Normally, I would have gone home, but I needed to clear my mind and figure out what to do. A part of me understood him, his pain, and anger, but he also needed to understand that I had suffered too. I was fifteen years old, and I think that's something most people forget.
I strolled through the center of Milan, reminiscing about the times I used to come here with my mother. She would often call me sick at school once a month, referring to it as 'our day off.'
As I wandered, an incoming message popped up on my iPhone screen, catching my attention. Though it was from an unknown sender, the content made it clear it was from Zaccaria.
From: Unknown
''I had no right to yell at you like that, but I want to talk to you about it, I need it.''
I visualized but didn't respond to him. I planned to do it at least after four or five hours, as I had other things to do.
After touring an entire mall and walking into every single store, I had quite the shopping spree. I purchased dresses, shoes, makeup, and even a bag.
While my everyday style was rather modest—a pair of jeans and a t-shirt—on weekends or special occasions, I didn't mind flaunting shorter, tighter clothes. It wasn't about seeking attention; it was about feeling beautiful for myself.
Despite spending a fortune and lugging around six bags from different stores, I finally felt satisfied.
Upon arriving home, I headed to my bedroom to sort out my purchases. I felt strangely calm, as if nothing else mattered.
Throughout my shopping excursion, my mind wandered, pondering not only the situation with Zaccaria but also my own future.
At nineteen years old, with everyone around me heading off to college, I contemplated returning to school myself. Perhaps pursuing Economics, Criminology, or Law would be the right path. My mother would be proud, as she always wanted me to further my education.
After arranging my new clothing in the closet, I sat down on my bed and opened my laptop, browsing the University of Milan website. As I read about the Law program, another text message appeared on my iPhone screen from an unknown sender.
From: Unknown
''Will you answer me?''
I replied, hoping he'd leave me alone.
To: Unknown
''When do you want to talk?''
From: Unknown
''Right now, open the front door.''
I left my bedroom and found a familiar sight waiting for me at the front door. Zaccaria had bought me roses, a bouquet of Burgundy-colored roses.
''Hey,'' he greeted me awkwardly as he handed me the bouquet.
''Thank you, they are beautiful.''
I walked into the kitchen, with him following my every move. Retrieving a vase, I filled it with water. Roses had always been my favorite flower, despite their simplicity.
He glanced around the house, noting that not much had changed since he practically lived here four years ago.
''Hasn't changed a lot here,'' he remarked.
''I know. When I returned, I was surprised too, considering how my mother always changes everything.''
After sharing a laugh, we settled onto the couch, and the conversation turned serious.
''I wanted to apologize for my reaction earlier. You were right—I was fifteen and had no choice. But after you left, a lot of messed-up things happened to me, and not having you by my side made it even worse.''
I smiled. ''I know, but I'm back now, and I'm not planning on leaving anytime soon,'' I reassured him.
We talked, cried, laughed, but mostly listened. Listening to each other made the evening pass quickly.
As midnight approached, a moment of silence fell between us.
''Can I ask you something?'' Zaccaria broke the silence.
''Sure, anything,'' I replied, pouring myself another glass of wine.
''What are we?''
It was a question I had been avoiding, unsure of the answer myself.
''I think we should start off as friends, and from there, we'll see how it goes,'' I replied cautiously.
Though he appeared disappointed, he agreed to take it slow.
''It's late; I think I'll head out,'' he said, standing up.
I nodded and walked him to the door.
''See you tomorrow?'' he asked, giving me a hug.
''Sure, but please don't call or text from an unknown number again; it's a bit creepy,'' I teased.
''Alright, goodnight then.''
''Goodnight.''
I waved as he drove away, hoping he didn't take my desire for friendship the wrong way. But for now, I would savor the evening.
____
And here's Chapter eight! I hit a bit of a block between Chapter six and seven, but I'm back on track now!
If you enjoyed this part or any other, please vote! Thank you already xx
