Wedcuffed

Chapter 55

Sarah's POV

As the days passed after Adrian's unexpected visit, the tension between Alessandro and me began to ease. We had successfully navigated a difficult moment, but I couldn't shake the nagging feeling that Adrian's presence was still a looming threat to our relationship. I knew I had to confront the situation head-on for Alessandro's sake and mine.

It was a sunny afternoon when I decided to send a message to Adrian. The words didn't come easily, but I knew they were necessary.

Message to Adrian:

Hi Adrian, I think we must maintain some distance for a while. Alessandro and I are working through things, and I need to focus on our relationship without outside distractions. I appreciate your concern, but I need to prioritize my relationship with Alessandro right now. I hope you understand.

I hit send, hoping that this would be the start of a clearer path forward. His involvement was creating unnecessary complications. Alessandro and I were finally finding our rhythm again, and I was determined not to let anything disrupt that.

Later that evening, Alessandro and I planned a quiet night. I wanted to reassure him, to make him feel secure about us. I chose to wear the same comfortable yet flattering outfit from our recent dinner, knowing he appreciated it when I put in the effort for our time together.

As we settled on the couch with a glass of wine, I could see the tension in his shoulders begin to melt away.

 "You know," I started, tracing a pattern on his hand, "I'm really glad we've been able to focus on us lately. It feels like we're reconnecting in a way we haven't in a long time."

Alessandro nodded, his expression softening. "I feel the same way, Sarah. It's like we're finally moving past everything that was holding us back."

I took a deep breath, deciding to address the issue head-on. "I wanted to let you know that I spoke to Adrian. I told him we needed some space. I want you to know that you're my priority, and I won't let anything or anyone come between us."

Alessandro's eyes met mine, a mix of relief and gratitude in his gaze. "Thank you for that, Sarah. I appreciate it. I've been worried about how much he's been around, but I didn't want to pressure you."

"I understand," I replied, squeezing his hand. "But you don't need to worry. I'm committed to making this work. We've come too far to let anything get in the way now."

Our conversation turned to lighter topics as the evening went on, but there was a renewed sense of security between us. Alessandro seemed more at ease, and I felt reassured that I was doing the right thing for our relationship.

But while things with Alessandro were improving, Adrian's reaction to my message was still on my mind. He hadn't responded, and a part of me wondered how he was handling the distance I'd put between us.  I hoped he'd understand my decision.

The next morning, as Alessandro left for work, he kissed me goodbye with a lingering tenderness that made my heart swell. "I'll see you tonight," he said with a smile, and I returned the sentiment, feeling a sense of calm about our future.

But as the door closed behind him, my phone buzzed with a message from Adrian.

Message from Adrian:

I get it, Sarah. You want to focus on Alessandro. But I can't help feeling like there's more going on here. I care about you, and it's hard to watch you go through this without wanting to help. 

Just know that I'm here if you ever need me.

His words were tinged with a subtle hint of jealousy, and I could sense his frustration. It was clear that he wasn't going to let go easily, but I was resolute in my decision. I had to protect what Alessandro and I were rebuilding.