Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

The morning had dawned clear over Buenos Aires. It wasn't just any day. Five years had passed since the last time everything had changed forever; five years of rebuilding, goodbyes, new beginnings, and wounds that, although they never completely disappeared, had learned to stop hurting. Luna arrived skating through the streets until she stopped in front of the enormous gates of the Benson Mansion.

After taking off her skates and putting on comfortable sneakers, she walked forward calmly. She wore beige linen pants and a white shirt with rolled-up sleeves. Her hair, longer than years ago, moved softly with the morning breeze. She carried a small bunch of keys in her hand. How many times she had entered through there being a stranger to her own history. And how many others she had left believing she would never return.

She smiled slightly.

"Well," she said to herself. "The time has come."

She inserted the key into the lock and pushed the door open. Everything was completely empty. The paintings were no longer there, nor the rugs, nor the antique furniture, nor the lamps. Only the walls, the columns, the staircase, and the echo of a house that for decades had kept too many secrets remained. Luna walked forward slowly. The sound of her footsteps bounced all over the place. It was strange. All her life that house had seemed immense, but now it seemed even bigger. Empty. Lonely. Free.

She ran a hand over one of the columns as she walked.

"How strange it feels."

She continued walking through the place. She entered the old dining room and smiled as she remembered the countless family arguments, the reconciliations, the birthdays, and the Christmas dinners. She returned to the main hall and looked at the staircase. She had run through there when she was barely a teenager. She had also come down crying countless times, and just as many others she had come down joking with Ámbar.

She took a deep breath. Looking toward the living room, there she did find something. In the middle of the enormous unoccupied space remained a single piece of furniture: the old main sofa. That enormous sofa where so many important conversations had happened.

Luna let out an amused smile.

"So they left you here?"

She approached slowly and rested a hand on the backrest. The fabric was already somewhat worn by the passage of time. She caressed it affectionately and then let herself fall onto it. Stillness enveloped the whole house again. Luna leaned her back against it, closed her eyes, and breathed in deeply. She could still imagine the voices, the debates, and the everyday anecdotes. Sharon giving orders, Alfredo reading the newspaper, Mónica coming in with a tray of coffee, and Miguel making some comment to break the ice. Ámbar complaining about some detail, Simón joking, Matteo arguing with her, and herself arriving with her skates on. She remembered Rey watching over everything, Maggie with her silly ideas, Amanda with the gossip, and Tino along with Cato clowning around. Even, for a brief moment, she remembered that Roberto Muñoz had saved her life there in the mansion fire.

Everything seemed to still be there, as if the house had decided to keep every memory within its walls.

She slowly opened her eyes, observed the enormous living room one more time, and then looked up toward the staircase. A nostalgic expression appeared on her face. It wasn't sadness, it was gratitude. She had suffered a lot in that place, but she had also found a family. She sat up slowly, looked at the sofa again for a few seconds, and rested a hand on the upholstery. She closed her eyes one last time and let out a long sigh.

The Benson Mansion was no longer a house. It was a memory.

• • •

Luna remained a few seconds more with her hand resting on the back of the sofa. A slight smile was still drawn on her face. Then, almost without realizing it, another memory occupied her mind.

Two years ago. Autumn had painted the garden of the Benson Mansion gold. The leaves fell slowly from the trees while a soft breeze swept through the gallery. Alfredo remained sitting on the same living room sofa where he had read the newspaper so many times. He already walked with much more difficulty and the years weighed on his shoulders, but he retained that calm elegance that had always characterized him.

Luna appeared with two cups of tea.

"I brought you the one you like the most."

Alfredo looked up and looked at her with tenderness.

"Every day you look more like your mother."

Luna smiled.

"I hope I inherited the good things."

"The best."

She handed him the cup and sat next to him. For a few seconds neither spoke, they simply enjoyed the calm of that house which, after so many storms, finally knew peace. Alfredo took a small sip.

"You know?" He said with a tired expression. "I never imagined getting this far."

Luna looked at him.

"To where?"

"To a life where shouting or conflicts no longer exist. Only peace."

Luna looked down. Alfredo sighed.

"I lost my wife, then I lost Lili, and then Sharon," his voice barely broke. "There is never a day that I don't think about them."

Luna gently took one of his hands and Alfredo looked grateful.

"But I also learned that life always leaves something to keep going for," he looked at his granddaughter. "And that something is you."

Luna's eyes began to tear up.

"Grandpa..."

"No, let me speak."

Luna nodded. Alfredo took a deep breath.

"I also made peace with Ámbar," he commented with pride. "It took a lot to regain her trust, but seeing her smile again, seeing her build a relationship with her parents, and being happy with Simón... That gave me enormous peace of mind."

Luna nodded softly.

"She loves you very much too."

"I know."

Alfredo caressed his granddaughter's hand.

"And you..." He observed her with shining eyes. "You were always here."

Luna felt a knot in her throat.

"Because I love you."

Alfredo contemplated her with sweetness.

"I know," he paused for a few seconds before speaking again. "My journey is beginning to end, Sol."

She shook her head quickly.

"Don't say that."

"It is the law of life," he said it without fear, with a serenity that only years can give. "I lived a lot, I made a lot of mistakes, I loved a lot, and I suffered so much," he looked at the ceiling. "And I think I have already learned everything I needed to learn. But you are just beginning."

Luna could no longer contain her tears. Alfredo took both of her hands.

"Promise me something."

"Anything."

"Keep being happy."

Luna nodded forcefully.

"I promise you."

"And never forget who you are."

She stared at him with her face drenched.

"Never."

Alfredo slowly opened his arms and Luna could no longer contain herself. She threw herself into his arms, while he wrapped around her with all the strength he still had.

"I am always going to be with you."

Luna closed her eyes.

"And I with you, Grandpa."

They remained hugging for a long time, as if they both knew, deep in their hearts, that that hug would be their last.

Back in the present, Luna slowly opened her eyes. She still had her hand resting on the back of the old sofa. A tear slowly descended down her cheek and she gave a smile that mixed nostalgia and peace. Her grandfather had passed away barely three days after that conversation. Without pain. In peace. As if he had only waited to say goodbye to her.

She caressed the upholstery one last time.

"Thank you for everything, Grandpa," she said with her voice barely audible.

That house was no longer just saying goodbye to the Benson Mansion, it was also closing forever a chapter full of unforgettable memories.

• • •

Luna remained motionless for a few seconds. The final caress to the sofa seemed to close an entire chapter of her life. She took a deep breath and smiled with melancholy.

"Well, now it's time," she said to herself.

She turned around and her footsteps echoed on the floor as she walked toward the grand staircase. Finally, that house no longer transmitted pain to her, only memories. She reached the enormous front door, took the doorknob, and turned it slowly. The morning light flooded the interior of the mansion. Luna took a step outside, but suddenly she felt something: a warm and familiar presence that made her stop in her tracks. Her heart began to beat faster. Little by little she turned back around, observing the unoccupied hall.

"Hello?"

She got no answer, but that feeling was still there, growing more intense. Then, a faint glow began to appear next to the staircase. Little by little it took shape until it revealed Bernie Benson, showing that serene expression she remembered perfectly from her dreams. Luna opened her eyes in astonishment as tears began to fill her gaze before she could utter a single word.

"Dad?"

Bernie gave her a sincere show of affection, exactly as Luna had always imagined him in her dreams.

"Hello, Sol."

She dropped the keys to the floor. The metallic sound broke the stillness and, without a second thought, she ran toward him as tears fell freely down her cheeks.

"Dad!"

Bernie opened his arms. Luna reached him and hugged him with all her strength, as if she had finally found what she had waited so long for. She buried her face in his chest and cried without holding back. Bernie held her just as tightly, delicately stroking her hair.

"It's okay."

"Dad, I missed you so much."

Bernie closed his eyes.

"Me too. Me too, my Sol."

Luna slowly lifted her head and gazed at him, wanting to engrave every feature in her memory.

"I haven't had dreams about you in years."

Bernie gave a warm smile.

"And you look exactly like your mom."

Luna smiled through her tears. They remained for a moment looking at each other, enjoying that impossible reunion.

"I didn't want you to leave this house without saying goodbye," Bernie mentioned.

Luna took a deep breath and looked around. Bernie nodded calmly.

"You lived through very difficult moments here, but you also found a family and discovered who you were. And now it's time to move forward."

Luna looked down. She was slightly regretting having sold the mansion. Bernie noticed.

"You did the right thing, Luna," he answered proudly, taking both of her hands. "People don't live inside houses. They live here," he pointed, resting a finger on his daughter's chest. "As long as you remember us, your mom, your grandpa, and I will never leave."

The tears began to flow again. Luna hugged her father once more.

"I love you guys so much."

"And we love you," Bernie answered, tenderly kissing his daughter's forehead. "We are always going to be watching over you."

Luna closed her eyes, resisting letting him go, but she began to feel the hug becoming lighter and lighter. When she opened her eyes, a soft glow was beginning to envelop Bernie's figure.

"No..." She begged desperately.

"It's time for you to keep writing your own story," Bernie said with profound peace. "I am proud of the person you have become."

Luna tried to hold his hands, but they began to fade into small sparkles.

"Dad..."

"Farewell, my Sol."

The light became more intense and Bernie disappeared. The hall returned to calm. Only a few sparks of light shone for a few seconds in the air before fading out. Luna remained motionless, smiling through her tears as she brought a hand to her chest.

"Farewell, Dad."

She picked up the keys, stepped out of the Benson Mansion, and closed the enormous door for the last time. She turned the key in the lock, took it out, and contemplated for a few moments the place that had transformed her existence. She smiled, turned around, and began to walk, leaving the mansion behind forever.

• • •

Luna walked a few meters along the stone path that led to the main gate, with the keys to the mansion resting in her hand. She observed them for a few seconds and smiled. Those keys had opened countless doors for years, but now they no longer belonged to her. She stopped before reaching the sidewalk, sat on a small bench, and began to put on her skates.

She turned one last time. The Benson Mansion stood imposing under the morning sun. Majestic, but it was no longer her home, but rather a part of her history.

Suddenly, her phone began to vibrate. A name appeared on the screen that drew an immediate smile on her face: Mom. Luna answered the video call.

"Hello!" She greeted.

The image took just a few seconds to stabilize. On the other side appeared Mónica with a white apron and her hair tied back. Behind her, a spacious and bright kitchen could be seen, where several cooks were working quickly.

"My Luna!" Her mother greeted with an enormous smile. "How are you?"

Luna tried to answer with joy, but her eyes were still wet. Mónica observed her for just an instant; she knew her too well.

"Did you cry?"

Luna smiled, amused.

"A little bit."

"Are you done?"

"Yes," she answered, turning the camera toward the mansion.

Mónica contemplated the facade for a few seconds and made a thoughtful pause.

"It's still so beautiful."

"Yes," Luna agreed, turning the camera back to herself. "But it was time."

Mónica nodded slowly.

"How do you feel?"

Luna took a deep breath.

"Strange," she looked at the house again. "It's as if I had left a part of my life inside there."

Mónica smiled sweetly and slowly shook her head.

"No, honey. What you left there were the memories. Your life you carry with you."

"You always know what to say."

"It's a mother's privilege."

They both laughed. At that moment Miguel appeared from behind Mónica, drying his hands with a dish towel.

"My favorite skater!"

Luna let out a sincere laugh.

"Dad!"

Miguel leaned closer to the camera.

"Everything good?"

"Yes."

"You didn't cry too much?"

"Just a little bit."

Miguel smiled with tenderness.

"That's okay. It was necessary to say goodbye."

Mónica gave him a gentle nudge.

"Don't make her cry again."

"I didn't do anything."

The three of them laughed heartily. Miguel rested a hand on his wife's shoulder.

"Well, we have to get back to the restaurant. This place has been packed since early."

Luna smiled proudly.

"Again?"

"Again."

Mónica rolled her eyes to the ceiling.

"You have no idea what this is turning into."

Miguel chimed in with a cheerful attitude.

"Your mother opened a restaurant and now it seems half of Cancún wants to eat there."

Mónica gave him another nudge.

"Exaggerator."

"I'm not exaggerating."

Luna watched them with a huge smile. Seeing them happy filled her heart. After so many years and everything they had been through, they deserved that tranquility.

"I'm so glad you guys moved back to Cancún."

Mónica nodded softly.

"Us too. It was always our home."

"And now it's going to be mine again too," Luna affirmed.

Miguel gave a thumbs up to the camera.

"That's my girl."

Mónica took the floor again.

"And where are you off to now?"

"I have to go have lunch with Matteo and Ángelo."

Miguel smiled, pleased.

"Give Mr. Balsano a big hug from me."

"I will."

Miguel kissed Mónica's forehead.

"Well, I'll leave you ladies. I have a kitchen to attend to. I love you, Dad... I mean, I love you, honey," he corrected, laughing at his haste. "And I love you, Dad."

Miguel waved and stepped out of the frame. Mónica was left alone in front of the screen again. Her expression turned a bit more serious before asking.

"And Ámbar?"

Luna looked down slightly.

"She was going to the cemetery today."

Mónica immediately understood the weight of that day.

"It's been a long time since that."

"Yes."

"It never stops hurting to lose a mom."

Luna nodded.

"But I think today is going to be a beautiful day for her."

Mónica smiled with empathy.

"Send her a huge kiss from me and tell her I love her very much."

"I will tell her."

The two remained for a few seconds looking at each other through the screen.

"Are you okay?" Mónica asked one more time.

Luna gave her a serene, genuine smile.

"Yes. I truly am."

Mónica sighed in relief.

"Then we'll see each other very soon."

"Very soon. I love you, Mom."

"I love you too, honey."

The video call ended and the screen went black again. Luna put the phone in her pocket. She looked up one last time at the Benson Mansion and observed it for several seconds. There was no sadness in her heart, only gratitude.

"Thank you," she said, her voice barely audible.

After firmly securing the laces of her skates, she stood up. She pushed off gently and began to roll down the sidewalk. As she moved forward, the silhouette of the Benson Mansion grew smaller and smaller behind her in the rearview mirror of her own memory, until it disappeared completely.

And with it, a chapter in the life of Sol Benson, or simply, Luna Valente, ended forever.

• • •

Ámbar walked calmly along the tree-lined path of the cemetery. The wind moved the treetops and the distant song of some birds filled the air with a peace that was difficult to describe. On her left hand shone a delicate ring, which she caressed with her thumb as an involuntary smile formed on her face.

She knew the route to her destination perfectly. She had stopped going so often, not because she had forgotten, but because she learned that love could also be lived without constantly standing in front of a tombstone.

She finally arrived. The white marble plaque remained impeccable. Sharon Benson. Below the name, a simple inscription read: "She loved in her own way and found peace." Ámbar stood motionless for a few seconds before crouching down slowly to leave a small bouquet of white lilies on the stone.

"Hello, Mom," she greeted in a soft voice.

She sat on the grass, crossing her legs as she had done so many times years ago, and fixed her gaze on the engraved letters.

"It's been a while since I last came. Don't be mad, it's just that these past few months were a disaster... Well, a beautiful disaster."

She absentmindedly caressed the jewel on her ring finger. Her eyes began to well up, but this time they shone with absolute happiness.

"I came today because I had to tell you something. Do you remember how you always said that no one was going to put up with my temper enough to spend their whole life with me? Well, it seems I found a pretty brave one."

She raised her left hand, letting the morning sun make the metal sparkle. Even though she knew Sharon could no longer see it, she showed it off with pride.

"Look. He has good taste, luckily," she commented with a much warmer expression. "He asked me a very important question. And, obviously, I said yes."

She looked at the clear sky, wiping away a rebellious tear with the back of her hand.

"Years ago I thought my life was over, that I was never going to be happy again or that I was going to be left alone forever. How wrong I was."

She looked back at the marble, feeling a knot of emotion in her throat.

"You know very well who I'm talking about and how much I love him. Even when I was too proud to admit it. He never left. He was with me when you lost your sight, when you went to prison, when we said goodbye to you. And he was also there when I had to learn to live without you."

The wind caressed her face again. Ámbar closed her eyes for a moment and felt a strange calm, as if, somehow, her mother was really listening to her. When she opened them, her gaze settled back on the tombstone.

"I have several pieces of news to tell you."

There was much more to tell. And, at last, she wanted to share every one of those joys with her.

• • •

Two months ago

The sun was beginning to hide over the sea in Cancún. The sky had been dyed in shades of orange, pink, and gold, reflecting on the gentle waves breaking against the shore. The beach was almost empty; only a few couples walked in the distance while a warm breeze moved the sand. Ámbar walked barefoot, carrying her sandals in one hand. By her side was Simón, walking without rushing and letting the water wet his feet.

"You know?" Ámbar commented with a smile. "I never thought I was going to like coming back to Cancún so much. I definitely don't miss absolutely anything about Buenos Aires."

"Nothing at all?" He asked, looking at her out of the corner of his eye.

"Well, maybe the guys. But the city, no."

"I don't miss it either," Simón admitted. "Though I do need to skate at the Roller from time to time."

Ámbar smiled, amused.

"So nostalgic."

"But..." Simón took her hand and intertwined it with his. "As long as I'm with you, any place ends up being my home."

She looked down, slightly blushing.

"You're still cheesy."

"And you're still in love with the cheesy guy."

"Not that much."

"Oh, really?"

Simón smiled mischievously and, without warning, started to tickle her.

"No! Simón!" Ámbar exclaimed, trying to escape by running across the sand, but he caught up with her immediately.

"Too late."

The tickling continued while she squirmed, trying to catch her breath between loud laughs.

"Stop!"

"Say you love me."

"No!"

"Then we keep going."

"Simón!"

Finally, both fell onto the sand, completely out of breath. They looked at the clear sky while the sound of the sea enveloped them. They stayed like that for a good while, taking deep breaths, fully enjoying each other's company. Ámbar slowly turned her head to observe her boyfriend. He was still looking at the horizon with an expression of total tranquility. Upon seeing him, she felt a knot in her throat and her eyes began to fill with tears. Simón noticed the change in attitude and turned to look at her.

"What happened?"

Ámbar gave him a tender smile, but a tear escaped from her eyelashes.

"Nothing."

"No," he contradicted her, gently caressing her cheek. "I know you. What's wrong?"

Ámbar took a breath.

"I was thinking about everything. For many years I felt like my life was only darkness," her voice trembled slightly. "I lived angry at everyone, at the world, and at myself. I thought I was never going to be happy."

Simón took one of her hands. She looked up to meet his eyes.

"And you showed up," Ámbar continued, smiling emotionally. "You didn't try to change me or force me to be someone else. You simply stayed. You were with me when Sharon lost her sight, when she went to prison, and when she died. When Sylvana showed up, or when I discovered that Gary, who I only knew as someone else, was actually my dad. When I had to discover who I truly was... you never let go of my hand."

Simón's eyes were already shining.

"You saved my life," she stated with certainty.

He shook his head immediately.

"No, you saved it. I just walked by your side."

Ámbar let out a laugh choked with tears.

"Always so humble."

Simón wiped away a drop descending down his girlfriend's face.

"Because it's the truth."

She looked at him with immense love.

"I love you." She had never spoken those words with such peace.

Simón smiled radiantly.

"I love you too. And there isn't a single day that I don't give thanks for having met you."

They kissed. It was a long, soft contact, without rushing, as if the entire world had ceased to exist. Upon pulling apart, Simón observed her with a different attitude, much more nervous and timid.

"What?" Ámbar asked, confused.

"Nothing."

"I know you. You're plotting something."

Simón jumped to his feet.

"Can you stand up for a second?"

Ámbar frowned.

"What for?"

"Trust me."

She accepted, pleased, sitting up slowly and brushing a little sand off her dress.

"Done. Now what?"

Simón's heart was beating hard. Without saying another word, he knelt on the sand. Ámbar opened her eyes enormously and her breath hitched suddenly.

"Simón?"

He delicately took one of her hands and gave her a smile filled with nervousness.

"Ámbar, you are the queen of my life. The woman I never thought I'd find and the person who made everything worth it."

She was already crying openly.

"Thank you for letting me meet the real Ámbar," he continued. "Thank you for making me smile, for making me mad, and for fighting with me when it was necessary. And thank you because, every time I see your blonde hair moving in the wind, I feel like I have a little piece of the sun lighting up my life."

Ámbar exclaimed in astonishment, her face drenched in tears of happiness.

"So silly."

"There's still more."

Simón slowly reached his hand into his pants pocket and took out a small blue box. Ámbar covered her mouth with both hands, trembling. He opened the case, revealing a delicate, shining ring. He took a deep breath, looked her straight in the eyes, and smiled.

"Ámbar, my queen, my beautiful girl, the owner of my heart and my eternal blonde. Do you accept to marry me?" He made a short pause before adding with a mischievous tone. "And do you accept to keep putting up with tickles, but now from a husband and not a boyfriend?"

Ámbar started laughing out of pure joy. She shook her head, unable to believe what she was experiencing. Finally, she nodded over and over again with desperation.

"Yes!" She exclaimed with euphoria. "Of course I do! Yes, Simón! A thousand times yes!"

Simón, with completely wet eyes, took out the jewel and carefully placed it on Ámbar's finger. Upon standing up, she threw herself into his arms with all her strength. The two spun around on the sand celebrating and, while the sun finished hiding behind the sea of Cancún, they melted into a new kiss. A kiss that sealed an unbreakable promise: that of walking together for the rest of their lives.

• • •

Back in the present, Ámbar remained sitting in front of the tombstone. A gentle breeze moved a few strands of her hair. She looked down at her left hand and let the ring shine under the sunlight. She smiled. Then she raised her hand, as if she truly wanted to show it to Sharon.

"Did you see how beautiful it is?" She asked with an amused expression. "My future husband has good taste. Although you already knew that."

She fixed her gaze back on the marble.

"I'm getting married in three months," she said it slowly, savoring every word, because she still found it hard to believe. "And yes, it's going to be in Mexico. I knew Simón wanted a quiet wedding, but I also knew the real reason. He can't handle the anxiety," she added with tenderness. "He says that if we keep waiting he's going to go crazy. And honestly, I think he's right. I'm also trying to convince him to have a second party in Buenos Aires."

She rested both hands on her legs.

"I am pretty nervous. I never thought organizing a wedding would be so complicated. Dresses, guests, decorations, flowers, food..." She brought a hand to her forehead, exaggerating her worry. "It's chaos! But, luckily, I'm not alone. Delfi practically became my personal organizer. And Jazmín says she was born to critique dresses."

Right after, she imitated her friend's high-pitched voice.

"'Ámbar, that cut is not flattering. That lace looks like a tablecloth. That color matches a hospital curtain.' She'll never change!"

Her warm expression remained for a few seconds and then she took a deep breath.

"And it's good that it's like that. It does me good to listen to her. You know? A long time ago I stopped thinking that happiness had to be perfect. Now I understand that it's enough to share it with the right people."

She made a contemplative pause before changing the subject.

"With Sylvana things are still calm. We don't see each other every day or even every week, but she's there. When I need her, she's there. When I have a doubt, she's there. And when I simply want to have a coffee with her, she's there too," she gave an expression full of nostalgia. "It's still hard for me to call her 'Mom'. Not because I don't want to, but because that word was always yours."

She stayed for a few moments contemplating the carved letters.

"I think she understands that. She never pressures me or tries to fill a place that she knows already exists. She just waits, and loves me. That's enough," a tear appeared on her eyelashes, but she wiped it away immediately. "I think little by little we are building something beautiful. I don't know what to call it yet, but I know we are on the right track."

She took a deep breath and showed a different attitude, much more mischievous.

"And with Gary... Well, something incredible happened with him a few days ago," she looked down at the grass, shaking her head, very amused. "I still can't believe it happened. I'm sure you wouldn't have imagined it either."

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

"I think that was one of the most important days of my life," she added, caressing the ring distractedly. "And I have to tell you about it. Because, even though you're no longer here, you're still my mom."

She gave the grave a look full of affection and let that memory begin to slowly occupy her mind.

• • •

Days ago

Night had fallen over Buenos Aires. The city lights reflected on the windshield while the car drove peacefully through the streets. Gary was driving relaxed and Ámbar looked out the window, enjoying the shared moment. They no longer needed to talk all the time; five years ago that would have been impossible. Now, the calm between them was also a form of company.

"Did you like the restaurant?" Gary asked.

Ámbar smiled.

"Very much. Although I still think you order too much dessert."

Gary feigned indignation.

"Life is too short to eat just one serving."

"That explains a lot of things."

"Like what?"

"Like how the waiter already knew your order before you even spoke."

Gary let out a genuine laugh.

"That is experience."

"That is gluttony."

They both shared a look of complicity. Gary turned down a quiet street and, a few minutes later, parked in front of Ámbar's new house. He turned off the engine, but neither of them made a move to get out right away. Like so many other times, they stayed chatting. He turned his body slightly toward her.

"And how are the wedding preparations coming along?"

"Chaos," Ámbar answered.

"That bad?"

"You have no idea. Dresses, guests, flowers, food. I feel like getting married is more complicated than taking a final exam."

"That's what everyone says," Gary commented, amused.

Ámbar shook her head.

"Now I understand them."

Without adding anything else, she slowly raised her left hand. The ring shone under the dim light inside the vehicle. Gary opened his eyes in surprise.

"So that's..."

"Yes."

He carefully took her hand and observed the jewel for a few seconds. A huge smile appeared on his face before he looked up.

"It's beautiful. And it looks gorgeous on you."

"Thank you."

Gary hugged her spontaneously. It was a long contact, full of pure pride.

"It makes me very happy to see you like this. Truly."

Ámbar rested her head on his shoulder.

"Thank you."

When they pulled apart, he was still smiling.

"Simón is a great guy. He always was. And I know he's going to make you happy."

"I know," she nodded.

There was a brief pause. She toyed with the ring, giving the impression of wanting to express something else, a detail he did not overlook.

"What's wrong?"

Ámbar took a breath.

"I need to ask you a favor."

"Tell me."

She looked down. Throughout the evening she had been calm, but suddenly she looked very nervous.

"The wedding is going to be on the beach."

"Yes."

She paused to gather courage. Gary waited patiently until she slowly looked up with wet eyes.

"I always imagined that moment. The instant of walking down the aisle," Gary remained motionless, attentive to every word. "And I don't want to do it alone. I would like you to walk me. I would like my dad to be with me that day."

The word hung in the air between the two of them. Dad. Gary didn't react right away. He simply looked at her, his vision clouded by tears and his breath catching. He had waited to hear that for so many years that, when it finally happened, he couldn't find an immediate response. Ámbar looked at him shyly.

"Do you accept?"

Gary let out a sound choked with emotion and shook his head several times.

"Of course I accept," he managed to articulate, with a broken voice. "It would be the greatest honor of my entire life."

Ámbar could no longer contain herself and threw herself to hug him. He wrapped his arms around her with all the strength he had, closing his eyes while the tears fell freely.

"Thank you," Gary said, his tone loaded with gratitude. "Thank you for giving me this moment."

"Thank you for being here," she answered, crying too.

They remained hugging for long seconds, with no need to say anything else. Because there were hugs that managed to express what words never could. When they pulled apart, Gary wiped his eyes, trying to regain his composure.

"Well, now I really do have a huge obligation."

"Which is?"

"To arrive looking elegant."

She observed him for a few moments and then made a face.

"Mmm..."

Gary raised an eyebrow.

"What?"

"There is a small problem," Ámbar pointed out, crossing her arms and indicating the sunglasses resting on the dashboard. "Those glasses."

"What's wrong with them?"

"They're ancient!" She exclaimed with feigned horror.

"They're classics!"

"No. They're old. Very old."

"They have style."

"They're ready for retirement."

Gary let out another laugh.

"Don't exaggerate."

"If you're going to walk me down the aisle, first we have to update you a bit," Ámbar declared, very amused. "Starting with those glasses."

He picked up the sunglasses and put them on just to provoke her.

"I love them."

Ámbar brought a hand to her forehead in disbelief, but then gave him an expression of immense tenderness. She opened the door to get out and, before closing it, looked back at him.

"See you tomorrow... Dad."

Gary was left speechless once again. She closed the door and began to walk toward the house. He remained watching her until she went inside. Only then did he rest both hands on the steering wheel. A smile lit up his face while a new tear rolled down his cheek. He had recovered something he thought was lost forever: the right to be called, simply, Dad.

The memory faded slowly, bringing her back to the tranquility of the cemetery. Ámbar observed her mother's marble plaque one last time.

"I have to go," she announced softly, standing up and brushing a few blades of grass off her clothes. "But I promise to come back soon, and I'll bring you pictures of the dress."

She caressed the cold stone with her fingertips as a farewell. She turned around and began to walk back down the tree-lined path with absolute peace in her heart.

Upon crossing the main gate, she spotted the car parked a few meters away. Gary was leaning against the passenger door, waiting for her with a smile and, of course, with his inseparable sunglasses on.

Ámbar shook her head, amused, as she approached.

"I told you those glasses need to retire urgently."

Gary shrugged and opened the door for her with a gentlemanly gesture.

"They're a classic, sweetheart. Is everything good in there?"

"Everything is perfect," she assured, getting into the vehicle with a radiant smile. "Let's go."

• • •

The Balsano family residence maintained the same sophisticated style as always, although it now felt much warmer. In the backyard, a large table was already set for lunch. Ángelo Balsano arranged some plates while whistling absentmindedly. He wore an impeccable casual suit, projecting that innate elegance that always characterized him no matter the occasion. Matteo came out of the kitchen with a serving dish in his hands and, noticing the extreme neatness in his father's attire, shook his head in amusement.

"Did you seriously dress up this much just for a lunch in the garden?" Matteo asked, leaving the serving dish on the table.

Ángelo smiled as he finished arranging the silverware.

"Elegance doesn't take days off, son. Great hosts always maintain their style."

"Great hosts also know how to relax."

Ángelo let out a genuine laugh.

"You surely learned that from your girlfriend."

Matteo smiled without hiding his pride.

"Could be."

His father looked at him with curiosity.

"Is Luna still coming?"

"Yes. She left the Benson mansion a little while ago."

Ángelo looked up and his expression became somewhat more serious and understanding.

"It must have been a difficult day for her."

Matteo nodded slowly.

"Very. Although I think she also needed to close that chapter."

"That house meant too many things to her," Ángelo commented in a thoughtful tone. "But now she can start another life. And you are going to be there."

"Always."

His father nodded, satisfied with the answer. They both took a seat to wait for their guest. The weather in the garden was extremely pleasant, accompanied by a light breeze.

"How is the music going?" Ángelo inquired.

"Very well. The tour starts in a few months."

Ángelo took a glass of water before looking closely at him.

"Nervous?"

"A little bit."

"It's normal."

Matteo observed his father carefully for a few moments.

"It still surprises me to hear you talk like this."

Ángelo raised an eyebrow.

"Talk like what?"

"Supporting me so much. Years ago you almost killed me when I said I wanted to dedicate myself to music."

Mr. Balsano made an apologetic gesture.

"Well, I was quite stubborn."

"Very."

"I thought you were going to waste your life."

Matteo rested his elbows on the table, looking at him with curiosity.

"And now?"

Ángelo smiled with complete sincerity.

"Now I see that I was wrong. Music made you happy. And when one finds what they truly love, there isn't much else to discuss."

Matteo smiled, moved.

"Thank you."

Ángelo shook his head immediately.

"No. Thank you for proving to me that I was wrong."

They exchanged a look full of complicity and mutual respect. They had traveled a long path full of friction, but they had finally found a point of balance. Ángelo settled in his chair and spoke again.

"Although there is another person who also changed all this," he commented. "Despite the years I have known her, Luna never ceases to amaze me. She has an impressive light."

Matteo already knew exactly what he was referring to.

"Yes, she does."

"Since she appeared, you changed," Ángelo continued, pointing at him slightly. "You became calmer, more mature. You learned to listen. You even stopped reacting impulsively like before."

Matteo let out an amused laugh.

"Don't exaggerate."

"I'm not exaggerating. It's the truth," Ángelo reached out and rested his hand on his son's shoulder. "She brought out the best version of you. And not just anyone can achieve that."

Matteo looked down, genuinely moved by those words, only to smile again.

"I also think she saved me."

Ángelo nodded slowly.

"And you saved her more than once too."

The two remained in silence.

• • •

Happiness filled Pedro and Delfi's home. From the dining room, you could hear the animated voices drifting in from the living room. Francisco, who was just a few months away from turning six, was running back and forth with a red cape tied around his neck.

"I'm a superhero!" he exclaimed, jumping from the armchair onto a rug.

"Francisco!" Delfi scolded him in an amused tone. "Superheroes don't jump off the furniture!"

"Yes, they do!"

"Not the ones in this house."

Pedro watched the scene from the doorway with a huge smile.

"Let him be, Delfi. He's saving the world."

Francisco raised a fist proudly, proving him right, and ran toward his father. Pedro scooped him up easily.

"Who do we have to rescue now?" he asked.

"Mom!"

Delfi crossed her arms, feigning intrigue.

"And what are you going to rescue me from?"

"From washing the dishes!" the little boy answered without hesitation.

The three of them shared a loud laugh. Pedro set his son back on the floor, and Francisco went back to running around the living room, imitating the sound of an airplane. Delfi walked over to her husband, and he wrapped an arm around her waist. They both watched Francisco with deep tenderness.

"He's growing up too fast," she commented. "Not too long ago, he was just a baby."

"And now he doesn't stop for a second. We're very lucky."

"Yes. We really are."

At that moment, the doorbell rang. Pedro went to answer it, and on the other side stood Nico, carrying a huge backpack on his shoulders.

"Good morning, family!" he greeted, walking in with the same confidence as always.

"The giant backpack again?" Pedro asked, astonished. "You look like a snail."

"You have to be prepared for any emergency."

Delfi raised an eyebrow from the dining room.

"What kind of emergency?"

"Being invited to lunch, obviously."

Pedro shook his head at his friend's antics.

"Shameless."

Francisco ran up to the newcomer, screaming excitedly. Nico crouched down to hug him and affectionately ruffled his hair.

"My favorite superhero! Have you saved the world today?"

"Twice," Francisco assured him.

"Perfect."

The two high-fived just as Simón appeared through the patio door; he was just visiting, not staying for lunch. Simón greeted everyone with an affectionate hug. Seeing him, Francisco ran toward him too.

"Uncle Simón!"

"Champion!" he lifted him up with ease. "Hey, you're getting heavier."

"Because I'm strong."

"I can see that."

Francisco went back to his games in the living room. Nico was already pouring himself a glass of soda.

"Are you ever going to declare your independence from this house?" Simón asked jokingly.

Nico looked at him with feigned offense.

"And abandon this beautiful family? Never. I'm waiting for the right moment."

"Which is?" Pedro wanted to know.

"When you guys get tired of me."

"Then you're never leaving," Delfi stated from the kitchen with a sincere smile.

Pedro pointed at Simón, shifting the topic to something much more important.

"The wedding is just around the corner. How are things going with the preparations?"

"A bit stressed, I'm not gonna lie," Simón admitted, scratching the back of his neck. "Ámbar is a perfectionist and wants everything to turn out flawless."

Nico nodded with evident family pride.

"My cousin likes excellence. You guys make an incredible couple."

"Honestly, yeah," Simón agreed, his eyes shining with genuine love. "She's the best partner I could have asked for. We complement each other perfectly."

Delfi appeared from the kitchen holding a steaming platter.

"You'd better take good care of her. You know she's my best friend, so if you break her heart, you'll have to deal with me."

"I never would, Delfi. I love her too much."

Pedro hugged his wife around the shoulders and gave her a kiss on the cheek, looking at her with adoration.

"Marriage is a beautiful stage, Simón. I enjoy every single day by Delfi's side. Even organizing the house together and picking out furniture was a great experience."

Delfi looked back at him with utter sweetness.

"What a good husband I have."

Simón smiled, swept up in the warm, familial atmosphere.

"I'm glad to hear that. I'm ready to take that step."

Suddenly, a muffled cry came from the living room.

"I need help!"

The four of them turned around at the same time. Francisco was completely tangled in the long curtains, trying to free himself without success. Pedro let out a long, resigned sigh, but with a smile on his face.

"There it is. My real full-time job."

The three friends shared an open laugh as they walked toward Francisco to untangle him. Delfi stayed watching them from the dining room, her heart full of gratitude. Five years had passed and many things had changed in their lives, but the loyalty and affection of that little chosen family remained intact.

• • •

The midday sun illuminated the streets of Buenos Aires. Luna moved forward on her skates with the same naturalness as always. She dodged pedestrians with elegance, occasionally waving at those who recognized her along the way. She wore a wireless earbud in one ear and, when Nina's name appeared on her cell phone screen, she smiled immediately and accepted the call.

"Famous writer!" Luna greeted, gliding down the sidewalk.

"Irresponsible skater!" Nina replied from the other end with an amused tone.

Luna let out a genuine laugh.

"How do you know I'm skating?"

"Because I know you too well, and because I can hear the little wheels."

Luna looked down, slowing her speed a bit so she wouldn't trip.

"Well, yeah."

"You're never going to arrive walking like a normal person, are you?"

"And lose my essence? Never."

Nina let out an amused laugh.

Luna kept moving along a bike lane. The wind moved her hair while she maintained a smile of pure tranquility on her face.

"I just left the Benson mansion," she commented suddenly.

There was a brief pause on the line. Nina lowered her tone of voice a bit, adopting a much more understanding posture.

"How are you?"

Luna took a deep breath, feeling the cool breeze against her skin.

"Better than I thought. I think I needed to say goodbye."

Nina understood perfectly everything that huge house meant to her friend.

"Was it very difficult?"

"A little, but it was also nice. I felt like I closed a giant chapter of my life. I remembered my parents again, Sharon, my grandpa Alfredo. Everyone," she smiled with nostalgia as she spoke those words. "And I think it was time to move on."

Nina replied with extreme sweetness.

"They would want that too."

Luna nodded, even though she knew the other couldn't see her.

"I know," she quickly changed her tone to lighten the mood. "And you? How is the slavery going?"

"Don't call it slavery. It's called passion."

Luna openly mocked her.

"Yeah, right. How many hours did you sleep last night?"

Nina made a hesitant pause before answering.

"Three."

"Nina!"

"A chapter had to be finished, don't judge me."

Luna shook her head, very amused, while dodging a dog walker.

"You're crazy."

"I'm happy, that's different."

Luna smiled hearing her so fulfilled.

"How is the novel going?"

Nina let out a sigh of genuine satisfaction.

"Very well. We are still filming and I already signed on for a second season."

Luna opened her eyes wide, surprised.

"I can't believe it!"

"Yeah, it hasn't sunk in yet."

"You deserve it, my friend. You always knew how to tell stories."

The emotion was noticeable in Nina's voice.

"Thank you."

After a few seconds of shared tranquility, Luna asked with curiosity.

"And what is this new season about?"

Nina smiled from the other side of the phone.

"A lot of romance, a lot of drama, and quite a few arguments."

Luna raised an eyebrow.

"How original."

"Well, I got a little bit inspired by real life."

Luna immediately became suspicious.

"What did you do?"

"Nothing serious. I just took some of your fights with Matteo."

Luna opened her mouth, somewhere between indignant and amused.

"Nina!"

"I also used a passionate couple that looks suspiciously like Simón and Ámbar."

Both burst into laughter that lasted for several seconds. Luna resumed her pace along the bike path.

"Hey... And Eric?"

"He's doing very well," Nina replied with a serene tone. "He's still in Ecuador. He's doing amazing with music, a few months ago he sold out a theater."

Luna was genuinely happy for him.

"He deserves it. He always had so much talent."

"Yeah, and he seems truly happy."

Luna remained thoughtful for a few moments. She knew her friend better than anyone, so she formulated the next question with some caution.

"And Gastón?"

Nina took a little while to answer.

"I know very little." Luna waited patiently for her to continue.

"The last thing I heard is that he's still succeeding in Europe," Nina added. "He's crushing it as a solo singer, he's doing incredibly well on tours."

Luna smiled.

"I'm really glad," she paused again. "Did you never try to look for him?"

On the other end, there was absolute silence. Nina sighed heavily.

"No."

"Why not?"

"I don't know. Life moved on, work too. And I guess it's too late now."

Luna spoke with immense tenderness.

"You never forgot about him."

Nina didn't answer, and that lack of words was more than enough. Luna decided not to press on the wound any further.

"I hope you are happy, Nina. With or without him, but happy."

"Thank you."

At that moment, Luna looked up and immediately recognized the facade of Ángelo Balsano's house. She braked with agility.

"Well, I'm here."

"Without running anyone over?" Nina joked.

"This time, yes."

"A real record."

The two shared one last complicit laugh.

"We'll talk soon," Luna said goodbye.

"Whenever you want. And rest a little."

"You too. Liar."

"Yeah, liar."

"I love you."

"I love you too."

The call ended. Luna put her cell phone in her pocket, tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, and smiled at the facade. Then she took off her skates at the entrance, carried them in one hand, and walked up to the front door. She rang the doorbell and, barely a few seconds later, Matteo opened it with a radiant expression.

"I thought you got lost."

Luna held up the skates as irrefutable proof.

"Never. I just had a really long chat with an overly hardworking writer."

Matteo smiled and placed a soft kiss on her lips.

"Then come in. My dad already started complaining that the food is getting cold."

"Now that is an emergency."

Taking him by the hand, she entered the house, ready to share lunch with the family she had also chosen.

• • •

The recording studios were full of movement. The technicians walked back and forth adjusting cameras, the actors went over their scripts in a low voice, and the makeup team did the final touch-ups before the next scene.

In one of the offices, Nina remained sitting in front of the computer. On the desk accumulated several scripts marked with colorful highlighters and a completely empty coffee mug. She rubbed her eyes tiredly, letting out a soft, exhausted sigh while staring at the screen.

At that moment, there was a soft knock on the door.

"May I come in?"

Nina looked up and smiled immediately.

"Mom!"

Ana appeared holding two steaming cups.

"I figured yours was already cold," she commented, pointing at the empty mug.

"You're the best."

Ana left one of the coffees on the desk before taking a seat across from her. She observed with curiosity the tangle of scattered papers.

"There are more pages here than in an entire library."

"It's just that I'm still correcting scenes. I always find some detail to improve."

Ana picked up one of the preliminary scripts.

"And what are you writing now?"

Nina's eyes lit up with a very particular enthusiasm.

"A reconciliation."

"A romantic one?"

"Very romantic," Nina stood up and started walking around the office while explaining the idea, just like she did every time a story captivated her. "Picture this. Two people who were separated for years, each following their own path and thinking it was already too late."

Ana listened attentively, knowing by heart her daughter's passionate look when she created stories.

"But in reality they never stopped loving each other," Nina continued, stopping by the window. "They just let time pass by. Because true love doesn't disappear, it simply waits."

Ana rested her chin on one hand, infected by the emotion.

"How beautiful."

"Then he shows up by surprise," Nina added, smiling without realizing it. "She is working, never expecting to see him, and when she finally looks up, everything starts all over again. He tells her something like: 'It took me a long time, but I believe it is never too late for love'."

Ana immediately noticed the expression on her daughter's face. It wasn't the technical smile of a screenwriter evaluating her work, but that of someone expressing her deepest feelings.

A new knock on the door interrupted the conversation.

"May I come in?" Ricardo asked, poking his head in with a big smile. "Sorry for interrupting, but I brought a visitor."

Ana turned toward the entrance and, as soon as she recognized the person coming in behind Ricardo, her face changed completely. She didn't say anything, she simply turned her gaze back to Nina to see her reaction. Nina still had her back turned, reviewing some notes without paying too much attention.

"Visitor?" She asked without turning around. "Tell them to wait for me a minute, please. I'm finishing a line."

Ricardo and Ana exchanged a look of enormous complicity, maintaining absolute silence. Nina kept talking, almost as if she were thinking out loud while writing something down.

"I always believed that the best love was the one that withstood time. The one that survived the distance, the mistakes, and the pride. Because there are people who never stop occupying a place in your heart, and when they come back, grand speeches aren't necessary. You just need to look at each other again."

In front of the door, Gastón listened to every word in silence, deeply moved. Ana took a small step to the side to leave the path completely clear. Nina finished writing the phrase on the paper, put the pen down, and turned around slowly.

"Done. Now then..."

The words were cut off suddenly. Nina stood completely motionless, feeling her pulse race in an instant.

In front of her stood Gastón.

Five years had passed since the last time they had seen each other. He looked somewhat more mature, but he kept the same warm gaze and the same tranquil smile as always. The script fell straight from Nina's hands to the ground, scattering the pages across the floor.

Gastón took a firm step forward, looking her in the eyes.

"Hi..."

Nina tried to articulate a response, but the contained emotion filled her eyes with tears. Gastón took a breath before speaking.

"It took me a while. It took me a long time... But I believe it is never too late for love."

Unable to pronounce a single word, Nina felt the last barrier of distance break. Gastón closed the space between them, gently caressed her cheek, and kissed her. It was a prolonged kiss, loaded with years of waiting and nostalgia that dissolved in a second.

From the door, Ana discreetly wiped away a tear. Ricardo, also moved, looked at her with an open smile.

"You see?" Ricardo commented in a low, gentle tone. "In the end, he came back."

"I always knew it wasn't over between them," Ana replied without taking her eyes off the scene.

Ricardo observed her for a few moments, trying to break the sentimental moment with a bit of humor.

"Ana... shouldn't we celebrate too with a reconciliation hug?"

Ana turned her head with absolute seriousness and gave him a soft tap on the shoulder with the script.

"Don't even think about it, Ricardo. We are still happily separated."

"Well, you can't blame a guy for trying," he joked, rubbing his shoulder between laughs.

Ana shook her head, sketching a genuine smile at her ex-husband's quip.

A few meters away, Nina and Gastón remained hugging, oblivious to everything else. After five long years, the distance and time had finally been left behind.

• • •

The Buenos Aires airport was packed with people. Families were saying their goodbyes, travelers dragged their heavy suitcases, and the voices from the loudspeakers announced the upcoming departures. Emilia walked next to Benicio pushing an enormous piece of luggage and, as always, seemed to be fighting with the weight of the wheels.

"What did you put inside it?"

Benicio asked, amused.

"Clothes."

"All the clothes in Argentina?"

Emilia made a face, brushing it off.

"You never know."

Benicio shook his head with a huge smile.

"You are one of a kind."

They arrived in front of the boarding area and stopped. After six years of living together, that goodbye felt too big. The atmosphere changed, suddenly becoming heavy for both of them.

"Well, I guess the time has come," Emilia said, trying to sound casual.

Benicio nodded slowly.

"Yes."

She gave that clumsy smile so characteristic of her.

"Don't cry, okay?"

"Who said I was going to cry?"

"You look like you want to."

"You too."

Emilia quickly looked away.

"No."

"Yes."

They shared a complicit smile. The atmosphere was still light on the surface, but both of their eyes were inevitably beginning to water. Emilia took a deep breath to give herself courage.

"Thank you."

Benicio looked at her attentively.

"For what?"

"For these six years. For putting up with me. For cooking when I burned everything. For enduring my clumsiness."

Benicio raised an eyebrow.

"Especially your accidental hits."

She covered part of her face, embarrassed but amused.

"That too."

He shook his head, erasing any trace of mockery.

"I wouldn't change a single day."

Emilia's heart was pounding. She wanted to tell him so many things, but not a single word managed to come out of her throat. Finally, overcome by nerves, she reached her hand forward.

"Well, see you."

Benicio observed that hand in the air for a couple of seconds. Then he looked up at her with a look of disbelief.

"Seriously? After six years, you're just giving me your hand?"

Emilia let out a nervous laugh.

"It's just that I don't know how to say goodbye."

Benicio closed the distance, took a step forward, and wrapped her in a hug. It was a long contact, loaded with nostalgia and affection. She closed her eyes and rested her head on his chest. For a long moment, neither of them made the slightest attempt to pull away, until the loudspeaker announced the start of boarding for the flight to Mexico.

Emilia took a breath and slowly pulled away.

"I have to go."

"Yes."

She grabbed the handle of her suitcase again, walked a couple of steps, and turned around one last time. He was still standing there, giving her a smile while raising his hand in farewell. Emilia returned the gesture and finally disappeared into the crowd of passengers.

Benicio stood still in his spot for several seconds. Then, he sketched a huge smile full of certainty and walked off in the opposite direction.

Minutes later, Emilia was already settled in her window seat on the plane. She looked around, noticing that some passengers still hadn't boarded, so the flight was slightly delayed. She let out a tired sigh, took her cell phone out of her backpack, and began swiping through photos on the screen. One after another.

Benicio cooking. Benicio asleep on the living room couch. Benicio in a costume at a birthday party. Benicio with his nose bandaged.

Emilia caressed the screen, feeling a lump form in her throat.

"I'm going to miss you," she said to herself, her voice breaking.

She put her cell phone away and rested her forehead against the window glass. The runways were beginning to fill with movement outside. At that moment, someone occupied the empty seat next to her, but she didn't even turn her head to look; she was too focused on her own thoughts.

The plane slowly began to taxi down the runway. The city started to fade away through the glass. A small tear rolled down Emilia's cheek.

"I'm going to miss you, Benicio."

Then, she heard a far too familiar voice right next to her ear.

"I just hope you don't break my nose again in Mexico."

Emilia's eyes went wide, she whipped her head around, and froze completely in her seat.

"Benicio?"

He was smiling with absolute tranquility, as if running into each other on that flight were the most normal thing in the world.

"Hi."

She blinked several times, trying to process the image.

"What are you doing here?"

"Traveling."

"I already know that!" Emilia exclaimed, raising her voice a bit out of surprise. "What does this mean?"

Benicio shrugged, looking her straight in the eyes.

"It means that I simply decided to come with you. I bought a ticket in secret because I couldn't let you go. I didn't want to keep letting time pass by, Emilia."

She kept looking at him, incapable of articulating a single coherent sentence. Benicio closed the distance between the seats and slowly took one of her hands.

"We lived together for six years. We slept under the same roof. We shared breakfasts, fights, laughs, and several accidental hits," he gave a dazzling smile. "And even so, I was never able to kiss the person I love the most."

Emilia's eyes filled with tears again, this time out of pure happiness.

"So I simply packed my things and came to fight for the love of my life," Benicio concluded.

There was barely an instant of silence. Then, Emilia threw herself at him and kissed him without caring about absolutely anything else. It was an intense, long, and desperate contact, loaded with all the passion that both had held back during six years of living together.

The emotion completely overwhelmed them. When they finally pulled apart for air, Emilia rested her forehead against his, breathing heavily.

"You're an idiot," she joked, completely emotional.

"I know."

"I love you."

"I love you too."

They kissed again, this time with much more tenderness and calm. Everything seemed straight out of a perfect romantic movie, until Emilia, due to nerves and emotion, raised a hand abruptly.

Smack!

The back of her hand hit Benicio's face squarely. He let out an immediate groan and brought both hands to his nose.

"Ouch!"

Emilia's eyes went wide, feeling her heart sink to the floor.

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry, I'm sorry, really!"

Benicio looked at her for a second and then let out a loud, genuine laugh that was contagious to the nearby passengers.

"I can't believe our first kiss is ending exactly the same as always."

Emilia also ended up letting out an open laugh, covering her face in embarrassment.

"I swear I didn't mean to!"

"I know. And exactly for that reason, I adore that you're like this."

She smiled with her heart beating at full speed and intertwined her fingers with his. Benicio kissed her hand softly, securing the grip.

The plane continued rising above the clouds, leaving the city of Buenos Aires behind. However, as they looked out the window, neither of them felt like they were leaving a life behind. On the contrary, they felt that, finally, they were starting the life they had put off for six years.

• • •

The Jam and Roller was still as alive as ever. The music played in the background while some skated on the rink and others chatted animatedly at the cafeteria tables. Ramiro held an old photograph in his hands. Jim and Jazmín were by his side. The three of them observed the image with an expression full of nostalgia.

Yam was in the photo. She had long hair, a guitar slung over her shoulder, and a huge smile while singing on the Open Music stage. Ramiro caressed the edge of the paper with his thumb.

"Look at that smile," he commented in a soft tone.

Jim showed an expression full of affection.

"It was impossible to see her in a bad mood when she had a guitar in her hands."

Jazmín nodded immediately.

"She always shined."

Ramiro let out an amused laugh remembering anecdotes from the past.

"She never sang out of tune, not even as a joke, but her witty remarks were unique."

"Yes! And then she would say it was an experimental version."

"Or when she would arrive two hours early to every performance," Jazmín added, "Because she said her nerves wouldn't let her sleep."

Ramiro shook his head, maintaining his smile.

"And we all ended up arriving two hours early too."

Jim looked at the photograph again. Her expression became noticeably more melancholic.

"What an incredible person."

Jazmín let out a long sigh.

"Life was very unfair to her during that time."

Ramiro lowered his gaze a bit toward the floor.

"Yes. But she never let that take away her will to live."

Yam's image seemed to transmit the same vibrant energy as always. Jim gazed at it with devotion.

"I miss seeing her sing on a stage."

Jazmín nodded slowly.

"Me too."

Ramiro took a deep breath to push the nostalgia away.

"If I learned anything from her, it's that you should never stop smiling."

The three of them focused on the photograph again. For a moment, anyone passing by would have sworn they were remembering someone who was no longer in this world.

Then, a cheerful and energy-filled voice sounded right behind them.

"Are you going to keep talking about me as if I were dead?"

They jumped in surprise and spun on their heels at the same time. Yam was standing just a few meters away. She sported very short hair that was just beginning to grow back. Her smile, however, was exactly the same as always.

Ramiro's eyes went wide.

"Yam!"

She let out a vibrant laugh.

"The looks on your faces!"

Jim was the first to react. She ran up to her and wrapped her in a fierce hug.

"You silly girl! You gave us such a scare, girl!"

Yam continued laughing out loud.

"That was the idea."

Jazmín also approached to hug her tightly.

"Don't make those dramatic entrances anymore."

"I learned from you guys," Yam replied, very amused.

Finally, Ramiro closed the distance. He observed her for a couple of seconds with a look full of absolute pride.

"You look beautiful."

Yam got emotional immediately.

"Even though I have so little hair."

Ramiro flatly denied it and caressed her head with immense tenderness.

"No. You look beautiful because you keep shining."

Yam's eyes began to water out of pure happiness.

"The doctor gave me the final all-clear a few months ago. There is no trace of the cancer left."

Jim smiled, trying to hold back her tears.

"You did it."

Yam nodded slowly.

"It took a lot. But yes. I did it."

Ramiro couldn't hold back anymore. He hugged her with all the strength in his heart, clinging to her as if she were his lifeline. She returned the gesture with the same intensity. Then, Yam lifted her head and kissed him softly. It was a peaceful contact, overflowing with life and hope.

Upon pulling apart, Ramiro rested his forehead against hers.

"I am very proud of you."

"Thank you for never letting me go."

"I was never going to."

She kissed him briefly again before turning to Jim, whom she squeezed in her arms once more.

"And thank you too."

Jim smiled warmly.

"That's what best friends are for."

Yam gave her a loud kiss on the cheek. Jazmín, meanwhile, crossed her arms, feigning being completely offended.

"And me?"

Yam let out another loud laugh before catching her in another hug.

"You too. Even though you criticize all the clothes on the planet."

"Someone has to educate people on fashion," Jazmín replied with absolute seriousness.

The four of them burst into a chorus of laughter. Ramiro extended a hand toward Yam.

"Shall we skate?"

She accepted the grip with a lot of enthusiasm.

"I've been waiting a long time to hear that question."

They both put on their skates and slowly entered the rink. They began to glide together, unhurried, simply enjoying the magic of the moment.

Jim and Jazmín watched them glide away from the railing. Jim gave a half-smile.

"I never thought I'd end up so in love with the biggest gossip in the entire Roller."

Jazmín opened her eyes wide, surprised.

"A gossip? A busybody?"

"Yes."

"And judgmental too?"

Jim nodded.

"Very."

Jazmín feigned indignation, bringing a hand to her chest.

"What a lack of respect."

Jim closed the distance between the two of them with a slow step.

"But also the prettiest."

Jazmín smiled triumphantly.

"That's better. That's how I like it."

Jim gently took her face and kissed her. It was a sweet and completely natural kiss, as if they had spent their whole lives sharing those little moments.

When they pulled apart, Jazmín looked at her satisfied.

"Much better."

Jim let out a happy laugh. The two of them stood looking toward the center of the rink. In the distance, Yam and Ramiro were having fun while spinning around holding hands.

The Jam and Roller was still the same place where so many stories had begun. And, five years later, it was also the place where many of them continued building their own happiness.

• • •

The sun illuminated the garden of Ángelo's house. The breeze gently swayed the leaves of the nearby trees while he finished pouring a glass of wine at the outdoor table. At that moment, Matteo returned from inside the house.

"Can I come back now, or are you still talking bad about me?" He asked as he approached.

Luna let out an amused laugh.

"We hadn't started yet."

"Perfect. Then I'm right on time."

The three of them shared a happy laugh. Matteo took a seat next to Luna and began to serve himself lunch. Ángelo observed them for several seconds. It was impossible not to notice the immense tranquility with which they looked at each other. Five years ago, that couple had weathered endless storms; now, they simply radiated peace.

"And how are things going in Cancun?" Ángelo asked as they started to eat.

Luna gave him a radiant smile.

"Very well. Truthfully, moving back there was a beautiful decision. I missed the ocean so much."

Matteo looked at her with absolute tenderness.

"And besides, she lives near her parents again."

"That means a lot too," she nodded.

Ángelo adjusted his silverware a bit.

"Mónica told me on the phone that the restaurant is still full of people."

"Yes," Luna replied, full of pride. "In fact, she was recently offered to open a second location, but she preferred to turn down the offer. She says she wants to focus on maintaining the essence and quality of the first one without stressing herself out too much. My dad keeps saying that he now works for the ultimate boss."

The three of them let out an open laugh imagining the family dynamic. Matteo took Luna's hand under the outdoor table.

"Anyway, she still misses Buenos Aires."

Luna let out a light, nostalgic sigh.

"So much. I miss walking these streets, the Roller, our friends. I even miss the traffic."

"So you are going to come back," Ángelo deduced with certainty.

"Yes. In fact, I'm looking for an apartment. I want to spend a lot of time here. Not to leave Cancun, but to feel like I never completely lost this place."

Ángelo raised his crystal glass.

"I think that's an excellent decision."

The three of them toasted under the shade of the trees. The conversation flowed with absolute naturalness for a long while. They talked about future trips, news about their mutual friends, and the preparations for Simón and Ámbar's wedding. Until Matteo remembered an important detail.

"Dad, did you tell Luna your surprise?"

Ángelo shook his head slowly.

"Not yet."

Luna looked at them with genuine curiosity, resting both hands on the table.

"What surprise?"

"I decided that I'm going to accompany Matteo to the first concert of his tour in two months," Ángelo announced with a tone full of satisfaction.

Luna got excited immediately.

"How incredible! I already knew about the dates, but I'm still not used to saying the phrase 'my boyfriend is on tour'. Having you accompany him makes it so much more special."

Ángelo observed his son with evident pride.

"Years ago I would have tried to convince him to do something else," Matteo looked up from his plate while his father continued. "Not because I didn't believe in him, but because I was afraid. Music is a quite difficult path and one always wants to protect their children. But I was wrong. You found your true place, and I am very proud."

Matteo nodded, visibly moved.

"Thank you, dad."

"I'll toast to that."

They clinked their glasses once more in the center of the table. A while later, Matteo checked his cell phone screen.

"I'm going inside for a second to get a document. Don't finish all the food."

"Take your time," Luna replied, smiling.

Matteo disappeared down the hallway that connected the garden with the interior of the property. The table was enveloped in a pleasant stillness. Ángelo observed Luna very attentively. She immediately noticed that scrutinizing gaze.

"Is something wrong?"

He nodded kindly.

"Yes. I wanted to tell you something," Luna left her silverware on her plate, ready to listen. "Thank you."

She frowned slightly, bewildered.

"For what?"

"For coming into my son's life."

Luna looked down a bit, feeling her heart race.

"When Matteo was younger, he lived angry with the world," Ángelo continued. "He was impulsive, stubborn, and far too proud. Many times I didn't know how to help him find his center. And then you appeared. You didn't change him, because no one changes another person, but you did bring out the best version of him. He learned to listen, to ask for forgiveness, to fight for his dreams without hurting anyone in the process. And most importantly... he truly smiled again."

Luna's eyes inevitably began to water. Ángelo gave her an extremely warm expression.

"I don't know if I had ever told you so clearly, but I am deeply proud that you are the partner my son chose."

Luna felt a lump in her throat and had to take a small sip of water before answering.

"Thank you, truly."

Ángelo shook his head gently.

"No, thank you."

There was a new pause, this time charged with immense emotion. Luna took a breath.

"Truthfully, I also have to thank Matteo. He changed my life too. After everything I lived through and the obstacles we overcame, I found in him a completely safe place. A home. Matteo is the love of my life, and as long as it depends on me, I am always going to take care of him."

The words were sincere, without any kind of artificial drama. They simply came from the heart. Ángelo felt an immense relief in his chest upon hearing her.

"Then I have nothing else to ask of life."

At that exact moment, Matteo returned. He looked back and forth between the two, noticing his girlfriend's shining eyes.

"What happened? You look like you've been talking about important things behind my back."

Luna hid her emotion with a lot of mischief.

"Nothing. Just that your dad just told me I'm officially part of the family now."

Ángelo let out a loud laugh.

"I think you already were many years ago."

Matteo smiled broadly. He approached Luna's chair, leaned down, and gave her a tender kiss on the forehead.

"Then, welcome again."

The three of them went back to sharing the joy of the moment. And while the lunch in the garden continued amidst anecdotes and jokes, it became clear that the most important bonds weren't always born from blood. Sometimes, they were simply built with time, loyalty, and love.

• • •

Ámbar and Simón's house was bright. It wasn't as big as the old Benson mansion, but it had something that property had never managed to offer for years. Peace. It was midday when Ámbar opened the door with her keys. As soon as she walked in, a delicious homemade aroma flooded her senses. She frowned with curiosity.

"Simón?"

She got no answer. She closed the front door and walked toward the kitchen. Turning down the hallway, she stopped completely.

"Sylvana?"

Her biological mother had her back turned, stirring a pot with a wooden spoon. Hearing her voice, she turned around with a calm smile.

"Hello, daughter."

Ámbar gave a kind laugh. That word no longer felt as strange to her as it had years ago.

"Hi. I didn't know you were coming."

Sylvana turned her attention back to the food.

"Simón called me. He said we were having lunch together today."

Ámbar left her purse on a nearby chair.

"And him?"

As if he had been waiting for that question, Simón appeared from the backyard holding a tray full of glasses.

"Here I am."

Ámbar smiled automatically. He approached from behind and gave her a soft kiss on the neck.

"Hello, future wife."

She closed her eyes for a moment, enjoying the contact.

"Hi."

"How did it go?"

"Good. I went to the cemetery."

Simón delicately caressed one of her arms.

"How do you feel?"

Ámbar breathed slowly.

"Good. Calm. I think talking to Sharon does me good, even if it's from a tombstone."

Simón nodded with understanding.

"I'm sure it does her good too."

Sylvana observed them without intervening. She had learned to respect those intimate moments. She simply gave them a warm look.

"Well, before everything gets cold, come eat."

The three of them sat around the table. Lunch went by amidst simple and pleasant conversations. They talked about the impending wedding, about life in Cancun, about the guests, and the final preparations. At one point, Simón looked up.

"I almost forgot. My mom asked me to call her when we finish. She has a question about some tables."

Ámbar let out a brief laugh.

"Again?"

"Yes. I think she's already changed the layout of the reception seven times."

Sylvana smiled, amused.

"That happens at every wedding."

When they finished eating, Simón's phone began to ring. He looked at the lit screen.

"It's her."

He got up from his chair in a good mood and gave his fiancée a quick kiss.

"Don't take long to miss me."

"Five minutes," Ámbar replied.

"If you're lucky," Sylvana commented.

The three shared a happy laugh. Simón went out to the patio while answering the call.

The kitchen was enveloped in a pleasant silence. Ámbar began to gather some plates from the table. Sylvana approached immediately.

"Leave it. I'll help you."

Between the two of them, they began to tidy up. The lack of words didn't feel uncomfortable, but totally natural. After a few minutes, Ámbar gathered the courage to speak.

"I'm nervous."

Sylvana looked up.

"About the wedding?"

Ámbar nodded.

"Very. I'm afraid that something will go wrong. That the dress won't fit me, that I'll trip, or that I'll burst into tears."

Sylvana let out a small, amused laugh.

"That last one is almost certain."

Ámbar also smiled with complicity.

"Yeah, I think so."

Sylvana finished drying her hands with a dish towel. Then she walked slowly over to a small purse she had left on a piece of furniture. She opened it carefully and took out a small burgundy velvet box. Ámbar watched her with curiosity.

"What is that?"

Sylvana sat back down across from her. She held the case in her hands for a few seconds, as if gathering courage was difficult for her. Then she opened it. Inside was a delicate pair of antique earrings. They were small, elegant, and shined faintly under the ambient light.

Ámbar widened her eyes a bit, in awe.

"How beautiful."

Sylvana caressed them with her fingertips.

"I always dreamed of wearing them on my wedding day," her voice sounded calm, but loaded with melancholy. "I never got to do it."

Ámbar listened to her with absolute attention. Sylvana slowly looked up.

"I would like you to wear them."

Ámbar looked back at the jewelry, unable to take her eyes off them.

"Are you sure?"

Sylvana nodded with conviction.

"Completely. I believe that no one deserves them more than my daughter."

That last word made Ámbar slowly raise her head. Both of their eyes began to water. Ámbar carefully took the small box and held it against her chest.

"Thank you," she said, her voice about to break.

Sylvana shook her head slowly.

"You don't have to thank me. It's a mother's gift."

Tears began to stream down Ámbar's cheeks. She didn't know exactly why. Maybe because of everything. For the lost time, for the wounds of the past, for the opportunities they never had, or simply because, after so many years, they were finally building a real bond.

Sylvana was also crying without saying a single word.

Ámbar left the box on the table, looked at it for an instant, took a step forward, and hugged Sylvana. It wasn't a timid or forced approach. It was natural. Instinctive.

Sylvana took barely a second to reciprocate. She wrapped her arms around her with all the delicacy in the world. The two remained hugging for a long time, crying with relief, without completely understanding why those tears were coming out with so much force. But they both felt it. After so much time since life had reunited them, they were no longer two strangers trying to get closer. They were, simply, a mother and a daughter.

• • •

Months later

The sun began to descend slowly over the Cancun sea, painting the sky with orange, pink, and golden hues. The breeze gently moved the white fabrics decorating the altar, built directly on the sand and with the immensity of the ocean as a backdrop. Everything was ready for the wedding.

In one of the elegant hotel rooms, Ámbar was finishing putting on her wedding dress. It was an exquisite design with simple lines, featuring a long drape that moved delicately with the wind coming in through the open balcony. In front of the mirror, she took a deep breath. It was still hard for her to process that this day had finally arrived.

Behind her stood Delfi and Jazmín. The two of them observed her with absolute fascination. Jazmín was the first to break the silence; her eyes were already completely filled with tears.

"I can't believe how beautiful you look."

Ámbar gave an amused smile.

"Are you starting already?"

"Don't judge me! It's a very intense moment!" Jazmín defended herself while desperately searching for a tissue in her purse.

Delfi shook her head, very amused by the situation.

"She hasn't even walked down the aisle yet and you're already a wreck."

"Shut up!" Jazmín replied, carefully drying her eyes so as not to ruin her makeup. "You're going to cry too."

"Yes, but I'm stronger," Delfi answered with total pride.

Ámbar smiled while she finished tucking a blonde strand of hair behind her ear. She watched them both reflected in the mirror and felt a huge lump in her throat.

"Thank you."

The two exchanged looks and then focused on her.

"For what?" Delfi asked.

Ámbar took a breath so she wouldn't break down.

"Because you were always with me. In the worst moments and in the best. You never left me alone."

Jazmín was already crying without any kind of shame.

"Don't say those things because you're making it worse!"

The three of them let out a spontaneous laugh. Ámbar turned around and hugged Delfi first, who returned the gesture, holding on tightly.

"Always."

Then, Ámbar hugged Jazmín. She practically hung from her neck.

"I love you so much," Ámbar said, her voice full of emotion.

Jazmín nodded, trying to smile through her tears.

"Me too. And so much more now that you're going to stop saying marriage is a waste of time."

The comment made the three of them burst into a new wave of laughter. Jazmín took a step back and took a deep breath, observing the group.

"Look how we ended up. Delfi already has a son. You're getting married. And me, I turned out to be a lesbian," she pointed at herself with infinite pride.

Delfi shook her head in amusement.

"The weirdest conclusion in history."

"We are three weirdos," Jazmín stated.

Ámbar smiled with infinite tenderness.

"No. We are three friends. And that is enough."

They melted into a new hug. A long, firm one, the kind that only exists after having shared an entire life full of ups and downs.

Meanwhile, in another hotel room, Simón paced back and forth without stopping. He adjusted his suit jacket, then checked the knot of his tie, and went back to adjusting his jacket. Pedro watched him, sitting in a comfortable reading chair.

"Can you stop pacing? You're making me dizzy."

Nico looked up from his cell phone screen.

"I counted thirty-two laps."

Simón continued his path across the carpet, ignoring them.

"I can't stop."

Pedro let out a laugh.

"Are you nervous?"

Simón stopped dead in his tracks and looked at him as if he had asked the most absurd question on the planet.

"I'm getting married. Obviously I'm nervous!"

Nico put his cell phone in his pants pocket.

"Breathe. It's not a test."

"It's worse," Simón assured, running a hand through his hair. "It's the most important day of my life."

Pedro gave a half-smile, got up from the armchair, and stepped closer to adjust his shirt collar a bit.

"Listen to me. You and Ámbar survived family secrets, tremendous tragedies, and a mansion full of crazy people. And a ceremony is going to beat you?"

Simón let out an amused laugh, feeling the pressure decrease.

"When you put it like that, it sounds different."

"That's right."

Nico approached and gave him a friendly pat on the back.

"Besides, if my cousin agreed to marry you, she already did the hardest part."

The three shared a complicit joke right at the moment someone knocked on the door. Pedro went to open it. On the other side was Matteo, dressed with total elegance for the beach ceremony.

"Am I interrupting?"

"Never," Simón replied immediately.

Matteo entered the room radiating confidence. Pedro and Nico understood the dynamic instantly.

"Let's go, Nico. We'll leave him with the groom for a while."

Both went out into the hallway and closed the door behind them. Now only Matteo and Simón remained. For a few seconds, neither uttered a word. Matteo observed his great friend, nodded with satisfaction, and closed the distance to give him a strong hug.

Simón returned the gesture with gratitude.

"I'm very happy for you," Matteo assured with total sincerity.

"So much," Simón closed his eyes for a moment.

"Thank you."

Matteo pulled back just enough to look him in the eyes.

"You know something? For years I thought love was complicated. Then I saw you two; fighting, making up, growing side by side. And I understood that true love isn't the one that never has problems, but the one that never stops choosing the other person."

Simón nodded, visibly moved.

"And I would choose her a thousand times."

"I know. That's why today I am completely at peace. Because I know Ámbar is with the right person."

Simón's eyes began to water dangerously.

"Don't make me cry ahead of time."

Matteo sketched a huge smile.

"Save your tears for when you see her reach the altar. They say everyone breaks down there."

Simón returned the smile and looked toward the window for a moment. The sea shined intensely under the afternoon sun, marking the beginning of a new chapter. He took a deep breath of air.

"I'm ready."

Matteo placed a firm hand on his shoulder.

"Then go marry the love of your life."

Simón nodded. And, after so much tension accumulated during the afternoon, the nerves finally began to transform into immense and absolute happiness.

• • •

The room fell into complete tranquility once again. Delfi and Jazmín had already left to get ready for the ceremony. Ámbar remained alone in front of the mirror, taking deep breaths to calm her nerves. Her white dress fell elegantly, barely brushing the floor of the room. The earrings Sylvana had given her shined discreetly next to her face. She caressed them with the tips of her fingers.

"There's very little time left," she said in a very low voice, encouraging herself.

Then, she heard a few soft knocks on the door.

"May I come in?"

She immediately recognized that voice.

"Mónica!"

The door opened slowly and Mónica appeared, wearing a long light blue dress. Her smile was the same as always: warm and maternal. As soon as she saw Ámbar dressed as a bride, she stood motionless and brought a hand to her chest out of emotion.

"Oh, how beautiful you look."

Ámbar smiled with tenderness.

"Are you going to start crying too?"

Mónica let out a small, amused laugh.

"Not yet. But I'm not promising anything."

She approached slowly and delicately adjusted a small fold of the white fabric. Then she observed her for several seconds, her eyes full of pride and affection.

"I never imagined I would see you like this," she commented softly.

Ámbar looked down for an instant.

"Me neither."

Mónica took Ámbar's hands in hers, transmitting calm to her.

"Are you nervous?"

Ámbar nodded, feeling a slight tremble.

"So much. I feel like my heart is beating way too fast."

Mónica caressed the back of her hands with her thumbs.

"It's normal. I was like that too the day I married Miguel."

Ámbar looked up, interested.

"And then?"

"Then it passes. When you see the person you love, everything else stops mattering."

Ámbar took a deep breath, absorbing the advice.

"Yes, I think you're right."

The two shared a moment of silence, until Ámbar spoke again.

"Mónica..."

She looked up immediately. Ámbar smiled with shining eyes.

"Today I realized something."

"What is it?"

Ámbar gathered her thoughts before speaking.

"Life was very weird to me. It gave me a mother. Then it took her away. It gave me another one back. And then it gifted me a third."

Mónica's eyes began to water upon hearing her. Ámbar kept her smile intact and squeezed her hands with profound affection.

"For a long time I thought I had only had one mom. Then Sylvana appeared and I understood many things. But I also understood something else. Life didn't give me two mothers. It gave me three. Sharon, Sylvana, and you."

A tear escaped down Mónica's cheek, unable to contain the emotion. Ámbar continued speaking with total sincerity.

"Each one taught me something different. From Sharon I learned how much resentment can destroy, but also how much a person can love even if they don't know how to show it. From Sylvana I learned that it's never too late to rebuild a bond. And from you..." She paused briefly, looking at her with enormous devotion. "I learned what a mother's love means. Without conditions. Regardless of blood. Just because."

Mónica shook her head several times, drying her face carefully.

"Oh, Ámbar, you don't know how much it means to hear that."

Ámbar also let her tears flow freely.

"Thank you. For always loving me. For scolding me when it was necessary. For hugging me when I broke. For making me feel like part of a family."

Mónica looked at her with immense sweetness, using a tone that was both soft and firm at the same time.

"Because you are. You always were, from the very first day."

Ámbar broke into tears completely and threw herself to hug her. Mónica wrapped her in her arms with all the tenderness in the world, just as she had done so many times for years. They remained hugging for a long time, letting the tears say what words could no longer express.

After a few moments, Mónica pulled away a bit and looked her in the eyes.

"You know what? I am always going to feel proud of you. Not because of the dress, or the wedding, or everything you've achieved. I am proud because, after everything you suffered, you chose to be a good person."

Ámbar got emotional again at the acknowledgement.

"I tried."

"And you succeeded." Mónica softly kissed her forehead. "Now finish getting ready, it will soon be time to head down."

Ámbar nodded as she took a tissue to dry her face carefully. Mónica took her face in her hands and gazed at her one last time.

"It makes me so happy to see you like this."

Ámbar rested one of her hands on hers.

"And it makes me happy to know you are here. Because you are always going to be my third mom."

Mónica hugged her tightly again, full of pride and enveloped in the immense love of someone who never needed to share the same blood to feel like a mother. And for a magical instant, the two of them understood that some families are not born; they are simply chosen for a lifetime.

• • •

Simón remained alone in front of the immense window of the room. From there he could see the altar set up on the sand, where the guests were beginning to calmly take their seats. The murmur of the sea arrived softly, mixed with the melody that was beginning to play in the distance. He took a deep breath, noticing the slight tremble in his hands, and tried to encourage himself in a low voice, assuring himself that it was simply a matter of taking the most important step of his life.

At that moment, he heard a few delicate knocks on the door.

"May I come in?"

"Come in."

The door opened to reveal Luna. She wore an elegant ivory dress that moved slightly with the evening breeze. As soon as she crossed the threshold, their eyes met and they shared a radiant expression. Luna went straight to hug him and he returned the gesture with immense warmth. They remained like that for a moment, like two great friends who didn't need explanations to understand each other.

"I can't believe this day has arrived," Luna admitted as she pulled back a little.

Simón let out a small, happy laugh.

"Me neither."

She observed him attentively, taking in the details of his suit.

"You look very elegant."

"That's a lie. I'm very nervous."

Luna smiled openly at her friend's honesty.

"That too. But it's part of the moment." They both shared the complicity of the old days. Luna took a breath before adding: "You know what I was thinking? If a few years ago someone told me that you and Ámbar would end up getting married, I would have been amused for an entire week."

Simón let out an open laugh.

"Me too."

"And look at us now," she added, moved. "You starting a family and Ámbar happy. After everything you guys went through..."

Simón's eyes began to water as he remembered it.

"It took a lot."

"Yes," Luna nodded. "But it was totally worth it."

Luna wrapped him in her arms again, this time with more strength.

"I am very proud of you."

"Thank you," he replied, closing his eyes.

"No, thank you. Because you were always there when I needed you."

"That's what best friends are for," Simón assured with warmth.

"And you always will be," she stated.

Upon pulling apart, Luna delicately adjusted his tie knot.

"Well, now stop crying, because the ceremony hasn't even happened yet."

"You're crying too," he observed with a mischievous glint.

"That doesn't count. As a best friend, I get a free pass to get emotional."

"How convenient," Simón joked.

Luna walked toward the door and turned around one last time before leaving.

"Enjoy every second. Today a new life begins. See you at the altar."

Left alone again, Simón took a calm breath. After all the tension accumulated since he woke up that morning, he felt his doubts disappear completely to make way for absolute happiness.

Meanwhile, in another hotel room, Ámbar was finishing adjusting her veil in front of the mirror. A few soft knocks on the wood made her turn around.

"Matteo?"

The door opened slowly and he appeared. Beholding her completely ready for the ceremony, he stood motionless. Although he tried to maintain his composure, his eyes filled with emotion.

"What's wrong?" Ámbar asked upon noticing.

"Nothing. It's just that I can't believe how much you have grown."

"You too," she replied with tenderness.

"No, today you are the protagonist," he denied softly as he approached. "You look beautiful."

"Thank you," Ámbar expressed her gratitude, looking down a bit.

Matteo took a deep breath of air.

"You know something? Many years ago I never imagined I would see you like this, so happy and at peace. And that makes me enormously glad. Because even though our story ended a very long time ago, I never stopped loving you. Not like before, but as someone fundamental in my life."

Ámbar felt a lump in her throat. Matteo took her hands delicately.

"I am proud of the person you have become, of everything you overcame, of everything you forgave, and of everything you built. I know Simón is going to make you very happy, because I know the kind of person he is and I also know you are the love of his life."

Tears began to stream down Ámbar's cheeks uncontrollably.

"Thank you, Matteo," she managed to say.

He squeezed her hands with affection.

"I love you very much and I am always going to wish you the best."

Ámbar took a step forward and wrapped him in a firm hug that he returned instantly.

"Thank you for everything," she said in a very low voice.

"Thank you," he replied.

Upon pulling apart, Matteo gave her a smile full of good energy.

"Well, if I stay here I'm going to get more emotional than the groom. See you there."

He gave her an affectionate kiss on the forehead and went out into the hallway.

Ámbar still kept her smile when the door opened again. This time, Luna came in. Both stood motionless for a few seconds, observing each other in silence before their faces lit up at the same time.

"Do you remember when we couldn't even stand the sight of each other?"

Luna asked, breaking the pause.

Ámbar let out a spontaneous laugh.

"Which of all the times?"

Luna shook her head, amused.

"It's true. We were enemies, then friends, then enemies again, and in the end..."

"Family," Ámbar completed with serenity.

Luna felt a great emotion in her chest.

"Yes, family."

Ámbar walked toward her without hesitation and wrapped her in a deep and sincere hug. Contained in that contact were all the shared years: the arguments, the wounds, the sincere pardons, and the unbreakable affection they had managed to build.

"I love you so much," Luna expressed in her ear.

"Me too," Ámbar replied. "And thank you for never giving up on me."

"It was completely worth it," Luna assured.

They pulled apart slowly and looked each other in the eyes, knowing that, after so many twists of fate, they were no longer two distant rivals, but two young women who had learned to choose each other forever. The sky was tinted with golden, orange, and pink hues, illuminating the ceremony that had been prepared on the sand. A wooden path crossed the beach to an elegant white altar, adorned with light-colored flowers that swayed with the ocean breeze. The waves broke softly a few meters away. There was no need for music to beautify that place.

The sea already did that on its own. The guests began to take their seats. In one of the front rows was all of Simón's family. A few meters away were Luna and Matteo, holding hands. Next to them were Pedro and Delfi, who were holding a restless Francisco, already almost six years old, who wouldn't stop looking at the sea with curiosity.

"Mom, can I touch the water?" The boy asked.

Delfi caressed his hair.

"After the ceremony."

"And what if the sea goes away?"

Pedro let out a spontaneous laugh.

"I promise you it's going to still be there."

Francisco seemed to think about it seriously.

"Well, I trust you."

Nico, sitting right next to them, shook his head in amusement.

"That kid thinks too much."

"More than you," Jazmín added, leaving Nico looking serious and Delfi laughing.

Further back were Miguel and Mónica, alongside Sylvana, elegantly dressed for the occasion. Mónica greeted her with a warm smile and Sylvana replied with the same affection as always.

On the other side of the altar, Simón waited. He breathed deeply over and over again to calm his nerves. The priest observed him kindly.

"You still have time to escape," he joked.

Simón shook his head, very sure of himself.

"I have no intention of doing so. I've been waiting for this moment for years."

The priest nodded approvingly. Then, a soft instrumental melody began to play and all the guests turned their heads.

Gary appeared, walking slowly. He wore an elegant light-colored suit that perfectly matched the beach setting. But what shined the most in that moment wasn't his clothes, but the deep emotion on his face. Holding his arm was Ámbar. Her white dress seemed to melt into the golden afternoon light. The earrings Sylvana had given her flashed discreetly. Her smile was serene, although her eyes were already completely wet.

Simón saw her and the world around him disappeared. Only she existed.

Gary walked slowly. Each step seemed to hold an enormous meaning for both of them. Upon arriving in front of the altar, he looked at Simón. For a few seconds he didn't speak, he simply nodded with total approval, knowing his daughter was in the best possible hands. Then, he took Ámbar's hand and placed it over his.

Simón held his fiancée's hand firmly. Gary kissed his daughter's forehead.

"You are the greatest pride of my life."

Ámbar let a tear of happiness escape.

"Thank you, dad."

Gary closed his eyes for an instant. Hearing that word was still the greatest gift he had received in his entire existence. With a full heart, he returned to his seat next to the rest of the guests.

The ceremony began. The priest observed the couple with an affable expression.

"We are gathered here today to celebrate something that transcends any formal document. We celebrate love. That love that withstands the passage of time, the wounds, the trials, and that, even so, chooses to stay."

Simón didn't let go of Ámbar's hand, and she didn't lessen her grip either.

"Marriage is not about finding a perfect person," the priest continued. "It is about choosing an imperfect person every day and loving them completely."

They both exchanged a look full of complicity. The time for the vows arrived. Simón took a breath and looked at Ámbar with immense tenderness.

"Many years ago, I never imagined that the person who argued with me the most would also be the one I'd want to spend my whole life with," the guests let out a tender laugh. "You taught me that loving isn't always easy, but you also showed me that it is completely worth it. I promise to keep tickling you even if you get mad. I promise to hug you when you are afraid. And to remind you every day of your life, that you are my queen. My beautiful girl."

Ámbar could no longer contain her emotion. It was her turn and she forced herself to keep her voice steady.

"For a long time I thought I couldn't be happy. I believed that the darkness was always going to catch up to me. But you arrived. And you taught me something very simple: that there is always someone willing to stay. Thank you for choosing me even when I didn't know how to love myself. I promise to walk by your side my whole life and to keep laughing at your bad jokes."

The jokes alleviated the emotional tension of those present. The priest smiled, took the rings, and, after the corresponding blessing, both exchanged the gold wedding bands. Finally, he looked up at everyone.

"By the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Simón didn't wait another second. He delicately took Ámbar's face and kissed her. It was a deep kiss, awaited for an entire lifetime. Applause erupted immediately on the beach. Francisco was the first to start clapping with a contagious enthusiasm. Nico whistled loudly, while Pedro hugged Delfi. Jazmín searched for another tissue in her purse.

"I can't stop!" she exclaimed dramatically.

"You've already gone through like twenty," Delfi reminded her, passing her a clean one.

"And we still have the party."

Minutes later, more lively music filled the beach. The tables were illuminated with small warm lights, while the afternoon sun continued bathing the sand in its golden glow. The reception had begun with full energy. Francisco ran from one side to the other chased by Nico, while Pedro tried to prevent his son from ending up in the sea in his formal clothes. Miguel and Mónica danced together on the makeshift dance floor, and Sylvana observed everything, enjoying the atmosphere.

Gary raised his glass from one of the main tables.

"To you."

All the guests raised their glasses in unison, celebrating the union.

In the center of the dance floor, under the sunset light, Ámbar and Simón remained in each other's arms. They looked at each other, shared a complicit smile, and kissed again while the ocean breeze enveloped them. After so many years of obstacles, there were no longer secrets or tragedies. There were only two people left who, after going through it all, had found, at last, the exact place they belonged. Right next to each other.

The party continued on the beach. The lights hung between the palm trees softly illuminated the sand, while the music, the exclamations of joy, and the constant hugs mixed with the serene sound of the sea. In the center of the makeshift dance floor, Simón and Ámbar danced surrounded by the people they loved the most. Pedro carried Francisco on his shoulders while the boy had fun in the air, and even Nico was trying to teach some impossible dance moves to Gary, who ended up taking it with good humor. Jazmín danced enthusiastically next to the dance floor, while Delfi observed the scene hugging Pedro. A few meters away, Mónica and Miguel enjoyed watching the whole family reunited. Sylvana was happy watching Ámbar. It was a moment of authentic peace after so many years of ups and downs.

A few meters from the celebration, away from the bustle of the speakers, Luna walked calmly toward the shore of the ocean. She took off her sandals and let the sea foam caress her bare feet. She took a deep breath while gazing at the infinite horizon, where the last glow of the sunset was giving way to the night. She heard firm footsteps on the sand behind her, but she didn't need to turn around; she knew perfectly well who it was.

Matteo approached calmly and stood by her side.

"You escaped, chica delivery."

"Just five minutes. Chico Fresa."

Matteo gently wrapped his arms around her waist, and they both remained watching the calm waves, sharing the serenity of the moment.

"What are you thinking about?" He asked after a few seconds.

Luna smiled with a certain nostalgia.

"About everything. About the Benson mansion, about my return to Mexico, about my parents, my family, Ámbar, and all of us. Who would have thought so long ago that we would end up here, peaceful and together."

"At peace," Matteo agreed.

"Yes, at peace," Luna nodded, resting her head on his shoulder. "It took so much to get here."

"But we made it," he assured.

Luna lifted her head to look at him and smiled.

"Thank you."

"For what?"

"For walking with me all this time."

Matteo softly caressed her face.

"Always."

They shared a serene, mature kiss, full of the affection accumulated over the years. Upon pulling apart, he gave her a warm look.

"They are waiting for us over there."

Luna nodded.

"Go. I'll be right there."

"Don't take long," he requested, kissing her forehead before walking slowly back to the celebration.

Luna remained alone for a few moments facing the sea. The sea breeze slightly moved her hair as she gazed at the horizon with a calm heart.

"Despite all the conflicts, the pain, and life's twists and turns," she reflected in a very low voice. "In the end we found the way. It's no longer about competing on a rink with skates, but about walking with your heart, with the tranquility of knowing that everything found its place."

Her eyes watered from pure emotion. She looked toward the sky, where the first stars of the night were beginning to appear.

"My name is Luna Valente and also Sol Benson. I lived with two names, two families, and two histories. But I understood that no label defines who I am. The important thing is that today I can just be me, with my successes, my mistakes, and all the love I found along the way."

She looked at the celebration in the distance once more, listening to the laughter of her friends, the rhythm of the music, and the constant melody of the sea. Everything coexisted in complete harmony.

"And from today on, our universe is complete."

She turned around, took her sandals, and walked barefoot on the sand to rejoin the people she loved. On the illuminated beach of Cancun, the lights shined between the palm trees while the entire group shared hugs and dances under the starry sky. All together, with the sea in the background, starting a new chapter.

The End