♥ Chapter 58 ♥

Isabella Conti.


Saturday.


02:30 '' Alessio's house. '' Bedroom. '' Portevecchio.


I'm abruptly awoken by vomit rising in my throat, a nauseating sensation that I can't ignore. My legs shaking, I run desperately to the bathroom, almost falling on the way. I kneel in front of the toilet, and the sensation of my stomach easing is both painful and a relief. I feel Alessio's firm presence behind me; he's there, holding my hair with unexpected tenderness as I continue to vomit.


As soon as the nausea stops, my strength seems to drain away and, without a shred of energy, I'm stunned when Alessio carefully lifts me up. His expression is a mixture of concern and fierce determination.


''Has this been happening? Or is this the first time? '' He carries me gently to the shower room, where he places me on the floor with extreme gentleness and turns on the shower, adjusting the warm water.


The pain in my voice is evident as I speak:


''No… it's not the first time,'' I confess, my voice almost a whisper. ''It's happened every morning. But during the day I'm fine.


His gaze intensifies, his concern turning into obvious frustration.


"Why didn't you say anything to me?" His expression quickly changes to one of understanding. ''Oh, I forgot that we haven't been in touch for two weeks.


Those words are like a sharp blade in my heart. I didn't imagine that I would hurt Alessio so much. I was an idiot; even though he's a mafioso, cruel and ruthless, he's developing feelings for me, and I didn't think about his feelings. Furthermore, I didn't think about how he would feel being separated from me. And I didn't explain much either, I just hung up on him, leaving him behind with insecurity lurking in his heart.


I felt my eyes fill with tears again. I've really hurt him. Likewise, I'm an idiot, I didn't think about how he would feel.


''I'm so sorry, Alessio. '' I hugged him, letting the water fall over our bodies. ''I'm really sorry, I'm sorry for making you anxious and insecure.


He didn't say anything, he just hugged me tightly. Even though he was a bit rough, I knew he really cared about me.


'' You should have gone to the hospital, Isabella. Even if it was nothing, you should have checked it out,'' he said suddenly, making me sigh.


'' I know, I'm sorry. '' He kissed my shoulder affectionately and then my forehead.


''Tomorrow we'll see what you've got.'' I opened my mouth to question. ''And don't even try to say you won't.'' He cut me off quickly, being harsh.


''Right, I can't beat you.'' He gave a sideways smile.


''Of course not, now let's finish showering.


Carefully, Alessio began to wash my body, his hands firm but gentle. He washed my hair, his fingers massaging my scalp, and I felt the tension gradually dissipate. His every move was careful and attentive, as if he wanted to make sure I was completely taken care of.


'' Close your eyes, Isabella. '' He murmured softly in my ear as he rinsed the shampoo from my hair.


I closed my eyes, surrendering myself to his care. Feeling his hands envelop me, the way he treats me with unexpected tenderness, is a constant reminder of how much he really cares. His love doesn't need to be put into words; every gesture, every touch, reveals a deep and true affection. His care for me, the way he stayed when I was away, is silent proof of his love.


After we've finished showering, he helps me out of the shower and wraps me in a soft, warm towel. With absolute care, he takes me to the sink, where he picks up my toothbrush and toothpaste. He adds a small amount of paste and hands me the brush. As I brush my teeth under Alessio's attentive and penetrating gaze, I feel a mixture of shyness and comfort. The way he watches me, my every move being monitored with a silent intensity, is both embarrassing and comforting.
When I've finished, Alessio doesn't say a word, he just picks me up with a gentle firmness and carries me to bed. He places me gently on the sheets, and we lie naked. He pulls me close, wrapping me in his strong, protective arms.


'' It's so good to be in your arms. '' I whisper, feeling a wave of comfort and security flood my being.


He kisses my forehead with an almost reverent caress.


"Now rest, my queen." His words are a balm for my weary soul.


Pulling me even closer, the warmth of his body against mine brings a sense of peace and tranquility. I close my eyes, allowing the tiredness to dissolve, knowing that I am safe and protected in Alessio's arms.


'' Isabella. '' Alessio's voice is soft, but it has a strange tone that makes me open my eyes.


He continues to hold me in his arms, the warmth of his body still cozy against mine.


"Do you want to live with me?" His question is so unexpected that I immediately pull my head away from his chest and stare at him, shocked and confused.


He looks at me with an intensity that seems to penetrate my soul.


"I've really realized how much I want you around. I can't see you far from me. I wish, I long to always have you by my side. Likewise, I want to come home and have the privilege of seeing you. I want to spend the rest of my days by your side. My queen, you have me in the palm of your hand. I lose control, not having you in my field of vision. You've destroyed my mental barriers and turned me into this man with fragile mental sanity.


He takes my hand and brings it to his lips, kissing it with a tenderness that contrasts with the harshness of his words.


"Do you live with me?" His gaze is deep, almost as if he were laying bare my soul.


I feel my heart racing, and I run my thumb gently over the scar on his cheek.


''Can I think for a moment? I want to talk to my friend about it. '' He agrees immediately, and his gaze softens.


''Anything you want.'' He kisses the back of my hand again, with a delicacy that makes me feel even more special. Then he pulls me closer and hugs me tightly, his warmth and security enveloping me like a protective cloak.


The comfort of his embrace is undeniable, and the feeling of being so close to him is soothing. But this decision is complex and important. I know I love Alessio; my heart is clear about that. However, insecurity still hangs over me. I need to talk to Gabi and Sophia, get advice, and think about what I really want and need.


I close my eyes again, allowing myself to sink into the warmth of their embrace and surrender to sleep.