third time's a charm

25

Win remained stunned, his eyes blinking rapidly as Bright helped him to his feet. "You're here..." he mumbled, barely registering the words himself.

Bright's smile held a depth of meaning. "I'm here," he affirmed.

Before Win could gather his thoughts or inquire about Bright's well-being since their tumultuous breakup, a voice shattered the moment with a bold declaration. "Is this Bright's Win?"

All eyes turned to a woman of elegant stature, barely fifty years old. Her brown hair framed a face reminiscent of her son's, with doe-like eyes and a slender frame. Yet, there was an aura of authority about her that commanded attention. Even Cleopatra would have been envious of her presence.

"I'm Isabelle Cassel, and my son hardly did you justice in his description. Goodness, you're even more handsome in person!" Isabelle exclaimed, taking both of Win's hands. At that moment, Win felt a magical charm enveloping him, as if he were touched by an angel. So, this was Bright's mother?! he quickly realized.

"Now, I know this wedding isn't about you and Bright, and you can hang out with your friends later on. But first, you have to meet a lot of really old people, including my husband," Isabelle said with a warm smile as she looked into Win's eyes. Despite his initial hesitation, Win couldn't bring himself to refuse her invitation. Glancing helplessly at his friends, who waved encouragingly, Win couldn't shake the feeling of apprehension. Beside him, Bright pretended not to notice Win's inner turmoil. Did Bright tell his mom about their breakup? Win wondered, unsure if now was the appropriate time to bring it up.

A resounding NO blared next to his brain.

In just a few minutes, Win found himself face-to-face with Kieran Lee Cassel. Despite Win's unfamiliarity with Kieran---he was more accustomed to following celebrities with dirty secrets---Kieran's welcoming demeanor instantly put him at ease. The Cassel family exuded warmth and genuine kindness, mirroring their son Bright's demeanor and good looks.

Kieran Lee Cassel stood tall and dignified, with an air of quiet authority that commanded respect. Despite being in his fifties, he possessed a timeless handsomeness that seemed untouched by the passage of years. His stature was imposing yet approachable, his presence filling the room effortlessly. With chiseled features softened by age, Kieran's face bore the marks of a life well-lived, lined with wisdom and experience. Yet, it was his warm, sweet smile that truly captivated those around him, radiating kindness and understanding despite his authoritative demeanor. Tall and impeccably groomed, Kieran exuded an aura of confidence that drew others to him like moths to a flame.

"So, Win..." Kieran began, his voice carrying a hint of excitement. "Do you play golf?"

Bright let out a resigned sigh. "Dad..."

"What? I'm just excited since you always mention Win," Kieran explained with a chuckle.

Win was taken aback by this revelation. "He does?"

"Oh yes, he does! Win this, Win that, Win like this, Win like that!" Kieran laughed heartily, his laughter echoing alongside Isabelle's. When Win glanced at Bright, he found the man blushing in embarrassment. It was endearing, seeing this side of Bright that he hadn't been privy to before. "At this point, I wouldn't be surprised if his whole penthouse suite is filled with your photos and everything that you like."

The warmth in Kieran's tone and the genuine laughter shared among the family members eased any lingering tension, and Win couldn't help but smile at the affectionate banter.

"I'm sorry about my parents..." Bright whispered beside him as his parents turned to speak with another guest.

"You haven't told them yet that we broke up?" Win inquired softly, but before he could receive an answer, Bright pulled away, his attention diverted by a familiar face approaching their table.