It had been a week since the passing of Miguel Valiente, and the family was still struggling with his absence. Stella and Pedro had stayed at the hacienda for three days before departing, providing Marissa with much-needed support during her time of need. Marissa was deeply grateful for their company; her best friend's companionship was a comforting balm in the midst of her grief.As the days passed, Marissa discovered, to her surprise and dismay, that Juan and Daniella had been married for two years. The news struck her deeply, leaving her questioning how Juan could have proceeded with the marriage despite her warnings and concerns. The lack of communication about such a significant event left her feeling bewildered and hurt. Nobody had informed her about Juan and Daniella's marriage.Carlos and Danna had been engaged for four months, eagerly awaiting the perfect moment to exchange vows and begin their life together. Carlos had always dreamt of a grand celebration with all their love

Marissa walked through the hacienda, memories of her encounter with Efrain at the bar flooded her mind. She couldn't shake the way he had ignited every nerve in her body with his touches. Even though she was taken aback by her strong response, she desired more, longing for the sense of wholeness she had experienced. It was unexpected, but she couldn't ignore the strong attraction she felt for him, awakening a fresh desire within her."Marissa!" Carlos's voice rang out, pulling her out of her reverie as she turned to face him."What?" she replied, slightly startled by his sudden appearance."I've been calling you from a distance. What are you thinking about?" Carlos inquired, his brow furrowed with concern."Nothing, what's up?" Marissa asked."I just wanted to apologize for what happened over a half decade ago. I made a huge mistake by not standing by your side and being there for you," Carlos apologized.Marissa's smile softened at his words. "It's nothing, Carlos. I've already moved

Marissa trailed behind Efrain, drawn toward his kitchen, each step revealed a world of minimalistic elegance, where rustic charm met modern simplicity. As she crossed the threshold into the kitchen, She found herself mesmerized by it's elegant. where sleek countertops and brushed steel appliances seamlessly melded with the warm, wooden surroundings. Every detail, from the pottery on open shelves to the soft, diffused light through linen curtains."I had no idea you knew how to cook?" Marissa asked, sounding slightly surprised."I do," Efrain replied, a small smile on his lips. "Living alone has taught me to be self-sufficient. Plus, there's something special about homemade meals. As for you, Miss Valiente, I wouldn't be surprised if cooking isn't your forte."Marissa giggled. "You're right. Before I left town, I was clueless in the kitchen. But when I returned to the city, I had to fend for myself and learn the ropes.""Why? I thought Ignacio live in the city too," Efrain inquired."We

Marissa entered the hacienda to find the family almost done with breakfast. Their eyes turned to her, and Carlos greeted her with a smile.Ignacio chimed in with a teasing remark, "They say if a woman doesn't spend the night at home and wears the same clothes the next day, she must have had a passionate night."Marissa sat between Carlos and Ignacio, unaffected by the playful teasing. "I can assure you that the saying is wrong. It's not always the case," she replied with a smile."I know exactly where she spent the night," Carlos said, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.Marissa shot him a glare and stomped on his foot, No one saw her, but her frustration was clear in her intense stare.Juan, who had been quietly watching, finally spoke, "Marissa, could you clarify where you were last night?""Boss, my personal life is my own business. As for my whereabouts, I can only provide professional updates. I'm an adult and perfectly capable of looking after myself," Marissa asserted,

Marissa smiled to herself as she contemplated the idea of bringing some of her clothes to Efrain's closet, knowing that she would be spending many nights here in the future. Just as she was lost in thought, she was interrupted by the jingle of her phone. Glancing at the caller ID, she saw it was Stella. With a smile, she accepted the call, bringing the device to her ear."Hey, B," Marissa greeted her friend."Hello there! I've been on the hunt for my elusive friend, Marissa Valiente. I'm eager to deliver my report to Sheriff Efrain Guerra," Stella joked in her usual playful way.Marissa couldn't help but chuckle at Stella's cheesy antics. "I'm sorry, things have been so hectic lately," she apologized sincerely."Busy? With Efrain, indulging in passion and intimacy?" Stella teased mischievously."Well, I've been spending my nights wrapped up in him, and it's been absolutely wonderful," Marissa admitted with a contented sigh. "But despite that, I wanted to make sure to reach out to you.