My First, My Last, My Everything

Chapter 36

Gabriella

The following day, I found myself in my office, wrapping up paperwork and sifting through emails. A knock on my door diverted my attention, and I spotted my personal assistant, Jane, entering.

With a friendly smile, Jane set a file on my desk.

"Here are the reports you asked for," she informed. I paused my writing to pick up and peruse through the contents of the file she'd brought.

"Thanks, Jane." I replied, acknowledging her efforts. She returned the smile and began to make her exit.

"Oh, Jane?"

"Yes?"

"Any other appointments on my schedule today?" I queried. She shook her head.

"Nope."

"And how about the lunch meeting with Mr. Reece from D & D industry?"

"I've rescheduled it for next week, just like you requested yesterday."

Setting aside the file, I expressed my gratitude with a smile.

"Great, thank you, Jane." She nodded before departing my office.

Today, Anthony was being discharged from the hospital, and as planned, he'd be heading to my place. His text had confirmed his imminent arrival.

Since my schedule for the day was clear, I decided to leave work early. I grabbed my handbag and jacket and headed out of my office.

*****

As I entered the lobby, I spotted a man wearing all-black attire and a cap, waiting by the elevator. A smile curled my lips as I glanced around, ensuring no suspicious figures lurked nearby. Stepping beside him, we both entered the elevator when it arrived.

As the doors closed, he pressed me gently against the wall, our lips meeting in a kiss. I reciprocated, removing his cap and running my fingers through his soft hair.

"Did you miss me?" I playfully asked as we broke the kiss.

Anthony grinned, running his fingers through his hair.

"Fuck yes," he confessed.

I smirked in response. "We just saw each other yesterday."

His lips brushed my cheek. "I know. I just couldn't help myself."

I rolled my eyes with a chuckle. The elevator's chime announced its arrival, prompting us to part. Exiting, we entered my penthouse. A couple of claps and the lights illuminated the space.

"Fancy," he remarked, looking around.

I hung my jacket and placed my belongings on the coffee table, inviting him to sit on the couch.

"You live here alone?" he inquired, taking a seat.

"Yeah, why?"

"Doesn't it get lonely?" I chuckled.

"Why be lonely when I have you to come sneak in all the time?" I teased, taking a seat beside him.

"So, there's this thing in Italy – meetings, conference parties with my Dad and the board. He wants me to be there," he shared.

"When are you leaving?"

"Next Monday. We've got three days before then. I'll head back as soon as everything's sorted there."

I smiled, his hand offering a comforting touch on my arm.

"Any plans for these three days?" he queried.

Shrugging, he looked at me. "You decide. Just let me know the place and time."

"Okay."

We leaned in, kissing once more. The kiss intensified, hands wandering, until the elevator signaled the arrival of another person.

Breaking apart, we exchanged a glance, intrigued by the interruption.

What the hell?

"Gabby? Are you home? Where—" my mom's voice trailed off as she entered, her gaze landing on us in surprise.

"Mom. What brings you here?" I greeted, masking my surprise.

"I came back from the office and heard you'd left. So I decided to drop by," she explained, her eyes on Anthony.

"Well I just got home, and Anthony came by to see me," I improvised. She studied us with a curious look.

"How are you, Mrs. Antonio?" Anthony politely addressed her.

"Fine. And you, Anthony? How's everything at home?"

"Good, everything's running smoothly. I dropped in to thank Gabriella for her help with Tyson's rescue mission," he replied.

Her attention returned to me. "She wasn't aiding you directly, though. Her motive was Liana's involvement, right, Gabby?" I nodded hastily.

"Yeah, you're right Mom," I agreed.

Anthony cleared his throat, smiling at both of us.

"Well, I should get going. Thanks again, Gabriella, and it's nice to see you, Mrs. Antonio."

"Mm-hmm," my mom responded.

"I'll walk you out," I offered, accompanying him to the elevator. Our whispered exchange invoked a playful wink from me just before the doors closed.

Returning to the living room, I found my mom seated, her demeanor more serious.

"Anything you want to tell me?" I inquired, settling across from her.

She appraised me intently. "Is there something between you two?"

Startled, I leaned forward, raising an eyebrow. "What? No."

"Good. Just remember, if something is happening, your father and I won't approve—especially considering the Black Army Mafia's involvement."

I scoffed, leaning back with crossed arms. "You're interfering with my dating life now?"

"If Anthony Castillo is in the picture, it's likely we'll have to. Sweetie, you know the risks."

"Yeah, I'm aware thanks. But let me be clear: there's nothing going on between me and Anthony."

My irritation simmered as she fixed me with a steady look.

"Fine, whatever you say. But remember, you're not working with him anymore. Don't delude yourself into thinking this changes anything between our two sides."

With that, she left. Even if there's truth to her words, I don't care. My feelings for Anthony remain steadfast, and I won't allow anyone to meddle.

I broke the rules before, and I'm ready to do so again, following my heart to be with the one I love.