Romanticismo Per Caso ❤

The Meeting (Lorena's POV)

Once all of the employees eventually clock out for the day, my Mamma and Papa are in the little room (that is actually a shed) outside. They are already there, waiting for every employee. I sit and start having a little conversation with my parents. Everyone flutters through the room and finds a seat.

Elias, who comes in a little bit late, sits across from me, giving me eye contact every once in a while. We discuss the budget, new meals, and review some of the guidelines like we always do. We normally have a meeting every two months, but this time we had one early because my Mamma and Papa are going to Italy for a week or two. My great aunt and I have to hold down the fort for those two weeks so it's going to be a busy job.

Once the meeting is finished, people disperse and I go up to my parents privately. "I know y'all's journey starts soon," I say with a grin. "Yes, I'm sorry we can't bring you with us. We will bring you next summer or sometime Lorena." My Mamma gives me a small hug. "I hope you keep things running properly, piccina. I know you will do your best. And you know I am only one call away." I look into my Papa's hazel eyes and he gives me a hug.

"Grazie," I say to them and turn to leave. "Also piccina," My papa calls. "Yes?" "Keep your mind focused on work, you hear me?" I nod in understanding. "Yes." I walk outside of the shed and begin to walk to my vehicle.

I unlock the door and realize I have a new dent in the car. I exhale. "Some people just have it too easy," I think in my head. I hop in the car and check my phone. Elias has texted me from my phone number.

"So... you're going to run the restaurant while your parents are out? I know you'll do well." I take a minute and reply with a thank you.

I probably should not have given him my number a few weeks ago, but part of me wanted to. I shrug it off and take a deep breath.

That night I got into my bed and heard my phone buzz once again. My purple hand-me-down phone reads that Elias has texted me. He told me "Goodnight Daydreamer."

Okay, when does this guy take a hint? I send him a goodnight text, and finally, he stops texting. I have to heed my father's advice and focus on work, not Elias.