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A Rake
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The Alliance Rejection
LEONARDO'S POVAs Rosalina walked away from me, my eyes hungrily devoured the sight of her retreating figure. The ethereal glow of the fairy lights gently traced her graceful curves, enhancing her every step. A collision of longing and impatience churned within me, a tempest on the verge of engulfing everything.So, I decided to take a risk, a risk that could potentially sever any connection between us. "You look like a slut in that dress," the words slipped out of my mouth before I even had a chance to think. I wanted to hurt her, to push her as far away from me as possible.Rosalina's steps halted abruptly, and she turned around to face me, her eyes ablaze with anger. "The fuck did you just call me?"I had hit a nerve, and I couldn't help but feel a twisted satisfaction at her reaction. "Is this how you want to be seen?" I continued, my voice dripping with disdain. "Walking around like some cheap whore, desperate for attention?"Rosalina's nostrils flared, her face contorted with r
The Alliance F*cked up
ROSALINA'S POVAs I walked into the hall, my drenched state seemed to amplify the silence. Every pair of eyes followed me, their gazes like probing needles. I clutched Leonardo's coat tightly around my body, feeling its weight as a shield against the judgmental stares. The air was heavy with tension, thick with the unspoken truth that hung between us all.I squared my shoulders, suddenly not feeling cold anymore, the embrace of Leonardo's coat offering an unexpected warmth as his lingering body heat clung to the fabric.Nonna rushed forward, "What happened?""I fell into the pool," I said rather dryly before I glared at Leonardo with the suppressed rage simmering within me like the lava seething inside a volcano. "Thanks for lending me your coat, Leo," I faked a smile at him.Leonardo's eyes widened for a moment, a flicker of surprise quickly replaced by that smile. "Anytime, sweetheart."His expression revealed a twisted sense of satisfaction, a cruel joy in my discomfort. It was as
The Alliance Affair
ROSALINA'S POVThe mirrored walls reflected my reflection, reminding me of the countless hours I had spent practicing here. And tonight, we were preparing for the most important performance of our lives - Giselle. This was the last day of practice. Three more days to go for the actual performance on stage.I glanced at my dance partner Julian who played the character Albrecht, the male lead. He stood there, tall legs and graceful, his blue eyes focused intently on me. We had been dancing together for three months, and our chemistry on stage was undeniable. But lately, I had been noticing he was being a little suggestive lately offstage. I always thought of him as someone who was overly friendly, like a human version of golden retriever.Regardless of what he was feeling for me, or not feeling for me, I wanted a purely platonic relationship between us.As the music began to flow through the room, I delicately extended my arm to Julian, and he gently took my hand. We moved in perfect sy
The Alliance Deceived
ROSALINA'S POV"Stop the car." I said."Rose...""I said, STOP THE CAR!" I shouted. I was too hurt too to be thinking straight.Initially, I had the urge to open the car door and flee, desiring to escape from his presence. However, I gathered my strength and resolved not to be a coward and hide.I never really cared about who Sebastian spent the night with because I knew he could never love those women.Love.That thing bound people and he was a man who prioritized his duty over his personal life. So I didn't understand why Sebastian would have a change of heart for this particular woman."Who is she?" I questioned, my voice cracking with desperation. "And why her?"Why not me? The girl you spent most of your life protecting?"She is pregnant with my baby and I plan to take responsibility." Sebastian said, with a hint of regret in his voice.Betrayal was a suffocating vine that wrapped tightly around my heart, constricting every beat. Not only did he love this woman, but he even got h
The Alliance Giselle
ROSALINA'S POVI faced the dressing room mirror, my reflection a haunting echo of uncertainty. The weight of recent events pressed upon my heart, trapping it in a suffocating embrace. This was meant to be a day of triumph, a grand display of my ballet prowess and boundless passion. Yet, it morphed into a bottomless pit of despair, devouring any flicker of joy in its wake.The stage lights would be merciless, exposing every flaw and emotion etched on my face. I took a deep breath, willing myself to find strength from within, to step onto that stage and embody Giselle, despite the torment that engulfed my heart.But every time I looked into my own eyes, I couldn't help but see Sebastian's face intertwined with my reflection.Time seemed to move both too slowly and too quickly as the minutes counted down to the start of the performance. My mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions, but I knew I couldn't let my personal tragedy overshadow the art form I loved so deeply.As I picked up
The Alliance Roses
***ROSALINA'S POVA big round of applause crashed the air, and a torrent of emotions flooded my being as I got off the stage and navigated towards the recesses of the backstage. My heart continued its frenzied pace, fueled by the performance, and the surge of adrenaline only grew more potent with each step I took.It was as if I was living in a fantastical dream, and the mere thought of awakening from it was unbearable. The exhilaration of dancing, the electrifying energy of the crowd, and the sensation of surrendering myself completely to the music – it was a truly unparalleled experience.Upon reaching the backstage area, my eyes roved over the familiar faces of my fellow dancers and the crew. Everyone bore a smile, and their genuine displays of pride and gratitude filled my heart with a comforting warmth."Rosalina, my dear," Madam Marisha said warmly as she approached me, "that was an exceptional performance. You danced with such grace and emotion. I am incredibly proud of you."
The Alliance Equals
ROSALINA'S POVI didn't know where men get the audacity to touch women's bodies like they have some fucking right over it.Julian immediately withdrew his hand off my waist, visibly threatened by Leonardo, his expression shifting from arrogance to defensiveness. "Oh, easy there, tough guy," Julian retorted, taking a step back. "I was just congratulating her on a great performance. No need to get all territorial."Leonardo's jaw tightened, clearly not buying Julian's excuse. "Congratulating or not, keep your hands to yourself," he warned, his eyes never leaving Julian's face. "Otherwise--""That's enough," I shot back. "Both of you."Julian's eyes narrowed, and he scoffed. "Whatever," he said dismissively, though it was evident that he was still seething inside. "Enjoy your bouquet of roses," he added sarcastically before walking away, his pride bruised."You okay?" Leonardo asked, concern evident in his voice as he turned his attention back to me."I am," I replied curtly, glaring a
The Alliance Desperate
LEONARDO'S POVWhile walking out of the restaurant with Alessio, Isabella, and Elizabetta, I couldn't resist stealing glances at Rosalina. The way her eyes sparkled when she laughed, the fire in her spirit, and her unapologetic confidence were alluring beyond words. She had a magnetic presence that drew me in, and I found myself captivated by her every move.It was the way she carried herself with that high-and-mighty aura. Some might mistake it for arrogance, but I knew this woman was the epitome of confidence.But there was also a vulnerability beneath her tough exterior that I could relate to, having lost my own mother at a young age. Our shared experience of loss seemed to have lifted a certain barrier between us.With each step, her dark hair swayed gracefully as we strolled down the sidewalk, and I couldn't help but admire her elegance. Despite her initial resistance, I respected her fiercely independent nature. It was a refreshing change from the typical social norms I was accu
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The Alliance Epilogue 2
5 YEARS LATER... LEONARDO'S POV I reclined in one of Enzo's plush office chairs, half listening to my cousins drone on about business. My gaze landed on Enzo's hands as he gesticulated, and I had to bite my cheek to keep from laughing. His nails were painted a glittery pink and decorated with Hello Kitty stickers. When he caught me staring, Enzo shrugged. "Gigi ambushed me this morning." "Daddy-daughter time looks good on you, brother," I teased. Enzo shot me a wry look. "We'll see how you handle it when your little hellion grows up." I chuckled thinking about my spirited son. "Adriano keeps things exciting, for sure. Just yesterday he finger-painted a mural on his bedroom wall using Rosalina's lipstick." My cousins howled. "Takes after his old man," Luca said. "In all the best and worst ways," I agreed. Right on cue, my cell phone rang. I didn't have to check the caller ID to know it was Adriano's teacher. "That'll be Mrs. Dawson now. Let me guess - he set off stink bombs in
The Alliance Epilogue one
LEONARDO'S POV(A few months later...)A piercing cry split the night air. I groaned, clinging to the last remnants of a pleasant dream as little Adriano's wails persisted."Your son is awake," I mumbled, still half asleep.Rosalina stirred slightly. "Before sunrise, he's your son," she quipped drowsily.I chuckled at the familiar Lion King quote, then dragged myself reluctantly from the warm bed. I shuffled over to the crib and gently lifted my bawling son into my arms. We had named him Adriano, after Rosalina's father."Shhh Adriano, go back to sleep," I soothed, rocking him gently. His tiny mouth rooted hungrily at my chest, latching onto my nipple. I winced. "Wrong nipple, buddy."I retrieved one of the bottles of breast milk Rosa had pumped earlier and offered it to Adriano. He sucked greedily, his cries subsiding as I held him close. I smiled down at my son, my heart swelling with love and pride. He had his mother's beautiful hazel eyes and my strong Salvadori nose and chin.I
The Alliance Just married!
ROSALINA'S POV I stared at my reflection, scarcely recognizing the radiant bride smiling back. The strapless gown hugged my body perfectly, the pink floral accents on the skirt matching my rose tiara."Oh, you look absolutely beautiful!" Lily dabbed at her eyes as she helped me smooth the skirt.I couldn't stop smiling, joy bubbling inside me. After everything, this day had finally come - my wedding day! My Nonna stepped forward, clasping my hands warmly. "Stellina, I'm so happy for you. You chose well, my dear. That boy loves you with his whole heart."I embraced Nonna tightly. "Thank you. For understanding, and supporting us." She stroked my hair lovingly. "Always, il mio tesoro."A loud commotion outside made us glance at the door. I heard Leo's voice rising insistently."Let me see my wife, damn it!"Isabella shot me a bemused look. "Somebody's impatient to get this show on the road."I laughed softly. Trust Leo to toss tradition aside. My heart swelled with love for my soon-to
The Alliance Mother
ROSALINA'S POVI clutched the address in my hand, the edges creased and worn from the countless times I'd unfolded it. Antonella DiMarco - the stranger who used to be my mother. "You sure about this, babe? No one would blame you if-""I'm sure," I cut him off, my voice tight. "I gotta do this, Leo. I can't..." My throat closed up for a moment. "I can't move on until I look her in the eye and get some damn answers."He nodded slowly, jaw tight. I could practically hear the argument raging in his head about why this was a bad idea. But one glance at my expression and he just sighed, holding out his hand.I shifted in my seat, trying to ignore the growing pressure in my bladder. The sun was starting to set, casting an orange glow across the desert landscape blurring past. Leo kept his eyes fixed on the road, one hand resting gently on my knee in silent support.I knew I should've gone to the bathroom again before we left the last rest stop an hour ago. But nerves had killed my appetit
The Alliance Revelations
LEONARDO'S POVThe dank basement reeked of blood and fear. My uncle Giovanni was tied to a chair, swollen and battered from the beating he had gotten. But I felt no pity for the traitor.My cousin Luca's eyes were wild with grief. Losing his twin Lucio had destroyed him. Now seeing his father Giovanni revealed as a turncoat was the last straw."Alright, talk," I said coldly to Giovanni. "Spill why you teamed up with Andrae against your own family."When Giovanni stayed silent, Alessio slammed a fist into his gut. Giovanni wheezed in pain as Luca flinched, choking back a sob."Last chance," I said casually as Giovanni fought for breath. "Give me the details, then you get a quick death for ratting out the family."Fear flashed in Giovanni's eyes. He started rambling about how Andrae had approached him and offered control of the family if Giovanni helped kill my brother."Lies!" Giovanni cried desperately. "He used me! I never wanted Vincenzo dead, you gotta believe me!"Disgust roiled t
The Alliance Ares and Aphrodite
LILLINA'S POVI cradled Enzo's limp hand in both of mine, pressing fervent kisses to his chilled fingers. The steady beep of the heart monitor was my lone comfort as I maintained my bedside watch. His chest rose and fell rhythmically, but he remained locked away in unconsciousness. "You have to come back to me, Enzo" I whispered, my vision blurring. "Our daughter needs her father." I swiped angrily at the tears streaking my face. I had to be strong for our child, though the effort threatened to shatter my fragile composure.A knock interrupted my swirling thoughts. Carlo entered, his expression carefully neutral. "Any change?" I shook my head mutely, a fresh wave of tears spilling over. Suddenly, Vincenzo's hand twitched feebly in mine. I gasped, leaning forward intently as his brow furrowed. "Enzo?" I choked out. "C-can you hear me?"With agonizing slowness, his eyelids fluttered open halfway, still clouded by anesthesia. But they locked onto mine with recognition that flooded my
The Alliance Written in blood
ROSALINA'S POVThe courthouse appeared all too soon, a hulking stone edifice that filled me with dread. Andrae dragged me forcibly up the steps, his grip leaving blossoming bruises on my arm. I scanned the empty foyer frantically, praying for some means of escape. At the far end, an elderly clerk sat stamping documents behind a high desk.Andrae strode toward him purposefully, shoving me ahead of him. "We need to be married immediately," he barked.The clerk's eyes widened at Andrae's imperious demand, flickering uncertainly to my tear-stained face. "I'm sorry, sir, but there are certain requirements..." he began weakly.In a flash, Andrae had a pistol aimed at the man's forehead. "The only requirement is that you do as I say," he growled. "Now."The clerk paled, raising his trembling hands in acquiescence. "Y-yes sir, right away." He fumbled with shaking hands to ready the license and certificate, the gun still leveled at his head.Once the documents were prepared, Andrae scrawled hi
The Alliance Brick by brick
VINCENZO'S POVChaos erupted as bullets flew in all directions. Years of simmering hatred between the Salvatores and Armandos had finally boiled over, transforming my brother's wedding into a bloodbath."Get the women and children to safety!" I bellowed. My men rushed to usher the terrified guests away from the hailstorm of lead.I scanned the pandemonium desperately for my pregnant wife. "Lily!" Where was she? There - a flash of her yellow dress across the courtyard. I sprinted towards her, bullets kicking up shards of brick at my heels.She stood paralyzed behind an overturned table, one hand instinctively cradling her belly. I shielded her body with mine and urged her towards the exit. "We need to move, now!"We scrambled into a sheltered alcove. Her eyes were wild, face streaked with tears. "Oh God, the baby-""You'll both be alright," I soothed. I peeked out - we weren't far from an escape route. I steeled myself. "On three, we run."I took her hand in mine. "One, two, thre-"The
The Alliance Bloody red wedding
ROSALINA'S POVI slipped into the marble restroom, the swell of violins and chatter fading behind the heavy door. Gripping the gold-flecked countertop, I steadied my breathing, willing my roiling nerves to quiet. Today Leonardo pledged himself to another while our unborn child grew in secret within me.The door creaked open and my reflection paled. Mia. An awkward tension thickened the air as we hovered, over the betrayed bride-to-be and the 'other woman'. To my surprise, her dark brown eyes held no malice. Only sympathy. "Hey, Rosalina," she said gently. "Are you okay?"I attempted a weak smile, my hands trembling. "A bit unwell, thanks." A massive understatement. I smoothed my dress self-consciously, the pink chiffon Leonardo adored. Mia's gaze flickered over it. "That color suits you Wanna rest a while in my suite?"Giving a weak smile, I nodded. I followed mutely, sinking into an ornate chaise lounge as attendants fluttered around Mia. The opulent chamber with its marble friezes
