CHAPTER 7

Emma's POV

I stand there, frozen in shock, as Angelo's piercing blue eyes lock onto mine. It's like time has stopped, and all that exists is the two of us, suspended in this moment. I can feel the air thickening with tension, and my heart racing like a wild animal, trying to break free from my chest.

Gabe's voice breaks the silence, "Hey, Angelo, what brings you here?" He sounds casual, but I can sense a hint of curiosity and maybe even a touch of wariness.

Angelo's gaze never leaves mine as he responds, "I heard Emma's back and decided to check if it's actually True." His deep voice sends shivers down my spine, and I feel a flutter in my chest. It's like my body remembers him, remembers the way he used to make me feel.

Gabe raises an eyebrow, "You came all this way just to check on her?" He sounds skeptical, and I can tell he's trying to gauge Angelo's intentions.

Angelo nods, his eyes still fixed on me, "Yes, I did. Is that a problem?" His voice is low and husky, and it sends a shiver down my spine. I feel like I'm drowning in his gaze, like I'm being pulled under by a riptide.

I'm still trying to process what's happening, but my body seems to be reacting on its own. I can feel the connection between us, like an invisible thread pulling us together. It's like no time has passed at all, and we're still those two people who were meant to be together.

I try to speak, but my voice catches in my throat. I clear it, trying again, "Angelo...what are you doing here?" I sound shaky, unsure, but I don't care. I just want to know why he's here, why he's stirring up all these emotions inside me.

Gabe's eyes narrow slightly as he asks, "How did you find out she was here?"

Angelo smirks, "Rumors spread like wildfire. I heard she was in the area and I had to come see for myself if it was true."

I can sense Gabe's unease, his body language screaming that he's not pleased to have Angelo here. But Angelo seems to expect this reaction, his expression calm and collected.

"I knew you two wouldn't be thrilled to see me," Angelo says, his eyes never leaving mine. "But I had to come. I had to see Emma for myself."

Gabe crosses his arms, his jaw clenched. "What do you want, Angelo?"

Angelo's gaze still locked on mine, he responds, "I want to talk to Emma. Make sure she's doing okay."

I feel a surge of emotions, unsure of what to make of Angelo's sudden appearance. But as I look into his eyes, I see something there that gives me pause. A deep concern, a genuine care that I haven't seen in a long time.

"It's fine, Gabe," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. "I can talk to him."

Gabe's eyes flash with uncertainty, but he nods curtly and steps back, allowing Angelo to approach me.

Angelo's eyes never leave mine as he moves closer, his presence filling the space around me. I can feel the tension between us, the unresolved emotions that still simmer just below the surface.

I snap out of my trance-like state, sighing loudly as I shake my head. "Exactly what I didn't need right now," I mutter under my breath.

Angelo's eyes narrow slightly, but he says nothing. I can sense Gabe's gaze on me, concerned, but I avoid his eyes.

"Look, Angelo," I say, trying to sound calm, "I'm thrilled to see you and all, but I really need some space right now."

Angelo's expression softens, and he nods understandingly. "I get it, Emma. But please know that I'm here for you. Whatever you need, I'm here."

I feel a pang of guilt at his words, knowing that he's still holding onto the past, onto us. But I need to focus on finding my children, not rekindling an old flame.

"Thanks, Angelo," I say, trying to sound sincere. "But really, I just need some time to myself right now."

Angelo nods again, his eyes never leaving mine. "I'll give you space, Emma. But know that I'm not going anywhere. I'll be here, waiting for you, when you're ready to talk."

I nod, feeling a mix of emotions: frustration, guilt, and a hint of longing.

"I just want to find my kids and go back to our happy life," I say, trying to hold back tears.

Angelo's eyes widen in surprise as he stared at me. "You have kids?" he asks, his voice laced with disbelief.

Gabe snorts, crossing his arms. "Save it, Angelo. We know you're just here to stir up trouble."

But Angelo's gaze remains fixed on mine, his expression softening. "No, Gabe, I'm not. I knew Emma had kids, but I wanted to hear it from her mouth."

I feel a pang of guilt, realizing that Angelo's been keeping tabs on me. "How did you know?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

Angelo takes a step closer, his eyes locked on mine. "I've been keeping an eye on you, Emma. I knew you left, had kids. I just wanted to hear it from you, to know that you're really happy."

I feel a lump form in my throat as I nod, tears streaming down my face. "I was happy, Angelo. I had everything I wanted. But then my kids got taken from me, and...and now I just want them back." I couldn't Control myself as I sobbed Loudly.

Angelo's face falls, his eyes filled with compassion. "Oh, Emma, I'm so sorry. I had no idea."

I wipe away my tears, trying to compose myself. "I'm fine, Angelo. I can cope. You should probably get going."

Angelo nods, his eyes still filled with concern. "Okay, Emma. But promise me you'll take care of yourself."

I nod, forcing a smile. "I will. Thanks for checking in on me."

We share a hug, a brief moment of comfort, before Angelo pulls away. "Take care, Emma. I'll be thinking of you." he said a Bit Hesitant to walk out of the door

And With that, Angelo turns and walks away, leaving Gabe and me alone once more.

Gabe steps forward, his expression softening.” Thank Goodness His gone" Gave said before Heaving a sigh of Relief.

Gabe sighs, turning to look at me, his eyes searching mine. But I just shake my head, not ready to talk about what just happened.