Blood and Roses

23 | Forbidden Lovers

~Angelo

Despite our intense disagreement last night over Felix, Camila and I have managed to maintain a positive relationship. Camila took the time to express her feelings, and despite my frustration with Felix, I listened attentively and empathized with her perspective. I couldn’t overlook the fact that Felix had experienced his own share of hardships, yet his actions displayed a mean, cruel, and controlling side, and I couldn’t ignore the fact that he had caused harm to others.

While it is true that I have also been involved in dangerous situations, I couldn’t help but feel that Felix’s actions were no better, and maybe even worse. Later that night, Camila sought comfort by embracing me tightly, and although it felt a bit overwhelming, I understood her need for warmth and safety. I willingly held her in my arms, gently running my fingers through her hair, and made sure she was cozily wrapped in a soft blanket.

As she drifted off to sleep, a serene smile graced her face, and it brought me a sense of satisfaction. Observing her smile fills me with contentment. Prior to my entrance into her life, she had forsaken happiness, her parents’ tragic fate had made her vow never to smile again. She often wore a mask of sadness, anger, or emptiness, never allowing herself to exhibit joy. No blush adorned her cheeks, no sparkle in her eyes. However, things changed when I became a part of her world.

I take pride in being the reason behind her smiles, even in the midst of chaotic situations like the pursuit of the police. Whether she played the guitar in my casino, indulged in moments of revelry at my nightclub, or sat beside me on our journey to Little Italy with the wind gently caressing her hair, she would smile. I knew that somehow, I had contributed to a positive transformation in her life.

In my presence, she became gentler, more at ease, and happier. It’s an honor to be the catalyst for such positive changes, and each time I witness her radiant smile, I can’t help but remind myself, “I played a part in that.”

Once again, I managed to coax a smile out of her, and her radiant face illuminated the entire coffee shop. Even in the aftermath of the distressing ordeal she endured during those two days of captivity at Felix’s place, her worries lingered, and I could perceive her unease through her restless movements and constant vigilance. Despite her attempts to conceal it, I noticed every subtle reaction - the widening of her pupils, the fidgeting of her fingers, and the quick glances she stole to scan her surroundings.

As I sat there, sipping my coffee, my focus was fixated on her, wishing I could find a way to ease her burden. Felix’s actions had left her traumatized, and I understood that there were no quick fixes for such deep scars. Yet, despite the weight on her shoulders, I still managed to bring a smile to her face. Humorously enough, her mishaps with my cookie and coffee seemed to amuse her greatly, and the genuine laughter that followed was a small victory in itself.

With an abrupt jolt, I leaped from my seat as my coffee cascaded all over me, prompting an instinctive, but futile attempt to salvage my pants from the inevitable stain. Frustration welled up inside me, and I groaned in irritation, berating myself for my lack of foresight. Returning to my seat, I watched as Camila continued to laugh heartily at my predicament. Her laughter was infectious, and despite my annoyance, I couldn’t help but crack a smile at the sight.

However, as her laughter subsided and she reclined in her chair, I couldn’t help but notice the change in her demeanor. Her smile vanished, and a sense of concern washed over me. I had been worried about her throughout the morning, and the night before. It gnawed at me that I was unable to offer her the support she needed. I longed to do something to ease her burdens, but I was at a loss for how to help.

“Hey there, sweetheart. I just wanted to check in and make sure everything is alright. If something’s bothering you, you don’t have to hesitate to share it with me.”