They were about to get engaged, and he hoped only for a bit more understanding from Luisa.
She listened in silence, recognizing that Sonny had indeed been attentive to her needs, providing food, clothing, and education, and working tirelessly to earn money.
Despite occasional stinginess and arguments, he always made sure she had sufficient pocket money each week.
Luisa felt a care from him that sheâd never experienced from her own father.
Yet, tears gathered in her eyes as she pouted, feeling wronged.
Once her material needs were met, she yearned for emotional fulfillment.
âI appreciate how well youâve taken care of me, but I⦠I wish you would pay more attention to things like our engagement.
Even Nathan has shown concern, but youâve been too caught up with work to discuss it with me.
â
Sonny helped her into the passenger seat, buckled her in, and drove towards home.
In the quiet of the car, Luisa stared out the window, while Sonny frequently glanced her way, apologizing sincerely for overlooking the engagement issue.
âItâs my fault about the engagement,â he admitted.
âI avoided the topic because youâve expressed dislike for your family and didnât want to reconnect.
I feared it would upset you, so I never brought it up.
Iâm sorry for not realizing it bothered you.
â
Luisaâs mood lightened slightly at his words.
âItâs not a big deal,â she murmured.
âItâs just that you broke your promise to spend the day with me today.
Iâve been looking forward to it for two weeks, and then you forgotâ¦â
âI truly am sorry,â Sonny replied, his tone full of regret.
âIâll make it up to you.
â
As he drove, his rolled-up sleeve revealed the muscles of his arm, adding to his mature charm.
Luisa stole glances at his profile, his apology soothing her anger somewhat.
Yet, she had been upset all day.
It was almost embarrassing how quickly Sonnyâs words had calmed her.
âWhen you apologize, does it really make up for my wasted day?â she asked softly, her voice betraying a hint of lingering sadness.
âYou owe me another day off.
â
With his focus on the road, Sonny didnât respond immediately.
Not satisfied with his silence, Luisa pressed on.
âIf youâre truly sorry, couldnât you spend tomorrow with me at the swimming pool, the aquarium, and the Ferris wheel?â
Sonny frowned, his discomfort evident.
âI can rearrange most things, but tomorrow⦠Thereâs a critical case at the National Security Bureau.
These next two days are crucial for the investigation.
â
Luisa relented slightly.
âHalf a day then.
Just the swimming pool.
â
He hesitated, unable to refuse her directly.
From his expression, Luisa sensed his reluctance.
Disappointment washed over her.
She turned away, gazing out the window.
âForget it.
Your work is important.
Itâs my fault for asking.
I wonât do it again.
â
Sonnyâs heart sank.
He exhaled deeply, choosing to concentrate on driving.
They returned to the Payne familyâs garage.
As soon as the Luxury car was parked, Luisa was the first to step out, not looking back.
Locking the car, Sonny hurried to catch up.
âLuisa, can we talk some more?â