Angela sighed, watching them with a heavy heart and sadness. She gently extricated herself from the snuggle fest, careful not to disturb them and wake them from their sleep. First, she lifted Liya into her arms, cradling her like a baby. Her head lolled against Angela's shoulder, her soft breathing like a soothing sound. Quietly, Angela carried her to her room, the moonlight casting a blurry silver glow on the way, but for more safety purpose, she turned on the passage light. She made her way into the twin's room and gently laid Liya on her bed, pulling the covers up to her chin. A soft kiss planted on her forehead, and Liya was tucked in. Next, Angela returned to the living room for Lia. She scooped up her up gently, feeling the slight weight of her in her arms. Lia's arms instinctively wrapped around Angela's neck, even in sleep. Angela smiled, carrying her to her room, the same gentle care and soft kiss on the forehead following. As she tucked Lia in, Angela couldn't help but feel bad for them. She brushed a strand of hair out of each girl's face, her heart filled with guilt knowing she had lied to them about Antonio; however, it’s the only thing to do. With one last check to ensure they were comfortable and sound asleep. She turned off the lights and closed the door slowly and quietly, leaving the girls to their peaceful sleep. She headed back into the sitting room, surrounded by the quiet and darkness, her thoughts turned to Antonio. The laughter and joy of the movie night with her nieces faded, was replaced by the harsh reality of her present situation. She gazed blankly at the TV, the movie playing in the background, as tears began to well up in her eyes. The weight of her mixed emotions crashed down on her, and she felt the dam breaking. Sobs racked her body, she hates to admit it. It was impossible for her to move on from Antonio, She wondered if things would change if she had opened up to that very day after her meeting with Diana before she did so. She groaned inwardly. “It’s not that easy. Antonio would never trust her again”. Suddenly, she was startled as her phone rang, Angela's gaze fell upon it, her eyes welling up with fresh tears. It was Antonio! He finally called! She quickly reached to answer then hesitated, her mind racing with the urge to resist it, her guilt and hurt feelings winning out. Only then did she realize she is not yet ready to talk to Antonio. He must be hurt wherever he may be, questioning the love they shared. What excuse could she possibly give to him? Slowly she put the phone on the couch and let it ring, the sound echoing through the room like a harsh reminder of all her misery. She angrily took a bucket of popcorn and started eating, filling her mouth with a handful, crying silently each time. Just then, the door creaked open, and her younger brother Jace walked in, his eyes scanning the room. Angela immediately brushed off her eyes and pretended to be focused on the TV. His gaze landed on Angela, and his expression changed from casual to concerned. “What's wrong?” he asked, his voice soft and gentle. He caught her off guard before she could cover it all up. Angela tried to brush it off, waving her hand dismissively. “Nothing, Jace. Just having a bad day, I guess” But her quivering lip and tear-stained face betrayed her. Jace's eyes narrowed, his brow furrowed in worry. He crossed the room and walked to her. “Nothing? You are crying. I know you too well. What's going on with you? Does this have to do with Antonio?" He asked curiously. “I just told you I am fine! Just having a bad day and what the heck are you doing? It's midnight, go to bed!” She snapped angrily, avoiding his gaze. Jace was speechless, he's never seen her so broken before, she was very emotional that she couldn't hide it at all. Her face and neck were soaked, and the tears won't stop coming. “Hey, don't lie to me, I am old enough to understand, please tell me, you are the only one I have Angela, did Antonio hurt you?” His voice was laced with empathy, and Angela felt a lump form in her throat. She shook her head, trying to hold back the tears, but Jace's gentle prodding and understanding eyes cracked her resolve. She broke down, sobbing uncontrollably, as Jace wrapped his arms around her in a warm, comforting hug. “It's okay, sis. I'm here for you.” Jace held her tight, letting her cry to her heart content. He stroked her hair, his touch was soothing and calming. “It's okay, Angela. You can tell me. What's going on with you?” Angela's sobs slowly subsided, replaced by hiccup-like gasps. She pulled back, her eyes red and puffy. “There's nothing that can be done about it Jace, I messed up…it's all my fault”. She broke down again. Jace's expression turned sympathetic. "I'm so sorry, Angela, but I don't understand. Please talk to me. What's the problem, what did you? What are you talking about that made you so sad?” Angela sniffled, feeling a mix of sadness and guilt towards her brother. He is too young to take care of her. She is giving the teenager a lot of load, she better behave herself. “It's alright Jace, I know what to do, thanks for caring, being here with me made me feel so much better”. She forced a smile. “You are welcome, but I am yet to know what the matter is, I am really concerned about it”. “It's fine, I am fine, okay? Trust me, this isn't about Antonio…it's late night, we should go to bed”. She smiled at him. Jace wasn't convinced at all. “Are you sure it's okay?”