I knew it, I know you

Trip

Gracie POV

-I will leave you two alone. – Tay said and left the room.

-Do you want to tell me something?

I looked at Albert, feeling a mix of concern and curiosity.

-What is it, Albert?

He took a deep breath, his expression serious. -Gracie, there's something I need to tell you. I'm leaving tomorrow for a trip.

-A trip? -I repeated, surprised. -Where are you going?

-I'm going to be part of a Versace show, - he said, his eyes searching mine. - And there are other fashion houses interested in me too. Taylor helped me get noticed, and it's a huge opportunity for my career.

I felt a pang of anxiety but pushed it down.

-That's incredible, Albert. I'm really happy for you. But why didn't you tell me sooner?

He looked away, guilt written on his face.

-I didn't know how you'd react. With everything that's been happening, I didn't want to add more stress.

I stepped closer, placing a hand on his arm.

-Albert, you should have told me. We're in this together, remember? I want to support you.

He finally met my eyes, a flicker of relief crossing his face. - Thank you, Gracie. I appreciate that. It means a lot to me.

Before I could say more, Taylor walked back in, sensing the tension had eased.

-Everything okay here?

I nodded.

-Yeah, Albert was just telling me about his trip.

Taylor smiled warmly.

-Good. I'm glad you know, Gracie. He leaves tomorrow, so make the most of today.

Albert and I exchanged a look before he excused himself to pack. I watched him go, feeling a mix of emotions. Once he shut the front door, I turned to Taylor.

-Can we talk? - I asked.

-Of course, - she said, guiding me to a more private corner of the room. -What's on your mind?

I sighed, feeling a wave of uncertainty wash over me.

-It's about Albert. I don't know what to do, Tay. I'm happy for him, but I'm also scared. I don't know what Chris will do.

Taylor's expression softened. "

-Scared of what, Gracie?

-Scared that he'll go, and things will change, -I admitted. - And scared of my own feelings. I care about him so much, but with everything that's happened with Chris and now this trip... I don't know how to handle it.

Taylor took my hands in hers.

-Gracie, it's okay to feel scared. But you have to be honest with yourself and with Albert. He's a great guy, and he cares about you too. Don't let fear keep you from being happy.

I nodded, feeling a little better.

-Thank you, Taylor. I just needed to hear that.

She smiled, giving my hands a reassuring squeeze.

-Anytime. Now, go spend some time with him before he leaves. You both deserve it.

I took a deep breath, feeling a bit more at ease. -You're right. I'll talk to him later.