Natalia reached her hand out to hold Aria’s.
“Well, for what it’s worth, I don’t think he’s going to give up that easily.”
“We’ll see. Come on, enough of that. Let’s get back to work, friend. We have so much to do.”
Giving her hand a squeeze, Natalia nodded and headed to her office.
Aria and Corinna were out to dinner a few nights later when Enzo walked in, a surprised look on his face as he walked over to them.
“Hey Corinna,” he said with a nod before turning to Aria. “Hi, Aria, I didn’t know you were back. How are you doing?”
“Good, just got back from Madrid a few days.”
“I, ah, heard you had left on a trip.”
He looked uncomfortable, but Aria still hoped he would mention Alex.
“Yes, I went to see my brother. And to settle some things.”
Corinna shifted in her chair before adding, “How are you doing? How’s Alex?”
Aria gave her a look of warning, but Corinna didn’t back down. She faced Enzo, ignoring his look of discomfort. He shifted on his feet before answering.
“Ah, well, I’m working on a new project. Looking for a place for my second location. And Alex… He’s doing alright, I guess. Loving being a part of the well project.”
His eyes flicked to Aria’s and she hoped he didn’t see the heat that rose across her cheeks.
Aria nodded her head, not sure what else to say.
Enzo mirrored her movement and finally said, “Well, I’m going to head out. It was good seeing you both again.”
Aria took a deep breath in as he walked away with a wave. Corinna reached across the table and rubbed her shoulder with a knowing look.
“It’s going to be alright, love. Whether it’s Alex or someone else, you’ll find love again. I’m sure of it.”
But all Aria could think about was how she would never love a man the way she loved Alex Rossi.
Chapter Fifty-Three
Hearinghis phone ringing in his backpack, Alex answered when he saw Enzo’s name.
“Hey, man. I was going to call you tonight with the good news,” he said as he walked away from the UNICEF representatives to take the call.
The loud hum of conversation lessened as he walked out of the meeting tent.
“Yeah, I wasn’t sure the call would go through. What’s the good news?”
Alex could hear the tightness in his voice.
“The last well was built sooner than planned, so we’re in Buenos Aires and have cell service. Something wrong?”
His friend exhaled deeply.
“Aria’s back. I just saw her and Corinna at Luca's.”
“Aria’s back,” Alex repeated, his pulse quickening at the thought.
“Yeah, says she just got home a few days ago. She looks great. I think Spain was good for her. Sorry, that didn’t come out right.”
