—ALORA EUNICE’S POV—
"... If people find out, they will approach and acknowledge me not because of my skills, not because I work hard for it but because I am related to your family. As much as possible, I don't want that to happen."
Rome didn't say a word after, and we fell into silence again but this time, I'm enjoying it. I don't want to talk about the topic, it made me too uncomfortable.
We arrived at a luxurious pizza restaurant and a lot of customers were happily enjoying their meal when the double doors opened.
There are laughters and indistinct chatters around. Mostly, the tables are occupied by a family who enjoy their meals and of course, pizzas.
Gosh… Pizza! The aroma of the cheesy savory reached my nose.
—ALORA EUNICE’S POV—It's a long drive.I thought we were heading to Ms. Lombardi’s restaurant, but Rome informed me that the party was actually at the Lombardi mansion.Out of boredom, I couldn’t hold my tongue. I started venting to Rome about what happened at work today. As always, he just listened.“Gosh. I can’t believe there are guys like that—getting married, yet still womanizing. Like, hello? We were literally just talking about their wedding, and the next thing he does is…” I shivered, goosebumps crawling up my arms as the memory flashed in my head. “...flirt with me? Gross.”"Why decide on getting married when he is still looking for someone else, right?” I
—ALORA EUNICE’S POV—"Do you want to come along?"As much as I wanted to..."Nope. I still have business here later,” I forced a small smile and said, “Take care."I turned my back at him as the sadness filled me.He said he’ll come back tomorrow, right? Then, why does it feel so heavy?I went to the restaurant downstairs and met the De Lucas."Where's Rome?" Mrs. Lucia asked after the greetings."Apologies, but he can't join us today, Mrs. De Luca. Business needs him in Venice," I said as our food was being served.
—ALORA EUNICE’S POV—"Let's divorce.""No," Rome firmly said."Mr. De Herrera!""Mr. De Herrera? The last time you called me, it's Rome. Now, we're back to formalities? Great." He said with sarcasm in his tone.I looked away and didn't want him to see the pain in my eyes. I don’t even know why I’m acting like this. So what if they still have lingering feelings for each other? I shouldn’t bother, right? This marriage is more important than what they have. But… my conscience just couldn’t ignore it. If I were in their shoes…"Alora Eunice, look at me,” he gently held my head to turn my face on him. Why am I letting him hold me? I couldn&rsq
—ALORA EUNICE’S POV—I almost kissed him! But…"I'll..." Rome cleared his throat. "I'll send the photos.""Ah... yeah. Sure." I said and distanced myself because I'm sure that my face is like a ripe tomato. Damn... it's kind of embarrassing to make advances like that and suddenly get rejected.It's already evening when we arrived at the hotel."Do you still want dinner?" Rome asked when we headed inside our hotel room."Uh… Still full,” I couldn’t meet his gaze out of awkwardness earlier. “... will just eat light snacks later if I feel hungry.""Alright," He said before entering the bathroom.
—ALORA EUNICE’S POV—"... If people find out, they will approach and acknowledge me not because of my skills, not because I work hard for it but because I am related to your family. As much as possible, I don't want that to happen."Rome didn't say a word after, and we fell into silence again but this time, I'm enjoying it. I don't want to talk about the topic, it made me too uncomfortable.We arrived at a luxurious pizza restaurant and a lot of customers were happily enjoying their meal when the double doors opened.There are laughters and indistinct chatters around. Mostly, the tables are occupied by a family who enjoy their meals and of course, pizzas.Gosh… Pizza! The aroma of the cheesy savory reached my nose.
—ALORA EUNICE’S POV—“Hey…” Rome’s voice broke through the silence, his presence settling behind me as I worked. “Are you busy?”“Yeah… I’m always busy,” I replied, eyes still fixed on my screen. I didn’t even glance at him. I couldn’t afford the distraction. The month of May was closing in, and so was the end of this chapter in my life.Once I take over Escarra Furniture, my passion will have to take a back seat.“There’s an event I need you to attend with me on Friday,” he said, his tone calm but expectant.“I can’t. Sorry. It’s my graduation day,” I answered while typing out another email, barely pausing.