"Wow," Kelvin's mouth dropped open in disbelief, his excitement mirrored by Mateo's contagious happiness.Kelvin's smile widened with astonishment as he responded to Mateo's love story. "Mateo, I never thought Ariana would actually accept you. It's like a miracle!"Mateo chuckled, happiness and relief in his voice. "I know, right? It's incredible. It just goes to show that Ariana has had feelings for me all along. She just needed time to process them, understand them, and let them bloom."Kelvin's expression softened, his mind racing with thoughts about his own situation. "If that's the case, Mateo, maybe Julia is going through something similar. Maybe she needs time, too."Mateo nodded in agreement, a knowing look in his eyes. "That's exactly what I've been trying to tell you, Kelvin. Sometimes, people need space and time to figure out their own emotions. We can't rush them. We just have to be patient and understanding."Kelvin's voice carried hope and uncertainty. "I really hope it
As the car continued to glide through the bustling streets, Julia's mind swirled with conflicting thoughts. She pondered Clara's words, considering the possibility that her silence and lack of action might have concealed a deeper longing.Julia drove in silence, her thoughts consumed by the ongoing discussion. Clara, sitting beside her, gazed out at the passing road, occasionally stealing glances at Julia, sensing her colleague's unease. After a while, unable to resist the urge to break the silence, Clara turned to Julia and posed a question that had been lingering in her mind. "Julia, are you absolutely certain that this dilemma is about your friend and not about you?" Clara asked, her voice and words filled with curiosity.Taken aback, Julia's eyes widened, and a surprised chuckle escaped her lips, triggering a brief cough. "Come on, Clara," she replied, her voice laced with amusement. "You must be joking. Why would our boss, Kelvin, even be interested in me?" Julia lied dismissing
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
Julia's eyes gleamed with warmth as she reached across the table and squeezed Ariana's hand. "I'm happy for you, Ariana. Love is a beautiful thing, and I can see the happiness it brings to your eyes. Embrace it fully and cherish every moment with Mateo."Ariana's voice carried a hint of vulnerability as she shared her hopes with Julia. "I really hope Mateo doesn't break my heart like my previous exes did," she admitted softly, her eyes searching for reassurance.Julia's gaze softened, her voice filled with sincerity. "I hope that too, Ariana. From what I've seen, Mateo seems different from other guys. He has shown kindness and care for you."Ariana nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yes, exactly. I've noticed the same thing, Julia. There's something about Mateo that sets him apart. It's as if he carries a sense of integrity and loyalty that assures me he won't betray my trust."Julia's eyes sparkled with understanding as she nodded in agreement. "It's rare to
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
After ensuring their customers were taken care of, Vera and Zhang Chen delegated their work to the capable hands of their employees. With their duties momentarily set aside, they led Ariana and Mateo through a door that connected the restaurant to their home, guiding them into the cozy living room. As they settled into the comfortable surroundings, Vera and Zhang Chen turned to face the young couple.Ariana's smile stretched across her face as she looked at Zhang Chen. "It's been too long since we last saw each other," she expressed warmly, gratitude shown in her voice. "Thank you for taking such good care of my mom." Zhang Chen's eyes softened, filled with affection and sincerity. He responded, "Even without you asking, Ariana, I will always take care of the love of my life." His words elicited smiles from everyone present, a joyful smile that filled the room.Vera couldn't help but blush, her gaze fixed lovingly upon Zhang Chen. The depth of their emotions became so obvious, a test
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
After a day filled with joy and celebration, the following morning brought a sense of relaxation and leisure. The restaurant remained closed, granting everyone a carefree day for fun and relaxation. Zhang Chen, ever attentive, made sure Vera's day was enjoyable and memorable.As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow throughout the living room, Vera motioned for Mateo to join her. Ariana had followed Zhang Chen to explore the source of the goods they had obtained, their laughter echoing from a distance, while Ava found solace in her own space.Seated comfortably on the couch, Vera looked at Mateo with curiosity and concern. With a gentle tone, she initiated a heartfelt conversation, her words carrying the weight of a mother's love and care."Mateo, I want to talk to you about something important," Vera began, her eyes filled with warmth. "Ariana shared with me the story of how she became pregnant, and she mentioned your involvement. Are you truly serious about her?"Mateo's gaze me