Sidney turned his head, his gaze landing on Aveline. The moonlight fell softly on her, casting a gentle, ethereal glow over her figure, especially her rounded belly. She looked radiant as if wrapped in a halo of quiet serenity. Her eyes, full of warmth and calm, met his. For some reason, the restless frustration Sidney had been carrying all evening seemed to ease. He let out a small, bitter smile. “Aveline, how have you been lately?”She nodded, offering a simple, “Pretty good.”Sidney sighed. “I wish I could say the same. I’ve realized something important about myself, but things weren’t so clear in the beginning. Now I’m stuck-unsure how to move forward.”Aveline took a moment to process his words, her expression thoughtful.”Then show your sincerity,” she finally said. “It takes time, but others will see your true feelings if you’re genuine. Be patient.”Sidney nodded, appreciating her advice. “You’re right.”He smiled again, though this time it held a bit more warmth. “Seeing you so happy now… I’m really glad for you.”Aveline smiled softly. “We’ll all find happiness in the end.”As Aveline left, Sidney lingered for a moment by the pool, watching her retreating figure.From a distance, Maria observed them, her fingers lightly resting on the rim of her wine glass, though she hadn’t taken a sip. She looked pensive, lost in thought.It wasn’t long before Aveline walked back inside, and Sidney turned, only to notice Maria standing alone not far away. Her elegant dress hugged her frame, highlighting her graceful posture as she casually studied her glass, lost in her own world. Sidney hesitated for a second, then walked over to her.”Done playing for the night?” he asked when he reached her.Maria glanced up briefly, then nodded. “Yeah, I’m tired. I was thinking of heading out soon.””Let me give you a ride,” Sidney offered. Maria shook her head lightly. “We’ve both had drinks. I’ve already called for a driver.”Sidney didn’t miss a beat. “In that case, mind giving me a lift too?”Maria looked at him, mildlyusurprised. The night air was filled with the distant hum of insects and the soft ripple of water from the pool. His eyes, steady and intent, focused on her, catching the glow ofthe nearby lights. S~ᴇaʀᴄh the (F)indNƟvᴇl.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.A gentle breeze stirred the warmth of the evening, softening the edges of the moment. His gaze, usually guarded, seemed to hold a hint of something softer, something she hadn’t noticed before.Maria felt her pulse quicken, and fora second, she wondered if it was the wine making her see thingsdifferently. Or maybe… she really ethad noticed something different about Sidney tonight. His eye’s never seemed so captivating before. Maria set her glass down, a playful smile curving her lips. “Alright, but you’re paying for the ride.””Deal,” Sidney agreed without hesitation, a grin spreading across his face. “Whatever you want, just name it.”Maria turned on her heel, throwing over her shoulder, “I’ll let you know when I figure it out.”Sidney followed her naturally, his steps falling in line with hers as they left the beachfront villa together.Meanwhile, across the room, Selena, who had had more than a few drinks, caught sight of them leaving. She immediately grabbed Aaron’s arm, her eyes wide with excitement. “Did you see that? They just left together! They’re totally going to end up together.” Aaron wrapped an arm around her waist, steadying her as she swayed slightly. “Selena, you’ve had too much. Let’s get you back to the room to rest, okay?” “I’m not drunk!” Selena insisted, waving him off dramatically. “Tonight is a night for celebrating! No stopping until the sun comes up!”Lucas glanced at his watch before gently taking Aveline’s hand. “It’s getting late. Let’s head home.”Desmond, Baron, and Braden also rose, signaling the end of the night for them as well. They gathered their things, saying their goodbyes. Gernard clapped his hands together and grinned. “Ah, nothing like a wedding night. Great times ahead for you two. We’ll leave you to it.” Turning to Gavin, he added, “Ready to head out, brother?”Gavin didn’t say a word, but stood up and followed, leaving without looking back.