I held her there, not ready to let go, because for the first time in days, the grief didn’t feel so heavy.
Chapter Forty-four
RONAN
Present Day
ITALY/NEW YORK CITY
Iparked across the narrow street from Nina’s boutique, admiring the historic building’s weathered stone walls and timeless elegance. A sign in delicate script displayed her name, framed by blooming vines from the window boxes.
Beside me stood Luca Winter, a fashion investor who owed me a favor—a debt now being repaid by introducing him to Nina’s undeniable talent.
“Trust me, Luca,” I urged, gesturing towards the boutique. “She’s the real deal. You won’t regret this.”
With a nod of determination, he entered the boutique whileI waited outside, my heart racing with nerves and excitement. Minutes stretched into hours until Luca finally emerged, his expression bright with satisfaction.
“She’s incredible,” he exclaimed, his voice carrying a note of genuine admiration. “Her designs and her vision are exactly what we’ve been looking for.”
Relief washed over me as he continued, “They’re eager to discuss partnership details next week. This is going to be big.”
Glancing back at the boutique’s door, I caught sight of her—a whirlwind of energy, her laughter ringing out as she rushed to embrace someone. The sight of her happiness filled me with a quiet contentment. Despite the ache of the past and the uncertainties of the future, knowing I had helped bring that joy to her made it all worthwhile.
I blinked, and the office came back into focus. The memories loosened their grip, leaving me steadier than before. The session with Dr. Saad had been intense, but it always was. We went through everything: the recent chaos, my progress, and the parts I still avoid.
For the first time in a long while, I left feeling lighter. Not fixed. Healing.
A few hours later, I was sitting across from Azzaria at lunch. It was the first time we had spoken since her mother passed.
“Let’s skip the awkwardness,” I said, my voice trembling slightly, betraying my inner turmoil. I met her gaze, hoping she could see the sincerity in my eyes. “I’m sorry I kept it from you. I shouldn’t have, but I’m sorry. Ms. Leann asked me not to tell you, and I kept my promise. She wanted to be the one to say it.”
Azzaria’s expression softened, a mix of pain and understanding flickering across her face. “Ronan, I read her letters. I know. I was just—”
“Hurt? Betrayed? Sad?” I cut in, my heart pounding as I braced for her answer.
She nodded, tears welling up. “Jealous and guilty.”
“Jealous?” I asked, leaning forward, my breath catching in my throat.
“You spent all those days with her. Every time she was in pain, you were there. When she needed someone during treatments, it was you. I felt guilty because I couldn’t be there for her at the end. I didn’t get to tell her how much I loved her.”
I placed a hand gently on hers. “Your mother knew, Azzaria. She talked about you constantly. She loved you ten times more.”
“I know. I love her too,” she said, wiping her eyes. “And I didn’t know about your parents... I’m sorry.”
“Thank you,” I said, swallowing the lump in my throat. “Them and my little sister... all from this damn disease. But what I’ll say is—”
“I’ll move on?” she interrupted, eyes searching mine.
“No,” I replied, shaking my head. “You’ll learn to cope. You’ll get better, and in the end, you’ll liveforher. You’ll make her proud.”
“I owe her that,” she said, a quiet resolve in her voice, despite the tears.
I shifted, knocking over the bag beside me. Remembering, I bent down and pulled out a small package. “This is from Nina. She made it for you.”
Azzaria’s eyes softened, tears slipping down her cheeks. “This is so thoughtful. Tell her thank you.”
“I will,” I said, smiling faintly.
