After taking a nice long bath, Cindy wore Mrs. Robinson's dress, it wasn't quite the size but she managed.
Mrs. Robinson: Cindy come it's time to eat!
There was an empty seat beside Alex and one beside Carla, she sat beside Carla and drank a glass of water. Carla glanced at her son, who was busy drying the wet plates.
Carla: Here I've cooked all your favorite dishes! Start with the lobster.
Carla gave a cute smile as she served her.
The table was full of Cindy's favorite dishes; sweet chicken, potato curry,lobster and meatballs.
Cindy: Aunt Carla, why did you prepare so many foods, I already ate steak at around 7 pm.
Saying this Cindy recalled the kiss..she looked at Alex but his face had no reaction hearing about the restaurant as if he doesn't remember. Cindy clenched her fist which Carla noticed. She held her hand and asked her in calm voice, "is everything alright?"
Cindy looked at her in surprise, 'did she notice me?'
Mrs.Robinson: we can talk later about this finish your dinner first ok?
Cindy nodded like a guilty cat and carried on.
***
After Olivia and Owen fell asleep, Matthew tucked them in bed and went to the balcony.
The slightly chilly wind blew his hair away from his face showing his eyes full of despair.
Matthew whispered to himself "when will you acknowledge my feelings Cindy?"
He threw a punch on the rails in frustration. He closed his eyes and felt the wind on his cheek.
***
After finishing dinner Alex went back to his room while Cindy and Carla went to the balcony to catch up.
Carla: The weather is wonderful tonight. Nature knows I was reunited with my little Cindy after 8 years.
Cindy smiled softly. Indeed the weather was wonderful. There were no clouds in the sky and it was full moon.
Cindy: I missed you Aunt Carla..
Carla: you used to call me Mommy Carla..
Cindy's heart ached from her words.
Cindy: it hurt me a lot..
Carla: I know.
They stood there silently for a moment till Carla changed the topic.
Carla: so how's your life going did you meet someone new?
She hoped a No from Cindy but she felt it was too selfish of her.
Cindy: No..
Carla was surprised from her answer. Cindy continued.
Cindy: I did meet a guy who really likes me, but I don't feel anything for him.
Carla: I see..
Cindy thought she shouldn't tell her about her kids, 'it's better this way.'
Carla: Alex didn't go for anyone either.
Cindy's eyes widened but she didn't show much reaction and casually asked, "what about that girl?"
Carla: you still believe that?
Cindy didn't answer and looked at a distant.
After staying silent for a while Carla asked, "how's your mother?"
Cindy: she has been sick since dad died.
Carla: it must be very hard on her..I'll visit her someday.
Cindy smiled at Carla teasingly.
Carla: what.. I know we didn't get along much but still she gave birth to an amazing daughter.
Cindy chuckled hearing her reply. She leaned her head on Carla's shoulder, "I missed you mom.."
Carla patted her head, "I missed you too. Just know, you're not alone ok? You have me by your side."
Cindy nodded with a big smile.
Carla: Now let's go to sleep, you must be tired.
Cindy: ok!