The warmth of the candlelight illuminated the faces of the Mendez family, their expressions a tapestry of love and shared history. Dr. Amelia, her eyes twinkling with a mother’s gentle curiosity, leaned forward, her voice a soft murmur that broke the comfortable silence.
“You know, Carl,” she said, her hand reaching out to touch his arm, a gesture of warmth and affection. “We’d love to meet this special someone you’ve been talking about. She sounds wonderful.”
Carl smiled, his heart swelling with a mixture of warmth and apprehension. He had never been one to rush into things, especially when it came to matters of the heart. He was a man of logic and reason, a man who preferred to carefully consider every angle before making a decision.
“I know, Mom,” he said, his voice a soft rumbl
