Chapter 268
“I didn’t know there was a celebration at the main villa today. I came to pick up the keys to Cartier Villa from Mario,” Carla explained with a smile.
Rain’s heart skipped a beat, but she reminded herself to stay confident. She knew what she and Alexander shared was strong. What they had was real, and Carla was simply a part of his past.
“When did you get back?” Maria exclaimed, her face lighting up. “Since you’re here, come and eat with us p>
Aunt Maria pulled Carla toward their table, clearly comfortable with her presence. Rain assumed most of Alexander’s family would be close with Carla; after all, she’d been a big part of his life growing up.
“I arrived at the airport this morning. I wanted to surprise Mom and Dad… they don’t even know I’m back yet. I came here knowing they’d come by to rest after Dad’s event in town. He’s giving a speech at the university graduation today,” Carla explained with a polite smile.
Rain couldn’t help but notice how graceful Carla was, speaking with an easy charm that was almost magnetic. As a celebrity, it came naturally to her.
’I can’t believe I’m even paying attention to these details,’ Rain thought, chiding herself inwardly.
When Carla turned to Alexander, her smile grew even brighter and warmer, which made Rain’s heart tighten just a little. “It’s been a while,” Carla greeted Alexander warmly. “I heard you’re married now p>
Alexander rose with Rain by his side, taking Rain’s hand with a proud smile. “Yes, I am. Carla, I’d like you to meet my beautiful wife, Rain Lancaster.” Then he looked to Rain and added, “Rain, this is Carla Cartier… a close family friend p>
Rain nodded and accepted Carla’s offered handshake, aware of the many eyes watching their interaction. Just then, Eric called out, “Carla! Come sit with us! It’s been too long p>
He guided Carla to another table. Aunt Ava leaned close to Rain and reassured her, “It might feel awkward, but Carla is Alexander’s past. You’re his present and future. She’s a close family friend, so you may see her around from time to time p>
Rain smiled, reassuring Aunt Ava, “It’s fine. The past is the past p>
Alexander then added casually, “As for our marriage celebration, I’m planning a grand wedding for my wife. We’re set to hold it at the end of the month, and I’ve been handling all the preparations myself p>
Aunt Ava’s eyes widened. “You?! Are you sure you’re handling it, Xander? My goodness, I’ve heard so much about how you’ve changed since marrying Rain, but this… You’re really a new man p>
Father Rock joined in with a hearty laugh that echoed across the gathering. “I tell you, I can hardly recognize my son since Rain came into his life! Here he is, organizing a big celebration for his wife, and he hates gatherings. That’s what love does… brings out the best in a person p>
Rain’s heart swelled with joy as she tried to contain her grin. She adored her father-in-law, and his words felt like a warm embrace. She couldn’t help but blush, her face lighting up with a flustered but happy smile.
Rain resisted the urge to glance at Carla, instead focusing her smile on her father-in-law as he raised his glass with a warm grin.
“I am truly overjoyed today,” he announced. “The most important people in my life have all found wonderful partners. So, let’s toast to Xander and his wife, Rain, to William and his new bride, Sanya, and to my dear brother, Ben, and his wife, Melanie. May each of them keep their love burning brightly and enjoy a prosperous and joyful marriage. Cheers p>
They all lifted their glasses, laughing as they took a sip. Then Father Rock chuckled and added, “Oh, and don’t forget to grant me some grandchildren to look after soon p>
Everyone laughed at his playful request.
“Oh, Uncle!” Eric chimed in, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Everyone here is married now, but not you! Looks like you should think about finding a partner too p>
Father Rock threw his head back, laughing along with everyone.
Alyssa soon arrived with her father and brother, and Rain watched as she immediately ran over to Carla. “You’re finally back!” Alyssa exclaimed, hugging her as if she were a long-lost sister.
Alexander leaned in close, his voice soft. “Are you sure you’re alright? We can leave if you’re uncomfortable p>
Rain felt her heart warm at his concern. With a reassuring smile, she replied, “I’m perfectly fine. Let’s enjoy ourselves… it’s a celebration for the important people in our lives, after all p>
The music shifted to a gentle melody, signaling the start of the couples’ dance. Alexander’s eyes sparkled as he offered his hand. “May I have this dance, my beautiful wife p>
Rain nodded, and Alexander led her to the center of the floor, where William and Sanya, along with Uncle Ben and Aunt Melanie, were already swaying to the music. Other couples joined in, filling the dance floor in a beautiful, joyful scene.
Alyssa caught the quiet sadness in Carla’s eyes, the way her gaze lingered on the dance floor where Alexander and Rain moved together so effortlessly. She bit her lip, unsure of how to comfort her friend.
“Do you want to leave? I can accompany you to the Cartier Villa until Aunt Summer and Uncle Arla arrive,” Alyssa offered gently, sensing Carla’s discomfort.
She felt a pang of sympathy for Carla, but there was little they could do. It was painfully clear that her cousin was already smitten, his affection for his wife evident in every glance and gesture. It seemed he was truly in love with Rain, and no matter how much Carla might wish otherwise, that was a reality they couldn’t change.
Carla shook her head, her smile forced but soft. “I’m fine. I need to stay strong. I should get used to seeing Alexander with another woman in his arms. I just… I just hope she’s worthy enough to be with him,” she said quietly, her voice trembling just slightly at the end.
Alyssa noticed the familiar hesitation in Carla’s expression, the way she seemed torn between speaking and holding back. “What’s going on?” she asked, her voice gentle but curious.