Julia sighed softly, her fingers nervously intertwining. She met Ariana's gaze, her eyes reflecting uncertainty and hesitation. "No, Ariana," she replied, her voice laced with a hint of sadness, "I don't think I like him."Ariana furrowed her brows, studying Julia intently. "Then why are you feeling so conflicted? If you don't like him, what's causing all this internal struggle?" she pressed, concerned for her friend.Julia took a deep breath, her shoulders slumping slightly as she prepared to share her inner turmoil. "I understand why you might think that Ariana, but it's not about me liking him," she explained, her voice softening. "It's just... complicated."Ariana leaned in closer, her curiosity growing. "Complicated? How so?"Julia's gaze dropped to her hands, her fingers tracing invisible patterns on her lap. "Well, it's true that Kelvin has expressed his interest in me," she began, her voice wavering, "but there are other factors at play. I know him well, and I care about our b

As the meal came to an end, Mateo playfully inquired if there was more. Ariana shook her head, a playful pout forming on her lips, and revealed that it was all finished. Mateo couldn't help but express his enjoyment of being fed by her, earning a radiant smile from Ariana. "You're really funny," she remarked, appreciating his lightheartedness.Curiosity sparked within Mateo as he turned his attention to her baby bump. Concern and excitement danced in his eyes as he asked Ariana about their little one's well-being. Ariana's face lit up, and she shared the joyful news that their baby was doing well. She confessed that she had forgotten to mention that the baby had started kicking so slightly.A sense of wonder on Mateo's face, as his smile grows wider. "Wow," he exclaimed. "I love that."Ariana's smile lingered as they continued their conversation, discussing various topics that bridged the gap between them. Their words intertwined effortlessly, weaving shared experiences and dreams. T

A hushed understanding settled over the room, a collective empathy for Ava's need for respite. Vera, knowing that Ava needed space, nodded softly. "Of course, darling," she said, her voice filled with love and acceptance.As Ava stood there, her gaze locked with Mateo's, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity. She settled herself down on one of the couches, her eyes still fixed on him. "Who is he?" she inquired, her voice filled with curiosity. "He looks really familiar". Ava's gaze intensified, her brow furrowing as she tried to recall where she had seen him before. Then, in a sudden burst of realization, she exclaimed, "Mateo Luca-Hendrix?!"All eyes turned to Ava, their expressions of surprise and amusement. Ariana glanced at Mateo, then back at her sister. "Yes, Ava he is," she confirmed, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "Mateo is my boyfriend." Ava's astonishment was both shock and happiness as she continued to stare at Mateo, her eyes wide with disbelief. "I c

Vera's gaze turned distant as she was transported back in time, her mind traversing the painful memories. She began to recount the tragic events, the words flowing from her lips in a hushed, haunted tone.*******Flashback*****David Wyatt, Ariana's father, had been a constant source of trouble before Ariana was born. He had a chronic drinking problem and would frequently assault Vera Wyatt, Ariana's mother, whether he was drunk or not. Additionally, he engaged in several violent sexual intimacies with Vera Wyatt, his wife forcing himself on her whenever he wanted. Growing up in this environment, Ariana found it increasingly unsettling. She couldn't understand why her mother never left David, despite Ariana's repeated pleas for her to divorce him and escape from the situation. Vera would dismiss Ariana's concerns with laughter and choose to remain in the marriage.One fateful day, filled with anger, David forcefully entered the house. Ariana's younger sister, little Ava, was just five

Meanwhile, Mateo, with a lighthearted smile on his face, playfully teased himself in the mirror as he dressed. He appreciated Ariana's compliments, finding them endearing and uplifting. Their easy banter and shared moments of affection were the threads that wove their relationship closer together, creating a warm and comforting bond.With a final adjustment to his attire, Mateo rejoined Ariana, who was now fully engrossed in her meal. Emerging from the dressing room, Mateo found Ariana waiting for him, her eyes sparkling. Sensing her eagerness, she inquired, "Are you leaving now?"With a nod, Mateo confirmed, "Yes, I am. Will you be staying at home?"Ariana's expression shifted, a hint of uncertainty crossing her features. "No," she replied softly. "I think I'll go to my fashion home to work. I don't want to be alone in the house."Concern etched onto his face, Mateo gently placed a hand on Ariana's arm. "You should rest at home, my love," he urged. "After our journey, you need time