Italian Obsession

Chapter 11

Valentina

I didn't need an answer from him, because the scowl that formed on Danny's face made it crystal clear that he was beyond pissed. "Are you serious?"

"Yeah, I am. I really didn't want to tell you, nor did I want this to happen."

"God damn it, Valentina. What the hell is wrong with you?"

"Don't you dare try and fully blame me. You're just at fault as well, Danny."

"I thought you were on the pill."

"You never asked."

"Well, you could have told me that you weren't."

"I should have, and I'm sorry. I take full responsibility of that."

"I am in no shape to have a kid, especially with you."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Valentina, I..."

"No. Regardless of what happens, I will take care of the baby by myself."

"I didn't mean for it to come out that way."

Shaking my head, I stood up and left his office, feeling a mix of both anger and sadness. I hated admitting the fact that I liked him but having to break the news and seeing how he reacted really showed his true colors, although I should have known better. Accidents can happen and I did not have luck on my side this time.

Later that night, I had received a surprise phone call. "Hey, is this Valentina?"

"Yes, who is this?"

"Ben."

"Ben Woodard?"

"Yes."

"Why are you calling me?"

"How far are you from St. Petersburg?"

"25 minutes."

"Can you come to my apartment?

"It's almost 11."

"And?"

"It's late."

"I can come to you then."

"Why do you need to see me?"

"I want to talk about some things."

"Like what?"

"You'll find out shortly. What is your address?"

"Are you serious?"

"Yes."

"I'm staying with Jason, I can't."

"Come to my place then. My address is 341 Harriett Street."

"I guess, see you soon."

I hung up and got in my car, wondering what Ben would have to say to me considering we haven't spoken in two years.

*** After the short 20 minute drive, I arrived at Ben's apartment complex and before I had to knock, he opened the door. "Hey."

Ben seemed more than happy to see me. "Val..."

"Hi."

"God, I missed you so much."

"You did?"

Smirking, he wrapped his arms around my waist and hugged me. "Yes. Very much, do come in."

I entered his apartment and took my shoes off. "So, what happened between you and... what's her name?"

"Riley."

"Yeah, her. I figured you two would be together still."

"We broke up six months ago."

"Oh, okay."

"I honestly wanted to reach out to you sooner, but I figured you moved on and found someone else."

"I've had no time for relationships." Despite being pregnant with Danny's child.

"Well, I would like to start over, Valentina."

"What do you mean?"

"We have a lot of things to talk about?"

"Like what?"

"Us."

"What are you actually wanting?"

Ben shook his head. "If you are thinking that I am looking to have sex with you, I'm not. I just figured we could have more time to catch up on things."

"I don't know."

"Come on, please?"

"How about this? We can meet for breakfast tomorrow at 9."

Ben nodded. "Very well. I wish you would stay, but that works."

"Great, I'll see you tomorrow."

I could sense he was mad, but I had no interest in staying nor did I have a reason to.