The living room felt like a safe haven. But as they were guided into the dining room, where dinner was set, she was introduced to his aunt.
His aunt was an middle aged woman in her fifties, with sharp eyes and a well-maintained exterior. Her smile seemed genuine, but there was a certain coldness to her gaze that made the air between them shift. She extended a hand to her, and Bella shook it, offering a polite smile.
"It's so nice to finally meet you," his aunt said, her tone cool but not unfriendly. "I've heard quite a bit about you."
Before she could respond, his mother chimed in, her voice full of warmth. "We're just glad to have everyone together. It's been a long time since we've had a proper family dinner."
Bella sat at the long dining table, her hands resting on her lap as she stole glances at the elegantly decorated room. Lucas's parents, Alessandra and Matteo, were warm and welcoming, their smiles genuine as they talked about their life in the countryside. Bella could see the love they shared....a silent understanding in their glances and affectionate touches.
Vivian, Lucas's aunt, however, was a stark contrast. Dressed in a sophisticated dark gown, her every word dripped with subtle condescension. She looked at Bella with polite curiosity, her eyes assessing every detail, from Bella's simple yet elegant dress to the way she interacted with Lucas.
The dinner began with Alessandra serving the appetizers, her laughter filling the room as she shared stories about Lucas's childhood. Bella smiled at the anecdotes, occasionally exchanging soft glances with Lucas. Matteo joined in, teasing Lucas about his rebellious teenage years, and the atmosphere felt light, almost comforting.
But then Vivian spoke, her voice smooth and calculated. "Bella," she began, setting down her wine glass with precision, "Lucas mentioned you're a single mother," his aunt said, her voice almost too casual as she passed the bread basket to her. "Must be a lot of work raising a child on your own. How do you manage?"
The question itself wasn't offensive, but the way it was asked made her feel like she was being scrutinized. She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, but tried to brush it off with a smile. "It's definitely not easy, but I manage. I've had to be strong for her."
Vivian nodded slowly, her lips pursed. "I can imagine. Raising a child is never easy. Though, I've heard some people are just… incredibly fortunate to find someone willing to provide for them."
Her tone remained polite but carried an undercurrent of skepticism. "It must be nice to be with someone as accomplished as Lucas. I imagine he ensures a very comfortable lifestyle."
Sensing the shift in atmosphere, Alessandra interjected, her voice warm. "Bella, why don't you tell us more about your work? Lucas has mentioned how dedicated you are."
Vivian, however, wasn't ready to let the conversation shift. She leaned forward slightly, her words laced with thinly veiled judgment. "It's wonderful that you've caught Lucas's attention. He's such a remarkable man. But, you know, relationships built on convenience can be… complicated. One has to be sure it's not just about the benefits."
Bella's smile faltered briefly, but she quickly composed herself. "Lucas has been incredibly supportive," she replied softly. "He makes everything easier."
Vivian's lips curled into a slight smirk. "I suppose sacrifices are inevitable when you're with someone like him. After all, it's not every day that a woman finds herself with a man so… successful."
The subtle implication hit Bella like a blow. Her heart sank, though she maintained her calm demeanor, nodding slightly as she sipped her water. She could almost hear the unspoken meanings behind those words.
His aunt was implying that she was just another woman trying to get her hands on a man of wealth. A gold digger, in a way...though she never said it outright.
The implication was clear, and Bella felt a knot tighten in her stomach. She glanced at Lucas, who reached out to grab her hand. His face was not showing any emotions but his eyes held anger in them. She felt ashamed to even look at his eyes, after what his aunt said.
The implication that she might be using Lucas for his wealth stung, and Bella felt a rush of emotions.....embarrassment, anger, and a wave of insecurity. Unable to bear the pressure, she excused herself, claiming she needed a moment to freshen up. She jerked off his hands and quickly ran out of the dinning room.
In the restroom, Bella leaned against the sink, taking deep breaths to calm herself. She stared at her reflection, trying to steady the tears that threatened to spill. How could someone be so harsh? She didn't want to be judged based on her past or her current circumstances.
Lucas found her a few minutes later, concern etched on his face. "Bella, are you okay?" he asked softly.
"I just… I needed a moment," she replied, her voice shaking slightly. He stepped closer, searching her eyes. "I'm so sorry about her. She can be...."
"A lot," Bella finished, letting out a shaky breath. "I just felt so out of place."
"I'll handle my aunt. Just remember that I care about you, not what anyone else thinks." Lucas said firmly, cupping her face in his hands.