Tuscan Love Letter

CHAPTER 15

I wake up next to Noah, who is still fast asleep. The soft rise and fall of his chest is a comforting sight, and I take a moment to simply watch him. Today is going to be busy; the Diontris will be back by mid-afternoon, and I need to clean up and restock their fridge. But for now, I have a little time to enjoy a quiet moment with Noah.

I move closer, snuggling into him, feeling the warmth of his body against mine. His arm instinctively wraps around me, and I close my eyes, savouring the tranquillity. Just as I am getting comfortable, Dante jumps onto the bed, wriggling his way between us. I laugh softly as Dante nestles in, his tail wagging happily.

"Good morning to you too, Dante," I whisper, scratching behind his ears.

Noah stirs, blinking slowly. A sleepy smile spreads across his face as he looks at me and then at Dante. "Looks like someone's eager to start the day," he says, his voice still groggy.

"Yeah, and that someone isn't me," I tease, kissing his cheek. "But I have to get going soon. Lot to do before the Diontris' get back."

Noah tightens his hold on me for a moment. "Just a little longer," he murmurs, nuzzling into my hair.

I smile, enjoying the brief extension of our morning cuddle. "Okay, just a little longer."

We stay like that for a few more precious minutes before I reluctantly pull away. "I really do have to go," I say, giving Noah one last kiss. "I'll take Dante with me. He loves the market."

"Be safe," Noah says, his eyes still heavy with sleep but filled with affection. "See you later."

I get dressed quickly, throw on some comfortable clothes, and grab my bag. Dante bounces excitedly at the door, ready for our morning adventure. We make our way out of the villa, the early morning sun casting a golden glow over everything.

As we walk towards the Diontris' house, I feel a sense of peace wash over me. Despite the busy day ahead, these moments of quiet contentment are what I cherished most. Dante trots happily beside me, his enthusiasm contagious.

We reach the Diontris' house, and I get to work immediately. Cleaning up the house is therapeutic in a way, and having Dante around makes the task feel less like work. After tidying up and making sure everything is spotless, I head to the local market to stock up on fresh groceries.

The market is bustling with activity, as usual. Vendors greet me warmly, and I chat with them as I pick out the best product. Dante enjoys all the attention he is getting from the vendors, and I can't help but smile at how much joy he brings to everyone.

With bags full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other essentials, we begin our way back to the Diontris' house.

As I'm walking back from the market, I cross paths with Finn. His face lights up when he sees me, and he quickens his pace to catch up.

"Hey, Sofia! Let me help you with those bags," he says, reaching out to take them.

"It's okay, Finn. I've got it," I reply, trying to politely refuse. But he insists, grabbing the bags from my hands before I can protest further.

"Really, it's no trouble. Besides, you shouldn't be carrying all this alone," he says with a smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes.

We continue walking towards the Diontris' house in silence. Despite his offer to help, there's an underlying tension in the air that makes me uncomfortable. When we finally reach the house, I unlock the door and step inside, Finn following closely behind.

"Thanks for helping with the bags," I say, hoping to keep the conversation neutral. "I can handle it from here."

"Nonsense," Finn replies, already starting to unpack the groceries. "I'll help you put everything away. You'll get back to the villa quicker that way."