Eyes So Blue I Drown

06

ARABELLA

We head straight to Via Montenapoleone, the epicenter of Milan's fashion world. The bustling street is lined with opulent storefronts, each one a gateway to a world of luxury. Such things don't surprise me anymore. They used to be my dream when I was a kid, but not anymore. I was satisfied with my simple life. Yet today, I'm ready to push every limit.

I exit the first boutique, Gucci, with bags in my hands and am immediately greeted by someone. "Buongiorno" a female voice behind me calls. I didn't understand what she said, but it sounded like a greeting.

Before I can turn around to see who it is, Renzo is suddenly standing between me and the old woman. His right hand is underneath his open coat. The woman jumps back with fear, and a bag full of beautiful shell bracelets falls from her hands and clatters down the steps.

As she bends to retrieve them, I glare at Renzo. "What did you do that for?" He doesn't look the least bit remorseful.

"No one is to come within a foot of you."

"Says who?" I mutter furiously, knowing exactly who.

"Boss."

"Why?!"

"So that you don't play any smart moves once again"

"Fuck off" Renzo's eyes flicker and I can tell he's displeased by my statement. Well, too bad.

I hurry to the woman to help her, but she eyes me suspiciously.

"Don't be afraid. I want one of those blue ones." I point to the bracelets. I don't really wear such girlish things but I shall try after we troubled her as such.

She hands me one, and I stick a wad of dollar bills into her hand, smiling at her surprised and grateful face. "Thank you, but..." she trails off, "this is more than--"

"I know."

Her smile widens.

As the sun starts to set, I make my final stop at a high-end jewelry store. Diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds sparkle from every display. I pick out a necklace that costs more than most people earn in a couple of years. "I didn't sign up to be a pack mule." Renzo comments, annoyed carrying my bags. Good. Let him cry about it.

I'm not just buying luxury items. I also get essentials to last a few weeks-lingerie, toiletries, and other necessary things. I want to be prepared for whatever comes next. I don't know how long I'm going to stay with him.

Finally, I head into a boutique known for its daring designs. Among the racks, I find it: a dress that demands attention. The moment I see it, I can't look away. The fiery red, satin fabric clings to every curve of the mannequin, almost like it's made for me. It's bold, daring, and exactly the kind of attention-grabbing dress I'm craving. Despite everything, a part of me is excited to wear it on a night out.

As I slide into the Mercedes, I glance at the pile of bags filling the backseat and feel a sense of satisfaction.

Few guards and Renzo are loading the last of my purchases, his grumbling only adding to my amusement. He literally brought two more cars full of guards so I don't beat him up once again and run away. And I believe they got weapons too.