CHAPTER 41
ARIA’S POV
As we all head to another place, the tension that had gripped us begins to dissipate. Stella and Regis huff in annoyance, their frustration palpable in the air as they reflect on the events that have unfolded since the show ended. Their annoyance says a lot, adding to the turmoil and discord that has marred what was supposed to be a joyous occasion.
Despite their efforts to maintain composure, the strain of the situation is evident in their tense expressions and exasperated sighs. As they struggle with the fallout of the evening’s events, I cannot help but weight of remorse for the role I have played in contributing to their distress.
The weight of my desire for divorce and freedom from the Millers feels heavier than ever, like a suffocating burden I cannot shake off. Every step I take seems to bring the closer to them, like haunting shadows that refuse to release their grip.
In the suffocating confines of our relationship, I have always felt stifled by their expectations and judgements, unable to breathe freely or be myself. Though there have been exceptions, like Regis and Grandpa, who have offered solace and understanding, the overwhelming sense of confinement persists.
In this moment of clarity, I realize that the ties that bind usare not easily severed, no matter how desperately I yearn for freedom. Their presence looms over me like a dark cloud, casting a pall over my every move. As I struggle to break free from their influence, I cannot seem to overlook at the fact that the Millers will always be a part of my life, haunting me like ghosts from the past.
Neal’s inquiry about the events that transpired back there catches me off guard. I find myself with a mix of emotions; hesitation, uncertainty, and a lingering sense of vulnerability.
Part of me yearns to confide in him, to unburden myself of the weight of the truth, while another part recoils from the prospect of exposing my Inner turmoil.
With a heavy sigh, I prepare myself, knowing that honesty is the only path forward, even if it means confronting uncomfortable truths.
As Neal’s eyes bore into mine, I take a deep breath and tell him how Adam followed me to the washroom just to caution me against new relationships that I may form in the future, when he himself had not ever treated me well.
As I confide in Neal, I lay bare the painful truth of my one–sided love relationship, a source of endless troubles and heartache. The weight of my confession hangs heavy in the air, each word highlighting the incidents that has plagued my marriage to Adam.
With a heavy heart, I reveal the catalyst for our separation the undeniable evidence of Adam’s closeness and illicit relationship with his ex–girlfriend, who carries his child. It is a revelation that cuts to the core of our bond, shattering any illusions of trust or loyalty that remained between us.
As I recount Adam’s refusal to sign the divorce papers despite my persistent reminders, Neal’s reaction is immediate and visceral. His outrage reverberates through the air, a palpable force that mirrors the anger burning
within me.
Neal bangs his fist on the table and asks how dare Adam treat me like this and I see a dangerous spark in his eyes, that spells doom.
However, when Stella keeps her hand in Neal’s, I see him relax a bit. Regis, on the other hand, pacifies Neal with at blink and nod.
“I understand that you’re angry, Neal. But I’ve decided to move on in
peace.
CHAPTER 11
+25 BONUS
I calm my brother down too. In that moment, I feel the solidarity with my brother, a shared indignation at the injustice of Adam’s actions. Neal’s unwavering support bolsters my resolve, reminding me that I am not alone in this struggle.
At that moment, Neal speaks about my other half–brother, Nathan and of our father. He emphasizes on their desires to meet me. Neal asks me to give all of them a chance to make me feel that I am surrounded by my family members who love me.
As I grow more comfortable in the presence of my big brother, Neal, I find myself reassessing my reluctance to confide in him. His unwavering self–respect and the admirable life he has built for himself on his own terms serve as a proof to his strength and resilience.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Neal has remained steadfast in his commitment to his relationships, refusing to let adversity define him. It is a quality I find commendable, and one that inspires me to reconsider my own stance on vulnerability and trust.
In Neal’s case, I see the potential for growth and healing, a reminder that true strength lies not in stoicism, but in the willingness to open oneself up to others and embrace the connections that enrich our lives. My big brother is a great example–setter for me and I find myself ready to lower my defenses.
“So, will you meet them?” Neal asks me.
I glance at him for a moment, trying to form my next word, while Neal waits in anticipation. 2
CHAPTER 42
+25 BONUS
CHAPTER 42
