A VENGEANCE LOVE AFFAIR

CHAPTER 5

Feeling a sense of unease, I decide not to share the mysterious message with Tessa. I don't want to disrupt our time together with unnecessary worry, especially since the message could be a harmless prank or a wrong number. I quickly tuck my phone away and focus on enjoying the rest of our lunch.

Throughout the meal, however, my mind keeps drifting back to the cryptic message. I wonder who could be behind it and what it might mean. Despite my attempts to push it aside, a subtle tension lingers in the air.

As Tessa and I engage in casual conversation, I make a mental note to investigate the unknown message later, away from her watchful eyes. It's clear that someone out there knows about us and is intent on delivering a message, but for now, I choose to keep it hidden, hoping it's just a fleeting oddity that won't impact our time together.

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Spencer chuckles, leaning back in his chair as I spill the details about Tessa and our newfound love. His teasing grin widens with every word. "Well, well, Clyde Aguirre, settling down? Who would've thought? I must say, she's got you wrapped around her finger."

I roll my eyes, half-expecting this reaction from my brother. "Yeah, yeah, save the teasing. She's amazing, and I can't imagine my life without her now."

Spencer raises an eyebrow, his teasing demeanor fading into genuine curiosity. "On a serious note, Clyde, I'm happy for you. Tessa seems like a great woman. Mom and Astra adore her, and Mia can't stop talking about how charming she is."

I nod, appreciating Spencer's sincerity. "Thanks, man. It means a lot. I've never felt this way before. It's different, you know?"

Spencer grins, clinking his glass against mine. "To love, Clyde. May it bring you all the happiness you deserve."

We share a moment of brotherly camaraderie, but as the night progresses, I decide to share the mysterious message with him. Spencer's eyes widen with intrigue as I recount the words: "Enjoy while it lasts."

He raises an eyebrow, his playful demeanor returning. "Well, well, little brother, someone's trying to rain on your parade. Any idea who could be behind this cryptic message?"

I shake my head, a hint of frustration lingering. "No clue. It's from an unknown number. Could be a prank or someone from my past trying to stir trouble."

Spencer leans back, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Ah, the ghosts of Clyde's past. I bet they're just jealous you found someone worth settling down for."

I chuckle, realizing the truth in his words. "Maybe so. But it's unsettling, you know? I don't want anything to jeopardize what Tessa and I have."

Spencer nods in understanding, his expression turning serious. "If it becomes a real concern, you should involve Tessa. She's part of this now, and you two can face it together."

His advice resonates, and I appreciate the wisdom in his words. As we continue talking late into the night, the bond between brothers deepens, and I find solace in Spencer's support.

The weekend approaches, and Tessa and I share a delightful evening at my family's mansion for dinner. The warmth and acceptance from my family make the night memorable. Tessa effortlessly fits into the Aguirre family dynamic, exchanging laughter and stories with everyone.

After dinner, as we stroll through the mansion's elegant gardens, I decide it's the perfect time to share my feelings with Tessa. The moonlight bathes the surroundings in a soft glow, creating a magical atmosphere.

"Tessa," I begin, taking a deep breath, "I want you to know how much you mean to me. My family adores you, and, well, I adore you too."

She smiles, her eyes reflecting the moonlight. "Clyde, I feel the same way. Your family is wonderful, and being here with you feels like a dream."