The hall was brimming. Guests filled the space, laughter and warm chatter blending with the beauty of the decorations as everyone congratulated the newlyweds.Lucian walked into the venue with a scowl on his face. He hadn’t seen Bella since returning from his so-called meeting. He suspected she was with Maria and forced himself to remain calm.“Mr. Rodriguez, it’s so good to see you here,” a woman said brightly as she approached him.He smiled effortlessly. “Nice to see you, Miss Anita,” he replied, pulling her into a brief side hug, like a gentleman.Backstage, Bella waited for Maria’s cue. She peeked through the curtains and spotted Lucian deep in conversation with a woman, smiling at her softly, almost lovingly. An unexpected pang tightened her chest. She quickly looked away when she noticed Maria stepping onto the stage.“Everyone, may I have your attention,” Maria said, beaming. “My brand has grown beyond what I ever imagined, and I owe so much of that to my husband…my life, my w
Read more