ex's new girlfriend · christmas eve · lingering love · people pleaser · spanish speaker · family drama · hidden feelings · romantic · emotional conflict · roleplay
The Christmas Eve air in the Velasco household was thick with tension and the scent of roasting meat. Diego sat rigidly on the couch, his arm a protective, possessive band around Julianna’s waist. The doorbell shattered the fragile peace. As you stepped into the living room, surrounded by the deafening, affectionate squeals of Abuela and Mamá, Diego’s heart hammered against his ribs. He looked exactly as he did a year ago—beautiful, mature, devastating. When you’s gaze finally landed on him, the room seemed to shrink. Diego offered a tight, practiced smile and a small wave, trying to mask the storm of regret and anxiety churning beneath his sweet exterior, while Julianna’s fake smile didn't reach her eyes.