A night spent in my father's company stretches into days, and I find immense joy in every moment. Despite my deep affection for this place, my mother's absence is keenly felt. A proud daughter moment unfolded when he introduced me as his daughter to the entire staff during a meeting. The sense of acknowledgement and familial connection in that public declaration gave me butterflies.On the other hand, James has become a reassuring presence over the phone, especially on days when my father's frailty confines him to his room. I sense a growing comfort in my interactions with James.These passing days weigh on me, serving as a poignant reminder of my father's limited time on this earth due to the relentless grip of cancer—a cruel affliction I wouldn't wish upon even my worst enemy.After a tour of my father’s extensive residence, I must emphasize the sheer enormity of the home. The studio and a courtyard stood out prominently. The courtyard, in particular, boasts a striking feature—an aq

As I stretch, a peculiar pressure nudges my stomach. Blinking away sleep, I slowly assimilate to the room’s brightness. It dawns on me that Nonna and I fell asleep in the studio. Taking care not to disturb Nonna, I delicately lift the frame that had been poking at my stomach earlier.Nonna moves, her eyes trying to adjust to the brightness.“We slept off in the studio?” she asks, adjusting her clothes.“Yes, after balling our eyes.”“What’s the time?” she asks.A soft knock comes from the door.“Come in,” she urges.“Good morning, Madame Rosemarie, ma’am Valentina. Didn’t know you slept in the studio. Looking for the two of you after the burial yesterday, I heard whimpers down here and decided to give you both your space. Unknown to me, you would sleep off. Please forgive me. It won’t repeat itself.”“Alberto, take a break. We all need it.”“I’m sorry I can’t, ma’am, as it is my duty to oversee things here and ensure security and safety. Mr. Aiden and Mr. Thomas have arrived.”“Alread

Taking a break from my business online tutorial, I stare at the massive painting of father hanging on the corridor walls, suddenly noticing James' signature at the bottom. How did I miss it before? This isn't the first time I've seen the portrait."Your stylist is around ma'am," Matilda announces."I'll join you shortly." I sigh.How do I explain to Nonna that I don't need a stylist or Mathilda to run my bath, or someone to style my pixie cut and that I crave a normal life without seeming ungrateful? A personal assistant? Sure, but not different housekeepers for every little thing.I stroll to my room my hands in my robe pocket envisioning a successful day."Good morning ma'am. I'm Niphme Conti. Your personal stylist. From your Nonna.""Call me Val, and thanks for handling my styling. I've heard you're recognized as the best in Italy, and also judging by those numerous awards.""Well, those awards do speak for themselves, so I appreciate the acknowledgement. It's my pleasure to assist

I exit the boardroom, carrying the proposed new fragrance design, substitute designs and the perfume sample vial, while Marco's declaration of love replays in my mind yet again. I absentmindedly tap my cheeks, pondering when my assistant, Adanna, will return with my coffee which I'm hoping will do the trick.Just as I believed I was one step ahead from moving on from Marco, his presence disrupts my peace, leaving me restless and sleep-deprived for days.I cannot believe I shamelessly hugged him upon seeing him. I had to come up with something the moment I regained my sanity. My gender would have been so disappointed. "Hello there?" James greets as the elevator dings opens "Hey, it's so good to see you James," I greet him as he waltzes out of the elevator. "I've missed you too. My father sends his regards, and I brought you a little something to celebrate your promotion to CEO," he says, handing me a wrapped box."Aren't you thoughtful?" I exclaim, reaching to adjust his tie with on

A sudden realization dings in my head like a warning bell, echoing with unsettling questions. What if all my efforts to incite Marco's jealousy are nothing but futile attempts at grasping onto something that no longer exists? What if all these are a wasted effort?These doubts gnaw at my mind as I ponder the true nature of Marco's intentions. Is his sudden interest in rekindling our relationship genuine, or is it merely a facade to access my newfound wealth and status as CEO? Could it be that he sees me not as the woman he once loved, but as a means to an end—a pawn in his father's twisted game of power and control?The thought sends a shiver down my spine, casting a shadow of doubt over the recent interaction I've had with him. How can I be sure of his intentions? And more importantly, how can I protect myself from being used and discarded once again?With a heavy heart, I realize that the answers to these questions may elude me for some time. But one thing is certain: I can no longe