ARIA’S POVThings with Tony are progressing in ways I hadn't anticipated. We keep running into each other outside the art studio, and our interactions grow more frequent and natural. There’s a magnetism between us, an undeniable connection that pulls us together. We start talking a lot more, and it becomes clear that Tony likes me too.One day, Tony literally begs me to go on a date with him.“Aria, I believe it’s time to take our relationship to the next level.”What did he say? Next level?“What do you mean?”“I want you to be my girlfriend.”His direct statement takes me aback.“Girlfriend? Uhm, Tony, I—”“—please Aria, don’t say no. You know we’re meant to be together.”Yes, we do have a lot of things in common, but I feel like things are moving quite swiftly. I take some time to reflect on his proposal and then I think to myself that if I don’t give it a try, then maybe I’ll never ever be ready in life. At least, I can give it a try.Nonetheless, his sincerity and eagerness are e
ARIA’S POVRegis' outburst makes me angry, igniting a surge of irrational frustration. When he accuses me of dating Tony instead of him, my emotions boil over. I respond with a firmness that surprises even me, affirming, “Yes, I am dating Tony and not you. You should respect my choice!”My words leave no room for ambiguity, and the sharpness in my voice resonates with my anger.Tony’s reaction is immediate; his face lights up with happiness, his eyes sparkling with a mixture of relief and joy. Regis, on the other hand, looks defeated. His shoulders slump, and he walks away with his head down, the weight of rejection evident in his posture. The scene leaves me feeling a mix of satisfaction and guilt, knowing I’ve hurt a friend but also standing firm in my decision.As the date continues, Tony’s elation is seen. He talks about how happy he is and how much he likes me, his words pouring out in a stream of genuine enthusiasm.“Aria, I didn’t expect this guy to be here, but I’m glad you st
ARIA’S POVWhen Stella finds out that I’m dating Tony, her reaction is immediate and vehement. Her disapproval is palpable, and it surprises me how strongly she feels about it. She insists that dating Tony is a bad idea, citing his massive and obsessive fandom as a significant concern.“Come on, Aria. I had warned you about his female followers! How could you date him.”Stella’s words ignite a rebellious streak within me. I firmly believe that dating Tony wouldn’t hurt, and I’m not willing to let her dissuade me. The rebelliousness I feel is empowering. For so long, I’ve been cautious and restrained, but now, with Tony, I’m embracing a new sense of freedom.“Why should our private life matter to the public? Any way, Tony doesn’t care about them. He says it’s none of their business.”“Still… You have to be cautious and keep your affair private.”Stella tries to change my mind, but my resolve is unwavering. Seeing that I won’t budge, she shifts her approach and asks me to keep our relat
ARIA’S POVAs I move forward, I’m prepared to face whatever comes my way. The journey with Tony is just beginning, and I’m ready to embrace the highs and lows that come with it. Stella’s warnings and the legal issues with Tania are part of the landscape, but they don’t define my life. I choose to focus on the love and happiness I’ve found, trusting that I can navigate the challenges with strength and resilience.In the end, I’m driven by the belief that true happiness is worth fighting for, and I’m ready to take on the world to protect what I’ve found with Tony. The road ahead may be uncertain, but with determination and love, I’m confident that we can overcome any obstacle and build a future together.“We don’t want to interfere in your private life, but this guy isn’t right for you.”When Neal confronts me about dating Tony, I can feel the weight of his disapproval pressing down on me. He heard from Stella, and now my family is buzzing with concern and opposition.“We don’t want you
ADAM’S POVWhen I enter the café, my heart sinks as I spot Aria with a guy, their hands intertwined and their faces alight with laughter. A surge of jealousy grips me, burning through my veins. I had never gone on dates with Aria before, and now here she is, openly affectionate with someone else. The sight feels like a punch to the gut, and I can’t hold back. I march over to them, my emotions bubbling over."So, now you're into guys like him?"Without thinking, I blurt out, my voice is laced with bitterness, and I instantly regret the words. Aria's eyes flash with anger, and she sneers at me, asking who else she would be into."Then you mean I should be in a guy like you?"She spits back, her words like a slap across my face. Her contempt stings, and I feel the sting of humiliation.Desperation and anger cloud my judgement as I start to berate her date, telling her that a guy like him is no good for her. I ignore the man’s presence, focusing solely on Aria, trying to get through to he
ARIA’S POVAfter leaving the café that day, I feel a whirlwind of emotions. My encounter with Adam has left me unsettled. When the anger in me subsides, I finally decide it’s time to be honest about my past.“He’s my ex-husband. I feel bad for not telling you before and I didn’t know he would be here.”Taking a deep breath, I finally tell Tony about my divorce from Adam. I apologize for not sharing this with him sooner and brace myself for his reaction, uncertain of how he will take the news. My heart pounds as I watch his face for any sign of disappointment or shock.To my surprise, Tony remains calm and composed, his expression unchanged. He simply nods, his eyes filled with understanding and compassion, making me feel a sense of relief and gratitude.“I don’t care about your past. I love you with my heart.”He simply says that what happened in the past stayed in the past and assures me that he loves only me.This declaration catches me off guard. It's the first time Tony has said h
ARIA’S POVAnother day, yet another date. I can’t recall going on dates like this and I am loving each and every moment of it.This time, Tony and I are at a fine-dining restaurant, enjoying the elegance of the evening. The ambiance is perfect, with soft music playing and candlelight casting a warm glow over the table. For once, I feel relaxed and happy, savoring the moment with Tony.Out of nowhere, chaos erupts. Tania, wild-eyed and furious, storms into the restaurant, her voice shrill and filled with venom. She brandishes a knife, charging at me with an intensity that sends a chill down my spine."You slut! I’ll kill you! You had Regis, and now you’re dating another guy? Fucking slut!"The restaurant falls silent, and all eyes turn towards us. Panic grips me as I see Tania’s crazed expression and the gleam of the knife. But before I can react, Tony steps in front of me, shielding me with his body. Tania lunges, and the next few seconds feel like an eternity.Tony takes the brunt of
ARIA’S POVTony is fine and quickly discharged from the hospital. The doctors assure me that his wound is not severe, and he can go home to rest. Relieved, I help him to the car, feeling a mixture of gratitude and guilt. I feel an overwhelming sense of guilt, as if I've put his life in danger, just as I did for Stella, Adam, and Regis in some inexplicable way.Tania's attack has landed her back in jail, and this time, she won’t be able to post bail. There’s a sense of justice served, but the incident has left a lasting impact on me.Although it's a small victory, but at least is a significant one.As I drive Tony back to his house, I can't help but feel a deep sense of appreciation for his bravery and the air is filled with a sense of calm. Tony leans back in his seat, looking out the window."Thank you for everything."His voice is sincere and soft. I smile at him, grateful for his presence in my life."I'll visit you soon."I promise, while trying to keep my voice steady despite the