His mother finally showed up and paused when she saw him fidgeting.
“Relax, Desmond,” she said with a knowing smile. “You will get there. And everything will go well.”
“I know, Mom,” he said, standing up. “I just… I want this to be perfect.”
She walked over and straightened the collar of his blazer. “It already is. You have done the hard part. You have won her heart again. Today is just a celebration of that.” She said, and he smiled, grateful for her assurance.
A few minutes later, Bella showed up, heels clicking against the tiled floor. “Okay, okay, I’m ready!” she said, grabbing her purse from the couch.
“Alright, let’s go before Desmond wears a hole in the floor.” The mom said, and they chuckled and made their way out.
As they stepped out of the house and into the car, Desmond took a deep breath. The road ahead wasn’t just a drive, It was a journey back to where his heart had always belonged.
At Anabel’s house, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement. The living room had been freshly arranged. The pillows were fluffed, and curtains were drawn back to let in the golden afternoon light. Everything was ready and perfect.
Anabel stood in the center of the room, her hands clasped in front of her, a radiant smile playing on her lips. She wore a flowing brown gown that brought out the sparkle in her eyes. Her hair was styled in soft waves, and a delicate gold necklace rested just above her collarbone. She looked so beautiful, charming, and elegant. Her pregnancy made her look more attractive in the gown. And inside, her heart was fluttering like a bird in flight.
She glanced at the clock for the third time in five minutes. “They should be here soon,” she murmured to herself, unable to hide the excitement in her voice.
The dining table was already set, and her mom was already done with the food. The aroma of loaded potato salad, grilled chicken, and freshly baked pastries filled the house. A chilled bottle of wine stood in the center of the table, flanked by glasses that sparkled under the chandelier’s light.
Anabel walked over to the mirror in the hallway and checked herself one last time. She smoothed a hand over her dress, adjusted her earrings, and smiled at her reflection. Today wasn’t just a visit. Rather, it was a reunion of hearts, a meeting of families, a step toward something lasting.
The thought of Desmond made her heart swell with affection. She had missed him more than she realized, and soon, they will be back together again.
Her mother peeked at Anabel from the hallway and smiled. “Still watching the clock?” she teased gently.
Anabel laughed. “I can’t help it, mom. I just… I can't wait to see him.”
Her mom walked in and gave her a gentle hug. “I'm sure they will be on their way. Cheer up.” The mom said, and just then, they heard a car pulling into their compound. Anabel quickly turned toward the window, her breath catching.
“They’re here,” she whispered, her smile widening.
"I told you. Now they are here already." The mom said. "You can go and welcome them. Let me go and call your father."
"Alright, Mom." She walked down to the main entrance door. Before she could get close, the door opened with a soft creak.
Anabel stepped aside with a radiant smile as Desmond and his family entered. Desmond looked dashing in his suit, his mother in her emerald dress, and Bella glowing with excitement. Anabel’s heart swelled with joy at the sight of them.
“Welcome, please come in.” She led them through the hallway and into the dining area, where the feasting table was already set in elegant splendor.
“This is where we will be staying,” Anabel said with a smile, gesturing to the table. Desmond looked at her. "I love your gown."
"Thank you, dear. Please, make yourselves comfortable.”