Melissa -And here comes my crazy clueless friend, I said out loud so she can hear, and it seems like she actually did because she burst out laughing, hurting my ears.Hey, you crazy person, be quiet, we're at my workplace.And whose idea was it to crack a joke? What did you expect me to do? Cry? She really has no sense at all, coming to disturb me even at my job. Oh my God, what am I supposed to do with this girl? Is it so difficult for her to leave me alone? At least at work.Ane, what do you want, huh? I already know it's not something good. You being awake at this hour, something must have happened.And then you complain when I call you annoying.Just tell me what you want here so early, or I'll kick you out.How many more people are with you?It's just me and the security guards, darling.Is that how you treat your dear friend? I pout and Mel can't resist my charm and starts laughing.Well, you end up winning me over, you cow.So, can we get serious now?Sure, what brings you her
Melissa's Mother:I knew Ane would convince Melissa to travel. That girl is worth gold. I've asked my secretary to prepare a travel itinerary for us, book hotels, and buy our tickets. I asked to reserve the best hotel in Fortaleza. We deserve it.I can't even remember the last time I traveled with Mel. I've wanted this for so long, but thanks to Ane, here we go for a week of sun and relaxation. As far as I know, my daughter hasn't taken a vacation in years. We could have taken an international trip, but if she objected to going to Fortaleza, imagine going outside of Brazil. She wouldn't agree.Not even Ane, with all her persuasion skills, could convince her. My daughter, so young, should be enjoying life instead of being locked up in an office all the time. At least on weekends, she used to enjoy camping with her friends, traveling to our house in Petrópolis with them. Now the house is abandoned, as are the others. It's a pity.Our house in Paraty is the most beautiful thing in the wo
Melissa:I arrived at the company today and went straight to talk to my father. He was delighted to hear that I decided to take a vacation, and he was even shocked when I mentioned that I'm going to Las Vegas. It's not really my style, but I've decided to live and not care anymore if it fits my image. I need to enjoy things more. Now let's see how Ane is going to manage to accompany me.She can figure it out herself. Isn't that how she does it with me? She practically forces me to do things, and I always end up giving in. This time, I'm going to force her to come with me. She'll be full of "whining," but she won't have a choice, that's it!I haven't told Ricardo about my trips yet, but he can't say anything, at most agree. We don't have anything set in stone yet, except that I'll be waiting for him.We'll sit down and talk and decide on something only after his fake wedding next month. So, I have plenty of time to enjoy my vacation. But, truth be told, I wish I could be a fly on the w
Packed bags and here we go, Fortaleza awaits us, and we're going to make the most of it. I'm so excited about this trip. My behavior has even surprised my friend Ane and my mom because I'm incredibly happy and open to new things, hoping for the good things life can bring me. I want to have plenty of drinks, soak up the sun, and look gorgeous for my sweetheart who's coming next week.When I told him about my plans, he got really excited. He didn't like the idea of me going to Las Vegas, though. He said it's not a place to go alone. I laughed when he said that. I don't care; I'll be there, looking beautiful and enjoying those amazing casinos.I take my seat on the plane, with my mom and Ane beside me. The three of us are traveling together, at least that. My mom has thought of everything since this trip is a gift from my parents. I have nothing to worry about, just enjoy. I put on my headphones and play some soft music. The flight lasts about three hours, so I'll take the opportunity to
Melissa -My friend doesn't waste any time, I can't believe she already found someone. She's really quick on the trigger, doesn't waste her time at all. Soon my mom joins me, and we start talking while enjoying some drinks. It's been a long time since we had some time just for ourselves.I don't know when I distanced myself so much from my family, especially my mom. I remember how much I enjoyed my mom's company and how close we were. I need to regain that, to appreciate my mom's company more. It makes me feel good.Where's Ane? Wasn't she supposed to come down with you?You know how Ane is, she already got ready and told us not to wait for her tonight.Wow, we've just arrived, and she already found someone? Maybe you should do the same, dear. Maybe that's what's missing in your life.Well, mom, I'm going to tell you something, but I'd prefer if you didn't tell Dad. I want to tell him myself at the right time.Clara, whatever you tell me will stay between the two of us.Mom, I met som
Melissa -Today, we're going to the Central Market in Fortaleza. We're waiting for Ane to have breakfast, but it seems like her night was quite intense because she's taking a while to leave her room.I call my mom, and we decide to go ahead and send a message to Ane, letting her know that we're waiting downstairs. We head down and have our breakfast. The table is filled with all sorts of delicious things. I'm really starving. I fill my plate with some food, grab a coffee and juice, and join my mom at the table. After some time, here comes the hurricane girl with a disheveled look.Her night must have been great."Good morning, everyone," she greets us, pulling a chair and sitting with us."Good morning, dear!" my mom replies."Good morning, Ane. Quite a day, huh?""Oh, friend, my head is pounding, but nothing a drink can't fix.""Are you going to drink at this hour?""Yes, it's to cure the hangover."Ane is really crazy. She gets up, helps herself to a glass of juice, goes to the bar,
Father of the ex-fiancéeFinally, the big day has arrived. I'm sure that now we'll be fine. After this wedding, we'll be secure. I've signed a few more promissory notes for other creditors, promising to pay them off soon.And now, with my daughter getting married, my promissory notes will be paid off. This wedding is the salvation of my family. I can't believe my plan is working. I put on any suit, and I'm quickly ready.I go downstairs to the living room, and soon my daughter appears. Even though she's not wearing a traditional dress, she looks stunning. She's beautiful no matter what, but today she looks sensational.It's a pity that it's a forced marriage. My princess didn't need to go through this. She deserved someone who truly loves her. I know she truly loves this guy, but if it weren't for my debt problems, I would never force him to marry her. I know she would be unhappy. I would be the first one against this marriage. My wife also looks beautiful. She always dresses well, an
Melissa -Our trip was incredible. We visited so many amazing places. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza was simply beautiful, and we also learned a bit about its history.We went to the museum and the theater, which is another famous tourist attraction. We explored the Pinhão Market, which I had no idea about until now. We visited the craft fair and I even tried my hand at dancing a bit of forró.The beaches are absolutely stunning. We went to a few of them. What a wonderful week! Being here is the only way to truly understand how amazing it all is. I wasted so much time isolating myself and thinking that life was over just because I was betrayed by a jerk. I want so much more. I want to make the most of everything that life has to offer.Soon our trip will come to an end and we have to return to Rio. It's a shame that it's ending so quickly. I wish we could stay longer, but it's not possible. I promise myself that I need to come back soon and do it all over again. This place is
Epilogue:Time flew by, like a gentle breeze caressing your face. Today, looking back, I see how each chapter of my life intertwined in a story of love, overcoming and growth. The journey I started with a step of faith and courage has brought me to this moment, and each challenge overcome, each laugh shared, built the solid foundation of our family.Our daughter, now a young woman full of curiosity and determination, is the embodiment of the love that Ricardo and I share. Your sparkling eyes, your contagious smile, are a reflection of the joy we find in each other. Every day is a new adventure, and I marvel at the way she teaches us to see the world with fresh eyes full of wonder.Our second daughter, fruit of the love that never stopped growing, completes our family so perfectly. It brings with it a sense of renewal, endless possibilities and unconditional love. The house is now filled with laughter, scattered toys, and an infectious energy that constantly reminds us of what a privil
Melissa -Back then, when I decided to give love a new chance, I never imagined that this path would lead me to form a new family alongside such an incredible man as Ricardo. Today, I, Mellissa, can look back and say that I am truly happy and complete. Every step of that journey has brought me here, to this moment of fulfillment and fulfillment.The road of life is full of curves and surprises, and we often find ourselves at crossroads, not knowing exactly which way to go. However, by choosing to give love another chance, I took the first step towards a profound and positive transformation. Next to Ricardo, I found a partner, a friend and a love that surpasses all barriers.Our rapidly growing daughter is living proof of the love we share. Every smile, every achievement of hers, is a constant reminder that life is a valuable gift, full of simple joys and precious moments. Motherhood brought me challenges, but also unparalleled gratification, a deep connection with another human being
Today is the launch day of my project for Ricardo's company. The celebration cocktail party brings together all the people we care about: our families, our friends and co-workers. I look around, watching everyone chatting excitedly, smiling and enjoying the event. I can't help but smile too, feeling a wave of happiness wash over me.The lounge is elegantly decorated, the soft lights creating a welcoming mood. As I make my way through the crowd, greeting guests, I feel mixed emotions. It's a mixture of fulfillment for the project I've worked so hard to bring to fruition, and also the joy of having all these beloved faces come together to celebrate this special moment.My daughter is in the arms of a caring aunt, surrounded by laughter and affection. Seeing the happiness in her eyes fills me with gratitude and reminds me that everything I do is for her, for the future we are building for her.Ricardo is beside me, proud and radiant. He takes my hand, and the contact is comforting. "You
Ricardo got home and, when he opened the door, he found Ane and I talking animatedly. His eyes lit up upon seeing the scene, and he smiled warmly. "Looks like I'm missing quite a conversation."Ane and I laughed, and I got up to greet him with a kiss. "Welcome back darling. You have no idea the deep conversations you're missing out on."Ricardo joked, feigning indignation. "Looks like I'm being left out of the women's secrets here."Ane intervened, laughing. "Nothing like that, Ricardo. We were just sharing deep thoughts about life, motherhood and the importance of having a great friend around."He winked at me and then at Ane. "Well, then I guess I have a lot to learn."We decided that instead of getting buried in deep thought, it was time to get together and enjoy a nice dinner together. As we sat at the table, I felt grateful to have these two amazing people in my life.During dinner, conversations flowed naturally. Ane and Ricardo had a special chemistry, a unique blend of friends
And here comes the most clueless godmother on the face of the earth, Ane hasn't changed a thing, year in and year out she's still the same clueless, but I love her anyway._ Where is the most beautiful baby in this world? Ane asked as my baby plopped down on her lap.I keep admiring the interaction between the two, my daughter loves her godmother, who in turn does whatever she wants, now the two are rolling around on the living room floor._Who is the godmother's chubby girl?The baby laughs as Ane tickles her tummy._And I don't even get a hi? Ask approaching the two._ Are you jealous friend?_You're welcome?Of course I'm not jealous, it's just that all the attention used to be mine, now it seems like I don't exist.But that's normal, everyone gets here at home asking about the baby, they find me on the street and ask about the baby, no one asks how Ricardo and I are doing anymore._A friend, I'm here. Ane says coming to hug me._Two hours later you remembered that I exist?_And no
MelissaNow that everything is resolved, Ricardo and I decided to take a vacation and enjoy our daughter, who with all this running around ended up being left behind, she was at my mother's house and I need to pay attention to her.I was looking forward to getting home and seeing my daughter. I missed her and wanted to spend as much time with her as possible.Ricardo and I took the plane and arrived in Rio de Janeiro the next day. My mother received us in her house with great joy.She told us that my daughter was fine and that she was looking forward to seeing us.Ricardo and I went to my daughter's room. She was sleeping in her crib, beautiful and peaceful.I approached her and hugged her very affectionately. She opened her eyes and smiled at me.I was so happy to see her. I kissed her and told her I loved her very much.Ricardo also hugged his daughter and said he missed her.We spend the whole day with our daughter. We played with her, bathed her and fed her.She was so happy to be
I was sitting in Ricardo's car, with him beside me, as Ricardo's investigators drove us home. I was relieved that it was all over, but I was still confused about why Ana had done what she had done."Are you still thinking about it?" Richard asked."Yes," I said. "I don't understand why she did that.""Maybe she was in love with me," Ricardo said."But she never showed anything," I said. "She was always professional with me.""Perhaps she was hiding her feelings," Ricardo said. "Or maybe she was pressured by someone.""But who?" I asked."I don't know," Ricardo said. "But I'll find out."**The next day, Ricardo took me to his company. He wanted to show me something."What is that?" I asked, seeing an open laptop on his desk."It's the video," Ricardo said.He showed me the video. I saw the moment when Ana placed the camera in Ricardo's room."See," Richard said. "Someone is accompanying her."I saw a shadowy figure move in the background of the video."Who is it?" I asked."I don't kn
I got up running with my cell phone in my hand and went straight to Ricardo's office, who was startled when I burst in. "Are you crazy honey? What a scare you gave me walking in like that." "Sorry." "The house is on fire, for you to come in like that?" "No, but it will if we don't do something about it soon. Look at this." I said and while I stretched out my hand with the cell phone for him to watch the new video." Ricardo took the cell phone from my hand and watched the excerpt that was sent, he had no expression on his face and he didn't even seem nervous about that situation, while I'm desperate about it all. I can't imagine this video going around the Internet, what our families will imagine of us, my parents would be very disappointed in me, even though they know their daughter well. "Ricardo says something." "What do you want me to say? That we had good sex that day?" Ricardo jokes even at a time like this. "I'm so angry with you, you know? You can be serious at least on
I was afraid. I did not know what to do. I had just received a call from an unknown number. The person on the phone said they had intimate videos of me and Ricardo. They wanted a million dollars or they would release the videos.I didn't have a million dollars. I did not know what to do. I was scared and ashamed. I needed to talk to Ricardo, but I didn't know how.I decided to go to his company. I knew he was busy, but I needed to talk to him.I arrived at the company and went to his office. He was busy, but he saw me and called me in."What's up Melissa?" he asked.I took a deep breath and told her everything that had happened. I told him about the phone call and the videos and the money.Richard was shocked. He didn't know what to say. He just sat there, looking at me, for a long time."I don't know what to do," he finally said. "I don't have a million dollars.""Me neither," I said. "But we have to do something.""I don't know what to do," he repeated.I was starting to lose hope.