Together but Separate

Chapter 35: At the Evening Ball

Kate R. Ferragni

For the nth times, Nicko kissed my hand. Nasa kotse na kami sumasakay papunta sa New Year's Eve Ball kung saan ako inimbitahan na dumalo. Kakauwi lang namin kahapon from Boracay para maka-attend kami ng ball ngayong gabi.

"You have been kissing my hand for countless times, Nick."

He smiled at me and said, "I can't help it. You look so stunning tonight, my amore. I can't even make myself take my eyes off you. You are so beautiful."

I remembered how his jaw dropped when she saw me earlier in my silver long gown. My hair was in a messy bun, and I put some light touches on my face to make it look natural. I actually thought my get up was just simple, but Nicko's jaw dropping reaction made me think that I looked better than what I thought. I was surprised how I unintentionally made the handsome man, Nicko Ferragni, mesmerized.

I chuckled. "Oh, maybe you will when you get to see gorgeous women later."

His forehead immediately creased as he looked at me. He stopped kissing my hand although he didn't let go of it.

"I don't want you to be jealous with other women, Kate. Yes, they might be labeled as gorgeous by the society, but my definition of beautiful and gorgeous is my wife. You have nothing to be jealous about. I love you so much, and I am smitten by you so badly."

I was just joking when I said those words to him, but it was obvious that Nicko didn't like it. I knew that he loved me so much. I could feel it every day. But sometimes, being a wife of Nicko Ferragni, I can't help comparing myself to others. I was fully aware that there were many women out there that was ready to take him away when given a chance. But, I would also remind myself that Nicko loved me so much, and I should assure myself that he would never forsake me for anyone.

I removed my hand from his grip and raised both of it to straighten his silver neck tie, which matched the color of my gown.

"I was just kidding, Nick. But thank you for always assuring me that you love me and will always choose me," I said and leaned forward and kissed his lips.

The crease on his forehead suddenly went away, and a smile plastered on his face. "I love it so much when you initiate the kiss first. I can see that you are getting more comfortable now, my amore. I love it."

There was a teasing tone in his voice, so I hit his chest lightly. I was aware that I was slowly changing. I used to be reserved and not showy about my feelings. But now, I could be sweet to my husband. Although, I could not match Nicko. He was still the sweetest between the both of us, and he knew that. He was more vocal and expressive about his feelings for me.

He held my hand again and after a few minutes of silence, I heard him sigh. That made me glance at him. His facial expression looked a little bit sad. He could probably sense me looking at him that's why he also turned his head to me.

"I really wish you could come with me to Italy. By just thinking of not seeing you for a month makes my chest feel tight."

So that was why he looked sad.

Last night before we slept, we talked about his month-long stay in Italy for the annual car launching. He asked me to come with him. I told him that I really wanted to but I already had important engagements this coming January. Also, we conduct our annual report on that month too. I could not miss any of those. I even figured out if I could go visit Italy for a few days in between my engagements, but I could not find any available dates. Our schedules were conflicting with each other.

I leaned my head on his shoulder and clung unto his arms. "I wish too, Nick. I am sorry that I cannot work it out."

"I understand, amore," he said and planted a kiss on my head.