"Never allow your past to ruin your future. Never ever hurt others because you were hurt in your past. Always see the good in your past no matter what you've experienced."
— Bella Angel Douglas
Sofia's POV
He looked so beautiful in his suit when he entered, but I squared my shoulders and lifted my chin. Attitude on. I am Sofia Gabriella Parker, and I don't let anyone, not even him, see me falter.
Dinner was… enjoyable. I didn't say it out loud, of course — that jerk face doesn't deserve that kind of honesty. Did he really think I'd accept his invitation after insulting me? Not a chance. Business only. Apologies can stay in his pocket where they belong.
By the time I got home, I was drained but satisfied in a quiet way. A bath, warm water enveloping me, steam rising like a protective veil, and then bed.
Saydai's POV
"Honey, how was work today?" I asked, reaching for the stainless steel pan to serve the spaghetti I'd cooked earlier.
"Work was good. Just that my boss seems a little disturbed since Monday, and work is crazy as usual," I said, placing a portion on Steve's plate.
Sofia is a remarkable person. She carries a beautiful heart, even when hurt, and prays for those who wronged her. I've seen it firsthand.
I remember Singapore. One night, while playing that ridiculous "Complete my word with the alphabet I used last" game, she had gotten really drunk — it was her idea — and she cried for her family for hours. I couldn't help laughing, but it was also deeply moving. That's Sofia: playful, tender, fiercely loyal to her heart, even when her pain shows.
"Mama!"
Steve's voice rang through the house.
"What is it, baby?" I asked softly, seeing him tugging at the sleeves of my green dress.
"I want to see Aunt Sofia. Can she come over to our house, please? I also go to go to her but she hasn't been to mine," he pleaded, his wide, innocent eyes impossible to resist.
I felt a pang. How I wished it were possible, but "the situation" wouldn't allow it. Sofia couldn't come, not yet.
"I'm sorry, baby," I said gently. "She can't come right now, but you'll still be able to see her, okay?"
Steve's bottom lip trembled. "No! I want her here! I want to show her my new toys! Why do I always have to go there? Why can't she come here?"
I swallowed hard, watching the boy I love so dearly cry. He's a mirror of Sofia — just as stubborn, just as loving, just as fiery. My chest tightened with sadness.
I wished, truly wished, that circumstances were different. One day, maybe, everything would be right. Until then, I had to be the strong one for both of them.
I glanced at the spaghetti steaming in the pan, then at Steve's pleading face, and sighed softly. I know his attachment to Sofia is more than friendship; it's admiration, comfort, and joy all wrapped in innocence. And their bond is more than what they know. And it's heartbreaking that the connection can't flourish freely just yet.
Author's Note:
Why is Steve so much like Sofia? What is "the situation" preventing her visit? Share your thoughts, vote, and comment. I love hearing what you think about Sofia and her bond with Steve.
Kindly vote, share and comment. I look forward to reading your thoughts about the characters.
They are prefect as no body is.
Xoxo 😘
Bella