✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*CORDIALLY LINKED✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

*＊✿❀CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE❀✿＊*

➹THIRD PERSON PERSPECTIVE➷

✾March 13th, 2013- 05:46: Sheffield✾

Giovanni reached out to the documentary's production team and expressed his preference for the documentary to be released in two weeks rather than the previously scheduled next month. He also took the initiative to contact the broadcasting company and provide them with a detailed explanation of the situation.

At this moment, he is observing the latest news broadcast in his bedroom while enjoying a glass of wine while wearing a robe and seated on the couch.

"Esteemed Mr. Balestrieri recently provided us with an exciting update regarding the highly anticipated documentary. He proudly announced that the release date has been moved up by two weeks, from next month to a mere two weeks from now. This news is sure to delight the countless individuals eagerly awaiting the revelation of the truth behind the incident that transpired nearly six years ago. With this significant development, we conclude our broadcast for today. We look forward to reconvening tomorrow morning at the customary time of half past nine." Giovanni could not contain his triumphant grin as he affectionately placed his arm around the individual seated next to him on the sofa.

"Although you may not be considered conventionally kind, I find your personality intriguing." Giovanni turned his head in their direction and gave them a subtle wink, causing a noticeable flush to spread across their face. He gently drew them closer and placed a tender kiss upon their forehead.

"I am aware that Alistair does not hold a favourable opinion of you as well, I presume." The individual let out a soft chuckle and rested their head on Giovanni's shoulder, casually draping one of their arms over his torso.

"Not particularly. I believe he began to dislike me from the moment we first met, which was quite some time ago. However, his dislike intensified when he discovered that I was having an extramarital affair while dating his cousin, whom I have been seeing for approximately two to three years. Surprisingly, she remains unaware of my infidelity. It astounds me how oblivious she can be. Admittedly, I only agreed to date her to gain his trust, but it appears that my strategy was unsuccessful." Giovanni gazed affectionately at his partner, grateful to have found someone who shared similar interests, yet not to the extent of creating an uncomfortable dynamic.

"May I inquire if he is aware of the fact that you are engaged in an extramarital relationship with me?" They responded with a cheerful grin and a shake of their head, indicating that Alistair was not aware of the identity of the individual with whom his cousin's partner was having an affair.

"No, and the reason he discovered the truth was that I made a careless mistake by leaving my phone unlocked when I went to the restroom at Cordelia's residence. Consequently, he chanced upon the affectionate messages we had exchanged. Additionally, he remains unaware that my actual name is different, which I find quite humorous. He still believes it to be Raphael." The couple shared a knowing chuckle as they contemplated the blissful ignorance of the cousins, which they found amusing.

"You are one of the most intelligent individuals I have the privilege of knowing. Additionally, you were under the influence of alcohol that evening. Also, I kindly request that you refrain from referring to yourself in such a derogatory manner. It is important to maintain a positive self-image and avoid self-deprecating language." Raphael, whose given name is Cassius, became emotional when Giovanni expressed those significant words to him.

"I love you." Giovanni motioned for Cassius to rise as he did the same shortly thereafter and affectionately took Cassius's hand, leading him to the bed with the kind intention of making his beloved feel cherished and content.