You see, I said this once and I'll say it again, I believed that it was fate that put us together; cliché as it sounds but I can think of any way to put it"

"I believe those words are enough to describe what has transcended that very day" Lili seems to agree with him

"Ah the audacity of youth brings a smile to my face. I am curious though, what were your first impressions of each other?"

Both struggled to find the right words

"Ah he he he, I see… it was a rhetorical question-"

"If I may add that after I rescued her, she sprained her ankle a bit so I had to carry her all the way here" she started to blush

"Oh my…"

"Don't worry Sebastian, it healed over time while he carried me" Sebastian let out a sigh of relief

"You know there's also this moment that as I was carrying her, a little kid noticed us and-"

"Oh my look at the time, the two of us should be going now! Bye Sebastian!"

"Lili, what are you-?!"

"Let's go Lee, time is gold as they say!"

"We we're just-"

"LET'S GO NOW!"

"Take care Sebastian, please watch over our lovely home! Ta-ta!"

"IS this how couples are these days?" Sebastian commented as he sees the limousine drive off

"What's gotten into you? That was quite unladylike of you"

"You're the one to talk, telling that embarrassing moment of a brat calling me a baby!"

"Until now you haven't gotten over it?"

"'It's no walk in the park doing so!" she crossed her arms

"You really have to, how do they say it, suck it up?" he remarked with a smirk on his face

She gave him a death stare and, like their first encounter, she pouted as she stared at the car window

Unfazed, Lee smiled at her antics

"Oh my dear Lili, still the same girl as before" he snickered while noticing her tightening her fist,

"Don't even think of trying to swing at me, I'll just parry it...like last time"

"He's right, what's the use?" she muttered as she lowered her fist

"Gives you a sense of deja vu, doesn't it?"

"Obviously, it's like that day all over again" she replied, still staring at the car window

"Oh you truly are an ideal lady" Lee thought as he smiles shaking his head

~HALF AN HOUR, NOW ON THE DRIVEWAY~

"Care for a drink? This long drive will be over soon"

"No thank you, I'm not thirsty as of the moment" she declined, focusing instead on playing a game in her Android phone

"Suit yourself my love" he took a sip of red wine "I do love red wine" he muttered

"You are aware that I am not allowed to drink those things yet, do you not?"

"Of course I am aware, don't you trust me?" he smirked" We have a wide selection of beverages to your liking"

"I'll let you know immediately, darling"

"Then I'll wait for your call"

"And wait you shall…"

"Say, you're still not grumpy over what your butler and I talked about now are you?"

"Not really, but bringing that topic out of the blue is what ticked me off… now if you'll excuse me, I need to focus on this hard level"

She turned her attention back to the mobile game she's playing

"Oh… she wants to play huh? Trying to beat me in my own game… I really do like you even more"

Scheming, he thought of a way…

"Time to break the ice"

"Say Reginald…"

"Yes Mr. Chaolan?"

"Wanna hear a funny story?"

"Umm, I haven't heard any good ones lately, sir. Go ahead."

"Alright. This one is quite short. How does this go again? Ah yes…

"There was this nanny in who was still a college student. She babysat for a family with a little boy and a little girl. While the boy was in school one day, she was home with his little sister, Abigail. Abigail was watching her cook in the kitchen; she was on the kitchen floor with her blanket. The little girl was cute as a button and said the funniest things, but this day proved to be a real doozie. Abigail called the nanny and told her that, "my toilets at my house were bigger than the toilets at her house." She asked her why she would think that. She said, "Miss Kris, your tushy is bigger than my tushy."

In the midst of telling it, he heard a faint giggle from Lili.

"It's working, good…"

"In other words, the nanny's rear end was bigger than hers and the toilets at her house have to be huge."

The chauffeur chuckled a bit "That's a good one, sir!"

"I found it online too. Care for another?"

"Yes please!"

"On to the next one then, a mother was seeing her 8 year-old son off to school one morning. She walked him to the bus stop where they waited patiently; the bus came and her son got on the school bus.

The mother proceeded to go home so she could get ready to go to work. About 15 minutes later the doorbell rang and it was her son at the front door.

She was shocked to see him since she just got him on the school bus, then she noticed the school bus with its door open, in front of her house.

The mother asked her son, "What are you doing back home?" Her 8 year-old son said, "I'm quitting school, it's too hard, it's too boring, and it's too long." The mother looked at him and said, "That's life, now get back on the bus."

Again, the chauffeur laughed out loud

"The moral of the story? Experiences of life touch all no matter how young or how old."

"Oh I can totally relate with that kid, I remember my first day of school."

This 2nd attempt made Lili laugh a bit louder, much to Lee's delight

"So cute when she laughs like that"

Lili sighed as she concentrates on her game, trying to finish a challenging level

"Just like the 1st one, I found this online"*takes a sip of wine*

"I hope these aren't distracting you from driving are you?"

"Oh no sir, I'm fine. Just needed something to brighten up the mood, you know?"

"In that case, care for a final one?"

"Oh yes sir! You found this online?"

"This time no, I heard this during one of my business trips. It was quite the clever one"

"Interesting; let's hear it then, sir!"

"Can't exactly remember the words, but it went like this, kind of" he clears his throat

"It was between early to mid-afternoon in a school. A teacher was havinga history lecture with the class. Around 2:15pm, she noticed of the students sleeping. Normally any teacher would wake the student up and scold him or her right? Instead, she thought of something else."

"What'd she do?"

"Instead of doing so, she told all the students in the classwhat she'll do; after that, she advised them all to stay outside while she closed the windows, turned off the lights andchanged the time of the clock from 2:15pm…to 10pm"

Both chauffeur and Lili started giggling, but the latter is trying to control it

"All the students were giggling at her plan; by the time the teacher exited the classroom, she advised that they stay at one corner so they won't get caught, which they did."

"By the time the drowsy student woke up, he was shocked to realize that it was already 'night' and that he 'overslept'. Frantically packing his things, he went outside running like a madman through the halls before sitting down on the floor, realizing he's been pranked while the teacher and his classmates were laughing their butts off."

The end result was a laugh fest in the limousine

"Now that's truly hilarious, sir!" complimented the chauffeur "I needed those to brighten my mood for today"

"Did it really help?"

"'Course it did, sir!"

"Why thank you, Reginald" both noticed Lili's continuous laughter

"Guess it really helped her, A LOT" says the driver, heavy emphasis on the last statement, observing Lili before turning his focus back on the road

With story time done, Lee just sat back and enjoy hearing Lili's laughter…or rather, wait for it wear off

"Oh my goodness…"*catching her breath*"I never had a good laugh like that in a while"

As she caught her breath

"What? I lost?! No, NO, NO!" she threw a tantrum

"And I was this close to finishing this level"

Lee pretended to be oblivious to her wailing

"Mission accomplished…"

"Lee…"

"Yes my dear?"

"All that laughing made me thirsty, do you mind?"

"Why of course"

"And only the ones that I want to drink…legally too"

"As you wish my princess" he continues to play the part of being her prince

"Something fit for a princess"

Selecting from a wide variety of beverages, he chose, of all things…

"Care for some Root Beer?"

Not what she expected…

"A soft drink?"

"Well I hate to burst your bubble but the rest include margaritas, rum and cola, whiskey, a Shirley Temple and the like."

"Oh well that's disappointing, guess Root Beer will do" Lili had no choice

"Coming right up"

"Do you prefer in a glass or from the can itself?"

"Can. I don't want to waste expensive things such as glass"

"Didn't know you to be the recycling type; planning to be an environmentalist one day?" he hands her the can

"Not quite, but now that you mentioned it, I might reconsider"

"Hmm, so this is root beer… YES!"

A look of bewilderment and surprise on Lee's face

She opens it and gulped a decent amount

"Now that is indeed refreshing" a look of satisfaction on her face

"You're awfully happy for just an ordinary can of root beer" Lee noticed, taking another sip from his glass

"Oh haven't I told you? My parents forbade me from consuming soft drinks of any kind"

"You don't say? What? For health reasons?"

"Yes…and no"

"Hmm… well if I may add, certain soft drinks do have a sugar level that can be quite alarming"

"Not only that, they seem to detest it for some reason, saying it doesn't fit our image"

A look of confusion ran across his face over that statement

"'Bad' for your family's image? That is so preposterous and laughable"

"Tell me about it, I wanna be carefree once in a while; I don't like to be sheltered all the time"

"No question there" *raises his glass* "Here's to a carefree life"

"A carefree life!" both shared a toast with their respective drinks.

Both chugged... and both finished, with Lili finishing her can

"I hope you don't mind if I ask but do you have any more of these?"

"Of course, anything to make you feel satisfied"

He grabs another can of root beer "Here you go, princess"

"Why thank you!"

"This is a side of you that surprised me, a high class girl rebelling against the norm? Now that's something I never thought of seeing in the flesh" he stated, refilling his glass

"And I am happy and honored to be the one to do so…" she gleefully opens her second can of root beer and took a sip.

"This is the life" she rested her head on Lee's right shoulder, much to his delight

"MISSION ACCOMPLISHED"

Glancing at her, he took a sip from his glass with a satisfied look on his face.

"Those funny stories earlier, they were quite clever"

"They were, weren't they?"

"Absolutely" he then followed suit and rested his head on top of hers

Looks like smooth sailing from here on end…well until…

"OW!"

She suddenly punched him playfully

"Now what was that all about? We we're just having a tender moment just now"

"Hmph! don't give me that!"

"I think you had enough root beer for today, dear!"

"Oh it's not that!"

Lee raised his eyebrow

"You did that on purpose, didn't you?"

"Did what on purpose?"

"Still playing the victim… you told those 3 funny stories just to distract me, causing me to lose my focus on my mobile game"

There's no playing out this one, she caught him

Letting out a sly but cheeky chuckle

"Guilty as charged" while playfully raising both his hands

"Who would've that my knight in shining armor is also a joker at the same time" she sounds annoyed

"At least you found them humorous and all… don't deny it, your laugh sounded so sincere and not forced"

Once again, he bested her…

"Darn it, not again!"

"Oh well, about that…"

"Lying won't help you, he-he"

"…Fine, you win, I really appreciate how you wanted to brighten the mood several minutes ago"

"It's a pleasure my dear…"

"Tell me, you're into the world of theatrics?"

"For a quite a while now"

She just raised her eyebrow

"Is that so?"

"This awkward silence is annoying me already…Reginald?"

"Yes, Mr. Chaolan?"

"How about some music to lighten up the mood… moment's dull as of the moment"

"On it, sir."

"Say Lili dear, what kind of music do you listen to?"

"You're not going to pull off anything clever are you?"

"What makes you say that? Why will I repeat what I did and do it differently?"

"Because it's foolish?"

"Exactly; only a fool will do such a thing, that's why it's called a fool's errand my dear"

"Hmm, good point" taking another sip from her can of root beer.

Not letting her guard down, she continues to anticipate any "smooth" moves he has in store.

"I got my eye in you, still"

"The root beer might have made her too hype" Lee deducted.

"Too much excitement going on right now…Reginald, play something classy"

"Got it sir!"

The chauffeur opened Lee's personal music collection and carefully chose what to play

"Ooh, I like this but will the boss and his date like it? Only one way to find out"

The chauffeur inserted the CD he chose in the car player. The artist? Bee Gees

"Ooh, I know this song!" she exclaimed

"Excellent choice, Reginald"

"Thank you sir!"

"Jackpot!"

"Lee, why didn't you tell me you're into the classics?"

"I wanted to, but I'd be revealing too much of myself too soon"

"What exactly do you mean by that?"

"Oh you know how some people can be when getting to know other people; they reveal their interests at the right time"

"That is true"

"Hence the term "Too much, too soon" which mostly applies in negative situations"

"You have a point there…"

The music continues to play, soothing the atmosphere inside the limousine; it makes Lili feel calm as ever…wouldn't you know it, she wrapped herself around Lee's arm, much to his delight.

"Oh Lee, despite some of your antics, how can I say no to the man who saved me and became my life partner?"

"Enjoying the ride, darling?"

"With the music, root beer and you next to me? Why ask when you already know the answer to it, darling?"

Smitten, Lee couldn't help but smile as he caresses her lovely hair; in response, she touched his left cheek… another tender moment between the two.

"We're nearly there, sir" the chauffeur informed

"Good thing there's no traffic"

After a long drive listening to soothing music and cuddling…

"We're here sir"

"Splendid" Lee remarked gleefully "I almost lost track of time"

"You hear that dear, we have finally arrived"

"My eagerness to see what your company is like has reached new levels!" she fangirled

"And here's your chance now mademoiselle"

"No one hasn't called me that in a long time" she blushed as she readies herself

Stepping outside first, he escorted her outside the vehicle…

"Wow…" her jaw dropped, gazing in awe at the company's HQ.

"You may admire the view anytime, dear"

"A thousand pardons, I was caught up in the moment" *giggles* "It's just so breathtaking"

"Then allow me to show you what's in store"

Now by the entrance

"Here we are, love… oh put this on"

"A VIP Pass, I always dreamed of trying one on" Lili gazed at the I.D.

"And I just made it a reality" *chuckles*

"Ready?"

"Oh definitely!" jubilance in her tone

"Behold, Violet Systems"

The only child of the Rochefort family can't help but gaze in awe at the building's interior design and well constructed foundation, as well as the atmosphere

Unable to mutter a word, she only managed to drop her jaw

Lee gazed at her expression with delight, knowing and feeling prideful that all his life's work managed to impress her

"Well, what do you think, my love?"

"I'm…I'm… awestruck… how did you manage to start such a well known conglomerate"

"I had vision, like my idols Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and Jack Ma; they inspired me to keep moving forward"

"I want to know more, Lee!"

"Perhaps we can continue at the pantry?"

"Oh yes please!"

"I'm positive you'll love what they serve to the employees"

~THE PANTRY~

"Well here we are"

"Looks like your typical pantry, like the one I see in my father's company"

"True, but let me show you something... to your left, love"

"Oh my goodness"

She gazed at what the lovely display of confectionaries and a chocolate fountain

"Is there a special occassion going on?"

"As a matter of fact, yes"

"Ooh tell me more!"

"I will dwell to details, right after we a taste of the sweets served"

"Now you're talking!"

~FLASHBACK PAUSE~

"You see, mother and father. This man right here embodies hard work and persistence"

"Oh, you're making me blush" he plays along with her compliment

"Does that also explain the chocolate fountain by the buffet area?"

The love birds simultaneously nodded

"I'm not surprised, now I know why I don't recall having it there from the start"

"Say if I may ask Lee, how did your colleagues react to your relationship with my daughter?" Lili's mother got curious

"Mademoiselle? Would you so kindly continue your side?"

"No problem..."

~FLASHBACK RESUME~

Lili in her room, diary in hand

"Ever since he rescued me, he became my reluctant guardian"

"I hesitantly accepted him being so...

She paused to think of what to write next...but that's when I realized... it was destiny" she added

"Lee and I continued dating... and taking me to places I never thought I'd see firsthand"

She gleefully squealed like a fan girl just thinking about it as she writes...even the family butler Sebastian heard it

"Ahh the audacity of youth" he commented as he passes by doing his usual tasks

"Words can't describe how I feel right now!"

Her Samsung android phone rang

"Hmmm?"

"Hello?"

The one who called is none other than...

"Mademoiselle"

"Oh I was just thinking about you!"

"You think of me everyday, darling"

"You never fail to make me blush, dear"

"My company's having a masquerade party to celebrate its 5th anniversary, and I was hoping you'd-"

"Of course, I'm attending! When will it be?"

"A week from now"

"Splendid, is there a specific theme so I'll know what to wear"

"Does Renaissance ring a bell?"

"Ooh! Do we get to wear masks?"

"Absolutely, as it fits the theme"

"I cannot wait!"

"Knowing you dear, you do love these kinds of gatherings"

"Right you are, my love" *giggles*

The lovebirds enjoyed their conversation throughout the day

"Oh I want to continue our conversation but I have a meeting to attend"

"That's alright dear, you are a busy and hardworking man after all"

"Thank you for understanding. Next time then dear"

"Love you"

"Love you too"

She resumed writing in her diary

"Where was I? Oh yes... I just received the best news today! Lee Chaolan has invited me to his company's masquerade party!"

She briefly imagined how it would be before resuming writing

"I am so looking forward to this day, me and Lee in elegance"

"The thought of it excites me!"

~THE NEXT DAY~

Lili is relaxing by the family's fountain, listening to some music in her iPod while eating a banana sundae

"I do love these kinds of days" she exclaimed

"Ms Lili, am I interrupting?"

"Oh not at all Sebastian, something you have in mind?"

"This came in the mail, and it's addressed to you"

The family butler handed the small envelope to her...

Opening it...it's an invitation to the aforementioned party

"That was in the mailbox this morning"

He was greeted by a fangirl scream, something he didn't expect

"What does it say?"

"It's an invitation to a masquerade party!"

"Sounds wonderful, who invited you if I may ask?"

"Oh someone, who visited to pick me up the other day"

"That young gentleman? Intriguing individual, is he not?"

"My thoughts exactly, especially when I first met him"

"When and where will it be held?"

"At Violet Systems, this coming Friday... and it has a Renaissance theme"

"Like in Italy? I see. I'm sure you will have a ball there"

"I don't mean to be rude or anything Ms. Lili, but is he-"

"Trustworthy and fun to be with? Definitely!"

"Whatever you say Ms. Lili, I hope your parents will approve of this"

"Mother and Father will certainly do. I'm not a little girl anymore"

"That is true" Sebastian adjusted his glasses

"You are a grown up after all"

"You've been working all day long, Sebastian. Why not relax for a bit?

"I appreciate the offer but there are errands I must attend to"

"You truly are a workaholic" she giggled

"Sebastian!"

"Oh, your mother is calling me, Ms. Lili I like to stay and continue this conversation but...duty calls"

"By all means, Sebastian" taking a sip of lemon water from a glass

"Lili dear..." her mom approaches

"Mother"

"Your father and I will meet some old friends from high school"

"Sounds like fun"

"You sure you're not tagging along?"

"I'll be alright mother, you and father have fun"

"Alright then, bye honey"

"Bye mother, say hi to them for me"

"Will do, sweetie"

~DAY OF THE PARTY, 2:30PM~

The lovebirds admire the other's style as they're on the way inside the limousine

Lili dons a dazzling black dress with gloves with her hair in a chignon style, paying homage to Audrey Hepburn's character

in Breakfast at Tiffany's

"My, you look gorgeous" he complimented "Glad to have you with me, Holly Golightly"

"And you look dazzling as ever, my Prince"

Likewise, Lee's attire is an homage to the elegance of Hollywood's Golden Age. Donning a tuxedo with gloves and a Fedora, he's fully clothed wtih class

"We both are dressed for the occasion, after all" Lee smooched Lili's cheek

"Reginald?"

"Yes, Mr. Chaolan?"

"Kindly play something to fit tonight's mood"

"Certainly sir!"

The song playing? La Vie En Rose by Edith La Piaf

"Oh my goodness! I remember this song!"

"Oh I am good..." Lee said to himself

"My mother keeps playing this song to me when I was still a little girl"

"And here you are as a fully grown woman listening to it" he added, adjusting his bowtie as Lili cuddles next to him

The limousine has arrived at the place

"We are here now, my love"

"I cannot wait"

Stepping out of the vehicle, they held hands as they enter the premises

All eyes on them as if they're next Brangelina

"Shall we, dear?"

"Oh absolutely"

The lovebirds started donning their respective masks

Lili wearing her carnivale mask she got when her family visited Italy

Likewise, Lee dons a mask reminiscent of Tuxedo Mask of Sailor Moon fame

~VIOLET SYSTEMS~

Taking place at the company's testing area, the entire area was redesigned for the party to take place there

Filled with extravagant decorations fitting the theme of the party, guests flock the floor in their dazzling attires

In fitting with the party's Renaissance theme, some of the staff are dressed in attire of that era

The extravagant food being catered is also reminiscent of that era

"Here we are, my love"

"It's, how can I put it, spectacular! I feel like I went back in time"

"I handled and managed everything to make sure everything looks perfect for tonight"

"You truly are a man of vision"

"And you, my love, are here to witness all my hardwork in all it's glory"

There's even a stage with a band playing classic to modern hits sung by a female lead, adding a unique anachronistic twist to the event

The two shared a table, admiring the surroundings

"Lee, dear?"

"Yes, my love?"

"Let us not forget this moment" she pulls out her phone as she took a selfie with him

"We look great here"

"My turn then" Lee did the same, pulling out his Android as he snapped 'em together

"Elegance. This is what the photo is all about"

"That's what we are, together we make one dazzling couple"

Smooching on the other's lips, they savored the moment

"Excuse me, good man"

"Yes, Mr. Chaolan?"

"Wine for me and Root Beer for my lovely date here, please"

"Coming right up"

"Thank you"

"By the way, dear, I hope you don't mind me asking"

"Yes anything, Lee"

"I always wanted to meet your parents. When is the right time?"

"Oh in time"

"You sure? Are they even aware of our relationship?"

"Oh you worry too much my love" she playfully placed her finger on his nose "I'm already mature and responsible enough to make my own decisions"

"And you've proven so, I'm just wondering if your parents will approve of us as a couple"

"Nonsense, I'm a grown up now, they of all people should already know that"

"Here are your refreshments"

"Thank you, my good man"

"Why thank you"

"Shall we?"

"By all means"

"TO THE TWO OF US!" they shared a toast...then a smooch afterwards

"Mr Chaolan, am I interrupting?" a female employee came into the scene

"Not rudely but yes"

"My apologies, but the host for today's party won't be able to make it for tonight"

"And why not?!"

"He was arrested by the police after an altercation when he was at a bar"

"Oh of all times, is there no one that play the role of host?" he shook his head in disappointment

"Let me check, one moment"

"Nope unfortunately, no one can fill in for the host"

"You mean..."

"Which leaves you sir to fill in"

"Are you sure?"

"'Fraid so, sir. Nearly everyone has been given assignments for tonight's event"

"This is unacceptable..." he berated the badly timed last minute change

"Lee, darling" she gently placed her hand on his cheek

"It's OK"

"Lili..."

"Listen, you're my Knight in Shining Armor and my Prince Charming, I want to see what you're capable of doing besides saving damsels in distress"

The look on disappointment from his face faded away, realizing what she meant as he gazed upon her petite smile

"You're right, you do have a point, my love"

"I want to see you in action, on stage for everyone to see, especially me"

Realizing the last minute change to be a blessing in disguise, he decided to take on the role as host

"Alright, I'll do the job. I am the CEO of this wonderful company and I believe it is fitting that I host it as well"

"Wonderful sir! This way"

Feeling motivated and eager to show his flame his other quirks, he followed his secretary with a new sense of confidence

"Go get 'em, tiger" Lili muttered, taking a sip

~SOME TIME LATER~

Lee took the stage, accompanied by some showgirls dancing in sync

Lili watches over the spectacle, astounded by his showmanship "One of a kind..."

"Good evening, everyone! Hope you're all having fun tonight"

"Oh your presence is enough to make me have fun" *giggles*

"I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one of you for your dedication and hard work for this company"

Everyone applauded

"All the sacrifices and sleepless nights were all worth it in the end and for that, I thank you all again"

"Let's look back at all the key events that made this company it is today"

He snapped his fingers, then from the ceiling, a huge projection screen

Side comments arise from the audience, mostly on its size

"What you're all about to see is a video showing the many key events that helped this company I founded grow and prosper, roll the footage"

The one handling the projector hit play

~CLIP STARTS PLAYING~

As what Lee said, it is a montage of clips highlighting the important events of his company with the song "Undefeated" by Def Leppard playing in the background

The audience watched in awe at the footage

Lili, observant on what's being played, nodded her head in amazement

"Fantastic, Lee truly is someone, a man of vision"

~CLIP ENDS~

A round of applause filled the area, lauding the content

One female employee walks upon the stage with a tray in hand, with a champagne glass and a bottle of wine on it

"Thank you dear"

Lee raises the glass as do the audience and Lili

"TO VIOLET SYSTEMS!"

"TO VIOLET SYSTEMS!" the audience followed suit

"To Violet Systems" so did the Monegasque native

"I see that everyone here brought their dates with them and others, their spouses. Let's hope not both"

Most of the people laughed at his statement

"Hope that didn't ruffle any feathers here"

"Have you found someone for yourself, Mr. Chaolan?" a female asked, earning the curiosity of others

"Choose carefully sir!" so did a male, for which laughter errupted from his question

"I'm happy to play twenty questions regarding this" he jokingly suggested "I have time"

"My, Lee does have such high status among the audience"

Among the crowd, a small group ladies notice Lili's presence

"Is she a new here?"

"Never seen her before"

"She might be a freeloader"

The trio then target her appearance and choice of attire

"And look at that dress"

"Who is she? Trying to be like Audrey Hepburn? Oh please"

"She could've chosen another dress for the occasion"

Oblivious to them, she is listening to every word they said

"I sense nothing but insecurity from those trio of harlots" she whispered to herself

"They're simply wasting their breaths"

Back to Lee, who seems to be enjoying the moment that he almost lost track of time

"Thank you for bombarding me with all those questions" he returned to business

"Well to answer all of your questions and to satisfy your curiosity..." he adjusted his bowtie

"As a matter of fact, I myself indeed have found a partner...and if any of you were paying attention..." he paused for dramatic effect

"She's here with me right now"

Mixed reactions everywhere

"Who could it be?"

"Knowing him, it could be anyone here"

Some female members of the audience even declared themselves to be his one and only, much to mixed amusement of others

"Oh that's me"

"I bet it's me!"

"Lee would definitely be my partner for life!"

They have no idea...

"I see everyone, the ladies rather, are all hyped up now due to this; allow me to describe her"

He cleared his throat once again

"I won't say how we met as it'll spoil the fun...but I will describe her"

All ears on him

"Now this might sound a bit cliche..."

"She is someone who I met by chance on one ordinary day; she is elegant, full of grace and class..."

she's not like any other girl"

Now everyone's wondering who could it be

"Looks like everyone is that eager...and excited to know who it is? Alright, I shall reveal who it is"

He signaled someone working the lights to help him with the big reveal

"Ladies and gentlemen, my one and only" he gestured...and just like that, the spotlight is on the Monegasque native

Her response is quite subtle, continuing to enjoy her drink as she goes about her business

"Emilie de Rochefort, kindly join me on stage"

"By all means, my dear" she elegantly made her presence felt as she walks toward the stage with grace and poise, gaining everyone's attention as the spotlight's on her

To make the situation better, Lee quietly signaled the band to play Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet theme

"Oh my, they're playing the right musical piece for the occasion" Lili giggled

Some of the men took notice and made positive side comments regarding her

"She's a princess"

"What a beauty"

"Mr. Chaolan really has good taste in women, I wanna know his secrets!"

"I wonder she's from?"

"Her upbringing intrigues me"

Though same cannot be said by some of the females; in contrast to their male counterparts, nothing but jeers from them

"HER?!"

"She's not even that pretty!"

"Of all the girls, why did Mr. Chaolan chose her?!"

The insecure trio from earlier who were talking trash about her had their jaws dropped out of utter shock, unable to utter even a single word

Taking her hand and escorting her on stage, she is now with his prince; Lili performed an elegant bow to everyone

"Once again ladies and gentlemen, meet my other half, Emilie De Rochefort" he handed her another microphone

"Thank you love, Bonsoir à tous"

"For those wondering, it's "Good evening everyone" in French" Lee being trivial

"A pleasure to meet you all, as you all know by now, I am Emilie De Rochefort, the only child of a successful and pacifistic oil tycoon and proud of it."

Murmurs arise from the audience

"I'm sure you've heard of him on the newspapers and on the internet" she added

"But that's not what I'm here for, I'm here to be..." "turns to Lee* "with you my love"

"My first meeting with the good looking gentleman on my right was...quite memorable if I say so myself, I would love to tell all of you how but you might die of boredom"

*audience laughs*

"But believe you me, this man, the CEO of this wonderful and influential company is a man of class and style...and a he's my knight in shining armor"

"Oh stop it, you're killing me"

"Want me to continue?"

"The part on how we met or the killing?" Lee retorted

"Choose wisely" so did Lili

Their playful banter delighted everyone

"Oh and if anyone's wondering, he's quite a charming smooth talker" she winked at him, which he winked back

"Again, I am pleased and pleasured to meet you all tonight" she ended her monologue with a lovely bow as the audience gave her a 'round of applause and rejoined Lee by his side

"Now that you all met my princess and partner, it's time we resume where we left off?" Lee resumed his hosting duty

"Play something to fit the mood, please?" he requested the band on duty

"By all means, love"

They shared a kiss once more for everyone to see

"Now, for the main event, the evening's grand finale as I like to call it" the band resumed playing music to lighten things up

"Not only are we here tonight to celebrate this company's milestones, success and global recognition, you are all here to witness another moment in my life"

"One that will complete my life"

"Oh my, I wonder what could this be?" she asked herself, eager to know

Then, he turns to her direction

"I know I've said this before many times to you but... ever since the day I saw you in distress, it was my noble duty to be with you every day"

Everyone went "Aww"

Lili couldn't help but smile wholeheartedly at his comments, obviously smitten by his words

Of course not everyone though...

"Why not say it to me instead?!"

"To a girl like you? Get real!"

"Got a problem, b****?"

"Wanna settle this?"

The two female guests started arguing until...

"Oh shut up you two and enjoy the night! It's like he'll select either of you" another guest shut the bickering duo down

Now back to Lee and Lili, who are briefly sharing a moment in front of everyone

"Emilie de Rochefort... you're the light of my life, my angel"

She continued to smile at his sweet words, but what comes next took everyone by surprise

"My dear Lili" he kneels down on one knee

The young Monegasque girl let out a gasp at what's happening right now, covering her mouth with both her hands

The band began playing "(I've Had) The Time of My Life" from the 80s film Dirty Dancing, now imagine the mood right now

"Will you be mine forever and ever?" he then pulled a beautiful but rare flower out of his inner pocket...

"A Juliet Flower?!" she said in her mind, thrill and surprise all mixed in her mind right now

"Such a rarity of a flower, and he got me one!"

Maintaining her composure to answer his question, she let out a huge exhale to calm her mind

"My goodness, it's a beautiful flower"

"Lee Chaolan" she finally spoke "If you weren't there that time when I was in peril, I don't know what would've happen to me"

"You have truly proved your duty as my knight in shining armor" she continued "And for that, my answer is..." she paused

"YES! YES!"

A smile came across his face upon hearing her answer. Applause erupted from the crowd, congratulating Lee for able to win the girl

"Arise my knight in shining armor" she "commanded", echoing Lee's chivalrous act from their first encounter, to which he did

"Your valor, dedication, determination and devotion to me is unquestionable. I'll be honored to be with you until the end" she approached him and after a brief glance between the two, she smooched him on the lips

"Awww" can be heard across the room while some went "Oooh"

He responded in his own unique and stylish way "My lovely Lili, you have made me a very happy man"

The two held hands...before he suddenly swayed her to his side, catching her off guard; he then proceeds to smooch her lips. You can feel the passion between them

Needless to say, she is enjoying every moment of it unsurprisingly

"Oh my goodness" *giggles*

He just raised an eyebrow and smirked to her delight

"You really are full of surprises, my knight in shining armor"

The lovebirds' impromptu mini show was lauded by everyone...

"He should've chosen me!"

"I'm his type!"

"She's not even that good looking!"

"A short blonde? I'm more worth Lee's time"

Okay, not everyone.. Some detractors among the crowd

After announcing their engagement, the lovebirds toured around the world; from New York to London and Sicily, they had quite the time of their lives

~NEW YORK~

"The Big Apple! Such a lovely city!"

"Imagine visiting this place back in the old days"

"That sounds like a once-in-a-lifetime experience"

"Couldn't agree more"

"In a mood to visit Times Square?"

"I would never say no to that!"

~LONDON~

"The Big Ben, what a cultural icon"

"Of course it is, like the Eiffel Tower in France"

"Such a lovely landmark"

"Like you dear" she passionately called him while they are having fish and chips

"Oh you..." she giggled "Let's visit Abbey Road next"

"You read my mind, dear"

~SICILY~

"Oh dear, look at this" Lee showing Lili a Renaissance-era carnivale mask

"My, such a thing of beauty"

"So is the rest here" he pointed out

"Remind me for us to travel here again next year"

"Of course darling"

"Where should we go next?"

"Care for a gondola ride?"

"I always dreamed of riding one!"

"Then what are waiting for?" he playfully asked; the two then boarded one, gazing at the beautiful sights around them

~SEOUL~

"Seoul, South Korea..."

"I have friends who wanted to visit this country thanks to the popularity of the many K-dramas they watch"

"Are they wooed by the country's beauty or the celebrities?"

"I haven't the slightest idea now that you mentioned it"

*chuckles* "Regardless, they must visit this lovely nation"

"No argument there, dear"

~HER SIDE OF THE STORY CONCLUDES~

Having finally told her side of the events, her parents still have mixed feelings

"So you see mother and father dear, Lee and I are the ideal couple" she proudly declared

"I'm old enough to know what suits me and what doesn't; in this case, my love life"

"A statement I cannot ignore from you... My Cherie" he caressed her right cheek

"My Knight in Shining Armor" she replied back as the lovers toast the night

"Oh my, how should I put this…"

"As do I"

Both her parents are still trying to conclude what they all heard, struggling to find the right words

"I mean, our little girl is all grown up and all"

"Yes, and that she is free to make her own choices"

"As long those are indeed wise choices as our daughter claims, then everything is fine"

"And I won't lie, she can be fierce when something catches her interest"

"I was hoping you wouldn't say that, dear"

It looks they finally came to an agreement regarding their only child

"Umm, Lili dear?"

"Yes, mother? Yes, father?"

"After hearing the stories from your fiancee and from yours as well"

"Mhmmm?" she's eager to hear what her parents have to say

"We're happy to know that you found someone to be your lifelong partner and with that, your father and I offer our blessings"

"Does that mean?..." you can tell by her tone that she's quite eager

"Yes honey, he is welcome in our family"

"You really mean it?!"

"Of course honey"

"You're a full matured woman after all"

Upon hearing the good news...

"Lee, did you hear that?"

"I sure did, love"

"They're happy that we're a couple!"

"We're all happy, all is well my dear"

"Of course it is!"

They smooched each other's lips to celebrate...and in front of her parents and several guests witnessing the scene, with some voicing out their thoughts on it

"I never thought she would love a man like that"

"Guess there's more than meets the eye"

"I am not sure what to make of this revelation"

"Care for a refill, you two lovebirds?" Sebastian offers to refill their glasses

"Why of course"

"Thank you, Sebastian"

"To be completely honest, you two seem like a fine couple"

"You really think so?"

"Certainly! The grace, the charm, it's a rare combination if I do say so myself!"

"Why thank you, my good man"

"You're the best, Sebastian!"

"I am certain a bright future awaits for the both of you" he told them as he continues his duties elsewhere

~LATER~

The two lovers enjoy the view from the balcony as the soiree continues

Leaning towards the lovely horizon in front of them

"I always admired the view here"

"Indeed it is admirable, but not as admirable as you"

"I know that already" both shared an affectionate laugh

"This truly is one of the happiest days of my life"

"Correction, OUR lives" Lee playfully pokes Lili's nose, much to her delight "Of course it is"

"The sky looks down on us kindly today, such radiance emanating from the sun" Lee observed

"A bright day indeed, I can say the same for the future, our future together"

"You need not worry a thing. Your parents already said yes so our future is secured"

"You're right, maybe I'm just overthinking it I suppose"

"One step at a time, dear"

"There's that song by Doris Day that my mom kept singing to me whenever I feel worried about something during my childhood"

"Is it Que Sera, Sera?"

"Whatever will be, will be" she sang in response

"Que Sera, Sera..." they later did an improptu duet...

"The future's not ours to see"

"What will be will be"

"Que sera sera..."

"A beautiful song"

"To think I thought it was a lullaby growing up"

"We never learn the truth of certain things until some point in our lives, dear" he caressed her hair

"And that if things are beyond our control, we should let it be and let fate handle it"

"But as for the two of us, darling, our future is indeed already written" Lee passionately told Lili

They both gave one another a loving look, a callback to their very first encounter, with flashbacks leading to the present

They both kissed as a way of celebrating the end of one chapter in their lives and the beginning of a new one...with Lili putting her arms around Lee as he puts his around her slender waist

"To us..."

"A future together..."

They gave each other a passionate embrace, with an optimistic view on what awaits them both

"Say I can't help but notice"

"Yes dear?"

"I can't help but notice... that is a lovely fountain down there" he pointed out

"Oh you like it? it was my idea to have it there" she told him

"You did? Did your parents approve of it?"

"Oh course. This part of the area would be absolutely dull-looking and lifeless without it"

"I agree. I didn't expect you to be into home makeovers"

"It was only for that one time"

"I see"

"Also, my parents always warned me not to make a fool of myself if I'm near a fountain"

"And why is that?"

"I was trying to catch a butterfly when I fell on one when I was a child"

"Oh my"

"Ever since that moment, I always feel like swimming in the fountain"

They both stared at the display...then each other

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking, my love?" Lee asked her

"Say no more, dear"

Both have smirks on their faces

Meanwhile...

"Thank you again for inviting us to your lovely party"

"My fiancee and I look forward to another one"

"Glad you all enjoyed and you're welcome"

"I don't mean to intrude in family affairs but... is that suave, young gentleman the right one for your daughter?"

"Well, my daughter asserted the fact he is indeed the one for her so we won't question that"

"Besides, she is a fully grown woman now"

"You do have a point, there. I am only concerned that is all"

"And we appreciate it, we really do"

"Care for another, madam"

"Thank you, my good man" the guest acknowledging Sebastian's generous duties

"I hope we made the right choice, dear"

"Me too. Something I pray we don't regret in the future"

Her parents are starting to have second thoughts

"If our daughter truly says he is the right one for him then let it be so-"

Suddenly, sounds of panicked screams pierced the otherwise peaceful surroundings

"My heavens!"

"What on earth?!"

"Did something happen to our daughter?!"

Her parents, Sebastian and several guests rush to where the panic is going on, only to find...

"Lili!"

"What's the meaning of this?!"

One can imagine the tone in their voices; appalled is an understatement

"Mother! Father! Why hello!" she playfully waved at her parents

"Don't mind us, we're only having fun"

And by fun he meant...

The two them splashing water around their surroundings after jumping off the balcony to dive into the aforementioned fountain, thus causing a very minor tidal wave, drenching the surrounding guests; thus explaining the minor but troublesome fiasco

"What has happened to our daughter?"

"She was never like this before"

"Her generation is different from ours"

"That's an understatement, dear"

"What happened? Simple. I grew up and learned new things!" she raised her arms in glee while accidentally showering her parents, much to their chagrin

"Oops..." *giggles*

*Both her parents groaned*

"Ahh the joy and audacity of youth today, makes me remember my younger days" Sebastian, however, doesn't seem to mind the fiasco at all

The lovebirds playfully splash water against each other giggling until they conclude it with another hug and smooch

"Moment of love, WE LOVE IT!"