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
Julia, though still guarded, sensed a glimmer of potential understanding. She seized the opportunity to voice her truth, her voice tinged with vulnerability and determination. "I needed to speak up," she asserted. "I deserve fairness and respect in this workplace."Julia looked exhausted as she stood there across from Kelvin. The day sun streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow on their conversation. She took a deep breath before speaking again."Sir, I need to talk to you," Julia began, her voice tinged with frustration. "The only time I have to myself is during lunchtime, and even then, it's only for an hour. It's just not enough for me to eat and recharge, and if this continues, I'm afraid it's going to take a toll on my mental health."Kelvin met her gaze, his expression filled with concern and remorse. "Julia, I'm so sorry if I made you feel that way. It wasn't my intention at all. I didn't give you all those extra tasks because you rejected my feelings. I did it because
Clara nodded, understanding dawning on her face. Sarah, on the other hand, remained silent, absorbing Kelvin's words with surprise and relief. The unexpected turn of events had caught her off guard, but she recognized the fairness and consideration behind Kelvin's decision."I can handle that," Clara replied confidently, her voice conveying her willingness to support Julia. Sarah finally found her voice, echoing Clara's sentiment. "Yes, of course, I'm more than willing to help. We can work together to make it more manageable for Julia."Kelvin's expression softened, gratitude Shown in his eyes. "Thank you both for your understanding. I appreciate your willingness to assist Julia. If you feel that additional help is needed, please let me know. We want to ensure everyone's well-being and productivity."Julia observed the conversation unfold, surprise and gratitude washing over her. She hadn't thought of such a swift resolution to her overwhelming workload. Kelvin's acknowledgment and s
Prison authorities swiftly responded to the disturbance, rushing to the scene. The sight that awaited them was one of grim and chilling brutality. Susan lay motionless, her life snuffed out by the senseless act of her fellow inmate. The drug addict, overwhelmed by regret and the harsh reality of what she had done, stood trembling amidst the aftermath of her impulsive violence.In the aftermath of this tragic event, the prison was thrown into disarray. Investigations would be launched to uncover the circumstances surrounding Susan's death. Whispers would echo through the prison corridors, carrying tales of a life cut short and the consequences of a life marred by conflict and addiction.Susan Miller's journey had reached an abrupt and violent end, serving as a stark reminder of the repercussions that can arise from a life of turmoil and deceit.Kelvin and Julia found themselves in Mateo's home together to visit with a gift brought for the newborn baby. As the delicate infant lay in the
The nurse, enticed by the bribe, reluctantly agreed to carry out Susan's nefarious scheme. With a wicked smile, Susan instructed the nurse to swap the newborn baby in Ariana's room with a deceased male child, a macabre plan designed to further manipulate the unsuspecting couple.As Ariana, exhausted from the labor, finally succumbed to sleep, unaware of the looming threat, the nurse seized the opportunity. She discreetly made her way to the neighboring ward, where a male baby lay, destined to be taken to the morgue. In the darkened corridors, the nurse's footsteps echoed with a chilling purpose.Mateo, feeling exhausted himself, reluctantly obeyed the doctor's advice and left Ariana and their newborn alone to rest. Ariana, completely drained from the birthing process, finally succumbed to sleep, unaware of the tragic events that were about to unfold.In the silence of the dimly lit room, the nurse, carrying the lifeless baby, stealthily entered. She carefully placed the tiny, motionle
"Susan, it's me, Mateo. We need to talk."Startled, Susan opened the door, thinking it was her mom since she never fathomed that Mateo would come to her place but then her face instantly contorted with surprise after saying. "Yes, Mom?" she began, but then attempted to play innocent.However, Mateo saw through her facade. He swiftly pushed past her, entering the room and closing the door behind him, cutting off any means of escape."Susan, enough with the act. I know it was you who sent me those photos. I know you planted doubts in Ariana's mind," Mateo confronted her, his voice laced with anger and disappointment.Susan's eyes widened, her composure crumbling under Mateo's accusation. She desperately tried to shut the door, but Mateo's determination prevailed as he overpowered her, pushing it back open.Trembling, Susan met Mateo's gaze, her voice filled with unease and admission. "Yes, it was me. I sent you those photos. I wanted to create doubts in Ariana's mind. I approached her
It was a weight she couldn't bear alone.In the midst of her frequent anguish, Ariana's best friend, Julia, burst into the room, concern etched on her face. "Ariana! Oh my God, what happened again why the tears?" she exclaimed, rushing to her side.Ariana looked up, her tear-stained face a reflection of her shattered heart. "He... he accused me of betraying him, Julia. It's all falling apart, everything has fallen apart," she choked out between sobs.Julia wrapped her arms around Ariana, holding her tightly. "I'm so sorry, my dear. But remember, you are strong, and you have a support system who loves you," she whispered, her voice filled with empathy.Ariana's mother, stepfather, and sister, Ava, soon joined them, their concern shown on their faces. They enveloped Ariana in a cocoon of love and comfort, their presence a soothing balm to her wounded soul.Her mother gently brushed away the tears from Ariana's cheeks. "Darling, you are resilient. You have faced adversity before, and you
the hurt and anger in her eyes as she pushed Derek away and demanded him to leave.Mateo sat in his office, his mind racing as he desperately tried to find a way to make Ariana understand that he had never cheated on her. He replayed their argument in his head. her accusation crushed him, and he felt frustration and helplessness.As he stared at his phone, lost in his thoughts, a notification suddenly interrupted his inner turmoil. His heart skipped a beat as he saw a photo message from an unknown number. With trembling hands, he hesitantly opened the message, unaware of the shock that awaited him.The image slowly loaded on his phone screen, and his eyes widened in disbelief. It was a picture of Ariana, wrapped in the arms of another man. The world around him seemed to fade away as the truth hit him like a tidal wave. Betrayal and confusion washed over him, leaving him paralyzed.Speechless, Mateo muttered to himself, "No... it can't be." He stared at the photo, desperately searching
Kelvin wasted no time and dialed Julia's number, hoping to gain insight into the reasons behind Ariana's sudden departure. Julia picked up on the first ring, her tone laced with disbelief and disappointment. "I can't believe your friend would do something like this," she vented to Kelvin, her voice tinged with anger. "Ariana loved him, and she is carrying his child. How could he cheat on her not once, but twice?"Kelvin's eyebrows furrowed, his heart sinking at the accusation. "Julia, that's not what happened," he countered earnestly, desperately attempting to defend his friend. "There must be some misunderstanding. Mateo wouldn't do something like that."Julia's voice remained firm, her words cutting through Kelvin's attempts to reason. "Mateo has already caused enough damage," she retorted sharply. "There's no need for him to try and lie his way out of this again."Kelvin's mind raced, torn between loyalty to his friend and Julia's accusations. He knew he had to solve this delicate
Ariana shook her head, her voice breaking with sadness and resolute decision. "No, Mateo. It's too late. I can't bear this pain any longer."Feeling helpless, Mateo watched as Ariana turned away, her attention now focused on her phone. She dialed a familiar number, and within seconds, Julia's voice filled the line. "Hello, girl, what's up?" Julia's cheerful tone was replaced with concern as she detected Ariana's sobs. "Babe, what is it? What's wrong?"Ariana's voice hitched as she struggled to speak through her tears. "Please, Julia, come pick me up at Mateo's place. I can't stay here any longer."Julia's voice brimmed with urgency and support. "Of course, I'll be there soon. Hold on, okay?"Ariana sniffled, her voice filled with gratitude and desperation. "Alright, thank you, Julia." With those words, she hung up and wiped away her tears, her resolve renewed. Grabbing her luggage, she made her way towards the door, leaving behind the remnants of a love that had crumbled under betraya
The flickering lamplight cast long shadows across the room, mirroring the turmoil within Ariana's heart. The evening stretched on, seemingly endless, as Ariana remained motionless on the couch, lost in her thoughts and consumed by the rawness of her emotions. The tears continued to fall, each drop a testament to the shattered dreams and the love that had turned to ashes.Mateo gripped the steering wheel tightly, his foot pressing down on the accelerator as he sped through the darkened streets towards home. The distance from the hotel to his house seemed interminable, each passing mile elongating the guilt that weighed heavy on his conscience. His heart raced with anxiety and anticipation, unsure of what awaited him.Finally, Mateo arrived and the imposing gate swung open, revealing the familiar sight of his residence. He parked his car in the dimly lit parking lot, his hands trembling as he turned off the engine. Taking a deep breath, he mustered the courage to face the consequences o
The clock has just struck 9 p.m. already, casting a dim very dark glow across the airport's arrival area. Weary travelers shuffled towards the exit, eager to leave the confines of the plane. Among them emerged Tony, stepping onto solid ground after enduring the lengthy delay. Spotting Mateo waiting patiently, the weariness lifted from both their faces as they embraced each other warmly. "I'm really sorry for making you wait for hours, Mateo," Tony apologized sincerely, his voice filled with remorse.Mateo, in his response, simply shook his head and smiled. "No problem at all, Tony. We've weathered storms together, both literally and otherwise. This is just another bump in the road."Tony's eyes softened with gratitude, appreciating Mateo's support. the delay and the strain it had caused began to dissipate as they exchanged a few lighthearted remarks, easing the tension that had accumulated during their separation.Curious about Tony's accommodation plans, Mateo inquired, "Have you