Page 291 of Valentino

“A sleeping tablet’s a sleeping tablet,” Romeo replies. “Don’t matter where you get it.”

“He mustn’t trust his dealer.” Giuliano smirks.

“Shut. Up.” I roll my eyes. “I’m not in the mood.”

We walk down the street until we get to the bar, we walk in and sit down, the boys fall into chatter while my mind is back with that pharmacist. His words are echoing all around me. Finish whatever isn’t resolved.

The million-dollar question is….

Just how do I do that?

My phone lights up.

Anna

“Hi.” I get out of my seat and hold my finger up to the boys. “Back in a minute.” I walk toward the front doors and walk out onto the street.

“Hi.”

“How did it go with your parents?”

“Not great.”

“Not great?” I frown.

“We just need to give it some time, they’ll warm up to the idea.”

I stay silent.

“It’s okay, Val.”

“Did they say why?”

“They know how bad you broke my heart before. They’re just scared for me, that’s all. It will be okay.”

“Right.” I nod.

“I told Francesca about us.”

“You did?” I smile.

“Yeah.”

“What did she say?”

“Shocked at first, but….”

I listen.

“We just have to prove them all wrong.”

She wasn’t happy either.

My heart drops.

“I’ll see you tonight?”

“Okay.”