Italian Obsession

Chapter 70

Valentina

"You what?"

Jackson smiled. "I truly have."

"I... don't know what to say."

"It's been on my mind for several weeks and I couldn't hide it from you any longer."

"I mean, I know that I am staying here but we hardly talk."

"I know and we have both been busy, but I want to now make the time for you, Valentina."

"Jackson, I appreciate it, but I have two kids, and I really don't have an interest in dating anyone, considering the hell that I have gone through with their father."

"Well, I want to be a part of not only yours but your children's lives as well."

"Why?"

"I don't know to be honest. I just feel that there is something about you that attracts me."

"Jackson..."

"I will see you later, Valentina."

I watched as he left and sat on the couch. He's falling for me, and I barely know the guy.

*** Three hours later:

By the time I got all of the kids dressed, Alecia had shown up. "Have fun tonight!"

"I'll be back around 9."

"Of course! Take your time."

"Valentina, wait up!"

Courtney caught up to me and followed me downstairs. "I guess Jackson has some fancy dinner planned for us tonight."

"Any reason?"

She shrugged. "He's a man full of surprises."

I laughed. "I definitely can agree with you on that one."

"How are you liking it here?"

"I mean, my kids love it here and the pay is great, but I really miss my old job."

"What was that?"

"I worked at my ex-husband's advertising company."

"Oh jeez, how did that go?"

"It was great until I found out he was sleeping with a co-worker."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that."

"He has quite a reputation, but love is blind. He was perfect when I first met him, but things changed."

"I'm sorry."

"It's alright. It was painful and it still is at times, but I have begun to focus on not only myself but my children. They are my main priority, and I don't want to confuse them, having another man around."

"Why is that?"

"Well, Jackson told me that he likes me."

"Really?"

"Apparently, yeah."

"Wow, I am surprised."

"Why?"

"He has never been a man who's interested in settling down. But he is 40 and I can understand."

"Yeah, it's just... I don't know. I miss my old job."

"Well, if you change your mind about living here, I could set up an interview for you."

"Really?"

Courtney nodded. "My brother owns JEMSU."

"I've heard of that."

"Especially if you have the experience, I'm sure you would get the job without an issue."

"Thank you, I'll think about it."

"Just let me know and I can call my brother."

Throughout dinner, I kept thinking about the conversation with Courtney. Living here is beyond amazing, and I know my kids are happy, but I questioned if this is something that I want to really do for a while.