Loving Alessandra

Chapter 38

Alessandra

I sat on the couch, staring at the TV. Since the miscarriage, I haven't been myself and it showed. I hadn't bothered to dress up or leave the house much.

I was greeted by the sound of Amara's voice. "Hey, chica. We're here to get out of this slump.

Jade appeared as well, giving me a sympathetic look. "You can't stay like this forever, Alessandra."

I sighed. "I know you guys are worried, but I'm fine. I just don't feel like going out."

Amara placed her hands on her hips, eyes fixed on me with a firm look. "That's exactly why you need to. You've been cooped up here, wallowing. It's not healthy."

"Amara's right." Jade added. "We miss thd old you. The one who was always up for anything, who loved to have fun."

"I just... I don't know.," I mumbled, feeling a lump form in my throat. "I'm not ready."

"You don't have to be ready," Amara said stepping closer. "But you do need to start taking small steps. And we're here to help you with that."

I looked at my friends, I felt tears prick my eyes. "I've been a mess."

"And that's okay," Jade said softly, wrapping an arm around me.

"Come on," Amara said giving me a reassuring smile. "We're going to take you out for a bit. Just a small outing, nothing crazy. It'll be good for you."

I hesitated. "Okay, but just for a little while."

"That's the spirit!" Amara exclaimed clapping her hands together. "Now, let's get you dressed, we're going to have a good time."

I allowed myself to bed the bedroom, where Amara and Jade began rummaging through my wardrobe, picking out outfits.

"This one's cute," Jade said, holding up a dress.

Amara nodded in agreement. "Perfect choice. Now let's get you dolled up."

As they helped me get dressed and did my hair and makeup, we chatted about lighthearted things.

***

"See? That wasn't so bad, " Amara said, giving me a hug. "You're stronger than you think, Al."

Jade nodded, squeezing my hand. "We're here for you, no matter what."

I smiled. "Thanks guys. I really needed this."

"We know," Amara said with a grin. "And we'll keep dragging you out until you're back to your old self. Consider this a warning."

I laughed. "I'll keep that in mind."

***

I sat at my work table, putting the final touches on the last designs I have for Couture Elite. Despite the emotional rollercoaster that has happened, I felt a renewed sense of purpose.

A few days later, I found myself sitting in the office of Couture Elite surrounded by Antonio and Sofia.

"Alessandra, your work has been nothing short of extraordinary," said Sofia. "We've been incredibly impressed with your creativity and vision."

"Thank you," I said. "It's been an amazing experience working with all of you."

"We believe you have tremendous potential," Antonio added. "And we'd like to offer you a position here at Couture Elite."

My eyes widened. "A position?"

"Yes," Antonio said smiling. "We want you to join our team full-time. Your designs have already made waves and we believe you can achieve even greater things with us."

My mind raced. This was everything I had dreamt have of, a chance to work at one of the most prestigious fashion company in the world. Screaming on the inside.

"You don't have to answer right now," Antonio said, noticing my hesitation. "Take some time to think about it. We understand it's a big decision."

I nodded. "Thank you. I appreciate the offer and the time to consider it."

On my way home, my mind was swirling with thoughts.

"Hey—" Valentino spoke.

I interrupted. "They offered me a job! A full time position at Couture Elite."

Valentino smiled. "That's amazing, bella. I knew they'd see your talent was worth more than a collaboration."

"I just... I need to think about it," I said. "It's everything I've ever wanted, but it's also a lot of change."

He kissed my forehead. "Whatever you decide, I'm here to support you. You deserve this, baby. Don't let fear hold you back."

***

Since I have been working tirelessly finishing up the work for Couture Elite, Valentino and I have barely had time together. I decided to set up a romantic dinner to spend some quality time together.

Valentino walked in. "Wow, cara mia, you did all this?"

I smiled, a blush creeping up on my cheeks. "I thought we could use a little romance. It's been so long."

He walked over, pulling me into his arms. "You're right. We've been both so busy."

We sat down for dinner, enjoy the delicious meal I had prepared.

After dinner, Valentino took my hand. "Come with me," he whispered.

He led me to the living room, where a cozy blanket and cushions was setup. We settled down, and Valentino poured us each a glass of wine.

As we sat close together, he traced his fingers along my arm. "I've missed this."

I leaned into him, resting my head on his shoulder. "Me too. It feels like we haven't had something like this on ages.

He kissed the top of my head. "I love you baby. More the than anything."

I looked up at him. "I love you too, so much."

Meanwhile

Valentino

The team and I had been planning the take down of Marco for  weeks. We had gathered all the necessary Intel and were ready to move.

"Sergio, everything in place?" Dominic asked.

"Yes we're ready. We strike tomorrow." Sergio replied.

"Good it's time to end this shit once and for all." I spoke.