Time Echoes

Grounded Hearts

      The sun was setting over the verdant hills, casting a warm golden hue over the city as I pulled into the small parking lot of the local animal shelter I frequently come to help out at. This was my sanctuary, a place where I could escape the crazy pace of the fashion world and find peace among my furry companions. I parked my car and made my way towards the entrance, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. Here, amidst fur and paw prints, I found a different kind of fulfillment. It was in stark contrast to the fashion world, and I cherish every bit of it.

      "Hey, Claire!" Called out Hanna, one of the shelter's longtime volunteers, as she spotted me entering. Hannah was a vibrant young woman with an infectious enthusiasm for life, her blonde curls bouncing as she moved. She was in her mid-twenties, with a warm, inviting smile and an easy-going demeanor that made her instantly likable.

"Hey, Hannah," I greeted her back, flashing her a smile. "How's everything today?"

      "Busy as usual," Hannah replied with a grin. "But a good kind of busy. We got a new litter of puppies this morning. They're adorable." My eyes lit up at the news. 'Can't wait to see them. Let me just put my stuff away and I'll be right there." As I stowed my belongings and changed into more practical attire; a simple pair of jeans and a comfortable t- I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief.

      Here, I'm just Claire. Not the famous model. It was a place where I could shed the glamorous facade and be myself. Even though I already knew it was because of my popularity that this shelter became well known. Hannah knows it too. But we don't talk about it. I'm just happy that these little furries are getting a good home. If my apartment allowed it, I would have been had one...or a couple. So I'm waiting on our house when we get married.

      I joined Hannah in the main area, where the shelter buzzed with activity. Volunteers moved about, tending to the animals and cleaning up after them. I rolled up my sleeves and got to work, helping to tidy up the kennels and ensure the animals were comfortable.

      After about 3 hours, I heard, "Claire! Kaito's here!" from another volunteer. I headed to wash my hands and head to the front to greet him. "Hey, Bella," Kaito called out as I approached. "How's the puppies?" I laughed, leaning in to kiss him. "Adorable as always. How was your day?"

      "Boring" he pouted as he handed me a food bag from Le Petit Bistro, another restaurant I frequent beside Sakura Bliss. Even though I already know what he got me, I can't help but smile when I take a whiff. "Is it?"

      He smiled at my reaction. "The tagliatelle, my love." I opened the bag and on top was the mother of all cakes. "You got the tiramisu as well!" I'm obsessed with this restaurant. Le Petit Bistro is a charming French restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and exquisite cuisine. The bistro, located in the heart of Milan's Brera district. An area for its artistic heritage and vibrant atmosphere. They offer a menu rich with classic French dishes, from escargot to coq au vin. I love the place for its authentic flavors and the warm, intimate ambiance that makes every meal feel special.

      It's my go-to spot for a quiet romantic evening with Kaito. If it wasn't for Roche introducing me when I came here, I would never have found it. Even though it's in the heart of Milan, its still a hole in the restaurant and would be missed if you are not looking for it.

      My go-to order at Le Petit Bistro is the truffle tagliatelle. This dish features handmade tagliatelle pasta tossed in a rich and creamy truffle sauce, topped with freshly shaved black truffles. I often pair it with a side of bruschetta, a classic Italian appetizer with tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on crispy bread. To finish my meal and make it compete, I indulged in a slice of the bistro's renowned tiramisu, a perfect blend of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa. This place is a little out of the way for Kaito, but he always goes there to get me lunch when he knows I'm working at the shelter.