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He pulled back, expression serious. "I'm trusting you Natalia. Don't make me regret this."
I nodded. "You don't have to worry. I promise I'll be safe."
Enzo studied me closely. "Will you at least tell me where you're going?"
I hesitated. As much as I hated keeping secrets from him, Leonardo's identity had to remain protected. "I wish I could explain it all...Just know I would never do anything to hurt our family."
After a tense moment, Enzo sighed but seemed to accept my vague assurance. He squeezed my shoulder one last time. "Be smart. And hurry back."
With a final grateful look, I slipped out the hidden door into the waiting freedom of the night. The familiar thrill of breaking rules rose inside me, amplified by the knowledge I was defying Father's wrathful restrictions entirely thanks to Enzo's aid.
I sent a silent prayer of thanks to my brother as I disappeared into the darkness. He had given me back my wings when all hope seemed lost. Now I could fly freely on this forbidden wind once more - straight back to Leonardo's waiting arms.
In my desperation to escape, I hadn't even thought about changing out of the casual clothes I'd thrown on this morning. I looked down at myself anxiously - I was supposed to be dressed up to impress Leonardo tonight.
Glancing at my watch, I realized I still had a little time before meeting him downtown. On impulse, I flagged down a passing taxi.
"Where to, miss?" the driver asked.
"Take me to Chestnut Street please. And hurry," I added urgently.
During the short drive, my knee bounced with nervous excitement. I knew exactly where I could find the perfect dress - at Ashley's house.
We pulled up outside her familiar brownstone and I hastily paid the fare before dashing up to ring Ashley's doorbell repeatedly.
After a few agonizing minutes, she threw open the door bleary-eyed, in her pajamas. "Natalia? What's going on?"
"No time to explain, but I need your help," I said in a rush, pushing past her inside. "Tonight's the big date with Mr. X but I don't have anything to wear!"
It took Ashley's sleepy brain a second to process, then her eyes went wide. "Oh my god, that's tonight?
Oh my god you’re right, I was supposed to call your house in like 20 minutes, I even had my alarm set. But never mind, you arehere, none of that matters now. Let's find you something hot, come on!"
Giggling, we raced up to her room to tear through her closet. Ashley held up outfit after outfit until finally unearthing a sleek black mini dress.
"This is the one!" she declared. I quickly shimmied into it - the fit was perfect. Ashley helped me fix my hair and makeup, chatting excitedly the whole time.
"I still can't believe you're actually pulling this off!" she marveled. "Your secret romance is so thrilling. Promise to tell me everything after your date tonight!"
I smiled, buoyed by her infectious enthusiasm. No matter what happened with Leonardo after tonight, I was grateful to have a true friend by my side.
Ashley hugged me tight. "Now go get him, you sexy rebel!" With her help, I was ready for the most exciting date of my life.
With my new outfit complete, Ashley called me a taxi. While we waited, she gave me an encouraging pep talk.
"You got this girl! Go rock his world tonight," Ashley said with an excited smile.
I laughed, feeling energized by her hype. "I'll do my best. Wish me luck!"
The taxi pulled up outside. Before getting in, I turned to give Ashley one more grateful hug.
"Thank you for everything," I told her. "You're the most amazing friend."
"What are besties for?" she replied warmly. "Now go have an epic night!"
As the taxi drove off, I took a deep breath to steady my nerves. Ashley was right - tonight was going to be amazing. I was determined to savor every stolen moment with Leonardo.
I touched up my lipstick and smoothed my sleek black dress, feeling sexy and confident. Catching my reflection in the window, I barely recognized myself. But I liked this daring, rebellious Natalia.
