Loving Alessandra

Chapter 13

Alessandra

I sat on my couch, my mind swirling with thoughts of Valentino and the dangerous world he was a part of. The events from the past few days had left me shaken and I couldn't shake the feeling of betrayal that lingered in my heart. I needed time to process everything, to figure out where I stand and what I want.

With a deep breath, I made a decision. I couldn't stay here, surrounded by reminders of Valentino and the danger he brought into my life. I needed to get away to clear my head and gain some perspective.

I drafted an email to my boss requesting a few days off to handle family issues which I want to visit my family in Puerto Rico. Thankfully, my boss was understanding, granting me request without hesitation.

With my time off approved, I grabbed my phone and opened the group chat with my friends.

Me: Hey guys, just wanted to let you know that I won't be around for a couple of days. I'm heading to Puerto Rico to visit my abuela and parents.

Jade: That sounds amazing! Wish I could join you.

Amara: Have a great trip, Alessandra! Be safe.

Me: Thanks guys. I'll miss you both!

  ***

I ordered an Uber to take me to the airport and, after a few minutes, received a notification that the driver was on the way. With one last look around in my apartment, I locked the door behind and headed outside.

As I stepped outside, I noticed something felt slightly off. There were a few people around than usual for this time of the morning, and a couple of cars parked nearby had tinted windows that I couldn't quite see through. I shrugged it off.

A silver sedan pulled up to the curb and the driver gave me a friendly wave. "Alessandra?" He called out.

"That's me." I replied, smiling as I approached the car. The driver got out to help me load my suitcase into the trunk and soon we were on the way to the airport.

As the car navigated through the city streets, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being watched. Glancing out the window, I noticed a black SUV that seemed to be following us at a distance. I frowned but quickly dismissed it, convincing myself that I was just being paranoid.

Soon the car pulled up to the departure terminal. The driver helped me with my luggage again and I thanked him before heading inside.

***

The plane touched down in Puerto Rico, and as I stepped off I felt an immediate sense of warmth and familiarity.

I found a taxi to take me to my family's home, as the taxi drives through the vibrant streets, I felt a rush of nostalgia. The sights and sounds of my childhood surrounded me, the colorful houses, the scent of local cuisine wafting through the air and the lively chatter of people on the streets brought a sense of peace that I hadn't felt in a long time. We passed by a small corner store, where I used to buy candy as a child, the park where I played with my childhood friends and the church where my family attended every Sunday.

The driver noticed my smile and glanced at me in the rearview mirror. "¿Primera vez de regreso en un tiempo?" (First time back in a while?)