Bernard's brother, Michael, notorious for his womanizing ways, had a reputation for relentlessly pursuing beautiful women and breaking their hearts after having his way with them.
With chiseled features and piercing eyes, Michael was just as handsome as his brother, Bernard. There striking resemblance, captivating and leaving many to ponder which sibling wore the title of most handsome.
Following his parents divorce when Bernard was twenty six years old, he took a sense of responsibility, ensuring his Mom and brother financial stability through diligent hard work, wise investments, as he worked as a manager in a reputable hotel in Wimland for years.
Through sheer determination and entrepreneurial spirit, Bernard single-handedly built his own hotet from scratch; he also invested in his brother's clothing business.
As soon as Bernard's business took off and he began earning substantial income, he lovingly insisted that his Mom retire from her demanding job.
Bernard ensures their mother's financial well-being by setting up a monthly payment support system, providing her with a steady income to maintain her lifestyle.
After enduring the painful betrayal of her husband's infidelity, Bernard's Mom ended her marriage with Bernard's father six years ago. She made a resolute decision to prioritized her own healing and happiness, refusing to remarry and instead focusing on rebuilding her life and nurturing her children.
Bernard decided to keep Zoe's Pregnancy a secret from his family, he chose to privately ask Zoe to be his wife, although he had declared her as his wife to his family without her consent.
His desire to share the pregnancy news with his family was tempered by his concern for Zoe's feelings, fearing that she might react with dismay.
Lucy, the chef, stepped forward and declared that dinner was ready.
At Bernard's request, Lucy took great care in preparing a sumptuous dinner.
As Lucy turned, her gaze fell upon Zoe sitting intimately close to Bernard, their shoulders almost touching, and for a fleeting moment, Lucy's heart sank as she realized her secret crush might be lost to the captivating Zoe by his side.
Lucy's long-held fascination with Bernard was shattered when she learned that Zoe, an enigmatic guest, held a special place in his heart, leaving Lucy to reevaluate her own feelings.
'I'm done pining for Bernard, it's time to channel my energy into my job.' Lucy declared. 'What was I even thinking, I'm not his type of woman, not even close, I'm just a chef.' Lucy thought to herself.
"Oh, you've set the table beautifully, chef!" Bernard's Mom exclaimed as her voice interrupted Lucy's thoughts.
"Thank you ma'am." the chef, Lucy, smiled, pleased with the compliment.
Bernard's Mom helped with the final touches.
With a warm smile and lively chatter Bernard with his family and Zoe converged around the stunning dining table, eager to have their dinner and have some memorable evening.
As they sat and had their dinner, Zoe was warmly queried by Bernard's Mom, who posed thoughtful questions about her life.
Sara, Bernard's Mom, curiosity sparkling in her eyes, turned to Zoe and asked.
"Do you have a job, dear, or are you currently pursuing further education?"
Knowing she'd be the center of attention, Zoe had mentally prepared herself for the usual question about her job, hobbies and interests.
The dinner conversation brought back memories of when Zoe's ex-husband introduced her to his Mother, where she faced similar inquiries, but this time, with Bernard's family, she felt a more authentic and welcoming atmosphere.
"Currently, I hold the position of secretary at a small enterprise company, handling day-to-day operations" Zoe responded.
"Oh, I see." Bernard's Mom, Sarah said, scooping a forkful of pasta salad from her plate. "Your job as a secretary must be stressful, handling multiple tasks and responsibilities daily."
"Although the workload is demanding, I make it a point to fulfill my daily responsibilities and meet expectations." Zoe explained.
Before Zoe's arrival, Bernard had already informed his Mom that Zoe had gone through a divorce, so she was gentle with her inquiries.
Zoe's palms grew sweaty as she braced herself for Ben's Mom's next question. She felt a surge of nervousness, worrying that Ben's Mom would probe into her past and ask about her marital history.
Zoe had no idea that Bernard had previously informed his Mom about her marital past, and she worried about being grilled.
Zoe picked up her fork and took a bite of the delicious pasta, momentarily distracting herself from her nerves.
Bernard's Mom cleared her throat. "So Zoe, do you love my son Bernard?" She asked.
The question caught Zoe off guard, leaving her with cold feet and a racing mind.
Bernard's eyes swung towards Zoe, his eyes locked intently on hers, awaiting her response to his Mom's question.
Love for Bernard swelled in Zoe's chest, but she refused to let her guard down, fearing weakness.
The emotional scars from her ex-husband's manipulation and control had left Zoe with a deep-seated fear of weakness, especially when it came to showing her love.
Zoe's thoughts drifted back to Bernard's kindness and the unforgettable night he made love to her, his tender touch igniting a flame that still warmed her heart.
Turning to face Bernard, with a tender smile. "Yes, I love him." Zoe finally let her guard down as she responded.
As Zoe spoke the words Bernard longed to hear, his face aglow with a bright, beaming smile.
"Good to hear." Bernard's Mom said. She looked Zoe straight in the eye. "I don't joke when it comes to my sons, I want the best for them." She declared, still looking Zoe straight in the eyes.
Bernard's Mom paused, took a delicate sip from her glass of fruit whine, and dabbed her lips with a serviette and continued.
"I don't want a woman who will break my son's heart, I want a woman who will love and cherish him forever."
"How about your parents, Zoe?" Sarah asked.
"They are both late, they died in a car accident, I only have one sibling, my sister." Zoe responded.