Page 91 of Wild Tangled Hearts

I extend my hand, feeling the weight of her expectations. "It's great to meet you finally."

We exchange pleasantries, but I can't help but feel like she's assessing me, trying to discern whether I'm the right fit for her brother. Her questions about my job, interests, and relationship are polite, but there's an undercurrent of something else — an almost imperceptible skepticism.

As we stroll through the gallery, Naomi engages us in discussions about the art, her knowledge and passion for the subject evident. But the uneasiness in my chest lingers, growing like a shadow that I can't escape.

"What do you think of this one, Alex?" Naomi inquires, focusing on a piece by the incredibly talented Christina Quarles.

Alex chuckles softly and shrugs. “Honestly, everything here looks the same to me.” He wraps an arm around my shoulder, drawing me close. “Bella’s the art expert."

Naomi's smile remains polite, but her eyes have a hint of amusement as she turns her attention toward me. "And what’s your opinion?"

I study the artwork, taking in the intricate details and vibrant colors. Despite my unease, I offer my honest opinion. "I think it's quite striking. The use of color and texture is captivating and evokes a sense of depth and emotion."

Naomi's gaze narrows ever so slightly, and her lips curve into a faint smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes. "Interesting. It's always refreshing to hear different perspectives."

Her response leaves me feeling like I've been analyzed and assessed, as if every word I've spoken is being scrutinized.

But I refuse to let the discomfort dampen our day. Instead, I focus on enjoying the moments with Alex and learning more about his family, hoping that the uneasiness will dissipate with time and our connection will only grow stronger.

We continue our day with a leisurely lunch at a nearby chic restaurant called The Velvet Table. The atmosphere is lively, and I can't help but feel more at ease, hoping that the change of scenery will lift the weight of tension that has descended on my shoulders.

We settle into our seats, and the menu offers a distraction, giving us something else to focus on. The conversation flows more naturally as we discuss the restaurant's cuisine, and Naomi shares stories of her life in Denver.

But when Alex excuses himself to take a phone call, the atmosphere at our table shifts. I glance at Naomi, who seems to seize the opportunity to delve into a topic that makes my heart sink.

"It’s adorable this thing—” She motions towards me. “—between you and Alex.”

“Thanks.” I chew on my bottom lip, feeling the undertone of her words.

“It must be intimidating to be his rebound after Angie. They really were perfect together.”

I swallow hard, feeling a wave of discomfort wash over me. “Until she cheated on him,” I remind her.

“Who hasn’t made mistakes in relationships?" Naomi's gaze hardens on me, the same scrutiny I'd seen earlier returning. “They just had this connection, you know? It's rare to find two people who are so perfectly suited for each other."

I struggle to find the right response.

“You and Angie were friends, I’m guessing.”

“We still are,” she says, sipping her wine, gaze never leaving mine. “She’s like a sister to me.”

Her words, spoken and unspoken, hang in the air.

“So what are we talking about?” Alex asks, returning to the table, his presence providing a welcome interruption to the conversation.

I plaster on a polite smile, but inside, my emotions are a swirling mix of discomfort and uncertainty. The shadow of Angie and the weight of Naomi's unspoken judgment linger, casting a cloud over what was supposed to be a delightful lunch.

Naomi's demeanor suddenly shifts, and she offers a warm smile. "I was just telling Bella how cute you two are together."

I manage a grateful smile, but my emotions remain in turmoil beneath it. The shadow of Angie and the unspoken judgment from Naomi continue to weigh on me, leaving me uncertain about where I stand in this complex family dynamic.

We finally bid Naomi farewell at the restaurant. She embraces Alex warmly and hugs me, her polite facade never slipping.

As we step out into the street, I still wrestle with the unease that had settled during our lunch. I don’t share with Alex the subtle tension and unspoken judgments between Naomi and me. Part of me wants to protect him from potential family drama, but another part yearns to confide in him.

We walk hand in hand back to my place, the weight of my insecurities heavy on my chest. The silence between us grows.

"Is everything okay?" Alex asks, his voice soft and gentle.

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