Inside the beach house, Andreia got up from the couch, oblivious to the fact that Vicente had become pensive after Matthew was mentioned.Stretching, Andreia sighed, “Urgh... I’m not really in the mood for dinner tonight, how about you?”Vicente, still distracted, replied, “Thinking about a late-night snack?”“The snack bar must be super crowded... It’s Saturday night,” Andreia said, already dismissing the idea.“You could order by phone and wait for delivery,” Vicente suggested.With a mischievous grin, Andreia announced, “Here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to Happy Snack Bar.”Vicente raised an eyebrow. “All this just to see the kid, huh?”Andreia laughed. “Darling, it may sound crazy, but I’m really starting to accept Nate more and more as my true son.”“I’m really glad to hear that,” Vicente said, a small smile forming.“Maybe... a lot of things could have been avoided. A lot of pain,” Andreia added, her voice softening.Vicente, not wanting to dwell on the past, said, “Don’t
At the Happy Snack Bar, the Alvares family was taken aback when they spotted Nathan working the register.“Good thing Bella didn’t want to come with us,” Linda muttered, grateful their younger daughter wasn’t there.“I’ll handle the order,” Gustavo said, standing up. He felt his mother’s hand gently clasp his, and glanced at her.“Don’t be too hard on him, son,” Paulina urged softly.“Okay, Mom,” Gustavo reassured her. “I won’t make a scene.”With that, he approached the counter where Nathan was busy taking an order.“Excuse me! I want to place an order,” Gustavo said, leaning in.Nathan, who was looking down at the register, responded without glancing up. “Why don’t you wait for one of the waiters...” Then, suddenly recognizing Gustavo, his eyes widened. “HEY!”“Shh! No need for a scene,” Gustavo warned.“What are you doing here? I haven’t seen your sister in days!” Nathan blurted out.“Thanks, I know that,” Gustavo replied dryly.“So, what’s this all about?” Nathan asked, suspicion
Inside the Happy Snack Bar, Gustavo, Linda, and Paulina sat at a table, already snacking on their orders.“So, son? How was it with Nathan?” Paulina asked, her tone curious.Gustavo, mid-chew, shrugged. “He was overly cautious. I really scared him off last time.”Linda chimed in, her eyes glinting with interest. “Did he say anything about Bella?”Gustavo shook his head. “He just said he hasn’t seen her.”“Thank goodness,” Paulina muttered, relief evident in her voice as she glanced intently over at Nathan before returning to her sandwich.At that moment, Andreia walked in, heading straight for the counter.Nathan, seeing her approach, sighed. “Mom! You didn’t need to come here.”Laughing, Andreia replied, “I wanted to, son.”Paulina continued to watch Nathan, her gaze intense enough that Linda noticed.“Mom, what’s wrong?” Linda asked, frowning.Paulina shook her head, trying to dismiss the question. “It’s nothing. Your cheese is stretching nicely, huh?”Linda, still chewing, held up
In Walter’s office at the Andrade Clinic, the atmosphere was cloudy.It was a Monday morning, and Walter was pacing back and forth, deep in thought, clearly troubled.He muttered to himself, “I need to clear up this nonsense about the photograph. What was all that about?”The door creaked open, and Zachary cautiously entered the room.“Here I am, future brother-in-law,” Zachary greeted nervously.Walter didn’t return the smile. “Let’s see if we’ll still be brothers-in-law after this conversation.”Zachary swallowed hard and closed the door behind him.******At the Alvares family house, the kitchen was alive with the sound of breakfast preparations. Paulina stood by the stove, stirring something in the fryer, when Gustavo appeared, rubbing his eyes and looking drowsy, dressed in sweatpants and shirtless.Hugging his mother from behind, he greeted, “Good morning, mom!”“Good morning, beloved son,” she replied, a smile touching her lips.Gustavo let go of the hug and sat down at the tab
Inside the Álvarez family home, Paulina was busy sweeping the living room when Gustavo and Ernesto appeared, both dressed in their Silva Oil Company uniforms.“I checked Bella’s room,” Paulina said. “She’s still sleeping.”Gustavo glanced at her with a smirk. “Did you check for any traces of other guys?”Paulina, taken aback, looked flustered. “No, son, gross! I’m not going to smell your sister’s sheets; I’ll just throw them straight into the washing machine.”Ernesto chuckled, planting a quick kiss on her cheek. “That’s the way to do it, dear. Come on, son, let’s go.”Before they left, Paulina hesitated for a moment. “Ernie, were you serious about wanting to meet Young Mr. Andrade up close?”“Why not?” Ernesto replied nonchalantly. “They’re dating, aren’t they? She’s already stayed in his sister’s room, like they’re great friends.”“Yes, that’s happened twice,” Paulina nodded, then added, “But Marilza Peres mentioned in her column that Miss Andrade is dating Zach Loss. They hosted a
At the Silva Oil Company docks, a crowd had gathered in the early morning. Ronaldo stood on a stack of crates used for transporting oil drums, holding a megaphone. Patricia, wearing a dark green pantsuit, stood beside him, smiling.“Everyone!” Ronaldo called out, his voice amplified by the megaphone. “It is my immense pleasure to introduce you to the future Mrs. Silva and your potential boss: Patricia Borges!”The employees responded with enthusiastic applause, clearly impressed.Ronaldo continued, “We don’t yet know what Patricia will be doing here, but she will be more present from now on. Please cooperate with her and show her respect!”“Yes, Mr. Silva!” the employees shouted back in unison.Handing the megaphone to Patricia, Ronaldo stepped back as she addressed the crowd. “I am very honored,” she began, her voice filled with warmth. “My father, Hélio Borges, worked hard on these docks and is now happily retired. I know many of you are my former neighbors from Lion’s Den. Silva Oi
Inside the Andrade Clinic reception, the morning sun cast a soft glow across the room. Linda leaned toward Jacqueline, her voice low with frustration.“Has Walter been avoiding me because of what Bella did to Zachary and me?”Jacqueline hesitated, clearly unsure of how to respond. “Linda,” she began carefully, “Walt doesn’t blame you for that.”Linda’s eyes narrowed. “Really? Then why hasn’t he called me? Did he come in early today just to avoid seeing me?”“Don’t think like that,” Jacqueline reassured her. “Maybe he plans to talk to you today.”Linda’s gaze sharpened, probing for the truth. “But that’s it, isn’t it...?”Jacqueline sighed, unable to keep it in any longer. “Okay, fine, but don’t get mad. Walt’s discouraged because of the photo.”Linda’s voice rose in disbelief. “That’s absurd! I can’t be held responsible for what Bella did when I didn’t even know about it!”Jacqueline tried to comfort her. “He loves me, Linda. I’m his little sister, his beloved.”Linda scoffed. “But no
Inside Walter's office at the Andrade Clinic, Linda and Walter stepped in, both with serious expressions. Walter closed the door behind them and gestured towards a seat.“Make yourself comfortable,” he said calmly.Linda, restless, shook her head. “I don’t know if I can sit still.”Walter, trying to maintain his composure, replied, “This conversation might take some time.”“I don’t see what could take so long to explain your disappearance,” Linda shot back, her voice sharp.Walter hesitated and then sighed. “It’s not that simple…”Linda, growing impatient, decided to cut through the awkwardness. “I’ll spare you the details, Walt. Jacqueline told me what my sister did.”Walter swallowed hard and took a step closer to her. “Do you understand why I was upset?”Linda crossed her arms, still frustrated. “Not really. I wasn’t involved in that photo stunt.”Walter’s voice softened. “But it was the night we were having dinner for the Loss family, celebrating Jacque and Zach’s relationship. Wh
At Silva Oil Company, Kirk appeared in Leonardo’s office. Fernando and Marta had already left. “KIRK!” Leonardo abruptly stood up from his desk. “How are you, my young man!” “Mr. Silva?” Kirk was surprised by such reverence. “I didn’t know you cared so much about me...” “Cut the small talk! You just had a seizure and looked like you were going to die in my company,” Leonardo gestured for the employee to sit down. “Now I want to know all the details. Don’t hide anything from this curious old man.” Kirk smiled and sat down. “Well, sir, there’s not much to tell. I was stupid enough to fall for the siren’s song.” “In this case, the cocaine song, right?” Leonardo leaned forward. “What do you intend to do from here on out?” “Obviously, I promised myself and my family that I wouldn’t use that cr*p anymore. It wasn’t worth all the drama and suffering,” Kirk replied honestly. “That’s good. Then you can continue from where you left off,” Leonardo smiled, relieved. “That’s about what I w
In Urbano Magazine, Cindy returned with the printed sheet, extending it to Andreia. “Read this not-so-pretentious article, my friend,” Cindy declared. Andreia took the paper and read it. A smile formed at the right corner of her mouth. “Cool... nothing so blatantly accusatory, but clear enough for any semi-literate person to understand that Elaine knocked over that pyramid of champagne glasses, causing a scene at the book signing.” “Of course, I won’t say she did it because the honored author was her enemy’s mother,” Cindy replied mischievously. “You don’t want to risk Matt’s wrath.” Andreia stood up, a bit slowly due to her pregnancy. “Speaking of which, how did he react after your dad’s video?” “I didn’t bring it up with him,” Cindy shook her head. “If I mention it, people will say I still love him.” “And you don’t want to do anything to ruin your relationship with Jackson,” Andreia repeated. “Cindy, it’s commendable that you’re more committed and focused on having someone in
Fernando appeared in the kitchen wearing gray sweatpants. Liz, who was sour and bitter, smiled pathetically with her gaze fixed on her husband’s pants. “Good morning, son. What’s new?” Ronaldo replied rudely, “The news is seeing my mother still able to walk!” “RON!” Liz was startled. Fernando shook his head. “Son, don’t be disrespectful. Your mother and I are trying to be as discreet as possible.” Ronaldo shot back, “Just missing discretion when discussing my fiancée, huh? Can we talk about that now?” Liz pursed her lips. “I was so happy when I woke up, but you made sure to ruin my day.” “Mom, we can’t avoid the obvious!” Ronaldo turned to Fernando. “Matt told me that Elaine was reprimanded.” “And I will never agree to that!” Liz shouted. “Elaine was a victim of that tough girl from the slums! She could have died from a cut to her jugular!” “But Elaine provoked Patty’s wrath by saying those nasty things,” Fernando reasoned as he served himself breakfast. “Couldn’t Patricia a
Silva Penthouse, Monday morning. Ronaldo was walking down the hallway to the kitchen in just his boxer shorts when the suite door opened. Liz was smiling a little too much, looking like she was about to dance ballet. “Mom! Long time no see!” “Yes, son, I had a wonderful time with your father!” Liz replied suggestively. Ronaldo blushed to the roots of his hair. “Is breakfast ready?” she asked casually. “I was about to check,” Ronaldo said, heading to the kitchen. There, the coffee maker was already brewing coffee. “Nando must have prepared it in advance.” Liz took bread and butter from the fridge. Ronaldo, cautious, sat down at the table. He noticed a tear in Liz’s nightgown. “Mom, did you and Dad make up this Sunday?” “We can say he’s no longer in love with your fiancée,” Liz replied with a mischievous smile. “Mom, stop talking about that disgusting stuff!” Ronaldo frowned. “This is all your sick imagination.” Liz simply shrugged, sitting down at the table as well. “You’r
Elaine arrived stumbling with fear and bewilderment. The truth about Bella and Nathan’s relationship was something horrifying and incredible for her to digest. “Oh my God... how did these two families let this issue intertwine like this?” Nayla was at the reception desk, smiling, waiting for Elaine to approach. But when she realized Elaine was going to walk past her, Nayla called out loudly, “ELAINE?” Elaine stopped suddenly and looked at her friend. “Oh, Nayla, I’m sorry...” “Don’t worry. I know you must be going through a lot of pressure.” Nayla stood up. “I really am. But I always have time for my friends.” Elaine smiled and approached, trying to distract her mind. “I wanted to know if there are any openings here at Golden Letters for my brother.” Nayla asked respectfully. Elaine’s smile vanished with the wind. As Nayla’s boss, she knew who the brother was. “Nayla, we’re friends, but you know I have a strong opinion against drug use and sales.” Elaine replied in a boss t
At Andrade Clinic, Charles was leading a meeting with the receptionists and security guards. Walter and Emmanuelle were present. “So, everyone, the next time Liz Silva or anyone else causes a scene at the clinic entrance, security or even the police must be called in immediately. Don’t hesitate just because the troublemaker is someone from an important family. This is a hospital clinic, not a zoo, so I demand order in the lobby. A disturbance can jeopardize the patients who are waiting for care, and I don’t want to compromise anyone’s safety, understood?” “Yes, Mr. Andrade!” everyone responded in unison. “Okay, everyone can return to your posts.” The staff went back to work. Linda gave Walter a brief kiss before leaving. “Linda, I need to ask you a quick question,” Emmanuelle called her back. Linda paused, closing the door after the last person left. “Did you check with your parents if it’s safe to go home?” “No, Emmanuelle. The conversation with Gus was so good that I forgot
In Matthew’s suite, he was now buttoning the cuffs of his genuine cotton dress shirt. Elaine had also gotten out of the bathtub, unable to continue relaxing, and was now putting on her work suit.The memory of the Golden Letters prompted Matthew to strike up a conversation. “Did you remove a glass from the base of the pyramid?” Elaine stared at Matthew as if he were the devil. “What? How can you throw a question like that out of nowhere?” “I just asked a question, woman, answer me.” Elaine shook her head as she walked to the sofa to put on her high heels. “This is inconceivable. Your mind is always revolving around Patricia’s issues. You never forget her, and then tell me I don’t need to worry.” “Was the champagne glass pyramid made for an occasion involving Patricia?” Matthew countered logically. “No, but it was her mother’s book signing.” Elaine angrily slipped on her shoes. “Well, I remembered that many claimed the embarrassment happened because someone removed a glass from
Monday. Elaine was relaxing in the bathtub of her husband’s suite. Matthew stepped out of the shower stall, drying his hair with a white towel as he walked to the double sink. The sight of Matthew’s exposed body startled Elaine for a few seconds, but then she took advantage of the beautiful view, smiling mischievously. “It hardly feels like it’s Monday,” she commented casually. Matthew was washing his face as he said, “Yes, it’s Monday, the day to take care of important things after we relax our nerves on Sunday.” Elaine pursed her lips and retorted, “If I relaxed my nerves, it’s because they were in shambles. It’s not like me to live in constant stress, darling. I might not get the chance to calm down in the future.” Matthew turned off the faucet and grabbed a face towel. “Are you saying you would be willing to reduce your contact with Aunt Liz?” Elaine could no longer relax. “What does that mean?” Matthew tossed the towel onto the sink and turned to his wife. “I don’t like t
In the Silva Penthouse, Liz took advantage of the wreckage of the coffee table to create more drama. “Here we have it, darling! The COFFEE TABLE is SHATTERED with Elaine’s body thanks to Patty—” “SHUT UP!” Fernando slammed the door shut. Liz trembled in panic, staring wide-eyed at her furious husband. “But what is this? Why are you angry with me, darling, when you should be furious with Patty—” “I command silence, and you keep babbling even more!” Fernando went to the utility room to grab a broom. Liz quickly grabbed her phone and took a picture of the shattered coffee table. Maybe this will come in handy for her in the future... “So, what are we going to do about this?” Liz shouted for Fernando to hear. Fernando returned with a broom and a dustpan in hand. “Don’t tell me you’re going to sweep this up!” Liz reacted horrified. “Let the maid clean it up on Monday!” “I won’t have a living room full of glass shards until Monday. I want to watch TV tomorrow!” Fernando’s ferocity