Loving Alessandra

Chapter 35

Alessandra

I took a deep breath as I gave Amara the glass of water and took a seat beside her.

I started. "I really missed you."

Amara looked up. "I missed you too."

"So, I guess you ended things with Sergio?"

Amara nodded. "Yeah, it's over."

I reached out and squeezed her hand. "I understand."

Amara sighed deeply. "I had to do it. I don't think that's for me. But that's over with now." Amara added. "There are more exciting things to talk about like the fact that a baby is on the way."

My hand went to my stomach, a small smile forming on my lips. "Yeah, it's been quite a journey already. The morning sickness, the cravings. I had my first ultrasound a few weeks back and it was incredible to see the baby for the first time." I added. "But there's also moments of doubt and fear. I worry about bringing a child into this world, especially with all the danger around us."

Amara nodded. "I can't imagine how scary that must be. But I know you and Valentino will do everything to protect your baby."

I smiled. "And I want you to be a part of this journey too. I want my child to know their amazing Aunt Amara."

Amara smiled, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Id love that, I really would."

***

It was past midnight and I was still at my work table sketching furiously. The past few weeks have been a blur of fabric swatches, sketches and a few coffees.

"Baby, you need to take a break, it's late." Valentino's voice broke through the quiet as he stood at the doorway.

I didn't look up. "I'm fine. Just a few more hours."

"A few more hours?" He stepped closer. "You've been saying that for days. You need to rest, especially now."

"I have to finish these first," I snapped.

Valentino sighed. "I understand you have deadlines, but you're pregnant. You need to think about the baby too."

I finally looked up. "I am thinking about the baby. I'm doing this for our future."

"At what cost, Alessandra?" Valentino's voice rose slightly. "Your health? The baby's health? You're running yourself into the ground."

"I'm not running myself into the ground. I know my limits.," I retorted, standing up from my chair.

Valentino took a deep breath. "You're stressed, you're not sleeping and you're barely eating. It's not healthy."

"I don't need you to tell me what's healthy," I shot back. "I need your support."

"I am supporting you, but I'm also worried about you. Please, just take a break. For me. For the baby."

I shook my head. "You don't understand. This is my chance. I can't let it slide away."

"I do understand, amore," he said gently, reaching out to touch my arm. "But you have to find a balance. You can't do everything all at once."

I pulled away. "I can handle it."

"I'm begging you, please slow down."