CRIMSON KISSES

CHAPTER 39

A few more days of gossip passed, but I was glad to see people slowly accepting the truth. Not that I cared much, but the positive comments always warmed my heart. Feeling happy, I decided to take a walk outside after being cooped up at home for three straight days.

And today we decided to have a pretty day out. I was so excited,I wore my trnch coat and wrapped a muffler around my neck.

Me, Carlos, Lyla, and Rose decided to hit the town for some much-needed retail therapy. After hauling around the nall we finally stopped at a destination: a chic lingerie boutique. As they stepped inside, the girls couldn't resist the opportunity to tease Carlos amidst the racks of silk and lace.

Lyla held up a delicate, barely-there set and grinned mischievously.

"Carlos, what do you think? Does this say 'seductive' or 'sweet innocence'?"

Carlos's face turned a shade of crimson as he stammered,

"Uh, definitely seductive. But I think sweet innocence suits you better, Lyla."

The girls burst into laughter, relishing in Carlos's discomfort. Rose joined in, twirling a sheer negligee.

"Come on, Carlos, don't be shy. We need a male perspective here."

Valeria, picking up a lacy black number, raised an eyebrow at Carlos.

"Which one would drive a man wild?"

Carlos, trying to maintain his composure, muttered, "Anything you wear would."

Valeria winked, enjoying the playful banter. She noticed a few judgmental glares from other shoppers but also received sweet comments like, "You look amazing in that," which made her smile.

After their mischievous spree, they headed to a quaint café. They found a cozy corner and ordered a feast of pastries and coffee. Lyla recounted a hilarious story about a wardrobe malfunction, leaving everyone in stitches. Carlos, finally relaxing, shared his own embarrassing moment from the gym.

"Imagine trying to impress a girl, only to slip on the treadmill and faceplant," he said, eliciting roars of laughter.

Valeria savored the camaraderie, the delicious pastries, and the light-hearted teasing. It was a balm to her soul after days of isolation.

Their next stop was the cinema. They chose a comedy, and the theater echoed with their laughter. Valeria felt a sense of belonging and happiness she hadn't felt in a long time.

As they strolled back through the bustling streets, the evening air cool against their skin, Valeria couldn't help but feel grateful. The positive comments and the unwavering support of her friends had made the day perfect.

"I can't believe it's Chrismas already"

Lyla Said taking a sip of her hot chocolate,I looked around a certain memory hit me but I shoved it back when before I could overthink about It and spoil my mood.

"It's all so pretty and lit up..I can't wait for New year party"

Carlos added.

I kept nodding while just quietly taking my surrounding all so pretty for real,Italy you've taken and given a lot of things to me. Some really amazing memories and some bad too, I don't hate you but Don't love you either.

I wish to be happy..Always. I wish the world to be kind and Happy. I hope every child have a very happy family. Everyone's wish to come true and there shall be no grudges against eachother.

RAFEL'S POV
COUPLE OF HOURS LATER :

Rafel leaned back in his chair, the cold leather creaking beneath him as he studied the man tied to the opposite one. The dim light of the room cast long shadows, making the man's terrified expression even more pronounced. His breath came in ragged gasps, eyes darting around as if searching for an escape that didn't exist.