ARIA’S POVI sigh, relieved that this episode is finally over. However, I have another issue now.“Neal, I don’t want to stay here. Can you take me home?”I ask, my voice weary but determined. Since I am alright now, there’s no use for me to sleep in the hospital when I can enjoy the comfort of my home and be with my family. The sterile environment of the hospital only reminds me of the ordeal I've been through, and I long for the warmth and familiarity of home.“I’ll make the arrangements right away.”“Thanks.”Neal kisses me on the forehead and hugs me tightly, his relief palpable, as he whispers, his voice filled with emotion."I'm so glad you're safe and sound."As we prepare to leave, I feel a sense of calm wash over me, ready to go home and leave this harrowing experience behind.As we exit the hospital and settle into the car, I find it strange that neither Adam nor Regis are around. Their absence feels oddly conspicuous, given the intensity of the events that just unfolded. A
ARIA’S POVAfter my conversation with Neal the previous night, I've been thinking a lot about him and Stella. I've always found them to be a great match. They are two of my favorite people, and I would do anything for them.The thought of them being together fills me with joy, and I hope their relationship blossoms into something beautiful.Neal requested me to discreetly find out what kind of dates and events Stella likes, without making her suspicious. I need to keep the conversation casual and natural.The next day, I meet up with Stella for coffee. As we chat, I steer the conversation toward fun activities and favorite outings. At first, I have to make it look like I am the one who will go on a date.“I’ve been thinking of going on a date or something.”“What?! Are you serious? With who?”Stella is very excited for me and her face glows.“What’s the most ideal date to you?”"Outdoor adventures, cozy dinners, hiking, parties, or a day at the beach or maybe something artsy or cultur
ARIA’S POVHelping Neal set everything up for Stella feels like a mission filled with purpose. As soon as he asks for my assistance, I throw myself into the planning with enthusiasm. We need a venue that’s both intimate and elegant, somewhere that will make Stella feel special and cherished.After a bit of searching and a few phone calls, we settle on a charming boutique hotel with a beautiful private dining room. The staff are more than happy to accommodate our request for a private party, promising to keep the real purpose a secret.The next few days are a whirlwind of preparations. Neal and I coordinate everything down to the smallest detail. We order roses—red, pink, and white—to decorate the room. I know Stella loves roses; they’re her favorite flower.The florist understands our vision perfectly, promising a breathtaking arrangement that will set the perfect romantic tone. Neal and I also choose delicate fairy lights to add a touch of magic to the setting, making the room glow s
ARIA’S POVOn the day of the event, I arrive early at the hotel to oversee the setup. The staff have done a fantastic job arranging the room. It looks stunning with the soft glow of candles and the floral arrangements we've chosen.Neal arrives shortly after, looking a mix of nervous and excited. He's dressed sharply for the occasion, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. Together, we go over the final details.“Do you think she'll like it?”Neal asks, his voice filled with uncertainty and I assure him, squeezing his hand.“She'll love it.You've put so much thought into this. Stella will see how much you care.”Suddenly, Stella arrives at the venue, elegantly dressed. She believes she’s here for a casual get-together with me and some close friends, completely unaware that it’s a special date. Her presence lights up the room, and the surprise waiting for her is bound to make this night unforgettable. She’s accompanied by a gentleman who looks absolutely breathtaking.“Hey, Aria! Meet T
ARIA’S POVI'm grateful to Adam for saving my life, and that gratitude runs deep. When I offer him a lucrative business opportunity as thanks, he surprises me by declining, insisting instead on a painting.“What? A painting? By who?”I am stunned at his request. His reasoning? It seems Regis has been boasting about the painting I gifted him, igniting a subtle rivalry in Adam's mind.“By you… My uncle Regis can’t stop bragging about the one you made for him. So now I want one too.”“That’s insane, Adam.”“I don’t want anything else, except your artwork.”As much as I find Adam's competitive streak somewhat childish, there's a sense of obligation to fulfill his request. It's not just about painting; it's about meeting his expectations and perhaps soothing his ego. Frankly speaking, I’ve never seen Adam so adamant and bent on to compete with his uncle. It’s getting harder and harder day by day to handle both of them and I can’t believe that I’m still stuck with the Millers despite the di
ARIA’S POVI'm absolutely amazed that Tony is right here, taking the time to thoroughly examine my painting."Hey there! What brings you by today?"Tony's voice carries a blend of curiosity and genuine warmth. As I return his smile, a wave of relief washes over me, grateful for his friendly reception."Hi Tony! I'm here to paint a gift for a friend."I explain, motioning towards the half-finished painting. Tony's eyes light up with interest."Ah, a gift! How thoughtful. I'd love to see what you're working on."Tony replies, moving closer to inspect the setup. He says that although it’s not yet done, he knows that it’ll be a masterpiece. I am shocked to see him here and also analyzing my work.“It’ll take some time, though… What brings you here?”“For the very same reason as you.”I chuckle at his statement. As I continue to sketch out my design, Tony engages me in conversation about art, but informing me that he’s just a novice. I doubt he’s a novice because to be at the Global Art St
ARIA’S POVThe next day, I head back to the art studio, eager to finish my painting. As I step inside, the familiar scent of paint and canvas envelops me, and I am immediately struck by the sight of Tony already there, setting up his easel. His presence surprises me; I hadn't expected to see him again so soon.Tony looks up and smiles warmly, his eyes twinkling with recognition. I return the smile, feeling a wave of warmth and comfort wash over me. It's nice to see a friendly face in a space that has quickly become a sanctuary for creativity and reflection.I set up my workspace, my mind already buzzing with ideas to complete my painting. As I begin to work, Tony starts a conversation, his voice filled with genuine curiosity about my art. I tell him the painting is for Adam, my ex-husband.“You’re painting for your ex-husband?”“I’m returning a favor he’s done for me recently.”“Oh, I understand.”I mention casually that I am divorced, and to my relief, Tony doesn't seem phased by it.
ADAM’S POVAria finally finishes the painting, and when she hands it to me, my heart skips a beat. I’m eager yet apprehensive, curious about the piece she has created for me. The moment I see it, a wave of emotion crashes over me. The painting depicts a breathtaking sunset, vibrant hues of orange, pink, and gold blending seamlessly in the sky over a serene body of water. The scene is unfamiliar to me, a place I’ve never been before.“Where’s this place?”“Uhm… Somewhere I used to visit frequently when we were still married.”As I take in the details, I’m struck by the beauty of the painting and the emotion it conveys.Her words hang in the air, laden with a wistful tone that makes me realize how little I knew about her sanctuary. The fact that she found solace in this place without my knowledge leaves me feeling a mix of curiosity and regret.“Well, now that you’ve got your painting, we are even?”I just nod and watch her leave my house. Before I can even thank her or ask her to stay l