Selena's expression softened, though the shock was still evident. "Why didn't you tell me earlier?"
"I was afraid," Bella admitted. "I thought I would tell you later once you recovered. I didn't want to add more stress to your situation. But now you know everything. Please trust me, Mamma. Theodore is a good man."
Selena nodded slowly, absorbing the information. However, she was still hesitant to believe her. The idea that Bella had found a kind and caring husband was difficult to accept without proof.
"I want to meet him," she demanded.
Bella nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Of course. I'll bring him."
After spending some time with her mother, Bella exited the hospital and waited for a cab. A motorbike pulled up beside her, and a familiar face emerged.
"Bella!" Joe exclaimed, a grin spreading across his face.
Bella returned his smile. "Joe! What are you doing here?"
