Nathalia’s POV
“Are you sure you won’t come inside? Just when I finally decided to bring you along, now you don’t want to come in.”
Cole raised an eyebrow. “I’m fine right here, Madame. You rarely get to spend time with your parents, after all. It’s better to make the most of the time you have together.”
I smiled at him. We were currently in front of the restaurant owned by my family. I was about to leave the university earlier when I received a call from Liam. He said that Mom wanted to see me and also wanted me to join them for a meal.
It’s been a long time since I last saw them, and I just can’t help but feel excited. That’s why I quickly told Cole to head here.
“Alright. Maybe we won’t stay too long.”
“Just take your time, Madame. Feel free to call me if any issues arise.”
I just nodded at him before turning around and starting to walk into the restaurant. I was warmly greeted by the guard and even our branch manager, Mr. Villafuente.
“Long time no see, Ma’am Nathalia.”
“Likewise. How’s everything here?” I glanced around. It has been quite some time since I last came here. But I noticed that not much had changed.
It’s still classy as ever. From the wooden floor up to the ambient lighting. Plus the single sofa used as chairs and the round wooden table.
“Everything’s fine, ma’am. No problem so far, and our customer base is growing,” Mr. Villafuente replied politely.
“That’s good to hear.”
I breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that our business was running smoothly to some extent.
“This way, please, ma’am.”
We began to walk. I followed him until we reached the restaurant’s second floor. I started smiling when I saw them seated on the terrace. They were the only ones there, and it looked like other customers weren’t allowed to sit there at the moment.
I glanced at Mr. Villafuente. “Thank you. You can go back now.”
He nodded slightly before leaving. I then proceeded to where my parents were.
They all paused and stood up when they saw me. I approached them quickly, and my parents greeted me with tight hugs.
“Oh God, sweetie! You look even more beautiful! It seems that married life suits you, huh?” Mom said with a smile as she released me from the hug.
I chuckled at her comment. “It’s just about right, Mom. And being a married woman is still a bit strange to me. But little by little, I’m getting used to it.”
We all sat down simultaneously before I noticed the waiter standing nearby. I let Mom choose my food for me. They already knew what my favorite dishes were here.
“Your husband is going to be in real trouble when he comes back. It hasn’t been that long since you got married, and yet he left you in our care because he’ll be gone for a few days.” Liam loosened his tie before taking a sip of water.
I didn’t say anything. I might reveal the real reason he left if I talked.
But I couldn’t deny that I was starting to feel lonely. It’s been five days since Stephen left. He usually sends texts or calls me. Still, even with that, I can’t help but feel his absence.
This is really bad. Since when did I start to become dependent on his presence?
“Anyway, how’s your husband when you’re alone together? Does he treat you well? Don’t be afraid to tell us. If I find out he’s doing anything foolish, I won’t hesitate to take you away from him,” Dad threatened.
I pouted. “How will you take me away? You haven’t even visited me at the mansion.”
That’s true. I’ve been waiting for them to come over for a while now. There doesn’t seem to be any issue, according to Stephen. Whenever I try to visit them, they always seem busy.
I saw my parents exchange glances and pause. Liam cleared his throat beside me and adjusted his seat.
“Forgive us, dear. We’ve been really busy with the business, and that’s why we haven’t been able to visit you. Things are starting to settle now, at least for the time being,” Mom said in a gentle tone.
My forehead creased. “Why? Is there a problem with the business?”
In the past few months, I’ve been so consumed with my own issues that I forgot my parents had their own concerns too.
But according to Mr. Villafuente, this branch doesn’t have a problem at all. Maybe the other branch or the hotels?
“No worries, princess. It’s nothing serious. Besides, Liam was there to help us.” Dad gave me an assuring smile.
I nodded. “I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to help for now.”
Mom waved her hand dismissively. “This kid, really. Don’t worry about us. Just focus your attention on your husband. He’ll need your support more than anyone else.”
I nodded again. I’m a wife now, and I have responsibilities to fulfill.
A little while later, our orders arrived. Even as we started eating, our conversation continued.
“How’s your study going, by the way?” Mom asked.
I took a sip of juice before responding. “It’s going well. We’re not too busy yet. But they’re starting to assign activities, and there are assignments too.”
“That’s good. You only have about two more years until you finish. Just a little more patience,” Liam said excitedly.
I paused with my fork halfway to my mouth. If only I could somehow speed up time. It feels like time is moving so slowly right now.
We continued eating and shifted our conversation to business. But we all stopped when we noticed that Mom seemed to be on the verge of tears.
I tightly held Mom’s hand on the table. “Mom, is there a problem? Are you feeling unwell?” I asked, concerned. Dad placed his arm around her shoulders.
She shook her head. “No, it’s nothing. I’m just thinking. My baby can now make a baby.”
Dad and Liam both let out soft curses. Meanwhile, I sat there with my mouth hanging open in shock. In an instant, it felt like my blood rushed to my cheeks.
“What the hell are you saying, Marcel?” Dad asked, clearly annoyed.
Mom gave him a sour look. “Don’t pretend. It feels like just yesterday when you said you wanted to have grandchildren.”
My eyes widened, and I glanced at Dad in surprise. But he quickly averted his gaze.
Seriously?