Giulia

Gina looked at the dress and then at me with a gentle smile.

“Giulia, I think it's a little too much for dinner here on the farm. Maybe you should opt for something simpler and more relaxed. "she suggested.

Gabriella agreed, adding:

"That's right, Giulia. We want you to feel at ease, but this dress is a little extravagant for this environment.

Deep down, I knew they were right, but something about me insisted on wanting to impress, especially because Bernardo's parents would be there. I wanted to make a good impression and show that I struggled to be part of that family.

"Do you think it's really exaggerated? "I asked, hesitantly.

They nodded with an encouraging look.

"I'm sure you'll look beautiful in any outfit, Giulia. But it is important that you feel comfortable and confident. "said Gina, supporting me.

I took a deep breath, thinking about their words, and finally decided to follow my sisters' advice. I chose a simpler blouse, combined with an elegant skirt, but not as bright as the previous dress.

When I arrived at the dining room for dinner with Bernardo, Cadu and Pablo's parents, I realized that I made the right choice. Their looks were of surprise and maybe even relief when they saw me dressed more appropriately for the environment.

“Good evening, everyone! "I smiled with a smile, trying to look natural.

Bernardo gave me a warm hug, but I realized that the looks of his parents were a little strange. Maybe they had noticed my change of clothes, but I preferred not to give it too much importance.

As the dinner continued, everyone seemed to feel more comfortable, and the conversation flowed in a pleasant way. I felt happy to be there, sharing that moment with Bernardo's family.

At the end of the night, after we said goodbye to Bernardo's parents, Gina and Gabriella came to me.

“Did you see that? You were beautiful and made a great impression without the need for fancy clothes. "Gina said, smiling.

“Yes, Gina is right. You shine for who you are, not for the clothes you wear. “Gabriella added, hugging me.

After dinner, Gina, Gabriella and I went back to the room we shared on the farm. We were relaxed and getting ready to talk about the night when Gina mentioned:

"Did you notice how a little strange Bernardo's parents were during dinner?

Gabriella nodded, seeming to agree.

“Yes, I noticed that too. They seemed a little bothered that we were here.

I was thoughtful for a moment and then shared a revelation with them:

"Maybe we're reading things the wrong way, girls. The truth is that the three of us decided to come for this trip on the farm not only to enjoy a quiet time, but also to escape the problems of the big city.

Gina and Gabriella's expressions became more serious as they paid attention to what I was saying.

"You're right, Giulia. We are here to escape from our enemies of the past, and this may be influencing our perception. "said Gabriella, reflecting on the subject.

"It's true. Maybe we're feeling a little insecure, and that's making us see things that aren't really happening. "Gina agreed.

I sighed, relieved that they understood my point of view.

"I feel that, because of our past, we always have this feeling that people can judge us or not accept us completely. But we need to remember that we are here to recharge our energies, renew our spirits and be close to those we love. Let's not let these insecurities prevent us from enjoying this trip and the company of Bernardo and his family. "I said, determined.

Gina and Gabriella smiled at me, showing support and understanding.

“You're right, Giulia. Let's put our fears aside and enjoy every moment of this wonderful trip. And if Bernardo's parents are really amazing people, they will accept us exactly as we are. "said Gina, with confidence.

“Exeously! "I agreed. "Now, let's sleep and enjoy the best of this trip: each other's love and support.

That night, after dinner and our conversation in the bedroom, I went to bed with a mind full of thoughts. When I finally fell asleep, I was tormented by a nightmare involving my father. The painful memories of the past came to the fore, bringing with it the feeling of impotence and fear that I used to feel.

I woke up in the middle of an anxiety crisis, my breathing fast and my heart beating unevenly. I got out of bed, trying to calm the tumultuous thoughts and emotions. I needed fresh air and a glass of water to help calm my nerves.

I walked silently to the kitchen, still trying to control the agitation in my chest. To my surprise, I found Bernardo there, holding a cup of tea.

“Oh, are you awake too? "He asked kindly, but keeping a certain distance.

“Yes, I had a nightmare and needed some air. I'm sorry if I made noise and woke you up. "I replied, still feeling uncomfortable with the situation.

"Don't worry, I also woke up thirsty and came here," he said, giving a small smile.

There was something in his eyes that seemed welcoming, but I couldn't let my guard come down completely. After all, we only knew each other a few hours ago and we were still practically unknown.

I filled a glass with water and took a few sips, feeling the refreshing sensation run down my throat. Bernardo remained silent, respecting my need for space.

“Do you also often have nightmares? "He asked suddenly, as if he wanted to share some connection in the midst of our distancing.

I looked at him surprised, not expecting this very personal question.

"Sometimes..." I replied, cautious. "Things from the past that still affect me, I think.

He nodded sympathetically.

“I understand. We all have our demons to face. But I'm glad to see that you're managing to deal with it in some way.

I was surprised by your understanding, but I was not yet ready to open up completely. The pain of the past was something I preferred to keep to myself.