Five

“I don't have anything to wear for a job like that, and what experience do I need since I have no idea. Where I come from, I don't... Well, it's a long story. “I stopped myself before I revealed anything about my past to Gino. He was watching me intently. “Harriet, I want you to know that I am here for you. Whatever happened in your past doesn't change my opinion of you, and I believe everyone deserves a chance to better themselves,” he said seriously. I glanced at him and sighed. “Even people who bump into you and cause you to spill the coffee? A smile played on his lips, and he chuckled. “Yes, even those people.”

Gino's words touched me deeply. I couldn't believe that someone like him existed, someone who was so kind and understanding. I took a deep breath before responding, "Thank you, Gino. That means a lot to me."

I hesitated momentarily before continuing, "I don't have any experience in a working job like the one you mentioned. And I don't have any proper clothes for it either."

“We're going shopping," Gino replied, his eyes sparkling excitedly. "I want to get you some new clothes to make you feel confident and prepared for the job."

At first, I was hesitant to accept his offer. I didn't want to burden him, but Gino wouldn't let me refuse. He insisted that he wanted to help me get on my feet and that I deserved a chance to start anew.

As we walked through the crowded streets, Gino's enthusiasm was infectious. He pointed out different stores and asked for my opinion, laughing when I hesitated to decide. He was patient and kind, and I felt more at ease with him.

Finally, we arrived at a trendy boutique that Gino had recommended. The sales associate greeted us warmly and showed us racks of stylish clothes. Gino let me pick out a few pieces that caught my eye, and then he took over, selecting more outfits he thought would suit me.

As we tried on clothes, Gino's encouragement and praise made me feel like a queen. He told me how beautiful I looked, how confident I seemed, and how proud he was of me for taking this chance.

When we finally left the store, I wore a stunning outfit that made me feel like a new person. Gino smiled at me, his eyes shining with warmth. "You look amazing, Harriet," he said. "I'm so proud of you for taking this chance."

I felt a lump form in my throat as I looked at Gino, grateful for his kindness and support. "Thank you," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

Gino's face softened as he looked at me. "You're welcome, Harriet," he said. "I'm happy to be able to help you in any way I can."

As we walked to the car, Gino's arm casually slung over my shoulder, and I felt a sense of belonging I hadn't experienced in a long time. It was as if he was claiming me as his own, and I was grateful for it.

"Thank you for today," I said, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over me. "I appreciate it."

Gino smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You're welcome, Harriet. I'm just glad I could help."

As we pulled up to the coffee shop, Gino turned to me and said, "You know, Harriet, I think you're going to do great things. You need a little push and some confidence."

I felt a surge of emotion at his words, and I knew that I would do everything in my power to make him proud.

As we walked into the coffee shop, Gino's phone rang. He pulled it out and answered it, his expression serious. "What's going on?" he asked, his voice low.

I waited patiently, watching as he listened to the person on the other end of the line. After a few moments, he hung up and turned to me.

"Sorry about that," he said. "I have to go take care of something. But don't worry, I will ensure my driver Reg will take you back to Raquels, and I will call you this evening.

I nodded, feeling a sense of disappointment wash over me. But before I could say anything, Gino leaned in and kissed me gently on the forehead.

“I can come with you?” I blurted the words out before I could stop myself. My sudden offer took Gino aback, and he shook his head.

"I think that's unnecessary," Gino said, his eyes locked on mine. "But thank you for the offering. I'll be back soon, and we can continue to work on getting you ready for your new job."

I nodded, feeling a sense of disappointment wash over me. But before I could say anything, Gino leaned in and kissed me gently on the forehead.

As he walked away, I felt a lump form in my throat. I couldn't believe that someone like him existed, someone who was so kind and understanding. I took a deep breath and watched as he disappeared into the crowd.

Reg got in behind the wheel and started the engine, pulling out of the coffee shop's parking lot with ease. As we drove through the quiet streets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over me. The gentle hum of the engine and the soft music playing in the background created a soothing atmosphere, and I relaxed into the seat.

Reg chatted with me about his day, sharing stories about his adventures and misadventures. I listened with a smile, feeling connected to him as we drove through the city. He was kind and gentle, and I felt grateful to have him as my escort.

As we approached Raquels' B&B, Reg pulled into the driveway and pulled up to the entrance. "We're here," he said, turning off the engine. "Raquel's waiting for you inside."

I thanked him again for his kindness and hospitality, and he smiled warmly before leaving the car. He helped me out of the passenger seat and walked me to the door.

She looked up from her book and smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Harriet, dear! Welcome back. I'm so glad you're doing well."

Raquel gestured to the chair across from her, and I sat down, feeling a sense of comfort. She poured me a cup of tea and handed it to me, her hands gentle and kind.

As we sat there, sipping our tea and chatting about nothing in particular, Raquel's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "So, what brings you to the city?" she asked, her voice soft and gentle.

I hesitated for a moment before answering. "I just had a bad break-up," I said finally. "And I wanted a fresh start."

Raquel nodded sympathetically. "Ah, I know how that can be tough," she said. "But sometimes it's just what we need to move forward."

We sat there for a moment in silence, sipping our tea and enjoying each other's company. Then Raquel spoke up again. "So, tell me about yourself," she said. "What do you like to do for fun?"

I smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude for her kindness and interest. "I like to read and take long walks," I said. "And I love trying new foods and drinks."

Raquel laughed. "You're going to love it here then," she said. "There's always something new to discover. I see you have been shopping. Anything nice?” she asked curiously. I smiled and nodded excitedly.

“Gino insisted on it since he's offered a job where he works,” I informed her.

“Gino is very kind and caring,” she stated as she sipped her drink.

As we continued to chat, I felt a sense of comfort and belonging wash over me. It was as if I had finally found a place to be myself and not worry about being judged or criticised.