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Blindsided
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The Alliance Afraid of love
ROSALINA'S POVLet him go. I said to myself, brainwashing myself into thinking that this was nothing more than a waste of time, a useless fling that would lead to nowhere. However, my heart had a different narrative. The way he stared at me as if I were the most ruthless woman in the world, left me with such an awful feeling.Guilt. I wasn't afraid of getting slapped, but I was scared of falling in love. Of falling for someone so hopelessly, it left you crippled. I didn't have feelings of love for Leonardo, but being around him did make me feel strangely vulnerable, just like before.He was right. I was running away from him for this reason. Yet, the idea of vulnerability never crossed my mind as something potentially enjoyable. Submitting to his skillful touch left me craving for more, even practically pleading for them. My annoyance knew no bounds when he received that stupid call, abruptly shattering the illusion that I shouldn't have given in so quickly. I didn't want to become
The Alliance Not some fanstasy
ROSALINA'S POVLeo hadn't come back to his apartment last night after our argument.For some reason, that idea made me sore to my stomach. After my breakfast of oatmeal and a smoothie, I found myself re-reading the motivational quotes on my walls. They had transformed from beacons of inspiration into mere strings of empty words, taunting my doubts. With a sigh, I left my apartment behind, stepping out into the world outside. I didn't see Leonardo anywhere in sight, even Frankie asked about him and I acted like I wasn't the reason Leonardo had left, maybe to never come back again. Today, the ballet studio beckoned. Its polished floors and grand mirrors seemed to hold promises of escape from my chaotic thoughts. As I entered, the warm smile of Mr. Bennett, the director, greeted me. He had been back after days of his stay in France for a famous performance. "Good to see you again, Alina," His use of the name 'Alina,' a moniker I'd never taken to, washed over me. It was my mother's nam
The Alliance Masochist
LEONARDO'S POV I leaned back in my leather chair, my fingers tapping idly on the mahogany desk as I watched Agent Matthews. His sharp regard met mine, and I couldn't help but suppress a smirk. The hound had come sniffing around, looking for answers."So, Dante, huh?" I said, feigning casual interest. "Last seen at my casino, you say?"Agent Matthews' eyes didn't waver, his demeanor unflinching. "That's right, Mr. Salvadori. Any idea about his whereabouts?"I shrugged, my smile widening. "Well, you know how it is in the casino business. People come and go. We don't exactly keep track of their vacation plans."He arched an eyebrow, his gaze piercing through my facade. "Surely, you must have cameras, records..."I arched forward, my voice laced with amusement. "Of course we do, but you think I have the time to keep tabs on every Tom, Dick, and Dante who walks through those doors?""You seem awfully nonchalant about this. Considering your connections and resources, I find it hard to beli
The Alliance Sleepless night
ROSALINA'S POVThe distant echo of a car passing by outside was the only reminder of the world beyond these walls. I had just returned from a grueling evening at the ballet, my muscles still tingling with the memory of every graceful movement of the white swan. I had avoided Mr. Bennett as much as possible after he kissed me at his office. Being kissed by a man as old as my Papa made my skin crawl, and I had the urge to give my mouth a serious soap-scrubbing session.I stood in the dimly lit hallway, the faint hum of the overhead light casting a warm glow on the worn carpet beneath my feet. The air held a subtle hint of lavender, remnants of the scented candles I had burned earlier. As I fumbled with the strap of my ballet bag, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed down the corridor.Glancing upwards, I caught sight of the apartment door opposite mine creaking open. His presence seemed to fill the narrow hallway, his tall frame dominating the space. The weariness in his eyes was s
The Alliance Tainted
ROSALINA'S POV I reached down for my toes in a long, satisfying stretch, The echo of the ballet studio fills with the gentle rustle of my breaths and the faint scent of worn wooden floors Stacy's voice broke through my reverie, a burst of vibrant energy that seemed to bounce off the walls. "We are gonna pick you up at seven, sounds good?" Oh yeah, I almost forgot about the 'party' Stacy had been gushing for a week. I had nearly given up on the idea, but I figured my days were turning repetitive, so a break from ballet's rigidity wouldn't hurt. Plus, I missed wearing flashy dresses, tall heels, and bold makeup. "Yep, I'll text you the address," I said with a friendly smile that I always seemed to have to fake with these two. Maybe it was just me, but these two felt too artificial, too... Fake. Nina's voice piped up, "Oh, and the color theme is red, so you should wear red to the party." I chuckled at that. "Alright, I'll humor you guys with a red dress." Suddenly, the studio's a
The Alliance Second Chance
ROSALINA'S POVThe sound of my knuckles meeting the door felt like the echoes of uncertainty bouncing back at me, reminding me of the questions dancing in my mind."Come in."The metal handle felt cool against my skin as I opened it and as soon my eyes met Liora's steely blue eyes, something close to panic knotted in my stomach. Mr. Bennett on the other hand, gave me a look of uninterest as if I were merely a pesky interruption of his day. He focused his full attention on Liora, who sat on the chair beside him with her spine straight, face impassive but eyes eager for him. Mr. Bennett got up and cupped Liora's cheek. "I'll see you tonight."For the first time, Liora smiled and gave an obedient nod before getting up to leave. She cast me a glance as she reached the door as if she was... sorry for me. This little...After Liora left, I closed the door and faced Mr. Bennett head-on. "I'd like to speak to you.""About what?"I bit the inside of my cheek, curbing my resentment towards hi
The Alliance Red dress
ROSALINA'S POVThe hunt was on. I began to pull out one dress after another, each one holding memories of past parties and special occasions. There was the black cocktail dress I had worn to Selena's birthday last year, the floral sundress from that unforgettable summer trip in Italy with my family, and the elegant pink satin gown I had worn to my cousin's wedding.But tonight, it was all about the red dress. I sifted through the hangers, my fingers grazing the different fabrics – satin, silk, chiffon. Each one had its own unique appeal, but none felt quite right for tonight's party.God, I missed dolling up myself. It was as if I had lost a part of me ever since I joined the studio as if I had lost the fire I was known for. I was a bit grateful to Stacy and Nina for inviting me to the party, at least I got an excuse to wear my favorite heels again. I could feel the minutes ticking away, the pressure mounting as I continued my search. Finally, buried in the back of the closet, I spot
The Alliance Pink Unicorn
ROSALINA'S POV The cityscape gradually transformed as we neared our destination. The neon signs of clubs and bars painted the night with vibrant hues, and the pulse of the city's nightlife grew stronger with every passing block. Stacy's silver car pulled up to the curb in front of a sleek, dimly lit nightclub that seemed to have sprung out of the heart of the city itself. The thumping bass and muffled laughter spilled out onto the sidewalk, a siren call for revelers. The bouncer at the entrance checked our names off a list, and we stepped into the pulsating heart of the party. The nightclub's interior was a sensory explosion. Strobe lights cut through the darkness, illuminating the dance floor like a futuristic disco. The music was an intoxicating blend of electronic beats and soulful melodies, driving the crowd into a frenzy of movement. Stacy, Nina, and I navigated through the sea of bodies, our heels clicking in rhythm with the music. The air was thick with excitement, and the s
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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
