A sudden realization dings in my head like a warning bell, echoing with unsettling questions. What if all my efforts to incite Marco's jealousy are nothing but futile attempts at grasping onto something that no longer exists? What if all these are a wasted effort?These doubts gnaw at my mind as I ponder the true nature of Marco's intentions. Is his sudden interest in rekindling our relationship genuine, or is it merely a facade to access my newfound wealth and status as CEO? Could it be that he sees me not as the woman he once loved, but as a means to an end—a pawn in his father's twisted game of power and control?The thought sends a shiver down my spine, casting a shadow of doubt over the recent interaction I've had with him. How can I be sure of his intentions? And more importantly, how can I protect myself from being used and discarded once again?With a heavy heart, I realize that the answers to these questions may elude me for some time. But one thing is certain: I can no longe
"Alberto, please can I get a break from these men hovering around me just this once?" "I'm afraid Valentina, you would have to iron that out with Madame Rosemarie and it's a good thing we are heading there already to say hello.""Do we have to tell her everything I do or do I have to seek permission before living my life? I'm an adult. Incase you all keep forgetting.""Madame Rosemarie would have my head dangling from a tree of anything happens to you. Let's just say you are the only eyes she's got left.""Alberto please. It's just for a day.""Why do you need them off your back for a whole day if I may ask? That's if I won't be crossing the line."I sigh thinking of how best to say it."I met someone."I see Alberto cheeks expand as he gives a knowing smile. "Did you have too? I hate that I'm a sucker for love. Fine, your Nonna doesn't have to find out.""Aren't you the best?""Do not patronise me Valentina. Which of the days are you looking at?""Saturday.""Ok great, that's tom
"So much for wanting Marco to shiver at my sight today," I mutter, dusting off my jeans and T-shirt before sliding open the balcony door. It feels liberating to be free once again, and I owe Alberto for that.If I had the chance to live in this house, I wouldn’t hesitate for a moment. Despite being the smallest among my father’s properties, I just love how it’s a green home masterpiece nestled among towering trees, with every detail carefully crafted to blend with nature’s beauty.As you approach, the exterior of the medium-sized house is a stunning fusion of sleek architecture and organic elements. The living walls are adorned with cascading greenery, while the green roof is decorated with native plants, seamlessly incorporating the structure into its surroundings.My best part of the house is the master suite, a luxurious retreat, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding greenery. A spa-inspired ensuite bathroom features a freestanding soaking tub tu
As Valentina sinks into the plush chair, her red eyes show she's been struggling with allergies. Even in her simple jeans and T-shirt, she still looks captivating. From where I stand, I watch her with a sense of admiration. The way she tries to soothe her irritated eyes, the subtle furrow of her brow—it makes me smile subtly.In this moment, as she takes a moment to rest, There's something about her vulnerability that draws me in. She may not realize it, but even in this moment, she's incredibly attractive."So, when can we do this again?" I ask, unable to hide the excitement in my voice as she stands up feeling much better.Valentina's response is like music to my ears, "I'll let you know. Perhaps we could explore more of this beautiful place. Would you like a tour of the house?"Her suggestion catches me off guard, but I welcome it with enthusiasm. "That sounds fantastic. I'd love to see more of the property," I reply, a genuine smile spreading across my face.As Valentina leads me
This week has been nothing short of busy. Trying to work hand in hand for us to get our new line up and running. I've not had time for practically anything and I've had the least sleep in all my life this week. Thank goodness, mother and James have been supporting me emotionally. "Alright everyone, let's get started," I begin, addressing the team gathered in the office conference room. "As you all know, the launch of our new perfume line is just around the corner, and we need to ensure that every detail is perfect before tomorrow afternoon."I turn to the perfumer, "How are the final adjustments to the fragrance coming along?"The perfumer nods, a sense of pride evident in their demeanor. "We've settled on a captivating blend of jasmine, rose, and bergamot, creating a delicate yet enchanting scent that embodies the essence of our brand.""Excellent," I respond with a smile. "That sounds exactly like what we were aiming for. Let's make sure the production team has everything they ne
A nice cool breeze sweeps through, giving relief from the warmth. Even though the sun is shining, it's not too hot, and you can feel a hint of evening coming."Mother, you look so beautiful," I exclaim, admiring the soft hue of her silk pink satin dress."Thank you, darling. And you look absolutely stunning. Your hair is simply divine," mother replies, her eyes shining with pride."Thanks, mom. I'm really glad we're doing this together," I say, a genuine smile gracing my lips."I can't help but think your father would be so proud of you," mother affirms, her voice filled with emotion."And so am I," Nonna chimes in, walking towards us."You look as captivating as ever, Madame Rosemarie," mother compliments Nonna with a warm smile.Nonna returns the compliment with a gracious nod. "Thank you, my dear. And you, my darling daughter, look positively enchanting. Who knows, perhaps you'll find a bit of romance at this delightful affair," she teases, causing a subtle blush to grace mother’s
My heart sinks as I scan the bold title: "Is James the New Man in Valentina's Life?" Frustration and anxiety knot in my gut as I fling the article onto my desk. The glossy pages sprawl before me, each image like a jab at my inner turmoil.In the first photo, Valentina and James glide down the red carpet, their smiles dazzling under the camera flashes. Valentina, in her jaw dropping army green dress, leans into James. James, confident in his tailored suit, gazes at her with a steady adoration.In another picture, they're dancing at the launch, lost in each other's embrace. Like a scene straight out of a fairytale, and I can't help but feel a pang of jealousy at the sight.As I stew in frustration over the article, my thoughts are interrupted by a knock on my office door. Without looking up, I bark, "What is it?"My assistant timidly enters, holding out a stack of papers. "Sir, I have those reports you requested."I snatch the papers from her hand, my irritation boiling over. "I don't h
As James leads me through the crowded room, laughter and chatter fill the air, creating an atmosphere of lively celebration. I smile politely at the acquaintances we pass, but my heart skips a beat when I catch sight of Marco and his mother across the room. My pulse quickens, and a wave of apprehension washes over me."James, I just remembered I need to use the restroom," I say, my voice slightly strained as I tug at his sleeve.His brow furrows in concern. "Are you okay, Valentina?""Yes, yes, I'm fine," I assure him, forcing a smile. "I just need a moment. I'll meet you back here in a bit, okay?""Of course," he replies, his expression softening with understanding. "Take your time. I'll be right here."With a grateful nod, I slip away from his side, my heart pounding in my chest. I weave my way through the throngs of guests, my mind racing with thoughts of the impending encounter with Marco and his mother.Finally reaching the sanctuary of the restroom, I take a deep breath and clos
6 years later………I roll up my hair, tying it into a bun as I prepare what the children will eat on their way to Mother’s place after Gabriella’s ballerina performance. Since the twins came along, our lives have been overwhelmed with intense joy.“Drop that floss, Gabriella!” I yell, running after her.“Daddy said I can have them,” she squeals, running outside with it.“I’ll go get her, Mama,” Gabriel says, running after her.“Thanks, baby.”Just then, Marco strolls into the kitchen.“Why are you giving me that look?”“We agreed on no sugar today, but you went behind my back and gave Gabriella permission to have cotton candy.”“What cotton candy?” he asks, trying to feign ignorance.“Marco, don’t play dumb.”“Okay, babe I’m sorry. When she asked, I intended to say no, but those big eyes got to me. It won't happen again,” he says, wrapping his arms around my waist.I gently push his hands away and reach for the children's food pack.“Baby, I said I'm sorry.”“Marco, this has to stop. Yo
As we gradually shift from autumn to winter, the smell of fallen leaves fills the air. The crisp, cool November breeze gently brushes against my bare skin as I stand outside our home, taking one final look at it before we move to our new place. I gather my last bag, smiling as many special memories here with Marco begin to play in my head.“I'm going to miss this house. We have so many good memories here.”“Me too,” Marco says staring at the house.“I know Becca is going to care for this place just like we did.”“I know she would.”“Look how far she has come. Buying her own cars and house.”“Business has been good and also, she suggested it was time to show my face.”“I agree with her. I know this isn't goodbye goodbye because we will obviously come and visit but it feels like it.”“Don’t worry, you will fall in love with this new place.”Marco drives us to our new place in Florence with our things already in place. With this new place, He went over the top. In this new home, it is l
Since Nonna learned about my bleeding, she has stopped me from going to work and instructed Mr. Thomas to step in until I give birth, which he agreed to without hesitation.Everyone went wild about the news, especially Mother and Nonna, and we all can't wait to find out their gender next month. Now that I'm showing, the general public now knows.With Mother’s wedding coming up, everyone aside from me has been super busy preparing for the big day, which is tomorrow.The only duty I’ve been given is to pick up Chiara’s dress because she wasn't around to take her measurements when we did. Once I pick it up, I drive down to the resort Nonna booked for the wedding.Nonna insisted she sponsor the wedding, and knowing Nonna, no one could argue with her. If you didn't know about our family history, you would mistake Alberto and Mother for her children.“That took you forever, sexy preggy,” Chiara says, opening the door.“Is this the thank you I get from crossing the Mediterranean Sea to get t
I pace up and down Giovanni’s corridor, seething with anger at what I witnessed hours ago. I had planned to surprise Valentina by picking her up from Nonna’s place for dinner, but I got surprised instead. I was so confused about whether to reveal myself or not. In the end, I turned around and headed for Giovanni’s place.Just a few nights ago, I was appreciating how well our marriage has been going and how open we are with each other, but what I saw today casts doubt on that belief.“So you saw her with James and?”“I didn’t like the way he was all over her. To make matters worse, she told me she was going to greet Nonna and Mother but didn't mention James would be there too.”“Okay? What if she didn’t tell you because she knew you would react like this?”“You are supposed to be on my side.”“Marco, tell me what you want me to say or do. Beat him up? Besides, you knew about his connections with the Matteos before you went in. Why do you have a problem with him all of a sudden? If you
Maintaining my pregnancy a secret till I start to show ended the moment I walked into Nonna’s place. Mother and Nonna simultaneously chorused it the second I stepped foot inside the house. Ever since Marco, Nonna, and mother found out about my pregnancy, I've been treated like an egg. With Marco, it's even worse. This man won't let me do anything at home. Mother and Nonna have made it their sole mission to stock up my house with food. Now all I do is go to work, peruse documents with my legs crossed and eat junk.It's a miracle that my clothes still fit. Preparing for the Pure Beauty Award global ceremony tonight, I put final finishing touches to my look before I slip on my heels. I wish father was here to see to witness this moment. His beauty and skin products were nominated for the Pure Beauty Award ceremony. “How do I look?” Marco asks stepping out of his closet.“Handsome as always.”“You look ravishing my love and I know you will bring home all the awards. You've shown nothin
I'm amazed at how much progress my parents and I have made. Visiting them frequently and vice versa without anyone bickering. Valentina and mother's laughter erupts from the kitchen filling the entire place as they organize lunch. “Marco, how has business been going?” Father asks, stretching a plate towards me.“It's been good, and how are you adjusting to your new line of business?”“Adjusting fine. Never knew I could do so well in supervising building projects. I'm taking that class you recommended.”“That's beautiful.”“Enough of business talks,” Mother announces, walking in with Valentina as they set the rest of the food on the table.“This smells so heavenly,” Father compliments, and I nod in agreement.“I can't take all the credit, your wife also assisted.”“Thank you both.”As we dish our food, I notice Valentina dishing a smaller portion of what she would normally eat, an occurrence that's been consistent for the past two weeks now. Also, lately, she has been easily irritated
“See that glow, you weren't this good-looking before you stepped on that plane last week. Despite the workload you came to handle after you got back, you are still looking flawless. Hmm, must be the marriage glow and the other reason why women glow,” Chiara gushes, offering me a plate of cake.“Your place just keeps getting better. I love what you did to the wall.”“Thanks, it is sad no man is surprising me with an aquarium in my home simply because I can’t get over moments from my trip.”I flush, remembering how I came home from Bora Bora to a gigantic aquarium nestled in a corner of our living room. A gift from Marco because I couldn't stop talking about our glass-bottom boat tour.“Stop being dramatic.”“I want my man too. Is there something I'm not doing right?”“Soon, you'll find your perfect match.”“I know, I just need to know how soon. I may have noticed you’re overly bubbly these days? Are you pregnant?”“What? No. Chiara, you are way too observant for my liking. You used to
These past few days in Bora Bora have been some of the best moments in my life so far. I can’t get over the beauty of the underwater world. The beautiful, colorful fishes and the coral reefs were breathtaking. I took so many pictures to last a lifetime.The thrill, fear, romance—everything—we experienced it on this trip, and I hate that we have to leave tomorrow. I don’t want it to end. My highlight has to be seeing Marco scream like a child when we went skydiving. Who ever knew that a day would come when I would see Marco Lorenzo scared of something?The lingerie Chiara and I shopped for has been nothing short of a game-changer. Chiara was right when she said they had the power to make a man lose his senses.Can the world just pause for another week so Marco and I can continue having so much fun without coming back to a truckload of work on our desks? I shudder at the thought of the workload piled on my desk right now.Cristos! Yesterday was Mother's date with Alberto, and I forgot t
Surrounded by lush greenery and the stunning beauty of the coastal waters, I feel completely refreshed and renewed. The peace here is unmatched, providing a perfect escape from the usual hustle and bustle of Tuscany. I’m still yet to get over the Mahi Mahi and rice from yesterday—so divine.After our long flight yesterday, we chose to relax and unwind for the rest of the day. I place a gentle kiss on Valentina, who is still sleeping soundly.I connect to the resort’s Wi-Fi and just as I'm about to start preparing for the day, Giovanni’s call comes in.“I’ve been away for how many days and you suddenly can’t breathe?”“Good day to you too, and last I checked, you are not Flora. Unlike you, I’m a good brother always wanting to check up on you and you, on the other hand, forget your brother once you are lost in love. How’s the honeymoon going?”“Wonderful, it’s such a beautiful place to be.”“I’ve been told. How’s your wife?”“Sleeping soundly. Yesterday’s flight was a bit overwhelming.