Inessa's life took a drastic turn when her father owed Vincent Valentino a lot of money. Unable to pay him back, Vincent decided to take Inessa as collateral. Inessa's world came crashing down, but she didn't cry; she was disappointed in her father...
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Sunday noon 12:30-Inessa
As she lay in the hospital bed, Inessa couldn't help but reflect on everything that had happened. She had gone from being a quiet and reserved woman to being caught up in a fake marriage, an unexpected love triangle, and a violent attack. It had been a whirlwind of emotions, but through it all, she had learned so much about herself.
She had learned that she was stronger than she ever thought possible, that she was capable of standing up for herself and fighting for what she wanted. She had also learned that love could come from unexpected places, and that sometimes the people you least expect to care for you can become your biggest supporters.
As she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, she knew that she had a lot of healing to do, both physically and emotionally. But she also knew that she had the love and support of Vincent, Treyvon, Elijah, and Mira to help her through it all. And for the first time in a long time, she felt hopeful about her future.
Suddenly, she heard a familiar voice calling her full name, making everyone in the room look up and gasp. "InessaAnastasiaPetrov, how dare you not update me on your life?" Zariah said, walking into the room with her arms crossed.
Inessa's eyes widened in surprise and she smiled at her friend. "Zariah, I'm sorry. I've just been through a lot," she said, feeling grateful for her friend's visit.
Zariah's expression softened and she walked over to give Inessa a hug. "I know, I'm sorry for being mad. I just worry about you," she said, pulling away to look at Inessa. "And who are these fine gentlemen?" she added, looking around the room.
Inessa introduced Zariah to Elijah, Mira, Vincent, and Treyvon. Zariah couldn't help but notice Treyvon's charming smile and she felt a little flutter in her stomach.
As they chatted, Zariah mentioned that Jack had been worried about Inessa, and that made Vincent question who he was. Inessa quickly explained that he was just a classmate, but Zariah added, "And he has a total crush on Inessa." Inessa looked away, blushing, while Vincent clenched his jaw.
"Vincent, you don't need to worry. Jack is annoying as hell and he's ugly and smells like an onion," Zariah said, making Inessa laugh. Zariah laughed too, and Vincent couldn't help but smile at their antics.
As they continued to chat, Inessa felt grateful for the support of her friends. She knew that she still had a long road ahead of her, but with the love and support of those around her, she felt more confident about facing whatever challenges lay ahead.
(...)
Elijah, who had been quiet for a while, spoke up. "Inessa, can I ask you something?" he said, looking at her with concern.
"Of course," Inessa replied, curious as to what he wanted to ask.
"Why didn't you cry when you were attacked?" Elijah asked, his brows furrowed.
Inessa's smile faded as she thought about his question. "It's... complicated," she said, hesitantly.
Elijah nodded, understandingly. "I get it. Childhood trauma," he said, and Inessa felt relieved that he didn't press the matter any further.
As the conversation continued, Inessa looked over to Zariah, who seemed to be having a great time talking to Treyvon. Mira was still busy on her phone, while Vincent was now playing with her ring on her finger.
Suddenly, there were multiple gasps from the group, and Inessa turned to see what was happening. "When did that happen?" they all asked in unison, and Inessa felt a blush creeping up her cheeks.
"Last night, before the attack. Vincent gave me my wedding ring," she said, looking down at the ring on her finger.
"You're engaged?" Zariah asked, her eyes widening in surprise.
Inessa nodded, feeling a surge of happiness in her chest. "Yes, we are," she said, looking up at Vincent, who was beaming with pride.
Zariah hugged Inessa tightly, and the others congratulated them both. At that moment, Inessa felt like everything was going to be okay. She had her friends by her side, and she had Vincent's love and support. It was a good feeling, and for the first time in a long time, she felt truly happy.
Wednesday morning 10:00-Inessa
Inessa woke up to the warmth of Vincent's embrace, feeling content and safe in his arms. As she slowly moved to get up, Vincent pulled her back, not wanting to let her go.
"Stay," he mumbled against her hair, and Inessa smiled at his words.
"I can't, I need to go to college," she whispered, trying to free herself from his grip.
Vincent groaned but finally relented when Inessa begged him to bring her and pick her up. They had breakfast together, and Inessa couldn't help but admire the golden necklace with the diamond pendant that Vincent had given her.
As they drove to college, Inessa couldn't help but feel a little self-conscious in Vincent's expensive car. But Vincent didn't seem to care and even pointed out that she was wearing the necklace he gave her.
When they arrived, Inessa was met with stares and whispers from the other students, which made her feel uncomfortable. But things got worse when she overheard someone talking about Vincent.
Zariah stood up for Inessa, but they both decided to leave college and go eat ice cream somewhere else. They bumped into Mira later in the day, and they all hung out for a bit before Inessa and Zariah went back to college.
Vincent was already waiting for her, and lots of girls were watching as they kissed. Megan, one of the girls who had been talking about Inessa earlier, looked on with jealousy in her eyes.
Inessa felt a pang of guilt for causing a stir at college, but at the same time, she couldn't help but feel grateful for Vincent's unwavering support. As they drove back to his place, she knew that she was lucky to have him in her life.
