Loving Alessandra

Chapter 5

VALENTINO

I was at home in my office handling some business, far away from the cocktail lounge where I saw her.
I tried to focus at the things I had to do today, deals to be made, alliances to be kept and operations to oversee. But my thoughts just kept drifting back to Alessandra.

The memory of her smile, her captivating presence and the way she could effortlessly get the attention of anyone around her. It was a distraction I couldn't afford but yet I found myself returning to it, something that I couldn't even seem to break.

I was rubbing my temples frustratedly, when a thought struck in my mind, one that could bring me closer to finding Alessandra.
I picked up my phone and dialed, Sergio, my trusted right hand man who had a knack for handling delicate situations, calling him to my office.

Within minutes Sergio entered my office, I gestured him to take a seat, while my mind was already working through the details of what I needed.

I spoke "Sergio, I need you to find someone for me. All I have is the name, Alessandra."

" Just a name?" Anything else you can tell me about her?" Sergio responded.

" She was at the cocktail lounge last weekend, with a group of friends. That's all I've got." I added.

" That's not much to go on, but I'll see what I can dig up. Should I keep it low-key?" Sergio stated.

"Absolutely. I don't want to draw too much attention. Just find out who she is and where I might find her again."

Sergio nodded then left the office.

          

After a few hours later, the paperwork on the desk hadn't moved much, and the cigar in the ashtray had burned down to the end. I was pacing back and forth in my office when I heard a knock echoed through the door.

I looked up, "Come in."

Sergio spoke, " boss, found a bit of information on this Alessandra. It seems she works at fashion boutique in the city."

I said" Interesting. Anything else?"

Sergio answered, "Not much, but it's a start. I also found out a bit about her background and some places she frequents."

He handed over a folder, which I opened scanning the contents.

"Good work. This should help."

Sergio questioned " Want me to do anything else? Keep tabs on her, maybe?"

I answered quickly, "No, that won't be necessary. I'll take it from here."

Sergio nodded then quietly left the room, leaving me with my thoughts. With this information I felt a renewed sense of purpose. It was time to find Alessandra.

   ***

The next day I decided to go the fashion boutique. As I walked in the atmosphere was a mix of bustling customers and the aroma of new clothes. I had my focus on finding her, I moved through the boutique scanning each isle until I spotted her adjusting a rack of dresses.

I stood there for a while until Alessandra turned around her eyes widened in shock. She clearly recognized me from the cocktail lounge but had no idea I would be at her workplace.

"Oh it's you." She reacted. Her reaction was a mix of surprise and uncertainty.

I offered her calm, charming smile.

" Didn't expect to see me here, did you? I was in the neighborhood and thought I'd check out the store."

It seemed like she was still trying to process my appearance, but she managed to keep her composure.

She said with a smile, " Well, welcome. Looking for something in particular?"

I watched her closely, noticing the way she tried to keep her tone light while still appearing professional. The unexpected encounter had clearly thrown her off balance, which was exactly what I had hoped for.

"Just browsing, but maybe you can give me some recommendations. I'm looking for something a little different." I said while staring at her.

"Ok, but could you be more specific?" She asked

"What would you recommend for a casual dinner?" I asked her.

She led be toward a section with a selection of smart casual outfits.

She said, " This area has some great pieces for that. You might like these."

As she talked, I couldn't help but notice the way her passion for fashion shone through. I picked up a clothing she pointed to and pretended to inspect it, but my focus was on her.

I spoke, "I'll be buying this one. Thanks. By the way I never properly introduced myself at the lounge. I'm Valentino Rucci."

She offered me a polite smile, " Nice to properly meet you. I already had told you my name that night but in case you forgot, it's Alessandra.. Alessandra Martínez."

I smiled look down at the clothing in my hand, "You know I might need more fashion advice."

She said, "Ok, just drop by. I'll be happy to help."

I leaned in slightly, lowering my voice to a husky whisper, "Well, Alessandra, I might just have to take you up on that offer.

Alessandra cheeks flushed slightly at the tone in my voice, but she maintained to keep her professional composure.

"I'll be here whenever you need me". Alessandra stated

" Nice to meet you again.  I'm going to take this up to counter. Thanks for your advice."

I walked up to the counter and paid for the item. I exchanged a glance with Alessandra before leaving the boutique.

As soon as I stepped out of the boutique. I took out my phone and dialed Sergio.  "Sergio I need you to keep an eye on the fashion store. Just watch, nothing more. I need to know her routine, where she goes after work."

Sergio responded"Got it boss. Anything else?"

" No just stay discreet. We don't want to spook her."

  ***

Hi guys, it's been a while since I've updated. But I'm back now.
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