FATE AND DESIRE

Chapter 15

Zara's POV

After finishing our pastries we continue exploring the streets. The streets of Montmartre were alive with color and energy, even as the day drew to a close. Vittorio and I had wandered through the winding alleys, stopping at every charming boutique and quaint café that caught our eye while shopping for my siblings and his family, now mine as well.

But what made my heart swell was the way Vittorio helped me when I was not able to decide what to take for his parents and siblings. It was something new.

The afternoon was settling in by the time we finally decided to head back to the hotel. We walked slowly, the cool evening air tingling against my skin. The lights of Paris began to twinkle around us, casting a magical glow on everything. I felt a warmth in my chest, an unfamiliar but welcome feeling, as we meandered through the streets, talking about everything and nothing.

"What did you think of the pastry shop?" I asked, glancing up at Vittorio as we strolled the way to the hotel.

"It was incredible," he said with a smile. "I think you have a talent for finding hidden gems."

I laughed, squeezing his hand. "It's one of my favorite things to do. There's so much beauty in the little things."

He nodded thoughtfully. "I can see that. You have a way of finding beauty wherever you go."

His words made me blush, and I looked away, pretending to be absorbed in the shop windows we passed. It was strange, this pull I felt toward him. We were still getting to know each other, yet it felt like there was something deeper, something that went beyond the surface.

When we finally reached our hotel, Vittorio opened the door for me, and we stepped into the warmth of the lobby. The elegant interior, with its marble floors and grand chandeliers, was a stark contrast to the lively streets outside.

"We should freshen up," Vittorio suggested as we walked through the lobby. "It's been a long day."

I nodded, feeling the weariness settle in. "Good idea."

After we decided to look at the gifts. I shared with Vittorio when remembering how my siblings get excited when I surprise them with gifts from my trip.

——————

The sun was beginning to set as Vittorio and I strolled near the hotel, the golden light reflecting off the water in a way that made everything look almost magical. The Eiffel Tower stood tall in the distance, and I couldn't help but feel like I was living in a dream. Vittorio's hand was warm against mine, his thumb occasionally brushing against my skin in a gentle, comforting gesture.

We walked in comfortable silence, simply enjoying each other's company and the beauty of Paris. 

"Do you ever wonder what it would be like if things were different?" I asked him breaking the comfortable silence and hoping to hear something positive.

His reply made me feel butterflies in my stomach but what made my heart warm was when I asked if he meant what he said. It felt good to know we are on the same stage as of now. I felt so at ease with him, a feeling that was still new and thrilling. But then, my stomach betrayed me, letting out a loud growl that shattered the serene moment.

I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment and glanced at Vittorio, hoping he hadn't noticed. But, of course, he had.

A teasing smile spread across his face. "Hungry, are we?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement.

I tried to laugh it off, waving a hand dismissively. "Oh, it's nothing. Just a little peckish, that's all."

Vittorio raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. "A little peckish, huh? Sounds more like you're starving."