Julia's eyes gleamed with warmth as she reached across the table and squeezed Ariana's hand. "I'm happy for you, Ariana. Love is a beautiful thing, and I can see the happiness it brings to your eyes. Embrace it fully and cherish every moment with Mateo."Ariana's voice carried a hint of vulnerability as she shared her hopes with Julia. "I really hope Mateo doesn't break my heart like my previous exes did," she admitted softly, her eyes searching for reassurance.Julia's gaze softened, her voice filled with sincerity. "I hope that too, Ariana. From what I've seen, Mateo seems different from other guys. He has shown kindness and care for you."Ariana nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yes, exactly. I've noticed the same thing, Julia. There's something about Mateo that sets him apart. It's as if he carries a sense of integrity and loyalty that assures me he won't betray my trust."Julia's eyes sparkled with understanding as she nodded in agreement. "It's rare to
As the meal came to an end, Mateo playfully inquired if there was more. Ariana shook her head, a playful pout forming on her lips, and revealed that it was all finished. Mateo couldn't help but express his enjoyment of being fed by her, earning a radiant smile from Ariana. "You're really funny," she remarked, appreciating his lightheartedness.Curiosity sparked within Mateo as he turned his attention to her baby bump. Concern and excitement danced in his eyes as he asked Ariana about their little one's well-being. Ariana's face lit up, and she shared the joyful news that their baby was doing well. She confessed that she had forgotten to mention that the baby had started kicking so slightly.A sense of wonder on Mateo's face, as his smile grows wider. "Wow," he exclaimed. "I love that."Ariana's smile lingered as they continued their conversation, discussing various topics that bridged the gap between them. Their words intertwined effortlessly, weaving shared experiences and dreams. T
After ensuring their customers were taken care of, Vera and Zhang Chen delegated their work to the capable hands of their employees. With their duties momentarily set aside, they led Ariana and Mateo through a door that connected the restaurant to their home, guiding them into the cozy living room. As they settled into the comfortable surroundings, Vera and Zhang Chen turned to face the young couple.Ariana's smile stretched across her face as she looked at Zhang Chen. "It's been too long since we last saw each other," she expressed warmly, gratitude shown in her voice. "Thank you for taking such good care of my mom." Zhang Chen's eyes softened, filled with affection and sincerity. He responded, "Even without you asking, Ariana, I will always take care of the love of my life." His words elicited smiles from everyone present, a joyful smile that filled the room.Vera couldn't help but blush, her gaze fixed lovingly upon Zhang Chen. The depth of their emotions became so obvious, a test
A hushed understanding settled over the room, a collective empathy for Ava's need for respite. Vera, knowing that Ava needed space, nodded softly. "Of course, darling," she said, her voice filled with love and acceptance.As Ava stood there, her gaze locked with Mateo's, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity. She settled herself down on one of the couches, her eyes still fixed on him. "Who is he?" she inquired, her voice filled with curiosity. "He looks really familiar". Ava's gaze intensified, her brow furrowing as she tried to recall where she had seen him before. Then, in a sudden burst of realization, she exclaimed, "Mateo Luca-Hendrix?!"All eyes turned to Ava, their expressions of surprise and amusement. Ariana glanced at Mateo, then back at her sister. "Yes, Ava he is," she confirmed, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "Mateo is my boyfriend." Ava's astonishment was both shock and happiness as she continued to stare at Mateo, her eyes wide with disbelief. "I c
After a day filled with joy and celebration, the following morning brought a sense of relaxation and leisure. The restaurant remained closed, granting everyone a carefree day for fun and relaxation. Zhang Chen, ever attentive, made sure Vera's day was enjoyable and memorable.As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow throughout the living room, Vera motioned for Mateo to join her. Ariana had followed Zhang Chen to explore the source of the goods they had obtained, their laughter echoing from a distance, while Ava found solace in her own space.Seated comfortably on the couch, Vera looked at Mateo with curiosity and concern. With a gentle tone, she initiated a heartfelt conversation, her words carrying the weight of a mother's love and care."Mateo, I want to talk to you about something important," Vera began, her eyes filled with warmth. "Ariana shared with me the story of how she became pregnant, and she mentioned your involvement. Are you truly serious about her?"Mateo's gaze me
Vera's gaze turned distant as she was transported back in time, her mind traversing the painful memories. She began to recount the tragic events, the words flowing from her lips in a hushed, haunted tone.*******Flashback*****David Wyatt, Ariana's father, had been a constant source of trouble before Ariana was born. He had a chronic drinking problem and would frequently assault Vera Wyatt, Ariana's mother, whether he was drunk or not. Additionally, he engaged in several violent sexual intimacies with Vera Wyatt, his wife forcing himself on her whenever he wanted. Growing up in this environment, Ariana found it increasingly unsettling. She couldn't understand why her mother never left David, despite Ariana's repeated pleas for her to divorce him and escape from the situation. Vera would dismiss Ariana's concerns with laughter and choose to remain in the marriage.One fateful day, filled with anger, David forcefully entered the house. Ariana's younger sister, little Ava, was just five
Mateo nodded a soft smile on his lips. "I'll make sure to invite you, Ariana. I want you by my side," he assured her, his voice resonating with a deep affection.With the suitcases in hand, Mateo led the way up the stairs to his room, Ariana following closely behind. As they entered the room, Mateo gently dropped the luggages onto the floor, careful not to disturb their contents. He turned to Ariana, a warm smile on his face, and motioned for her to sit on the bed."Come, Ariana. Take a seat," Mateo said, his voice filled with tenderness. He extended his hand to help her find a comfortable spot on the bed.As Ariana settled onto the soft mattress, she looked up at Mateo with a grateful expression. "Thank you, Mateo," she murmured, her voice filled with appreciation. "I'm just so tired from the journey."Concern etched across his features, Mateo leaned closer, his eyes searching Ariana's face. "Is there anything you're craving, Ariana? Maybe something to eat or drink?" he asked, his vo
Meanwhile, Mateo, with a lighthearted smile on his face, playfully teased himself in the mirror as he dressed. He appreciated Ariana's compliments, finding them endearing and uplifting. Their easy banter and shared moments of affection were the threads that wove their relationship closer together, creating a warm and comforting bond.With a final adjustment to his attire, Mateo rejoined Ariana, who was now fully engrossed in her meal. Emerging from the dressing room, Mateo found Ariana waiting for him, her eyes sparkling. Sensing her eagerness, she inquired, "Are you leaving now?"With a nod, Mateo confirmed, "Yes, I am. Will you be staying at home?"Ariana's expression shifted, a hint of uncertainty crossing her features. "No," she replied softly. "I think I'll go to my fashion home to work. I don't want to be alone in the house."Concern etched onto his face, Mateo gently placed a hand on Ariana's arm. "You should rest at home, my love," he urged. "After our journey, you need time