I Too Had An Unrequited Love Story

22- Bedside Negotiations

Arek and Veronica arrived at the Alden Mansion with a sleeping Natalie nestled in the back seat. The ride had been peaceful, the hum of the engine and the soft conversation lulling the little girl to sleep. As the car rolled to a stop in front of the grand entrance, Veronica carefully unbuckled Natalie, trying not to wake her. Arek, always attentive, quickly exited the driver's seat and came around to help.

"Let me carry her," Arek said softly, his voice barely above a whisper, mindful not to disturb the child. Veronica smiled in gratitude, gently handing Natalie over. She watched as Arek cradled Natalie with a tenderness that still surprised her sometimes, despite everything.

They walked side by side toward the mansion's entrance, their footsteps synchronized in a silent rhythm. Arek pulled out his keycard and swiped it to unlock the door, the faint beep and click breaking the quiet of the evening. As they entered the foyer, the familiar scent of home— a blend of fresh flowers and polished wood—welcomed them.

Arek led Veronica to the living room, where Mr. and Mrs. Alden were cozily settled on the couch, engrossed in a Netflix drama. The soft glow from the television cast a warm light on their faces, and they looked up as Arek and Veronica entered.

"Well, look who's here," Mrs. Alden said, her eyes lighting up as she saw her son and daughter-in-law. She immediately stood and walked over to greet them, her arms outstretched.

Mr. Alden followed, his warm smile mirroring his wife's. "Good to see you both," he said, enveloping Arek in a quick hug before turning to Veronica. Mrs. Alden took Natalie from Arek's arms, and the little girl, still half-asleep, snuggled into her without a fuss.

"She's grown so much in such a little span of time." Mrs. Alden remarked, her voice filled with affection as she gently rocked Natalie. Veronica observed the scene, feeling a mix of emotions—gratitude, comfort, and a lingering sense of unfamiliarity in this household that she was still adjusting to.

A maid appeared silently, carrying a tray of drinks. Veronica, feeling parched, gratefully accepted a glass of water, while Arek declined with a polite shake of his head. The group settled down, and conversation flowed easily. Mr. Alden inquired about Arek's latest projects, his tone one of fatherly pride, while Mrs. Alden engaged Veronica in a lively discussion about her recent trip to France.

As the evening progressed, dinner was announced, and the family moved to the dining room. The table was beautifully set, with an array of dishes that made Veronica's eyes widen in delight—Italian cuisine, her favorite. She couldn't help but smile as she saw the pizzas and spaghetti. Mrs. Alden had clearly gone out of her way to ensure Veronica felt at home.

Veronica eagerly took a seat, and Arek sat beside her, his expression as neutral as ever. She glanced at him, trying to read the blank look on his face, but as usual, he gave nothing away. Deciding not to dwell on it, she turned her attention to the food and began serving herself.

"I hope you like the food, Veronica," Mrs. Alden said, her voice tinged with warmth. "This time, I asked for your favorites."

Veronica looked up, surprised. "You asked my mom?" she inquired, taking a bite of her pizza.

"No, honey," Mrs. Alden replied with a chuckle. "Why should I ask your mom when I have your husband to ask?"

Veronica choked on her food, startled by the casual mention of her 'husband' knowing her preferences. She began coughing violently, and in the next moment, a glass of water was thrust into her hand. She drank it down in hurried gulps, her eyes watering from the effort. When she finally looked up, it was Arek who had handed her the water. The realization that he was always the one to hand her water whenever she choked and he is always the reason she choked on water. He knew her likes and dislikes, left her momentarily speechless.