51
New York, Mia
We made our way back downstairs to the lively scene by the barbecue. Sebastian headed over to his brother, engrossed in a conversation that seemed to be a mix of sibling camaraderie and catching up on life’s events. I, on the other hand, found myself assisting Sophia in setting the table, placing plates, and bringing out the drinks.
Sophia’s excitement was palpable as she carefully arranged the plates, a wide grin adorning her face. “This is my first barbecue in this house, and I am so excited!” She squealed, her enthusiasm infectious. I shared her joy, thrilled to be a part of this special evening.
As I was helping Sophia, Sebastian’s mom, Elena, approached us with a warm smile. “Hello, Mia,” she greeted, her eyes drifting to my midsection. “I can see the beautiful bump showing.”This text is property of Nô/velD/rama.Org.
From the corner of my eye, I noticed a subtle change in Sophia’s expression. Her smile faltered, and there was a hint of distaste in her gaze. I wondered if there was more to this than met the eye. Perhaps it was the way Elena had practically forced Sebastian and me into marriage or some other unspoken tension between them. I couldn’t hold a grudge against her forever, though I had my reservations about Elena.
“Thanks, Elena,” I replied with a polite smile, not letting her comment dampen my mood.
Elena continued to smile at me, her demeanor warm. “I’m so glad to see you again. I heard you were in the hospital.”
I nodded, grateful for her genuine concern. “Yes, due to high blood pressure,” I admitted. “But all is well now.”
Elena nodded in understanding. “Good, I’m glad to hear that you’re doing better. Your health is the most important thing.”
Just as our conversation seemed to be heading towards a more amiable direction, Patrick’s voice broke through the air. “The barbecue is ready,” he announced, drawing everyone’s attention to the main event.
I gathered the napkins and made my way outside, where the guests had already taken their seats. I settled down next to Sebastian, and he leaned in to whisper in my ear, his voice tinged with curiosity. “Was that my mother talking to you?”
I nodded in response, not wanting to make a big deal out of the interaction. “She was just asking how I was doing,” I assured him, though I couldn’t help but sense there was more behind his inquiry.
“That’s all she asked?” Sebastian probed, his brow furrowing ever so slightly.
I shrugged my shoulders, not entirely sure why he was pressing the issue. “Yes, why?” I asked, hoping he would elaborate on his concerns.
Sebastian’s expression remained thoughtful as he pondered his mother’s brief conversation with me. “Just wondering,” he finally replied, leaving me with a sense that there might be more to the story.
The barbecue was a culinary delight. The scent of sizzling meat, the fresh salad, and the crispy fries created an irresistible combination. I couldn’t help but marvel at the delicious spread before us. The first bite of juicy meat was enough to send my taste buds into a state of pure bliss, and the fresh salad provided a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. The fries were golden and perfectly crispy, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to the meal. I couldn’t get enough, and I relished every bite.
Amid the delectable feast, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Laughter and anecdotes filled the air, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. Patrick, ever the instigator of nostalgia, began to reminisce. “Remember when we were younger, Seb? How we used to run inside the house with only our underwear on and let the maid chase us?”
Sebastian chuckled, his eyes sparkling with fond memories. “I remembered that, and she would always threaten us that she would take away all the chocolate from the pantry if we didn’t behave.”
Patrick joined in the laughter, his voice laced with amusement. “I know, right? Like we didn’t have a secret stash in our room.”
Their shared laughter echoed through the backyard, and the rest of us couldn’t help but join in. It was endearing to listen to these tales from their childhood, to catch a glimpse of the mischievous brothers they had once been. The way they recounted their antics made it clear that family bonds were strong, and the passage of time had only made their connections deeper.
As we all finished up our plates, it became evident that the men had other plans for the afternoon. Patrick, Sebastian and Sebastian’s dad decided to indulge in a game of golf, leaving Sophia and me to clean up the table. We gathered the empty plates and utensils, sharing stories as we worked together to tidy up the outdoor dining area.
Sebastian’s mom, Elena, excused herself with a gentle smile and a hand on her temple. “I have a bit of a headache, so I’m going to rest in one of the guest bedrooms,” she explained.
I nodded in understanding, and Sophia smiled warmly at her mother-in-law. “Of course, Elena. Take all the time you need. If you need anything, just let me know.”
After we had finished cleaning up the table, I told Sophia that I would head to the restroom. The afterglow of our delightful barbecue still lingered, and I welcomed the chance for a moment of solitude.
I walked upstairs, the elegant decor of the house surrounding me. The staircase led to a hallway, and I made my way to the bathroom, my mind still filled with the warmth of the evening. As I approached the bathroom door, I hesitated for a moment, contemplating the events of the day.
Just as I was about to open the bathroom door, I froze. A voice reached my ears from the other side, and I quickly realized it was Elena, Sebastian’s mother. She seemed to be unaware of my presence, as her voice carried easily through the door.
“Yes,” she said, her tone not as hushed as she might have thought.
I remained still, listening intently, my curiosity piqued by the clandestine conversation.
Elena continued to speak, her words revealing something I hadn’t expected. “Sebastian is married to Mia because she is pregnant. Their marriage will not last. I already talked about it with Sebastian.”
My eyebrows furrowed in confusion. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Elena seemed to be discussing my marriage to her son as though it were some kind of arrangement. I mean it kind of was, but right now it felt like a real marriage. The warmth and acceptance I had felt earlier in the day now felt like a facade.
Elena’s voice continued, and my heart sank as I heard her next words. “After the baby is born, he will file for a divorce and take the baby. He’ll get married to Amanda so they can raise the baby together.”
I stood in shock, my mind racing. Amanda? Who was Amanda, and why would Sebastian supposedly marry her after our child was born? None of this made sense, and I felt a growing sense of unease.
“I will not let my son be with that devil of a woman. I will make sure of it.” I heard Elena say.
What the fuck?!