The first time I met Amias Bennett was during one of my most vulnerable moments. I had just arrived in the bustling city, having left my charming Irish village after being accepted into university. My feet were encased in worn-out sneakers, and I clutched a large duffel bag, feeling completely out of place amidst the urban rush.

I stood at the subway entrance, discreetly watching the people around me, trying to figure out how to navigate this new world. That's when Amias appeared, his friendly smile brightening his face and revealing perfectly white teeth. He offered to help carry my bag, showed me the ropes of the subway system, and even accompanied me to the campus.

It was then I found out he was a senior, one year ahead of me. During our time together, I tasted my first-ever latte, which Amias casually bought for me while getting a drink for himself. As he prepared to leave, I hurriedly smoothed out the crumpled banknotes I had, ran to him, and pushed them into his hand.

Amias paused for a moment, surprised by my awkward gesture, then flashed a grin and waved goodbye. He left with such graceful ease, completely unaware that a small thread of youthful affection had quietly woven itself into his smile.

I had been chasing after Amias Bennett for quite some time before he finally accepted my confession. There was a catch, though: we had to keep our relationship under wraps. Today marks our one-year anniversary, and it's the first time Amias has agreed to go public with us.

I had booked a private room well in advance, bought a new Victorian-style dress, and spent the whole day prepping for this special occasion. With eager anticipation, I received the label of "caretaker." The waiter, Jackson Shaw, who brought the wine to our private room, was visibly surprised when he saw me standing off to the side. He glanced at my pale face and asked if I was okay or needed any assistance.

I shook my head and went over to the reception desk. "Is it possible to get a refund for my recent payment?" I inquired. As I glanced back at the private room, I added, "Also, please add ten bottles of aged wine to the room's tab—I plan on taking them with me."

I was carrying a bottle of wine, and to be honest, it was quite heavy. I found a nearby shop on the street and sold it. With the money in hand, I hailed a cab and headed straight to Amias's place.

As soon as I entered the house, a flood of memories came rushing back. Amias and I were from two different worlds. Just two months into pursuing him, the rumors started swirling. People mocked my appearance and style, saying I was like a country girl dreaming of royalty.

I overheard one of his friends joking with him, "Look at you, helping out a farm girl once, and now you're stuck with her. Tough break." I glanced down at my unfashionable clothes and resolved to change. With the support of my roommates, I started learning about skincare and makeup.

Honestly, my family wasn’t poor. We owned a large estate with dozens of cattle and sheep. But having spent most of my life in a small village with my grandmother, I'd never experienced the city life. I could understand why Amias's friends looked down on me.

But back then, Amias didn't join in on their jokes, so I assumed he didn’t agree with them. It took me a long time to realize the truth. His friends' attitudes toward me were a reflection of his own. If someone respects and values you, those around them wouldn't dare to mock you casually.