Chapter 32: A warm welcome
Lila glided into Alexander's mother's lavish estate in Bel Air, adorned in the stunning emerald gown he had gifted her for her birthday. A wave of warmth enveloped her, the air fragrant with lilies and freshly baked pastries, as she reveled in the atmosphere charged with excitement. Pink and blue decorations adorned the walls, celebrating the imminent arrival of their cherished child.
After five years of marriage, their dream of starting a family was finally coming true, and Lila's heart swelled with a love so profound it felt almost overwhelming.
The party pulsed with energy. Laughter echoed as Alexander's cousin, James, and his wife mingled with Lila's closest friends, showering them with joyful wishes.
Amid the festivities, Lila noticed Ethan slipping away, a magnetic pull urging her to follow him. She found him in the moonlit garden, shadows dancing around them.
"I couldn't stay away," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath.
Ethan's arms enveloped her, igniting a warmth that soothed her restless spirit. They kissed, a fervent embrace that spoke of their unspoken desires.
As they broke apart, breathless and electrified, Lila caught a flicker of movement in the shadows—Eleanor. Panic surged through her. What had she seen? But as Eleanor turned to leave, Lila felt a wave of relief wash over her. Taking a deep breath, she rejoined the party, Ethan departing after a brief conversation with Alexander.
"Lila, where have you been? I was looking for you," Alexander said, concern etched on his face as he approached.
"I went outside for some fresh air," she replied, her heart racing as the memory of her near-discovery lingered.
"Are you okay?" he pressed, his worry evident.
"Yes, I am," she reassured him, forcing a smile.
"Great! Let me introduce you to my maternal uncle," he said, wrapping his arm around his pregnant wife, blissfully unaware of the shadows that loomed over their lives.
That night, Lila was showered with an abundance of gifts for her unborn child. Among the many thoughtful presents, her father-in-law surprised her with a luxurious car, a generous gesture for the little one on the way. Friends, family, and her husband also contributed to the celebration, providing a wide array of heartfelt gifts. It was a truly special evening filled with love and excitement for the future.