Celina averted her gaze and answered without hesitation:

“No. And he’ll never know. My children deserve a better father. He’s going to marry Isabela, and my babies would end up being pushed aside. I don’t want that for them.”

“Are you absolutely sure about this?” Gabriel pressed, concern etched in his tone.

“Without a shadow of doubt. I don’t want my children suffering under the hands of an unstable stepmother. So yes, I’m completely certain of my decision.”

Gabriel glanced at his watch and exhaled heavily.

“I can’t stay long tonight. Tomorrow’s my day off, but I have an early commitment. Like I said earlier at the restaurant, after that, I’ll give you all the attention you need.”

Celina smiled softly, her heart warmed by his words.

“Thank you… really.”

Zoe muttered under her breath as she downed the last sip of wine:

“He’s a prince, I swear…”

Gabriel rose, adjusted his jacket, and looked at Celina with earnest eyes.

“Celina, I need to tell you something. And I want you to think caref