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Valentina

Author: Oluwanifemi .E. Odumosu
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-29 19:42:56

As I stretch, a peculiar pressure nudges my stomach. Blinking away sleep, I slowly assimilate to the room’s brightness. It dawns on me that Nonna and I fell asleep in the studio. Taking care not to disturb Nonna, I delicately lift the frame that had been poking at my stomach earlier.

Nonna moves, her eyes trying to adjust to the brightness.

“We slept off in the studio?” she asks, adjusting her clothes.

“Yes, after balling our eyes.”

“What’s the time?” she asks.

A soft knock comes from the door.

“Come in,” she urges.

“Good morning, Madame Rosemarie, ma’am Valentina. Didn’t know you slept in the studio. Looking for the two of you after the burial yesterday, I heard whimpers down here and decided to give you both your space. Unknown to me, you would sleep off. Please forgive me. It won’t repeat itself.”

“Alberto, take a break. We all need it.”

“I’m sorry I can’t, ma’am, as it is my duty to oversee things here and ensure security and safety. Mr. Aiden and Mr. Thomas have arrived.”

“Alread
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    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.

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