The sun filter through the curtains of the lavishly appointed hotel room, casting a warm glow and the room is filled with the scent of expensive cologne and the presence of a well-dressed man, me of course. I stand in front of a full-length mirror, adjusting the fit of my tailored suit, and carefully slipping on a pair of exquisite Italian shoes. I straighten my tie with a practiced hand and satisfied smile cross my lips."Looking sharp today, Ben. Just another day at the office." I finish perfecting my appearance and motivate myself to get back into the life I had before. The one where life is easy and making money is the goal. Just as I finish dressing, the sound of the hotel room door opening catches my attention and I turn around just to see my brother standing in the room with a variety of wonder and confusion on his face."Forgive me for saying this, but you look amazing after last night's escapades." He seem astonished by my quick recovery. Maybe last night was exactly what I ne
The house is dark as I close the front door behind me. The only light source creating dead shadows against the walls is the brightly shining full moon that peak through the openings and it is evident that I haven't been home for a while, as a thin layer of dust covers the furniture. The silence is broken by the sound of my footsteps echoing through the empty house. Even my footsteps sounds tired and somber as, I enter lonely the living room, carrying a suitcase. I pause for a moment, taking in the sight before me. My eyes wander to the cozy armchair in the corner, where Mia use to love curling up with a book or laid spread out fallen asleep while watching one of her movies."I miss the way you'd get lost in the stories you lived yourself into, Mia." My voice cut through the darkness as I sit the suitcase down and walk toward the armchair. Bending down, I pick up a bookmark that must have slipped beneath the cushion. The realization of the memories embedded in every object begins to ov
I lead Clarisse through the house, guiding her down the familiar hallways until we reach the room where Mia used to stay. I open the door, revealing a tidy and beautifully decorated space."Make yourself at home," I gesture towards the bathroom attached to the room. "Feel free to freshen up. I'll be waiting for you in the living room." I cannot help but notice the faint scent of Mia's perfume that still linger in the air, threatening to bring back memories of how we used to spend time here, laughing and enjoying each other's company. I pull the closet door open, revealing a treasure trove of our shared experiences. My eyes fix on the dresses she have worn on our most memorable dates – the flirty, sundress from the breakfast athe the diner, the elegant gown from the gala where we danced the night away. Each dress holding a story, engraved in my heart forever. I sift through the garments, the emotions within me becoming tangled like the hangers. A forlorn smile curl on my lips as I pic
I jolt upright, the remnants of a dream fading from my mind as I blink, my surroundings slowly coming into focus. I am still in my living room, on the couch where I must have fallen asleep, rubbing my eyes, I wonder how long I have been sleeping. I have only meant to close my eyes for a brief second, but apparently, time has gotten away from me. The room is eerily quiet, not a sound can be heard except for the gentle hum of the air conditioner.I rise from the couch, a wave of dizziness washing over me. I stagger for a moment, trying to regain my balance. I have closed my eyes for just a moment, intending to gather my thoughts about what I was going to do about Clarisse and as well as Mia.Cautiously, I make my way towards the kitchen, guided by the faint light spilling from the open doorway. The cold floor tiles sent shivers up my legs as I step into the room, calling out, "Hello? Is anyone here?"Silence greets my inquiry, but something about the emptiness of the house doesn't feel
The house is quiet and my desk a mess as I sit behind it, engross in reviewing files of potential new children and families, when suddenly, the door swing open and a disheveled appearing Achille storms in, looking anxious and out of breath."Achille? What's the matter? Why didn't you knock?" I question my brother as he almost fall into my office giving me a slight fright. "Ben, we need to talk about something important. I couldn't wait. It's about last night. Why did you send the security home?" He shake his head worried.My brows furrow, momentarily getting distracted from the files I am reviewing. I gesture for him to take a seat in the chair opposite my desk."Alright, calm down." I close the file infront of me. "I didn't send them home for no reason, brother. I was alone and sure as hell didn't need any protection. Besides everything was locked and I did activate the security system. What happened?" Achille slumps into the chair, visibly relieved by my explanation." You cannot ju
With a heavy sigh, I enter my dimly lit bedroom, seeking solace and a moment of respite from the confusion swirling around me. I gingerly sit down on the edge of my bed, the mattress sinking under my weight. I rest my elbows on my knees and place my head in my hands as I close my eyes, attempting to alleviate the throbbing pain that is clouding my thoughts. As I take slow, deep breaths, I recall my early days with Mia and the happiness we shared I cannot fathom why Mia and her mother, both loving and honest individuals, will keep such a crucial secret from me, especially after everythding that happened. "I need answers. It's time to find out the truth." I whisper over my breath to no one in particular. My mind begin to clear as I mentally prepare myself to face the forthcoming challenges head-on. I won't let fear or doubts overpower my resolve. Adjusting my position on the bed, I straighten my posture, ready to confront the complex web of secrecy that had enveloped Mia's past. With
Among us is seated Dr. Reynolds a respected physician known for his dedication and compassion. He have always been a source of calm and stability to everyone around him, but tonight, something weighed heavily on his mind. As the night wore on, the alcohol flowing freely, an unspoken tension filled the room. I notice him taking a sip of his drink before placing it down with a heavy sigh, the change in his demeanor clearly visible and the game pause for a moment, sensing that something is amiss. Paul, CEO of a big clothing company and many food destributers, break the silence, concern inscribed on his voice."Tom, is everything alright? You seem troubled tonight."Dr. Reynolds lean back in his chair, running a hand through his graying hair. His usually composed face betraying a combination of exhaustion and fear and with a deep breath, he begin his tale, his voice laced with sadness."I need to share something with all of you – something that has been tearing me apart for years." He hes
As the two of us engross in a passionate discussion about the thrilling boxing match that is happening tonight, the phone ring abruptly, interrupting our competitive banter. I glance at the caller ID, Luigi's name flicker across the screen. Knowing Luigi's serious demeanor, my curiosity pique, wondering what he found out in such short time that so urgently require my immediate attention. "Hey, it's Luigi," I inform Tomasso, my voice ting with a combination of concern and curiosity. "I wonder what news he has for me." Tomasso, obviously sensing the change in my expression, raise an eyebrow. He knows that Luigi never contact me unless something important demanded my attention. "Well, don't keep him waiting. Answer the call and find out what he learned." I nod and quickly accept the call, my mind brimming with possibilities of where Mia is or what she is hiding. "Ciao, Luigi. What is it that you have for me?" The usually steady and composed Luigi sound noticeably flustered on the oth