♥ Chapter 31 ♥

Isabella Conti.

Monday.

After what happened to me, we had to go back to work, acting as if nothing had happened. But I confess that I kept thinking about this reunion. I never imagined that I would meet him again, and his nerve to come here and ask me to go back with him is something extremely ridiculous. That time he grabbed my arm, and even though my skin is dark, I know it was bruised. I never imagined that he would be so aggressive. I really hope he leaves me alone. Furthermore, I'm living my new life; I have friends, a sister and, in the future, a boyfriend.

Thank God today's work ended early. The boss dismissed us at three o'clock. Since Tom has a motorcycle, he was worried about leaving me alone, so he brought me home.

But I can't stop thinking about my feelings for Alessio. What do I really want? I'm confused; my heart is torn between the fear of the past and the desire for a different future. I think of Alessio and feel a warmth envelop me. Likewise, I miss his kisses, the way he holds me, and the security he gives me. My mind is invaded by memories of moments we spent together-his arms around me, his intense eyes watching me, as if he could see into my soul.

I want to be by his side, to feel the comfort of his presence, and to have the certainty that I am loved and protected. Alessio has shown me that I can be happy again and that I deserve to be happy. He treats me with respect and tenderness I've never known before. Even though he's a very possessive man, he treats me with affection. I know he's someone very dangerous, but he's promised to keep me safe and, above all, to protect my friends.

Yes, I want to be in a relationship. I want to give us both a chance. The past can't hold me back any longer. I need to move on and open my heart to the new, to true love.

I decide it's time to leave fear behind and embrace the opportunity to be happy again. My heart beats stronger at the thought of him, and I know I can't ignore these feelings. I'm going to be by Alessio's side, because that's where I really want to be.

'' I can't ignore these feelings. '' I smile to myself as I realize what I really want. '' I want Alessio.

I pick up my cell phone and dial Gabi's number. She quickly answers.

''Isa, is there a problem?

'' Gabi. I've decided. I want him. Furthermore, I can't stay stuck in the past forever. I've realized that I have strong feelings for him, and I can't ignore them.

I say everything quickly, but without hesitation.

'' What made you change your mind?

I smile a little.

'' A worthless person showed up at my work. Because of this person, I realized that I can't stay in the past forever. I'm going to see him.

She laughs on the other end of the line.

'' My beautiful little sister has finally grown up. Use a condom.

I let out a laugh.

'' You got it.

'' Go after your future, my sister.

''Of course.

I end the call. I take my cell phone, wallet and keys and leave the apartment in the same clothes I wore earlier. Likewise, I feel determined, with a clear purpose. I walk down the stairs of the building with firm steps, feeling my heart speed up with every step. I reach the street and quickly hail a cab.

'' Good afternoon. '' I give the street address of Alessio's house because I marked the direction when Dante brought me back. I notice that the driver gives me a curious look but doesn't ask any questions.

During the journey, my thoughts are on Alessio. I think of his promises and his protective manner, and I feel a comfortable warmth. I know he has his faults, but everyone does. And I know that he will take care of me and protect me. That's the most important thing for me now.

I arrive in front of the huge mansion. I get out of the cab, paying the fare quickly. Furthermore, I look at the house surrounded by security guards, remembering the first time I was here. I take a deep breath and approach the gate. One of the security guards recognizes me and opens the door, bowing his head.

'' Welcome, ma'am. My master isn't here at the moment, but you can come in. I'll let him know that you're waiting for him. '' He spoke in a calm, gentle tone, leaving me a little relieved.

''Thank you. '' I thank him and walk past him through the huge garden. Some of the security guards bow their heads in my direction, but some just stare at me as if I were an alien.

I walk along the stone path that leads to the main entrance, admiring the well-kept flowers. This mansion is indeed impressive, but what strikes me most is the respect and deference with which I am treated. It makes me feel special and valued.

As I approach the door, it is opened by Diana, who bows in my direction.

"Welcome back, ma'am. "I confess that being addressed like this is quite strange, but I know I can't have them calling me by my name. Alessio is complicated.

''Thank you, Diana. Can I wait for Alessio in the living room? '' I could tell she tensed up when she heard me say his name.

'' Of course, ma'am. Please come in. '' She gave me room to enter.

I sat down on one of the soft sofas, trying to calm my racing heart.

"Would you like something to drink?" she asked politely.

"Thank you, but the way I'm nervous, I may not be able to drink anything." She nodded.

''Anything, you can call me. '' She bowed again and left the room, leaving me alone.

The wait is agonizing, but I'm determined.

Minutes later, I hear footsteps approaching. I get up, anxious, and see Alessio enter the room in all his stateliness. He really is a powerful man. As always, he wears an expensive suit that enhances his beautiful body. His cold gaze quickly meets mine, but soon softens a little, and I notice a sparkle in his eyes.

'' My precious. '' He strides towards me with deliberate steps. I feel my heart speed up even more as he approaches, as if it were about to explode in my chest.

He stops right in front of me, and I have to look up to meet his eyes, as he is taller than I.

'' I hope you've reflected well during these days. '' His thumb traces a provocative path across my lips, sending shivers through my body. ''Tell me, precious, do you already know what you want? '' His voice, although soft, carries an intensity that leaves me breathless, his gaze fixed on me as if he could read all my deepest desires.

I take a deep breath, feeling the electricity in the air between us. I try to find the right words, but I realize that the answer lies in my heart.

''Alessio... I...The answer is yes; I know what I want. '' My voice is firm, even though my heart is racing. ''I want to be by your side. I can no longer deny how I feel about you.

He gave a small sideways smile, and his thumb, which was on my lips, moved away. In one swift movement, he grabbed my waist and pulled me close to him.

'' Know that there's no turning back, precious. You're mine now and forever. '' He said, with an intensity that made my body shiver. '' Remember what I said?

'' What? '' I was surprised when he picked me up. ''Alessio! ''I grabbed his neck, feeling the adrenaline rush through my veins.

''That on our next date, I would officially make you mine. '' He started walking towards the stairs, his voice laden with desire. ''Now that you're mine, I'll make it official. '' His burning gaze burned into me. ''Tonight, you won't sleep.

He really is an intense man. Every word, every gesture, and every look in his eyes seem to be imbued with an overwhelming passion that consumes me completely.