Chapter-19

Gianna

I can’t believe this was happening. Did I hear him right?

“What happened between us…Nico?” I asked, trying to sound steady because I refuse to let his words break me. Nico closed his eyes, as if gathering his patience or strengthening the walls around his heart.

“It was a mistake…it shouldn’t have happened,” he said, his voice hard.

“And why is that a mistake?” I demanded. “You made love to your wife…the woman you married and took the vows to spend the rest of your life with…what exactly is a mistake in that?”

Nico’s eyes darkened, rage brimming in them. But I knew it wasn’t directed at me. For whatever possible reason, he was angry at himself. I blinked, holding my ground as he stepped towards me, his jaw clenched, his whole stance like that of a predator on a hunt.

“First…” he hissed, grabbing my arm roughly and pulling me closer. “I don’t make love. We fucked…that’s what we did.”

Tears threatened to pour down my eyes and my throat literally hurt as I tried to hold them off. I can’t believe he destroyed the beautiful moment we shared last night like that. It made me feel disgusted with myself, made me feel like some girl he picked up on the streets to fuck.

“And it was wrong and shouldn’t have happened…” Nico added.

“Why?” I whispered.

“Because I don’t love you…and…and I know you aren’t interested in meaningless sex, you aren’t capable of that…” he said. “So I am sorry I crossed the lines…it won’t happen again.”

“Nico…why are you doing this?” I sobbed, letting the tears finally flow. “Last night was something…I know you felt it. Please…please stop fighting this…fighting me.”

“Last night was just sex, Gianna…” Nico said, his voice firm and cold. “All of what happened built it up and I…I needed a release. Both of us did. Stop trying to find meaning in it, please.”

“So…that’s how you would touch any other woman?” I asked. The coldness in his eyes blew my mind as he simply nodded.

“Yes,” he said. “That’s how would I touch any other woman because I do not know any other way you fuck someone. Again…don’t try to find meaning in it. Of course, if you want to fuck…”

“Stop…”I begged. “Stop using that word…”

“If this is what you want…you are always welcome because I enjoyed myself last night, but I know you want more, and hence…you should steer clear of me from now on. Again, I am sorry about last night. I should have been more careful, I initiated it…I am sorry…” Without any other word, he turned on his heels and walked out.

I stood under the torrents and it felt like someone sucked the soul out of me. How could someone be this cold? I knew in my heart that last night meant something. Yes, it wasn’t exactly what I had in mind for our first time together. But last night was real, and even if it wasn’t slow and there were no flowers and candles like I always envisioned, it still was incredible. And I knew not just for me. But the way Nico just mauled the entire experience into something worthless made my skin crawl with disgust for myself.

“Yes. That’s how I would touch any other woman because I do not know any other way you fuck someone…”

He fucked me. That’s what he did.

Tears streamed down my eyes, angry tears and I stepped further into the shower hoping the warm torrents would wash away all of it. How stupid was I to hope that there could be more? I should have understood the moment he refused to look into my eyes this morning. Yet like a lovesick fool, I bared myself to him—both literally and otherwise—and now here I was, drowning in disgust for myself.

I don’t think I can bear to look at him for a very long time.

When I got out of the shower, Nico had already left, thankfully. I stared at my reflection in the walk-in mirror and all I could see was a broken woman chasing after the love she may never have. I still didn’t know why I was doing this to myself.

Taking a deep breath, I shook my head and decided to focus on the task at hand, my meeting with Maximus. I was failing at my marriage but I will not fail at my career, my dream. I pulled out my favorite pantsuit, my sexy lingerie to feel a bit confident because Nico just stomped all over what I had left in the shower and paired it with my lucky Rolex, a gift from Xavier. I artfully tied my hair in a French twist and added a hint of red lip stain to complete the look.

Good…I looked great. Like a professional not willing to take any bullshit and not a woman who was made to feel like a whore by her husband.

This will do.

I was thankfully on time and dutifully waiting for Maximus Vanucci in the artfully decorated waiting area. His office was on the topmost floor of the gigantic, glass edifice, which was the Italian headquarters of Bellavanti. I sat there, going through my presentation because frankly, if I sat idle, my mind would keep turning to Nico’s words, and I was done feeling disgusted with myself for the day.

“Miss Gianna Ammassari?” an extremely attractive woman in her mid-20’s, wearing a sharp gray pencil skirt and crips white blouse called my name, distracting me from my thoughts.

“Actually, it’s Bal…” I began.

“Last night was just sex, Gianna…”

“Never mind,” I shook my head, giving her a smile. “That will be me.”

Let me be Gianna Ammassari for this meeting. Gianna Baldocchi barely existed anyway.

“Mr. Vanucci will like to see you now. This way please,”

She guided me down a sleek marble corridor, where towering, life-sized art pieces lined the walls, each a tribute to the world of fashion. One side showcased striking magazine covers from Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and more, each featuring models and A-list celebrities draped in Bellavanti’s iconic designs—a testament to the brand’s unrivaled legacy. To be partnering with this label for my fashion line would be a first-class ticket to success.

“In there,” she smiled, pointing towards the sleek, black double doors.

“Thank you,” I mumbled, squaring my shoulders and taking a long, deep breath. I knocked on the door before opening it and peeking inside.

The office was modern and expansive, with an understated luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcased the skyline, while dark wooden walls framed neatly arranged shelves. A sleek desk stood at the center, with plush seating by the windows. The entire space was a perfect blend of sophistication and dominance.

Maximus looked up from his Mac, and the moment his dark eyes met mine, a slow, pleased smile spread across his lips. He stood with grace, walking around his desk with a confidence that was both commanding and effortless.

And God help me, he was breathtaking.

He wore a tailored gray suit that molded perfectly to his powerful frame. The crisp white dress shirt underneath was unbuttoned just enough to hint at the golden skin beneath. His dark, neatly trimmed beard framed his sharp jawline, and his tousled black hair gave him a rugged, smooth charm that only added to his lethal appeal. Every step he took radiated power, self-assurance, and a magnetism that was impossible to ignore.

“You came,” he said, his voice smooth, rich, and pleased. I nodded, not sure why there was an underlying sense of relief in those words.

“Of course. I made an appointment with your secretary. Thank you for extending the offer to me,” I managed a smile for him.

Maximus took my hand in his, his grip firm yet warm. But before I could pull away, he did something that sent a rush of heat straight to my cheeks—he lifted my hand to his lips and pressed a lingering kiss against my knuckles, his amber eyes never leaving mine. My breath caught from the bold move, and I prayed he didn’t notice the way my fingers trembled slightly in his grasp.

“Take a seat, please.” Like a gentleman, he reached for one of the chairs opposite his desk and pulled it back. I hesitated for just a fraction of a second before sitting down, feeling the warmth of his presence so close.

“Thanks,” I mumbled, as he effortlessly settled into his own.

I reached into my bag and pulled out the sleek black portfolio I had prepared, followed by my tablet. I set both in front of him, flipping open the binder and tapping the screen to bring up my presentation. Maximus leaned forward, his forearms resting on the desk as he glanced at the first slide.

“So,” he said, his voice now purely business, smooth and direct, “tell me why Bellavanti should invest in your brand.” I inhaled deeply, steadying myself.

“I want to create a luxury fashion line that still feels exclusive, but without the insane price tag,” I said. “Something high-end, but more accessible. And everything would be made sustainably, using ethical materials and eco-friendly methods.”

Maximus glanced up, interest flickering in his eyes. “Luxury and affordable don’t usually go together. What makes you think you can pull that off?”

“Because the industry’s changing,” I said, squaring my shoulders. “People want more than just labels now—they care about what their clothes stand for. Fast fashion killed quality, and couture’s still out of reach for most. I want to give them something in between. Something better.”

I flipped to the next slide showcasing sketches of clean-cut coats, soft gowns, and effortless everyday looks made with sustainable fabrics. Maximus didn’t say a word, just kept flipping through my portfolio, scanning the designs, notes, and numbers.

“Interesting,” he murmured. “Your designs are impressive. No wonder you were chosen to intern with my brand. It’s very hard to intern at Bellavanti.” A flicker of pride warmed my chest.

“Thank you. I’ve studied the market extensively. If executed properly, this concept can carve a unique space in the fashion industry.” Maximus leaned back in his chair, studying me for a long moment. His expression was unreadable, but there was something assessing about the way he looked at me.

“You have passion,” he noted. “That’s good. But business isn’t just about vision, Gianna. It’s about execution. Scaling. Demand. Who do you see as your competitors?”

“I’m not trying to compete with fast fashion,” I said. “I want to change how people see modern luxury. Something that's accessible to all. No one’s really nailed the sweet spot between exclusivity and accessibility. That’s what I’m going for.”

Maximus studied me for another beat, then smirked slightly. “You sound very sure of yourself.”

“I am,” I said with confidence. “This isn’t just a business venture for me. It’s my dream.” Something flickered in Maximus’s gaze before he closed the portfolio and tapped his fingers lightly against the cover.

“I like what I see. But the final decision isn’t mine alone. Bellavanti’s investment committee will review your proposal, and we’ll discuss whether your brand aligns with our vision.”

I nodded, already knowing this wasn’t an easy win. “I understand.”

“Do you?” My brows furrowed slightly.

“What do you mean?”

Maximus leaned forward, fingers pressed together. “You’re entering a world where people will either root for you or tear you down. You’ve got ambition—I respect that. But tell me, are you really ready for what comes with it?”

Was this a warning? Or just him sizing me up?

“I wouldn’t be here if I weren’t,” I said, holding his gaze. Maximus smirked and gave me a nod.

“Alright, then. We will have an answer for you soon.” He stood, and I followed.

“I look forward to hearing from you.” His lips curved slightly, something unreadable flickering in his dark eyes.

“Trust me, Gianna. So do I…”

Something in the way he said it sent an unwelcome shiver down my spine. I placed my hand in his, expecting a firm shake. But once again, he lifted it to his lips, brushing a slow, deliberate kiss against my skin. His amber eyes met mine, and for some reason…my breath hitched.

Damn it.

Maximus Baldocchi was going to be trouble.