Best Mistake ︱Pedri González

14

Luciana's Pov

Two days had passed since my last conversation with Dante, and the impending guilt was weighing heavily on me as I drove to the airport to pick him up. The familiar airport terminals and bustling crowd did little to ease my anxiety. Every moment felt like a ticking clock, counting down to the inevitable confrontation I was dreading.

When I spotted him walking through the arrivals gate, a wave of relief washed over me. I hurried towards him, forcing a smile. "Dante!" I called out, waving as he spotted me.

He grinned, his eyes lighting up as he approached. "Luciana!" he said, wrapping me in a warm embrace. His hug was comforting, but it also made me feel more guilty than ever.

"You're looking good," I said, trying to sound enthusiastic. "How was the trip?"

"Busy but great," he replied, lifting a couple of bags from the conveyor belt. "I got you something."

I raised an eyebrow, trying to hide my apprehension. "You didn't have to."

He chuckled, handing me a sleek black shoulder bag and a small Prada perfume box. "I saw these in Milan and thought of you. I hope you like them."

I took the gifts, my heart sinking with every second. "They're beautiful, Dante. Thank you so much."

His face brightened with a proud smile. "I'm glad you like them. It's so nice to be back. Can't wait to spend some quality time with you."

I felt a pang of guilt as I glanced at the elegant bag and the sophisticated perfume. "I was thinking we could go for a walk on the private beach near our apartment. It's been a while since we've had a chance to relax together."

"That sounds perfect," he said, slipping his arm around my waist as we walked towards the car. "I'd love to."

We drove back to the apartment in comfortable silence, the weight of my guilt hanging over me. Dante chatted about his trip and the exciting meetings he'd had, but I found it hard to focus on his words. My mind was preoccupied with everything that had happened over the past few days.

Once we arrived at the apartment, we quickly changed into more casual attire. I opted for a light sundress, trying to look carefree despite the storm of emotions inside me. Dante wore a simple shirt and shorts, looking relaxed and happy.

As we walked towards the beach, the evening sun cast a golden glow over the sand, creating a picturesque scene that should have felt perfect. Yet, the guilt gnawed at me, making it difficult to fully enjoy the moment.

Dante's hand was warm and comforting in mine, and I tried to push aside the memories of Pedri and the complications that had arisen. We reached the beach, and I took a deep breath, trying to focus on the present.

"This place is beautiful," Dante said, gazing out at the serene water. "I'm so glad we came here."

"It really is," I agreed, forcing a smile as I looked out at the waves. "It's nice to have a break from everything."

We strolled along the shoreline, the gentle sound of the waves providing a soothing backdrop to our conversation. Dante talked about his meetings and the exciting things he'd seen in Milan, while I tried to listen attentively, occasionally responding with comments and questions.

"Luciana," Dante said, stopping and turning to face me. "Is everything okay? You seem a bit off."

I swallowed hard, feeling a lump form in my throat. "I'm just... tired, I guess. It's been a long few days."

He gave me a concerned look. "If something's bothering you, you can talk to me, you know. I'm here for you."

I nodded, feeling the weight of his words. "I know. I appreciate it. It's just... I've had a lot on my mind."