There stood Sonny, who had maintained a short distance from Nathan and Lucinda, respecting their intimate moments.
Clothed in a dark green military uniform that blended into the night, his recently tanned skin made him less noticeable under the dim Lighting.
Luisaâs reaction to seeing Sonny was one of shock, followed by a visible emotional upheaval.
After all, she had laid eyes on him after such a long absence.
Sonny, noticing Luisaâs distress, touched his face self-consciously and asked with a hint of concern, âHave I got something on my face? Why are you looking at me like that?â
Unable to contain her emotions any longer, Luisa broke down in tears, rushing towards Sonny to embrace him tightly.
Between sobs, she expressed her worry and affection.
âHow did you get so tanned? It looks like youâve had a tough time at the border.
I feel sorry for you.
â
Sonny, initially frozen, allowed himself to be enveloped by Luisaâs embrace, deeply touched by her concern.
Her words resonated with him, reminding him that there was another soul deeply concerned about him, much like Lucinda missed Nathan.
This realization was profound
ly comforting.
Sonny, visibly moved by her, found himself momentarily lost for words, his eyes rimming with red.
Observing his hesitation, Lucinda stepped in with a gentle nudge.
âLook at her, how upset she is.
Why not just embrace her? Sheâs been missing you terribly.
Itâs time you took her in your arms to offer the comfort she needs.
â
Sonny seemed to snap out of his reverie.
âOkay, Lucinda, Iâll follow your lead.
â
Without another word, he gently lifted Luisa, signaling to Nathan and Lucinda their intent to leave.
âWeâll head back now.
â
Nathan and Lucinda acknowledged their leave with a nod.
As Sonny turned to walk away with Luisa cradled in his arms, the dim glow of a streetlamp cast a serene outline around them, a silent testament to their rekindled connection.
âSonny, youâve gotten so tanned.
You seem different.
â
Sonny, caught off-guard by the comment, asked, âDo I look bad?â
Luisa, her voice softening, reassured him with a mix of affection and humor, âNo, youâre still as handsome as ever, just with a bit more rugged charm.
Donât worry; Iâll take care of you with a face mask when weâre back.
Youâll be back to your old self in no time.
â
âIâm not the kind of guy who uses facial masks!â Sonny grumbled, clearly not thrilled with the idea.
âIâm sure a macho guy like you can scrub up pretty nicely! Just do me a favor and drop the tough guy act.
Do as I say!â
Luisa retorted with a playful authority that left Sonny without a comeback.
Their banter was light-hearted enough that even Lucinda and Nathan, overhearing the exchange, couldnât contain their laughter.
Lucinda teased, âNathan, when are you going to teach Sonny a thing or two about romance? Heâs so dense.
If he keeps this up, he might end up upsetting Luisa.
â
Nathan, lifting Lucinda effortlessly, responded with a chuckle, âWhy should we meddle in their love Life? Anyone clueless about love will figure it out eventually.
â
He then ki*sed Lucinda softly, adding, âItâs getting late.
You should head to bed early tonight.
â