The beginning of it all.

(ARIELLE'S POV)

The scent of the dinner wafted through the room, as I focused on my husband, Jared. His dark hair falling just right, framing his straight nose and sharp jawline. Even in his casual clothes, the man had an undeniable presence-broad shoulders, a sculpted chest. He

could've walked right out of a magazine, yet here he was, with me.

It was our anniversary, and in commemoration of that, I had suggested that we had an indoor dinner- just the two of us.

Despite his usual aloof self, Jared had created time from his usual busy work schedule, and that was a gesture I considered lovely. Especially when he looked up at me with those smoldering eyes, it was hard to stay upset.

I had chosen to sit across from him instead of our usual dinning position-beside him because I wanted to see all of his reactions when I finally broke the good news to him.

You see, I just discovered that I am pregnant yesterday from our family doctor, and I stalled the news, so I could break it to Jared during the anniversary dinner.

Whatever way would have been better? Celebrating an anniversary, and the conception of a baby. Sounds like a double party to me.

"This meal is delicious, Arielle," Jared commented, interrupting my line of thoughts. "I don't understand why I'm always awed by your culinary skill. You are a chef after all."

I flashed him the most beautiful smile I could muster, feeling flustered by his compliment. "Thank you, Jared. That means a lot coming from you."

He smiled back, but his was not as wide and bright as mine. "You didn't have to make so many dishes, though. Two or three would have been just enough. It's only the two of us after all."

I clicked my tongue, there he went again. I was just about to reply to him, to tell him that it was our anniversary and I wanted to make it special, when his phone rang, the shrill sound disrupting the calm atmosphere.

Jared's face fell when he looked at the screen, and then his expression turned apologetic. "Excuse me, Arielle. I have to take this. It's work," he said and rose to his feet.

lump form in my throat, as I nodded in

I'll be here," I said, my voice coming out flatter

get you new jewelry, whatever you want," he called out as he rushed out

back on my seat, frustrated and disappointed. It's 9 o'clock. Who leaves their home at this time for work? It's our special day for crying out loud, and

eyes inadvertently rolled. Men need to learn that gifts are not always the key to a woman's heart;

the umpteenth time. He hadn't mentioned when he'd return, as usual. Would he even remember our anniversary when he was done with work? The food once appealing, now looked unappetizing. Our anniversary dinner, ruined by a work call. Then I proceeded to cover the food. While at it, I decided that I will wait for Jared in the sitting room while entertaining myself

knew it, I fell asleep and woke up with a start hours later.

painful realization dawned on me; our anniversary was over. Anger and disappointment enveloped me as I realized that Jared wasn't home yet. I had been excited to share my news with him, but

dining room, the remnants of our anniversary dinner still laid out on the table. Fine, guess this was the karma for me, a star chef, taking a two-day leave and not cooking for my appreciative guests but cooking for my husband. Sighing in resignation, I cleared the table and

morning, I arrived at the restaurant, the familiar chaos of the kitchen greeted me like an old friend, and so did my

thought

the pain of

a tall and imposing man with a kind smile, approached me as I

a few minutes to spare?" He

looking

an opportunity for overseas study, lasting three years. It's a great opportunity to improve and take your culinary

I

But the idea tugged at something deep inside me a chance to step out of Jared's shadow and prove myself as a chef on my own terms. I'd always relied on his support, and as much as I loved him, I wanted to know what it felt like to succeed because of me,

my dear. Think about it and discuss it with your partner. This is a lifetime decision, and I want you to be certain." He patted me on the

with raising our child on his own if I eventually give birth? What about our

mind as I returned to work, my hands busy as I

a distressed look on her face. "Ma, there's a customer insisting on seeing

problem?" I asked,

responded. "She says she wants to

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