Chapter 16

Isabella woke up on Monday morning with new perspectives and high expectations. Her week promised to be a series of twists and turns, as if destiny had decided to shake her in every possible way.
Since the surprising revelation of her pregnancy, Isabella's life seemed like an emotional roller coaster. The encounter with Aléssio, the father of the child, was a whirlwind of emotions. On that day, in addition to the unexpected news, he handed her a considerable amount of money. A gesture that initially generated perplexity and suspicion but later proved providential.
On Friday, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Isabella made a decisive decision. The sum that Aléssio had given her was intended to settle the debt of the brothel owned by Mrs. Morgana. A debt that seemed suffocating, a burden that now faded away with the echo of clinking coins. She woke up very early and went straight to meet the woman who did not sympathize with the young Isabella.
— Good morning, Mrs. Morgana, — Isa greeted the woman cordially, but unfortunately did not receive the same treatment.
— Why this bold smile? It's been over a month since you haven't worked, haven't paid your debts, and still come smiling? And worst of all, these tiresome clients who insist on wanting only 'Mel, — Mrs. Morgana spoke, simulating a disdainful grimace.
— Calm down, Mrs. Morgana. From today onwards, you won't have to worry about me. I'll pay off everything I owe, and you'll never have to see my face again.
— Won the lottery or robbed a bank? — Once again, the grumpy woman scorned the young one. — Oh, I see, — Mrs. Morgana nodded, directing her gaze to Isabella's belly. "A pregnancy scam, that's an old one.
— Well! Here's your money. I don't owe you anything anymore, let alone an explanation. Good day, ma'am, — Isa concluded that uncomfortable and repugnant conversation that was already triggering her morning sickness.
The act of settling the account of that dark place was like closing a dark chapter of her life. Isabella felt a mix of relief and freedom, a sensation that she was finally breaking free from the abyss that haunted her. Mrs. Morgana, although surprised, maintained silence upon hearing the direct response from the young Isabella.
That morning marked the beginning of a new chapter in her journey, a chapter where the protagonist found herself strengthened by overcoming challenges and the hope of a future that now unfolded like a blank canvas, ready to be filled with new colors and experiences. And the day was just beginning.
As she entered the narrow and familiar street, Isabella observed from a distance the silhouette of Aléssio, standing next to the car parked in front of her house. The young girl's legs wavered, she felt a slight tremor through her body.
Their gazes met, and a mix of surprise and curiosity danced in both sets of eyes. Aléssio, with a serene expression, was there, as if waiting for something important.
— Isa, I came to pick you up, — he said, breaking the silence that hung in the air. — I've been thinking a lot, reflecting on everything that happened between us, — continued Aléssio, while Isabella approached slowly. — I want to be present in our child's life, Isabella. I want to be part of the family we are forming.
The tension in the air began to dissipate, and a shy smile appeared on Isabella's lips. That unexpected encounter was about to turn into a surprising chapter. Aléssio, with sincere eyes, spoke about his intentions to provide a better life for both of them and the baby on the way.
— I would like you to come live with me. I am willing to offer a fresh start, a home where we can build our future together, — expressed Aléssio, with a glimmer of hope in his eyes.
Isabella, contemplating the proposal, felt a mix of emotions. It was as if that moment was the crossroads that would define the next steps in her life.
— Let's go inside for a bit, I need some water, — Isa requested, and Aléssio nodded without hesitation.
— Sit here, I'll get the water, — Aléssio positioned Isabella on the sofa.
Isabella held the glass of water with both hands and focused her vision on a region that, in her eyes, seemed to disappear before her. Silence invaded the space, and a minute felt like hours.
— Aren't you going to drink the water? — Aléssio questioned, sitting across from her in a torn black leather armchair, fingers crossed in front of him and elbows positioned on his knees.
Isabella seemed to be lost; her hands were trembling, and as she brought the glass to her lips, the water splashed on her light pink linen blouse. Aléssio, noticing the girl's nervousness, sat beside her to provide the necessary support.
— Breathe and drink the water. Don't get nervous; there's no need to decide everything now. — Aléssio pushed a strand of Isabella's long hair back with an inexplicable tenderness.
Looking into Isabella's eyes, Aléssio demonstrated a sincerity never experienced by Isa. However, she didn't know to what extent she could trust him or if she could believe in his words.
While Aléssio affectionately caressed Isabella's face with the backs of his fingers, Isa felt that he was being sincere, and there was nothing more to think about.
— Great! I'll help you with the bags. — Aléssio stood up excitedly.
In the cozy dimness of the room, now with a calmer atmosphere, Isabella and Aléssio shared the ritual of packing, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their intertwined lives.
Among carefully folded clothes and selected personal items, the couple exchanged knowing looks and smiles that revealed the anticipation of what was to come. Aléssio, with dedication, helped Isabella organize her belongings, symbolizing more than a simple change of address. It was the realization of a promise, the construction of a new home filled with shared dreams.
The soft clinking of hangers and the zipping of suitcases closing echoed like a prelude to a chapter that promised to be full of discoveries and unity. As the last pieces found their place, the room began to reflect the intention of a new beginning.
With exchanged glances, Isabella and Aléssio knew that this wouldn't just be the day of a physical move, but the start of a profound transformation in their lives. Together, they closed the suitcases, sealing not only their clothes and belongings but also the expectations and hopes of a shared future.