Isla’s POVChristmas had come and gone, leaving behind the remnants of joy and celebration. But for Isla, there was nothing but an empty feeling in its wake. She moved through her days, fulfilling her obligations as a mother, as a partner to Shane, but inside, she felt like a shell of herself.She told herself she made the right choice, clean break, no more lingering feelings, no more complications. But if that were true, why did she feel this constant ache in her chest? Why did she crave something that was no longer hers?The truth was, no one had ever touched her the way Marco had, not physically, not emotionally. Even with Shane, it was different. He was good to her, loving, stable. But that fire, that all-consuming connection? It had never been there, not like it had been with Marco.She sighed as she stared at the text from Sade.Sade: Adult game night at our place. Bring Shane. We got Star and her man in town, so you know it’s about to be good vibes. Tell Shane to get ready to l
Marco’s POV Christmas MorningMarco woke up to the quiet hum of Christmas morning, the soft light of the sun peeking through the blinds. Sade was still asleep beside him, her chest rising and falling in the peaceful rhythm of deep sleep. He looked at her, her face relaxed and serene, and he felt a tug of something in his chest. It had been a long time since things felt this good between them. The night before had been better than he’d expected more real, more connected. Like they’d finally found their way back to each other.But even in the glow of this moment, there was something weighing on Marco.Last night, the holiday magic had covered up the mess he’d created, but he couldn’t keep running from the truth. What he had with Isla, what he had done with her, needed to end. He had to fix things, and not just for Sade, but for himself.He slipped out of bed quietly, careful not to disturb Sade. The kids were still asleep, and this rare moment of calm was all he had. He walked across t
Anonymous POV The house was alive with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and the clinking of dishes as the family gathered for Christmas Eve dinner. The scent of pot roast and pork chops filled the air, blending with the rich aromas of Puerto Rican rice, sweet potatoes, greens, samosas, and empanadas, both chicken and beef. It was a true smorgasbord, a mix of flavors representing their blended family.Sade moved through the dining area, checking on the final touches before dinner. The Christmas tree glowed in the corner, its lights reflecting off the neatly wrapped gifts underneath. The children were buzzing with excitement, especially the one year olds, who were finally old enough to understand the magic of Christmas.She and Marco had gone all out for their kids this year. Their son was getting a brand-new PlayStation, and their daughter would be unwrapping a vanity set. The toddlers were getting their own little motorized vehicles, something they had both pointed at excitedly
As the night continued, the holiday party transitioned into a lively white elephant gift exchange. Over 150 people participated, each unwrapping their surprises with laughter and excitement. Sade unwrapped hers, a pair of elegant crystal candle holders. She smiled, admiring them for a moment before making her way back to the table, where Marco sat, still glued to his phone.She placed the candle holders down and gently tapped his shoulder. He startled slightly, quickly closing his phone before looking up at her.“What’s going on?” she asked, her voice light but with a hint of curiosity.“Nothing,” he responded almost too quickly.She crossed her arms. “So why have you been texting all night?”Marco sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s just my brother. We’re trying to plan something big for Grandma.”Sade’s expression softened. “Oh! You should have told me. I want to help plan something for her too. She does so much for us, picking up the kids, watching them when my parents aren
Sade’s POVSade sat in the passenger seat of her Audi, staring out at the city lights flickering past the window. The holiday decorations cast a warm glow over Chicago, but inside the car, the air was anything but festive.Marco had been acting strange for weeks, picking fights over nothing, then drowning her in affection like he was trying to make up for something unspoken. Tonight was no different. He had barely said three words to her on the way over, his fingers drumming against the steering wheel, his jaw tight.And yet, when he had seen her step out in her red mermaid style dress, his eyes had darkened with something raw something almost desperate.He reached over now, resting a hand on her thigh. “You look beautiful, baby.”Sade forced a smile. “Thanks.”It should’ve made her feel good, but it didn’t. His voice was warm, but his energy was distant.Something was off.When they arrived at Revel Motor Row, a professional photographer stood outside, capturing shots of guests as th
Marco’s POV Marco walks through the kitchen, the smell of turkey, one roasting and one frying making his mouth water. The house is alive with the sounds of family preparing for the big dinner. His mind is still racing from all the preparations, but there’s one thing he can’t ignore. “Hey, babe, can you go down to the basement and grab the coolers for me?” Sade’s voice calls out as she arranges the food on the kitchen counter. “Sure thing,” Marco replies, offering her a quick smile before heading toward the basement. As he steps into the hallway, Marco is greeted by the warm, rich smell of his grandmother Maria’s cooking. He hears her call from the kitchen just as he reaches the basement door. “Marco, sweetie, could you go to the basement for me too? I know, Sade and you have some extra tables down there. Not the long ones, you know, the card tables?” Maria’s voice is light, with just a hint of playful annoyance. Marco chuckles to himself. His grandmother is always giving him tas