Meg's apartment.
Bella was crying her eyes out, and Meg sat beside her, gently rubbing her back to comfort her.
"It's good that he didn't recognise me," Bella choked out between sobs.
"How far should I run? Why is he here now? I left everything. Everything, just to get away from him. So why… why now?"
Her voice broke again as the grief spilled over.
"Hey, hey… don't cry, Bella. Shh." Meg pulled her close, her tone soft and motherly. "We're all here for you. You're not alone. Now, can you tell me what exactly happened?"
Bella wiped her tears, looked up at her, and finally nodded.
Flashback.
All four families; the Remingtons, Gonzales, Filschs, and Smiths were once inseparable. More than friends, they were bonded like blood brothers. For years, the families lived close to one another, children growing up side by side, adults sharing meals, laughter, and trust.
But thirteen years ago, an incident shattered that harmony. Some members knew the truth; others were left in the dark. Whatever it was, it tore the four families apart. The Remingtons and Gonzales moved to Country N, while the Filschs and Smiths settled in Country C, their once-tight bond reduced to distant memories, but still friends forever.
The Smiths were a proud military family. Samuel Smith served as the Military Chief, while his wife, Hailey, was an Air Marshal at the time. Their son, Benjamin, followed in their footsteps and is now a lieutenant. Isabella, however, was the odd one out. The girl who didn't crave the roar of jets or the harsh discipline of the barracks. She loved the warmth of kitchens, the comfort of spices, and the art of plating. Her family supported her wholeheartedly and sent her to a prestigious culinary school, where she thrived.
Meanwhile, Frederick Filsch was on his own path. His father, Oliver Filsch, pushed him toward business, and Rick graduated with impressive marks. His mother, Avery Filsch, was a celebrated chef, and Rick grew up absorbing her passion even if he didn't officially pursue the culinary route.
Five years ago.
Bella was twenty. Rick was twenty-four. At that time, Bella hadn't yet met the friends she has today. But Rick? He still maintained ties with the other two from the old days; Alex and Ben.
Alex, long before his family relocated to Country N, had left home to chase power and discipline. Drawn to the military world, he trained directly under Samuel Smith, earning both his respect and expertise. Rian and the Remington family had vanished to Country N thirteen years ago, only reconnecting with the others (except Theo) two or three years back.
And during those years, while Bella was immersed in her culinary studies, Rick was working as the manager of one of his family's hotels; the same hotel partnered with her culinary institute. He was busy, responsible, and very much in touch with his military friends, Alex and Ben.
That's when their paths crossed…
And everything that was once simple began to change.
One fine day.
"Rick!"
Bella came running toward him, her voice bright and excited.
Rick turned, smiling as he saw her practically sprinting.
"Slow down, Bella. What's the matter?"
"Here! Look what I brought for you!"
She thrust a small box into his hands, practically vibrating with enthusiasm.
Rick raised a brow. "What's in this?" he asked, as eager as she was.
"Open it and see!"
He flipped the lid open and his eyes widened. A neatly plated smothered chicken, steaming and golden.
"Woah… this is my favourite," he said, the surprise and delight obvious in his voice.
"Then taste it and tell me how it is!" she urged, bouncing slightly on her toes.
Rick didn't waste a second. He took a bite, and his eyes closed in approval.
"Mmm… this is amazing."
Bella's smile bloomed instantly, her cheeks glowing with happiness.
"Where did you buy it?" he asked between mouthfuls.
Bella looked away, her face turning pink. "Take a Guess."
Rick froze, watching the shy curve of her lips and the blush dusting her cheeks.
"Don't tell me you…?"
She nodded. "I made it," she whispered.
Rick chuckled softly. "Who would believe the youngest daughter of a hardcore military family is secretly a master chef?"
"Hey!" she pouted. "Don't tease me. The military isn't my thing. I love cooking."
"And you're perfect at it," he replied warmly.
Then, leaning in a little, his voice dropped to a soft, possessive murmur.
"But Bella darling… don't cook for everyone like this. I'd like to reserve this privilege for myself."
Her cheeks turned crimson.
They were young, foolishly earnest, and hopelessly in love and their families knew nothing about the little world their hearts had built together.
Everything changed the day she entered their lives, like a storm ripping through calm skies.
Leila Thimothee.