MY BILLIONAIRE HUSBAND (Sandro Marcos)

Chapter 24: Question of Truth

The evening air was crisp and refreshing as Isabella and Alexander strolled through a charming downtown district. They had decided to spend their Saturday exploring local shops and enjoying a quiet dinner at a cozy bistro. Their relationship had evolved into something genuine and heartfelt, and they relished these moments of normalcy and togetherness.

As they walked hand in hand, Alexander's phone buzzed with a message. He glanced at the screen and smiled, recognizing the name of his cousin, Matthew. The message read, "Hey, I'm in town. Mind if I join you for dinner? Heard about your new relationship—curious to see if it's the real deal."

Alexander hesitated for a moment before responding. He had always had a close relationship with Matthew, but the timing of this visit seemed unexpected. He typed back, "Sure, join us if you're nearby. We'd love to see you."

Isabella noticed Alexander's brief distraction and inquired, "Everything alright?"

Alexander looked at her with a reassuring smile. "Yes, just my cousin Matthew. He's in town and wants to meet up. It could be nice to catch up with him."

As they continued their walk, they approached the bistro where they had planned to dine. The warm glow of the restaurant's lights was inviting, and the aroma of delicious food wafted through the air. Just as they entered, Matthew arrived, looking slightly out of breath but excited.

"Alexander! Isabella!" Matthew greeted them with a broad smile. "It's great to see you both."

"Matthew, good to see you!" Alexander said as he embraced his cousin. "We were just about to sit down. Join us?"

"Absolutely," Matthew replied, following them inside. They found a cozy corner table, and after ordering drinks, the conversation turned to catching up on life.

Matthew was quick to address the elephant in the room. "So, Alexander, Isabella, I've been hearing all sorts of things. I'm curious—how serious is this relationship? I know there were some arrangements involved, and I just want to understand if this is the real deal or if it's part of the arrangement."

Isabella and Alexander exchanged a glance. The question was direct, but it was one they had anticipated.

Alexander took a deep breath before responding. "Matthew, I understand your concern. When this all began, it was indeed part of an arrangement due to the circumstances we were in. But over time, things have changed. Our feelings for each other have developed into something real and genuine."

Isabella nodded in agreement, her expression earnest. "When we first met, there were external pressures and expectations. But through everything, we've grown to care deeply for each other. What we have now is not just a result of the arrangement; it's a relationship built on true affection and mutual respect."

Matthew listened intently, his expression thoughtful. "I appreciate your honesty. It's important to me that you're both happy. I've seen the challenges you've faced, and I'm glad to hear that you've found something real amidst all of that."

The conversation shifted to lighter topics as they enjoyed their meal, but the discussion about their relationship had left a lasting impression. Matthew's acceptance and support were reassuring, and it further solidified the authenticity of their bond.

As the evening drew to a close, Matthew expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to spend time with them. "It's been great catching up and hearing about how things are going. I wish you both all the best in this new chapter of your lives."

Alexander and Isabella walked Matthew to the door, where they exchanged farewells. As they returned to their table, Isabella looked at Alexander with a soft smile.

"I'm glad we had the chance to talk with Matthew," she said. "It feels good to have his support and understanding."

Alexander took her hand in his, his gaze filled with affection. "Me too. It was important for us to clarify that what we have is real. And it's reassuring to know that those closest to us see it that way."

As they finished their meal and left the bistro, they walked together through the streets, the evening illuminated by streetlights and the soft hum of city life. The sense of normalcy and connection they felt was a testament to their growth as a couple and their ability to navigate the complexities of their situation.

The night sky stretched above them, and the world seemed full of possibilities. With their relationship affirmed and supported by those they cared about, Isabella and Alexander looked forward to the future with hope and excitement. Their journey had been marked by challenges, but their love and commitment to each other provided a foundation for a bright and promising future.