Chapter 44 CASSANDRA Cassandra cradles Emilio, his body heavy and warm on hers. Their hearts are racing, and shes trying to catch her breath. After a few minutes, he rolls to the side, pulling her along. She settles on his chest, his fingers gently twirling her hair. My uncle and Beth want us over for dinner, Emilio says. Cassandra nods. She already knew. Thats sweet of them. When should we be there? She sits up, pulling the sheet over her chest. Emilio tugs it back down, cupping her breast. Dont hide from me. His touch sends a thrill through her. We should be there by eight. That doesnt give us much time, Cassandra says. Is Alex coming too? Emilio rises from the bed, standing naked before her. No, hell be asleep by the time we leave, and I dont know when well be back. He takes her hand, leading her into the bathroom. He nudges her into the shower, joining her a moment later. His arms wrap around her as the hot water cascades over them. Your breasts feel heavier, Emilio says, and Cassandra tenses. Actually, Ive noticed a lot of changes in you. She avoids his eyes.Oh no. Shed hoped he wouldnt notice, but nothing ever slips past him. Cassandra forces a laugh. Youre imagining things. Are you sure? Emilio asks, his eyes searching hers. Are you calling me fat, Mr. Rodriguez? He chuckles. No, never. Youre perfect. Every part of you is perfect. I wouldnt change a thing. But I wouldnt mind if you gained a little weight. She playfully smacks his chest. Will you still want me when Im fat? Even more. He kisses her forehead, and she feels a flutter in her chest. She loves this man with all her heart. *** When the babysitter, Annie, arrives at half past seven, they head out. José is driving tonight, and Emilio is engrossed in his phone. He looks stunning in his suit, as if it was tailored just for him. Cassandra fights the urge to reach out and touch him.Whats the point of love if you cant express it? She wants to tell him the truth, but she cant find the words. A few minutes later, they pull up to their destination. Emilio steps out, opens her door, and offers his hand. Cassandra whispers a breathless thank you. His touch always makes her heart skip a beat, and she wonders if that will ever change. Emilio rings the doorbell, and soon Beth appears in the doorway, smiling. She looks stunning in a blue dress that hugs her figure, her hair flowing freely. Good evening, you two, Beth says. She steps aside, letting them in. Cassandra, you look lovely, she adds as they head to the living room. Thank you, you too. I love your hair downyou should wear it like this more often. With little ones around, its not always practical, but thanks for the compliment. Wheres uncle? Emilio asks. Hes on a video call. Hell join us soon. Have a seat. Can I get you anything? A glass of wine for my beautiful wife, and Ill have a scotch, Emilio answers. Beth shoots Cassandra a look but doesnt say anything as she walks away. The house is spacious, with an open floor plan that allows each room to flow into the next. Cassandra notices a bar and dining area next to the kitchen, and a curved staircase with a glass railing off the living room. Beth returns a few minutes later with their drinks, and her husband follows shortly after. Emiliano, Cassandra, he greets. Emilio hugs him. Good to see you. Everything settled now? Lets talk after dinner, Emilio replies, clearly not wanting Cassandra involved in the conversation. Emilio takes the drinks from Beth and hands Cassandra her glass of wine.Now what? She cant drink thisshes pregnant. But Emilio is watching her. Whats wrong? he asks. Cassandra forces a smile and takes a small sip. Its cranberry juice. She meets Beths eyes and silently thanks her. Beth smiles back reassuringly. Hows the little guy? Luis asks. Growing fast, Emilio replies. So, are you planning on having more? Beth asks. Cassandra nearly chokes on her drink. No, Alex is enough for now, Emilio says. We both agreed not to have kids right now. Isnt that right, sweetheart? Unable to trust her voice, Cassandra nods. Her hope that he would be happy about her pregnancy fades. If hes not ready for another child, hell be shocked when he finds out shes pregnant. Besides, Emilio continues, I want my wife all to myself for a while longer. His arm wraps around her shoulder, pulling her close for a kiss on the cheek. She blushes. When theyre young, they need a lot of attention, Luis agrees. I remember when Rafael and Isabell were babies. They kept me on my toes all day, and I hardly saw Beth. Well, you were worth the wait, Beth says with a smile. The love between them is clear, and Cassandra hopes that one day, Emilio will look at her the same way. Come, dinners ready. They all head to the dining room, and soon a housekeeper brings out the food. As they eat, Luis asks, Hows my nephew treating you? Like royalty, Cassandra admits. I couldnt have wished for a better husband. Hes everything I need. Their gazes meet. I can tell marriage agrees with himhes different. No, Im not, Emilio interjects, glancing at his uncle. Even your mom has seen the change in you, and she thinks its all because of Cassandra. Every man has a woman meant for him, Uncle. For me, that woman is Cassie, just like Beth is for you. Sounds like a man in love, Beth comments. Emilio stays silent for the rest of the meal. After dinner, Beth and Cassandra move to the living room, while the men head to the office. Once theyre settled, Cassandra asks, Can I ask you something? Of course. Are you Rafael and Isabells biological mom? No, their mom died giving birth to Isabell. I didnt know. Im sorry for prying. Luis and I met when they were just babies, and we clicked instantly. We dated for two years before getting married, and it was one of the best decisions Ive ever made. Its obvious how much you two love each other. Beth smiles. We all need love in our lives. Do you have any kids together? No. I was pregnant once but had a miscarriage, and after that, I couldnt get pregnant again. Cassandra catches the flicker of pain in her eyes before its replaced with a warm smile. But Im not complaining. Rafael and Isabell accepted me as their mom, and it didnt take long for them to feel like my own kids. Its clear that even though she didnt give birth to Rafael and Isabell, she loves them deeply. Have you talked to Emiliano? His words tonight reminded me why I havent told him yet. At this point, I dont even know if I will tell him. What will you do when you start showing? He will notice the changes in your body. I dont know. I really dont know, Beth. I feel cornered. Emilios words tonight hurt; its clear he doesnt want more kids. But she wont give up her baby, no matter what. Have you talked to Emilia? No, but were visiting her this weekend. Stay strong, Beth advises. Everything will work out in the end. I hope so, Cassandra murmurs to herself. What are you hoping for, sweetheart? Emilio asks from behind her. Startled by his voice, Cassandra nearly jumps. She stands, nervously twisting her fingers. I was just telling Beth how I hope Alex doesnt give me a hard time when he starts walking. Luis chuckles. Better start preparing now. Emilio watches her hands, then meets her gaze. He reaches out to caress her cheek. Ready to leave? Cassandra nods. Uncle, Beth, thanks for dinner. It was delicious. He kisses Beths cheek and then turns to Luis. Uncle, well talk soon. Absolutely. Keep me posted if anything changes. As theyre leaving, Beth says, Cassandra, give Alex my love and dont hesitate to bring him over. Babies are a blessing, and who knows how long Ill have to wait for Rafael to settle down, get married, and have kids. Youll be waiting forever, Emilio says at the door. And who do you think taught him? Beth retorts. Definitely not me. Yeah, right, Mr. I bet you have nothing to do with him coming home at dawn. Emilio laughs. Goodnight, he says. Cassandra also says her goodbyes, and then they drive home in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Title: A Tangle of Love (English-dubbed) In "A Tangle of Love," a captivating romance unfolds within a unique observation show where participants navigate intricate relationships, love triangles, and power dynamics. Set against the backdrop of modern-day complexities, this ongoing series delves into themes of reincarnation, revenge, and personal transformation. Follow the journey of diverse characters as they grapple with misunderstandings and emotional conflicts while vying for love and success. As the drama unfolds, one couple emerges from the chaos, showcasing a remarkable glow-up that defies expectations. What sets "A Tangle of Love" apart is its blend of billionaire lifestyles, contemporary romance dynamics, and the allure of second chances. 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