il mio primo e ultimo amore

Final Moments of Trannquility

As requested, Vincenzo prepared Alfredo Pasta and Garlic Bread while Cha Young stayed close, watching intently, offering suggestions, asking questions, and tasting the sauce occasionally. They enjoyed dinner in front of the TV, with Cha Young savoring her pasta enthusiastically.

While Cha Young was on her second plate, Vincenzo indulged in a glass of wine as she got engrossed in a reality show. They had bid farewell to their makgeolli drinking sessions. Cha Young always preferred soju and makgeolli over chianti and vodka, so Vincenzo didn't mind drinking alone. Besides, she was aware of his old habit of ending the day with wine.

After dinner, Cha Young resumed her place beside Vincenzo as he washed the dishes. When she got up, he gently held her arm, making her sit down while he took her plate and stood up to wash it. Cha Young followed him with more dishes after turning off the TV.

Soon, they were back in bed, limbs entwined, pressed tightly against each other. Her arms wrapped around him, one of his hands rested on her stomach while the other stroked her hair. Cha Young was almost asleep when her eyes suddenly opened wide as she remembered something.

She looked up at him with a frown and a furrowed brow.

"Anything wrong?" he asked, smiling.

"Maria," she said, watching his eyes turn cold and his smile fade.

"She's been sent back to Tuscany for training."

Cha Young settled back.

"It's not her fault."

"Cha Young-ah, I really don't want to repeat this again."

She remained silent for a moment before speaking.

"She just did as I said."

"She suspected you might be pregnant but stayed quiet. She failed again—sleeping soundly when she should have been on guard."

Cha Young looked up again.

"It's not her fault that I learned from the best and walked out without making a sound."

"Flattery will get you nowhere, Cara," he grinned slightly.

Cha Young huffed, placing her head on his chest.

"She just needs a few months to improve. I know you prefer her, but until then, it's better to have someone more experienced."

He held her close.

"How long are a few months? When I would have given birth?"

"I know she's the best by your side during pregnancy, Cara. But I can't ignore the fact that you need someone vigilant and capable. The time for her return isn't confirmed, but let's hope she does well in training."

Cha Young remained silent, contemplating. Maria had been with her from the start, and their familiarity and bond would have been quite valuable during this time.

However, Vincenzo was adamant. He had made up his mind in the hospital when he dismissed her, and recent events had only strengthened his decision. Tristo Mietitore was not just any rival family or lackey; he was a beast from Vincenzo's past, who had kept an eye on him ever since he sought revenge. Mietitore's interest in him had likely increased after Hae In's death.

With Hong Yoo Chan connected to him, it would be easier to act spontaneously. Vincenzo knew what Tristo wanted—the Pandora.

And now, Tristo's curiosity and ulterior motive to retrieve Pandora had become more apparent.

He held Cha Young tighter as he thought, belatedly realizing she had been silent.

"It would be better if we went to Tuscany; Mama could help you or find someone suitable for you, and everybody should know the big news" he reassured her.