HAPTER 42
ARIA’S POV
Neal’s persuasive demeanor exerts a subtle yet undeniable influence over me, compelling me to agree
agree to meet my father and Nathan. It is not through overt pleading or coercion, but rather his unwavering confidence and sincerity that disarm my
resistance.
In his presence, I feel a sense of trust and reassurance, as if he holds the key to unlocking the mysteries of my past and
illuminating the complexities of our family dynamics.
Curiosity tugs at my heartstrings, urging me to explore the depths of their relationship and uncover the truths that lie buried beneath the surface. In spite of my reservations and lingering doubts, I find myself drawn to the prospect of witnessing their interactions first–hand, eager to gain a deeper understanding of the bonds that bind us together.
With Neal by my side, a sense of courage and determination overpowers me.
As we gather at the restaurant as agreed, a sense of anticipation tinged with apprehension fills the air. It is the first time I shall come face to face with Nathan, and the thought sends a shiver down my spine. The air feels heavy with unresolved emotions, a palpable tension that hangs between us like a veil of uncertainty.
Despite my best efforts to quell the unease stirring within me, I cannot shake the feeling of eeriness that pervades the atmosphere. It is as if the weight of our shared history looms over us, casting a shadow of doubt and trepidation over our
meeting.
As Neal comes to the restaurant, accompanied by Nathan and Dad, they just hug me so tightly like a lost treasure.
In their arms, I find solace and reassurance, a sense of belonging that transcends the barriers of time and distance. The weight of our shared history melts away as we embrace, each hug a silent promise of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Nathan’s arrival at the restaurant brings a sense of pride and elation as I marvel at his accomplishments. As a scientist and a genius in his own right, he stands shoulder to shoulder with Neal, embodying a level of achievement that fills me with
admiration.
The thought of having such accomplished brothers fills me with a sense of joy and gratitude, as I imagine the pride our father must feel in seeing his sons excel in their respective fields. In this moment, I cannot help but feel a swell of pride in our shared
heritage.
My position as an executive in Stella’s prestigious company is a source of pride for me, as well as for my family. In contrast to my mother’s struggles, I have managed to steer my life in the right direction, carving out a successful career path for myself.
Although I faced many challenges and setbacks, such as the ordeal with Adam, I have remained steadfast in my determination to succeed. As I reflect on my achievements, I feel satisfied in knowing that I have overcome adversity and forged my own path to
success
+15 Bonus
In this moment, I find solace in the knowledge that I have made my family proud, and I am determined to continue striving for
greatness, no matter what obstacles may come my way.
I am so thrilled at all of them wanting to get to know me well; my likes, dislikes, school, trips, job and they paid so much of
attention to each and every detail.
Midway through our lunch, I excuse myself to go to the restroom, leaving Nathan and my father deep in conversation. Upon my
return, I am met with probing questions about Adam, the atmosphere around the table suddenly tense with anticipation.
It is as if my absence has sparked a curiosity that cannot be ignored. Neal has revealed my tumultuous relationship with Adam to
both my father and to Nathan.
“What am I hearing? Your husband cheated on you and his mistress is carrying his child?”
I see Nathan clenching his jaw in anger and my dad frowning, I am sure if Adam was here, they would punch him.
As Nathan and my father press for answers, I feel a knot forming in my stomach, unsure of how much to disclose about the
complexities of my past. As my father tells me that he is going to teach Adam a lesson, I have to stop him there.
While I completely understand their reactions, violence is the last thing I want to see.
“No, Dad… I just want a divorce and nothing else.”
Neal, Nathan and my father stare at me and I see the lines of helplessness tracing on their faces. All these three men want is
revenge for the pain Adam has caused to me. There is an undercurrent of anger and frustration simmering beneath the surface
a burning desire for justice in the face of Adam’s betrayal.
“You can count on me e to get you divorced as soon as possible.”
Finally, Nathan breaks the Ice. But then my father asks me where do I currently work and I had to reveal to him that Stella had to
help me out because Adam made sure I was boycotted everywhere.
Now Neal is furious. He clenches his fist as if Adam was in front of him and he is ready to throw punches.
“How dare he behave like this with my
sister?!”
I flinch.
My family is here to protect me and fight for me. Why had I not met them before? I had always felt helpless and lonely when I was getting illtreated. Now, their affection and protection bring a kind of solace to my heart and that is enough for me.
Seeing that I am a bit uncomfortable with their reactions, Neal changes the topic instantly and proposes
that I work in one of his
companies and clearly emphasizes that those companies have nothing to do with our dad’s. Thus, no one will know that I am related to my father, who is a Wilson, not a Jackson.
Thinking about it, Neal is kind of right. I do not want Adam to know where I work and being in one of my elder brother’s company would be of great help.
