"You are kidding me. He said that? The Mariano Il Volo confessed to you?" Tyler gasped out loud, his eyes about to fall from their sockets after hearing the incredible news. I just told him that Mariano plans to pursue me starting now.
"Yes." I replied shortly, a permanent smile on my face. I still couldn't believe that Mariano would confess to me. Mariano left when Tyler arrived to give us some privacy.
"I'm so ecstatic for you. Not to burst your happy bubble, Arden, but how do you feel about it?" I know what Tyler is talking about. He knows my history. By that, I meant everything about my past. I even told him that one incident that I couldn't tell River because I know how River will react. He will be furious.
"I'm happy now, Ty, but as much as possible, I want to savor this happy moment. I don't know when depression and anxiety will rear their ugly heads." Tyler also knows that I have been diagnosed with mild depression.
He reached for my hand and nodded in understanding. "Alright, but always remember that I'm always at your service. When you need someone to talk to, just ring me up. This happened because you bottled it all up. Why am I even here in the first place?" I winced when Tyler gave me his signature glare and nagging tone.
When he heard that I was hospitalized, he almost turned his office upside down because his boss won't let him leave. There were exchanges of flowery words between him and his boss, but after ten minutes, his boss gave up. Also, he can't afford to lose Tyler over a small fight because the business will fall apart without Tyler's skills. That's how valuable he is to the company. So many huge tech companies have tried and failed to snatch Tyler. This is because Tyler is so loyal, but once he had enough, he will leave without looking back.
"What were you thinking about when you had your anxiety attack?" Tyler asked, and I told him everything. He gave me his undivided attention, listening intently to every word I say without judgment.
"Given your traumatic past, I cannot blame you for reacting that way. It will be okay soon, Arden. It may feel heavy now, but we are here to carry your share of the burden. Don't keep it all to yourself, okay?" Tyler's words sent warmth all over my chest and I couldn't help but bawl my eyes out. "Bring it in," Tyler said softly and opened his arms wide.
I accepted his offer and cried in his embrace. I would give everything for Tyler. He has been with me through my darkest days. When darkness clouded with judgment, Tyler was there to rescue me. He served as my guiding light in moments where I felt lost. I will treasure him for the rest of my life.
Before Tyler left, he made sure that I have eaten well and he gave me a quick update about his life. He also couldn't stop himself from ranting about his "stupid" boss, his words, and if his boss tried to pull another one like that again, he will resign and apply in Mariano's company.
"Are you sure? That would be great!" That would mean that I would be able to see Tyler often. Mariano would never say no to me. He never did, except when it comes to eating too much sweets.
Tyler smiled. "Don't get too excited, Arden. Applying to another company would be quite an adjustment, but Mariano's company is one of those who wants to poach me. As if I will be easily taken, but if this continues, I might as well consider transferring," Tyler said nonchalantly but I know him, including his tells.
"There's something you are not telling me," I concluded and threw him a scrutinizing gaze. "Someone has a crush," I added in a lilting voice and Tyler's flushed expression confirmed my suspicions." And I think I know who that person is; Tyler's crush, I mean.
***
When my body shivered from the cold breeze that enveloped my body, I immediately felt warm and comfortable when Mariano slid his coat over my shoulders and made sure that I'm all buttoned up. "Is that better?"
With a soft nod, I turned to him and smiled. He smiled back and smoothly reached for my hand as we walked to the cafe he found earlier. Mariano decided to take me out for a cup of coffee because he doesn't want me to feel suffocated. Only a day has passed but he's acting as if I was staying there for a week now.
Mariano pushed the double doors open and the sweet aroma of coffee and pastries attacked my nostrils. A quaint coffee shop, nestled in the heart of the city, exudes rustic charm and cozy ambiance. Its intimate and comfortable atmosphere is created by weathered wooden panels, soft Edison bulb lighting, and plush seating arrangements, encouraging quiet conversations and solitary reflection.
Potted plants and hanging vines add a touch of nature, while the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the aroma of aged books from a corner library. Skilled baristas craft carefully sourced, perfectly roasted coffee beans behind the counter, offering a variety of brews alongside freshly baked pastries. This setting provides a haven where time slows down, allowing patrons to savor moments of connection, relaxation, and the simple pleasure of a well-brewed cup of coffee.
Mariano must have heard my gasps because he looked at me with a proud expression. "Prepare to be more amazed, because you are going to love the second floor."
My eyes must have sparkled because Mariano's were lit with excitement and happiness as he guided me towards the stairs. The coffee shop's second floor is a secluded retreat, accessed by a creaky wooden staircase. Adorned with local artwork, it features vintage windows, exposed wooden beams, and a mix of mismatched yet comfortable furniture.
A small balcony, decorated with fairy lights and potted plants, offers an outdoor escape. Serene ambiance, the murmur of conversations, and occasional cup clinks fill the air. Bookshelves filled with diverse reading material and the aroma of coffee, old books, and scented candles create a tranquil atmosphere, inviting patrons to relax and enjoy this cozy haven.
Mariano led me towards a plush couch near the fireplace and I sighed in contentment when my bum hit the soft material. "Oh my goodness. I love it here, Mariano! I love it so much!" I couldn't contain the excitement and elation as I let my eyes feast on the enchanting beauty of the coffee shop.
Mariano sat beside me and reached for my hand, then tenderly placed his lips on top. My heart swelled with so much emotion as he looked at me with so much affection I could only dreamed of. "I'm so glad, Arden, because this is yours."
"Wha--" I gasped, my jaw dropping, and my voice rising in pitch when I heard such an incredulous news. "No way," I said softly and swept my eyes around then settled back to Mariano's. "Are you serious? Why? This is too much."
"I want to give you a place you can call yours. Not River's mansion, nor mine. Your comfort place. Of course, I plan to give you a mansion of your own but for now, I want you to have a place where you can get lost in your own world," Mariano explained and my shaky hands went to my chest to calm it down, overwhelmed from so many emotions.
"You are making me cry again, Mariano," I stammered, tears flowing like waterfalls.
"I hope they are happy tears, Arden," Mariano mumbled hesitantly so I jumped into his arms and hugged him tight.
"Of course, stupid Mariano. Thank you so much. You don't know how much this means to me," I cried out and his warm hand rubbed my back soothingly until I calmed down.
"As long as you're happy, Arden, I'm willing to do anything. I will dispel all your doubts. If you begin to overthink, tell me, so I can assure you that everything will be fine and drag you back to the present. When you feel like your monsters are chasing you, come to me, and I will protect you from them. You don't have to carry them all by yourself. I'm here too. You can lean on me."
I hummed and nodded, feeling comfort from the warmth of Mariano's embrace and the relaxing effect his scent provides.
When I finally collected myself, Mariano rang the bell and a server came up to get out orders. By this time, I was sitting on Mariano's lap, my head over his shoulder, while he wrapped his arms around my waist, rubbing my thighs and back alternately to help me relax. No words were spoken. We just enjoyed the soft music playing over the vintage radio while we basked in each other's presence.
I never dreamed that I would be able to experience this moment. The reason why I chose to go to a sperm bank was because I couldn't tolerate another person's touch. Except for my chosen family, which is Tyler, River and Aunt Becca, I hate touching people. They repulse me and it has something to do with my past. However, Mariano has been added to my exceptions. I feel safe with him. I know in my heart that he will not hurt me, because in the short time that we have been together, he showed me nothing but kindness. He made sure that I would be comfortable and happy.
The sound of incoming footfalls informed us that our order had been prepared. The server placed the tray on the table and Mariano handed me a cookie first. "I ordered you a hot matcha, but we have to let it cool down first. What else do you want? They have sandwiches here," Mariano suggested when he noticed that I'm not really interested in the cookie he gave me. It smells divine, but I don't have an appetite.
"I don't want to eat, Mariano," I said in a pouty voice but it did not work.
"No can do, Arden. You are pregnant. Think about the little one. Aren't you hungry?" My eyes widened at the realization and felt guilty for not thinking about my child. I was so consumed by my own emotions and I never once thought about the welfare of my child. I am such a bad parent--
"Arden. Look at me," Mariano commanded and stopped me from spiraling. "Baby, Arden, look me in the eyes. Focus on me," he ordered in a voice that sent a wave of calmness all over my being. I looked at him and Mariano was looking at me with such intensity and dominance that it made it hard for me to look away.
"What is on your mind? Please, tell me so I'll know. I don't want you to suffer. If you don't feel comfortable now, I can wait, okay? But please, Arden, don't keep it all to yourself. We can call Tyler, or River or--"
"Mariano, it's okay. Thank you," I cut him off and cupped his cheeks, then pressed my lips on his temple. I noticed how his eyes widened in surprise and I returned his shocked expression with a shy smile. " Am I overstepping my bounds?"
Mariano's surprised expression morphed into a smug one as he softly grabbed me by the jaw. "You haven't even reached halfway, Arden," he whispered in a sultry tone and before I knew it, he captured my lips and gave me an intoxicating kiss.
The sensations that spread throughout my body were indescribable. Just like the first time, I was again under his mercy. He knew where to lick, suck and tease. Mariano owned my mouth as if it was his in the first place. He nibbled, and teased, and glided his tongue all over my mouth that all I could do was hold onto his shoulders and surrender to his ministrations.
My heartbeat began to race and my breathing started to get labored. I am slowly getting addicted to the pleasure that I started to respond to, earning a pleasured groan from Mariano. The experimental movements turned passionate as my hands transferred to cup his head, with my fingers running through his hair and feeling the column of his neck.
I gasped and blurted out a moan when I felt his large hands slipping inside my shirt and resting on my waist. The heat emanating from his hands were comforting and at the same time, my skin tingled with anticipation as his fingers moved upwards, leaving a hot trail.
"Fuck. You feel so good and you taste divine," Mariano gritted out when he released my swollen lips. I can feel them throb and I know that they are abused and swollen red from the way he devoured them. When I met his stare, I swallowed and I caught my breath in my chest. Intense desire flickered in Mariano's eyes as he fixed his gaze on my lips and back to my eyes. "You are so beautiful, Arden," he whispered huskily and I let out a soft gasp when he dipped his head and ran the tip of his nose on the column of my neck.
"Mariano..." The way I uttered his name had a needy lilt to it, and I know how it affected Mariano. The hard thing that has been poking my ass since earlier got bigger, if it was even possible.
Mariano hissed and a needy whimper came out when his heated tongue glided over the skin of my collar. I could already feel my member harden from Mariano's sinful touches. "As much as I would like to have my way with you, Arden, and believe me, I very much want to," Mariano mustered in a staggered breath, "we need to stop now. I don't want to take advantage of the situation," Mariano added and kissed my jawline before gathering me for a tender hug.
With my face pressed on his chest, I could hear his loud heartbeat and his strained breathing. Mariano is doing his best to hold back, and I should too. He is right. This is not the right place and the right moment. This is our time to relax and wind down after experiencing a very emotional incident.
When everything was settled down, we proceeded with our meal and after my second sip with my drink, I placed it down on the table and clasped my trembling hands. "Am I a bad parent, Mariano?" I could not see his reaction because I kept my head bowed down. I know deep in my heart that Mariano will not judge me, but there's a tiny voice in my head saying that he is going to be very disappointed in me.
"What made you think so, Arden?" His voice was calm and gentle, washing over my nerves and keeping my anxiety at bay.
"Because I was so preoccupied with myself that I forgot about my small bean." The guilt was gnawing my insides. I let depression and anxiety take over me that I did not consider how it will affect my baby.
"You are not a bad parent, Arden. It was not your fault that you felt that way, and I have never met someone who cared for his or her baby other than you."
That made me look up and when I did, Mariano was staring at me fondly. "I saw your book collection, and it's all about parenting. I know that you will be able to raise your child well because I saw how caring you are, how thoughtful, and how kind. Do not discount yourself. There's a lot of people who see the good in you and are cheering you on. Keep your chin up, okay?"
At that moment, God finally answered my prayer. Mariano is my answered prayer.
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