INSEPARABLE | 18+

T H R E E

Three years back.
Milan, Italy.

-

There was a thick silence in the atmosphere. Valentina shifted in her seat, bringing the glass of wine to her lips - her thoughts trailed off while doing so. She remembered clearly how the Don had asked, no demanded, her to dine with him.

Valentina had only stood dumbfounded, not knowing what to answer. A part of her was intrigued, she almost felt like going with him. While a more rational part wanted to refuse him.

And she had.

But the Don did not take no for an answer.

Her grandfather had left the choice to her. He trusted Valentina enough to know that she wouldn't make a wrong decision. The only question which lingered in his mind was, What was the reason for the Don's sudden interest in his granddaughter?

Valerius knew the effect he had on the little artist. She was interested in his life. He could sense her curiosity. But, her hesitation did not allow her to ask what she wanted. Even now, he could notice how she opened her mouth but closed it shut again.

There was a reason he had opted for dinner in a private area. He did not mind being in the public eye but, he knew that Valentina would not appreciate her face in the newspaper.

Valentina cleared her throat which brought him to the present, "Don.." She started but was interrupted by him.

"Valerius is fine." He said to her, noticing as her eyes widened. Only the elders of the family were allowed to address him by his name with Dimitri and Antonio being an exception.

And now her, Valerius thought.

Valentina was surprised at the sudden casualness. Before she could speak, the waiter appeared and placed their dinner. He was quickly then dismissed by the man in front of her.

"What do you want from me?" She blurted out. The question had been on her mind ever since he asked her out. There must have been numerous women in his life, then why did he take an interest in her?

Valerius raised his eyebrow, "Cosa intendi?" He questioned. "I think I made myself quite clear the other day," He chuckled humourlessly. "You fascinate me."

(What do you mean?)

"Fascinate?" Valentina said in a perplexed manner.

"Si," Valerius replied simply, taking the knife and fork in his hand as he began to eat. "I am never interested in female companionship. Nor do I have the time to do so. But, I can't help but be drawn towards you."

"So," She started, moving the glass in her hands, not yet interested in her dinner. "You want a relationship?"

"I don't mind one."

Valentina choked on her wine and coughed. She hadn't expected that answer. The Don kept surprising her. Valerius grabbed a napkin from the table and held it between his fingers, passing it to her.

Valentina thanked and took it from him. She dabbed the corner of her lips and quickly composed herself.

She had to act reasonably.

"Are you capable of one?" She muttered under her breath but, he heard her. Valentina rushed to clarify herself, "I mean, with the lifestyle you lead, it seems unlikely that you would want to be in a committed relationship."

Valerius tapped his finger against the wooden table and, Valentina allowed herself to stare at him. His suit jacket hung on the chair behind him. He had rolled his sleeves to his elbows, and a gold chain glistened under his white shirt. She lowered her eyes towards his hands - a sigh escaping her lips as she noticed the tattoos adorning his fingers.