Loving Alessandra

Chapter 43

Alessandra

It's been a week since I came back from Italy and what can I say it was perfect. I was at work, my thoughts drifted to Valentino, and I found myself smiling at the memory of our time together in Italy. I missed him terribly, no matter how often we communicated, it just didn't feel right. The distance was starting to feel unbearable.

Luc noticed my distraction and approached my desk. "Hey. Everything okay? You seem a bit out of it today."

I snapped out of my reverie and gave him a small smile. "Yeah, just a lot on my mind. It's been a busy week."

Luc nodded, not pressing further. "If you need anything, just let me know."

I smiled at him.

As the day progressed I tried to focus on work, but my thoughts kept drifting.

After a long day of work I headed home. I headed straight for the living room and dropped my bag and sank onto the couch letting out a deep sigh.

My mind was racing. I love my job, my friends and my life in the city, but deep down I knew my heart was in Italy with Valentino. I can't shake the feeling that I'm meant to be there.

I thought about everything we've  faced, it all led me to this moment of clarity. I realized that despite all the challenges, my love for Valentino had only grown stronger.

I reached for my phone, strolling through the messages. Each one was filled with love and longing, which reminded me of the deep connection we share.

Later that evening, as I sat on the bed, I made a decision. I'm going to move to Italy to be with Valentino. I know it won't be easy, but I knew it was the right choice for my heart.

I picked up the phone and called Valentino. It rang a few times before he answered. "Amore mio, how are you?"

I smiled at the sound of his voice, "Babe, I've been thinking a lot lately. I miss you so much, and I've realized that I can't keep living like this, so far away from you."

There was a pause on the other end of the line before he spoke. "What are you saying, Alessandra?"

I took a deep breath. "I want to move to Italy. I want to be with you, build a life together. I know it won't be easy, but I'm willing to make it work."

His response was immediate. "Baby, are you sure? I don't want you to give up everything you've worked for."

"I've thought about it a lot. My career, my friends– they're important, but you're my priority. I want to be with you more than anything."

I could hear the relief and happiness in his voice. "I can't believe this. You have no idea how much this means to me."

I felt a mix of happiness and relief. "I love you and I want us to be together."

"I love you too, amore. More than anything. You'll have have everything you need need here and we'll build a beautiful life together."

We continued talking for hours.

***

The following weeks were a whirlwind of preparations. I had spoke with my boss, explaining my decision.

I started packing, sorting through memories and belongings deciding what to take with me and what to leave behind. Amara and Jade helped me with packing.

Amara said while  holding up a framed photo of the three of us. "I can't believe you're leaving us. It's like the end of an era."

Jade sniffled, "My baby is leaving. Who's going to help me pick out outfits now?"

I smiled, my eyes misting over as I took the photo from Amara and placed it carefully. "You both are making this so much harder. But you know I'll visit and we'll talk all the time."

Amara's voice wavered with emotion. "I know, but it won't be the same without you here. Who am I going to binge watch trashy reality shows with?"

I laughed softly, "I'll miss that too. I'll miss everything about us."

***

The morning of my departure arrived all too quickly.
Amara and Jade had arrived early, their faces already streaked with tears. We embraced each other tightly for a moment.

Amara said with tears streaming down her face. "As much as I'm happy for you, I hate to see you leave. I'm going to miss us so much."

Jade's voice breaking, "What am I going to do without you here?"

I hugged them both, my own tears flowing freely. "I'm going to miss you both so much. But this isn't goodbye, you now that. We'll stay in touch all the time."

Amara sniffled and wiped her eyes. "We know, but it's not the same. Who's going to help me deal with all the drama now? Remember that time we almost got kicked out of that club because I spilled my drink on that guy?"

Jade chuckled through her tears. "Oh, my God, yes! And then you tried to smooth if over by offering him your number, only to realize he was already dating someone!"

I laughed, the memory bring a smile to my face. "Yes! That was such an embarrassing moment for you."

Amara responded. "I thought whe needed a laugh. And besides, it's a reminder of all the crazy times we've had together. We'll have more, even if you're in Italy."

Jade smiled. "I'm glad we can still laugh. But seriously, promise us you'll come back and visit often."

"I promise. And you both have to come to Italy, so we can have of our girls trip."

We stood together, holding hands. Amara spoke, "Take care of yourself, okay? And don't forget to call us as soon as you land."

Jade added, "And send lots of pictures."

I nodded, tears blurring my vision. "I will, I promise. I love you both so much. Thank you for everything."

We hugged one last time, holding on as if we could delay the inevitable. With a final wave, I turned and walked towards the car.

I settled onto the plane, I glanced out the window, watching ad the cityscape began to blur. My mind drifted back to the past, each memory flooding my senses with a mix of emotions.

So guys, this is the final chapter before the epilogue. It still doesn't feel real, how I created this book a year ago not having a clue how I was going to let this story have a good plot, I doubted myself for a whole year that, only I had made the characters aesthetics, the author's note and the first chapter of last year. Many readers saw my book and decided to gave my book a chance, it seem to had caught their interests and only for them to realize I had only posted the author's note, characters and one chapter. Some of them felt the need to reach out through private message asking why I haven't updated, saying I shouldn't stop, that I should continue. Seeing all those messages made me feel motivated and inspired to continue writing chapters during this year. You guys gave me a push, and I want to thank you for that. Now look where we are today, the final chapter. I'm gonna cry 😭.

I think I'm talking too much now,  I hope you enjoyed this chapter. The epilogue will be out on Tuesday. ❤️