Loving Alessandra

Chapter 12

Valentino

As I stepped out of her apartment, the pain of her words  resound in my mind. I lingered for a moment, my hand still on the doorknob, hoping she would change her mind and call me back. But the silence on the other side of the door was deafening. I walked away to my car, my steps heavy with regret and sorrow.
Once inside, I gripped the steering wheel tightly, staring blankly ahead.

I couldn't bring myself to start the car. Instead I sat there, replaying the confrontation over and over in my head.

God, I knew I shouldn't have gotten involved with you... There are people out there coming after me because of you... Love? You call this love? You put me in danger, lied to me, and now you expect me to just accept it because you say you love me?

Her words cut deep, each one like a knife to my hear. I had always known this moment might come, but I had hope that somehow, someway, I could keep her shielded from this world.

I finally started the engine and drove aimlessly, trying to clear my head.

Once I got home, I was pacing back and forth in my office, running a hand through my hair. I pulled out my phone, staring at the screen, debating whether to call Sergio. I needed to talk to someone.

Instead I poured myself a glass of whiskey and sank into the chair behind my desk. I took a long sip, letting the burn of the alcohol momentarily distract me from the pain.

I remembered the look on Alessandra's face, the mix of fear, anger and betrayal. 'I love you. From the very first moment I saw you.' 
The truth of my feelings hadn't soften the blow for her, it had only made things worse .

"Damn it." I muttered to myself. "How could I let this happen?"

I knew I had to find a way to protect her, to make things right. But how could I do that when she wants nothing to do with me.

I decided to give my brother a call.

"Brother". Dominic answered.

I sighed. "What's going on?" Dominic's voice filled with concern

"It's Alessandra.... Someone attacked her at the store while she was closing up. I told her everything. About the family, the business.. everything."

There was a pause on the other end. "What! How did she take it?"

"Not well." I admitted. "She kicked me out. She's terrified and angry , and she has every right to be.

Dominic sighed. "You knew this day would come, brother. But you did the right thing by telling her the truth. Now we need to focus on keeping her safe."

"I know. But it doesn't make it any easier. I can't lose her, Dominic."

"We'll figure this out." Dominic assured me. "First, we need to assess the threat. Find out who's behind this. Make sure she's protected at all times."

"I'm going to sort it out. Thank you."

"One step at a time." Dominic said. "We'll handle this, just like we handle everything else. And if she truly loves you she'll come around. But right now, her safety is the priority."

"You're right. I'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe."

"Good. Stay strong brother. We'll get through this."