Velasquez Heir's (English Version)

LOOKING UP at the bold sign of my very own coffee shop, a wave of emotions crashed over me. Just a few years ago, I had been lost, broken, convinced that I would never be able to stand on my own again. But here I was–stronger, braver and finally rebuilding a life I could be proud of.Not just for me. But now I have my son.“Mommy! Can I put my drawing here?” my four-year-old son asked, his voice bubbling with excitement as he clutched his small masterpiece. His bright eyes sparkled with pride.“Of course, my love.” I said with a warm smile.Kneeling beside him to help him secure his artwork in the perfect spot on the wall. When I finally saw what he had drawn—a family. My breath hitched.There they were—five stick figures, their arms outstretched, smiles drawn wide with bold crayon strokes. A sun beamed down from the corner, and flowers dotted the grass below their feet. “Daddy,Yandrich, Mommy, Daddy Nick, and Mommy Ally!” He announced proudly, tapping each figure with a finger. I

“HE WANTS to buy our painting mommy.” My son innocently said smiling at me.While Desmond looked at my son intently making me want to grab Yandrich and hide him.What if he'll have an idea that Yandrich is his son?“I didn't know Mr. Velasquez had a son.” I heard a guess said when they passed us. “They completely look alike.” I didn't know what to do. From our distance I know that Desmond could also hear what they are saying. Even though he looks like he's paying attention to what Yandrich is explaining about the painting that I wasn't able to hear. Then Desmond's fierce ocean blue eyes looked at me. I froze, afraid of what he would say about my son—our son.For a brief second it felt like time had stopped.“Desmond, it's been a while.” Nick's voice cut through the tension like a blade. I hadn't even noticed him stepping towards them. Desmond’s gaze flickered toward him, but he didn't acknowledge the greeting.I HAD practiced this moment in my head countless times. Thought of every

“CAN YOU DRIVE?” he asked, looking into my eyes. “Or do you want me to take you home?” His gaze was deep—too deep. I felt like if I stared too long he’d read right through me.“N-No need.” I stammered. “Thank you, Mr. Velasquez.”I quickly opened my car door and got in. I glanced at him. He was on his phone now, his expression serious again. Then he walked toward my window. I lowered it.“Take care.” he said simply.I nodded, unable to speak.Sh*t…Sh*t…this is so wrong.I can’t feel this way towards him anymore.He’s already moved on, Yvonne!This is all an act. Don't believe him!I HAVE no idea how I got home safe after everything that happened. I still can’t believe how Desmond treated me—like he was the man I used to know.No. Yvonne this is wrong. You moved on… right?As I opened the door to our house, the soft click of the lock echoed. I thought Nick left but he was at the bar counter, his back slightly hunched, a glass of beer in his hand. “He’s asleep. Ally’s with him.” he