Chapter 268: Finally Back
"I didn’t know there was a celebration at the main villa today. I came to pick up the keys to Cartier Villa from Mario," Carla explained with a smile.
Rain’s heart skipped a beat, but she reminded herself to stay confident. She knew what she and Alexander shared was strong. What they had was real, and Carla was simply a part of his past.
"When did you get back?" Maria exclaimed, her face lighting up. "Since you’re here, come and eat with us!"
Aunt Maria pulled Carla toward their table, clearly comfortable with her presence. Rain assumed most of Alexander’s family would be close with Carla; after all, she’d been a big part of his life growing up.
"I arrived at the airport this morning. I wanted to surprise Mom and Dad... they don’t even know I’m back yet. I came here knowing they’d come by to rest after Dad’s event in town. He’s giving a speech at the university graduation today," Carla explained with a polite smile.
Rain couldn’t help but notice how graceful Carla was, speaking with an easy charm that was almost magnetic. As a celebrity, it came naturally to her.
’I can’t believe I’m even paying attention to these details,’ Rain thought, chiding herself inwardly.
When Carla turned to Alexander, her smile grew even brighter and warmer, which made Rain’s heart tighten just a little. "It’s been a while," Carla greeted Alexander warmly. "I heard you’re married now."
Alexander rose with Rain by his side, taking Rain’s hand with a proud smile. "Yes, I am. Carla, I’d like you to meet my beautiful wife, Rain Lancaster." Then he looked to Rain and added, "Rain, this is Carla Cartier... a close family friend."