With a steely resolve, Ethan looked his father in the eye and unleashed his truth. "Dad, I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I'm not in love with Allison," he declared, his voice laced with frustration. "I never wanted to be rude to you, which is why I decided to stay for the weekend. But I can't pretend anymore. I have feelings for someone else, and it's not Allison. I know the pool party was made to bring us together, but I don't like her, Dad."Mr. Whitlock's face contorted, a mix of anger, disappointment, and confusion. His grip tightened on his emotions as he struggled to process Ethan's revelation. Allison's parents exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of concern and surprise.Ethan turned towards Allison, his voice filled with a mixture of regret and determination. "Allison, I'm sorry, but it just won't work between us," he said, his words carrying a weight of finality. "Whatever plans our parents had for us, they won't lead to a happy relationship. You deserv
Ethan's expression turned serious as he revealed his inner conflict to Camila. "I had plans for us this weekend, but I put them on hold out of respect for my dad," he confessed. "He insisted that I stay for the entire weekend. However, I can't continue sacrificing my own peace and happiness for the sake of pleasing others."Camila's eyes widened with understanding, sensing the weight of Ethan's words. She found herself at a loss for what to say, her gaze locked with his as she absorbed the complexity of the situation.Mr. Whitlock found himself at a loss for words as Ethan had walked out, leaving a heavy silence in his wake. He turned to Mr. Adamson, his eyes filled with regret, and spoke with a tone of genuine apology. "I'm truly sorry for everything that has transpired. I never intended for things to unfold this way."Mr. Adamson, with a mix of empathy and understanding, reassured Mr. Whitlock. "This is not your fault, my friend. The in-law plans not working out is beyond your contr
As both families remained seated, their eyes fixed on Ryan and Allison locked in their heartfelt embrace, Mr. Whitlock leaned towards Mr. Adamson, a suggestion forming on his lips. "You know, Adamson," he began, his tone low and conspiratorial, "considering how much Ryan cares for Allison, perhaps you should consider him as a potential son-in-law. It's clear he would dote on her, and treat her like a precious gem. And judging by Allison's response, it seems she may very well fall for him too."A smile spread across Mrs. Adamson's face, her eyes sparkling with joy. She wasted no time in responding to Mr. Whitlock's comment. "Oh, I couldn't agree more," she exclaimed, her voice filled with warmth. "Ryan is exactly the kind of man I've always envisioned for our daughter. I've longed for her to find someone who would cherish and protect her."Mr. Adamson nodded thoughtfully, considering the situation before speaking his mind. "I like him too, Well then," he declared, a note of finality in
Ethan nodded, a sense of relief washing over him. "Alright, thanks. Please let Camila know that I'll be back for her in a few minutes," he requested, his tone filled with a mix of determination and longing.Amelia nodded in agreement, assuring him, "Of course, Ethan. I'll make sure she knows."With a final smile, Ethan turned and walked away. After Ethan left for his mom's room, Amelia cautiously turned the doorknob of the spare room and entered. Inside, she found Camila rummaging through her bag, selecting clothes for their impending departure. Camila, sensing Amelia's presence, turned her neck and greeted her with a warm smile. "Hey, Amelia! What's up?" Camila asked curiously.Amelia, intrigued by Camila's actions, inquired, "What are you doing, Camila?"With a hint of excitement in her voice, Camila replied, "Oh, Ethan and I are actually leaving the villa.""Oh, He mentioned it to me a few minutes ago near the door," Amelia recalled and nodded, understanding the situation. Curi
Ethan mirrored his mother's smile, a mix of excitement and fondness in his expression. Taking a deep breath, he mustered the courage to share his news. "Mom, I wanted to let you know that I'll be leaving with Camila," he revealed, his voice filled with a mixture of anticipation and a touch of apprehension.As Ethan shared his decision to leave with Camila, Mrs. Whitlock's posture shifted, and she slowly sat up on the bed. Her eyes were fixated on her son, filled with a mix of curiosity and a mother's unwavering love. Sensing his mother's gaze upon him, Ethan met her eyes, recognizing the significance of her presence in this pivotal moment.With a gentle yet determined voice, Mrs. Whitlock made her request, "Ethan, bring Camila to my room. I would like to meet the woman who has captured your heart."Ethan's brows furrowed slightly, a hint of confusion mingling with his affection for his mother. "Mom, is this about marrying someone you choose like Dad did with Allison?" he inquired, see
Amelia, observing the scene with a gentle smile, offered some advice to Camila. "Remember, when you're talking to your boyfriend's mom, always remember to smile. Trust me, I've been in your shoes before," she shared, her tone reassuring. Camila nodded, appreciating the guidance. "Yes, Ma'am Amelia," she responded respectfully.With a lighthearted laugh, Ethan interjected, breaking the momentary tension. "Come on, let's go," he said, his voice brimming with affection. Hand in hand, Ethan and Camila walked out of the spare room, their steps filled with excitement and anticipation, as they made their way towards Mrs. Whitlock's room.As they reached Mrs. Whitlock's door room, a sense of nervousness fluttered within Camila's chest. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. Ethan squeezed her hand reassuringly, offering her silent encouragement. With a newfound determination, Camila mustered a confident smile, ready to face this important meeting with Ethan's mother.Ethan r
Camila nodded, her expression open and honest. "Yes, that's correct," she confirmed, her voice carrying a touch of humility. The room seemed to hold a newfound sense of understanding as Mrs. Whitlock processed the information, connecting the dots between Camila's background and the person sitting before her.Mrs. Whitlock's eyes widened with a mix of surprise and delight upon hearing Camila's response. She leaned forward, her voice filled with genuine curiosity. "Did you attend the opening of the Whitlock branch restaurant company in Mexico? I remember seeing your dad there since your dad was invited," she inquired, her tone carrying a sense of excitement.Camila nodded, a soft smile gracing her lips as she recalled the cherished memory. "Yes, four years ago. We attended as a family, as my father received an invitation," she confirmed, her voice filled with warmth.A flicker of recognition danced across Mrs. Whitlock's face as she connected the dots. "Your father and I were classmates
Ethan and Camila settled into a booth, their eyes scanning the menu filled with mouthwatering options. The waiter approached their table, greeting them with a friendly smile."What can I get you both?" the waiter asked, his voice polite and attentive.Ethan looked at Camila, a playful glint in his eyes. "How about we start with some appetizers?" he suggested, his voice tinged with excitement. "And maybe we can share a couple of entrees too."Camila nodded, her stomach rumbling in agreement. "That sounds perfect," she replied, her voice filled with anticipation.They ordered a variety of dishes, indulging in their favorite cuisines. As the waiter brought out each plate, their taste buds danced with delight. They savored every bite, engaging in lighthearted conversation and stolen glances.The restaurant buzzed with the joyous atmosphere of satisfied customers, the clinking of cutlery, and the hum of conversations creating a pleasant backdrop.By the time they finished their meal, both