Tous les chapitres de : Chapitre 171 - Chapitre 180

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 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 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.

ARIA’S POVI meet Stella in our usual café, the cozy little place we’ve frequented for years. The familiar scent of freshly brewed coffee and pastries fills the air, offering a comforting backdrop to our conversation. As we settle into our corner booth, I decide to share something that's been on my mind. I inform Stella that I’ve been talking to Tony. Her eyes widen with surprise, a hint of curiosity sparking within them.“Wow! You’re both dating?”Stella’s initial reaction is to assume that Tony and I are dating. She raises an eyebrow, her expression a mix of intrigue and mild concern. I can see the wheels turning in her head, trying to piece together this unexpected news.“Not at all.”I quickly clarify that we’re just sending texts like friends, nothing more. The tension in her shoulders eases, and she leans back into her seat, visibly relieved.As I explain, I sense her surprise. Stella confesses that she doesn’t really know Tony that well. She describes him as some new model with

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