Chapter 13 13 Chapter 13 - Unmistakable Eyes Monica's POV The afternoon dragged on after Mr. Lorenzo finished sharing his travel details. Paula and I returned to our workstations, diving back into spreadsheets and emails. Just as we were packing up to leave, Darren materialized at my office door at the exact moment Mr. Lorenzo emerged from his. "Ladies, your day of freedom has arrived!" Darren announced, flashing that megawatt smile. "Morris and I are heading to Giorgio's for dinner, and we absolutely insist that the two most stunning women in this building join us." Giorgio's wasn't just any restaurant - it was the crown jewel of Italian dining in the city, with prices that made credit cards tremble. Natalie had actually convinced me we should try it this weekend, arguing that their handcrafted gnocchi and house wines were legendary. She'd been on a mission to acclimate me to upscale establishments, insisting I'd need the practice for future business engagements. "What terrible timing, Paula lamented with practiced diplomacy. "We've already committed to other plans this evening. People are waiting for us. Perhaps another time?" I nodded in agreement, offering a polite smile of thanks. But the transformation on my boss's face was impossible to miss - his expression darkened like storm clouds gathering. "Surely you could reschedule for your boss," he said, his voice unnervingly tight. "Isn't declining rather... discourteous?" Paula didn't miss a beat. "Morris, stop being such a grump. The real discourtesy would be making us abandon our existing plans at zero notice. We'd be delighted to join you tomorrow, wouldn't we, Monica?" "Absolutely, I agreed, before adding what I immediately recognized as a mistake. "Though if it's truly important, I'm sure our companions would understand it's a work obligation." Mr. Lorenzo's face flushed with what looked remarkably like jealousy. "Don't bother," he snapped. "I wouldn't dream of making you disappoint your... companions. Enjoy your evening, just ensure you're punctual tomorrow, Miss Hayes." He stormed out, his footsteps thundering down the hallway. From the elevator, he barked "Let's go!" at Darren, who simply shrugged and followed his fuming friend. When I turned to Paula, she was struggling-to contain her laughter. We departed shortly afterward, heading straight to my place. Natalie greeted us at the door with her trademark enthusiasm, the aroma of her exceptional cooking filling the apartment. Austin was sprawled on the living room carpet with his toys, but scrambled up and raced toward me the moment he saw me. I scooped him into my arms and introduced him to Paula. 13 Chapter 13 - Unmistakable Eyes Her face transformed when she got a proper look at my son. Something flashed in her eyes - recognition? Surprise? "Monica, your boy is absolutely gorgeous," she said slowly, studying his features. "And you - weren't exaggerating those eyes are identical to Morris's." There was an undercurrent to her words that made me wonder what theories were forming in her mind. Paula integrated seamlessly into our little gathering, as though she'd been part of our circle. forever. Austin was completely smitten, proudly showing off every toy in his collection and already addressing her as "Auntie Paula." After tucking Austin into bed with his favorite stuffed dinosaur, I rejoined the women in the living room. Natalie uncorked another bottle of wine, and conversation flowed effortlessly. Natalie enthusiastically described her new workplace, while Paula commented that Grady Louis would be a fantastic colleague - apparently he had quite the reputation for being approachable and fun. Then, without warning, Paula fixed her gaze on me. "Monica, what's your son's father's name?" Heat crept into my cheeks. I hadn't mentioned to her that Austin's father was essentially a stranger to me. "It's... complicated, Paula. The truth is, I don't know his name." Her eyebrows shot up, but she waited patiently for me to continue. "I'd had a few drinks - not that I'm using that as an excuse. He asked me to dance, and between the music and conversation, we never formally introduced ourselves. It was a masquerade ball, so I never even saw his face clearly. All I remember are those distinctive violet-blue eyes and a smile that completely unraveled me." Paula's expression transformed into delighted fascination. "You're kidding! I need every single detail. This sounds like something straight out of a romance novel - a passionate encounter on one mysterious night." Comment In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. 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