Page 379 of Valentino

That’s it.

This is the sign.

I’ve got to get out of here.

As much as I love Gabriel Ferrara, I can’t do this to myself anymore. I’m getting older, my biological clock is ticking, and I won’t even date anyone because I’m so blinded by my fatal attraction to my boss. Nobody ever stands a chance while I work with him.

I need to start thinking with my head and do what I know is right for me.

Make a future without him.

My heart constricts at the thought of not seeing him every day.

How could I bear it?

But then, it could be worse. Staying here, watching him fall in love and marry, start a family with someone else is a torture I cannot deal with.

It’s time to rip off the band aid, I need a fresh start.

I open google and type into the search bar.

Properties for sale in Greenville, Maine

I went to Greenville for a wedding a few years ago and I just fell in love with it, and for some reason, it’s always been in the back of my mind that one day I’m going to move there.

Maybe, one day is now.

I scroll through the pages, wow, it’s cheap, you can buy a three-bedroom home on a quarter of an acre for a fraction of the price of New York.

I scroll through the towns and options with my mind going into overdrive.

I could get a dog of my own.

I smile, and for the first time in a long time, hope blooms in my chest.

I’m going to do it.

Gabriel’s office door opens, and we all jump to attention. I quickly close my real estate screen. He marches through the office, “Geoffrey,” he snaps. “This isn’t a fucking marathon. Hurry up.”

“Yes, Mr. Ferrara,” Geoffrey stammers.

Without another word Gabriel walks to the elevator and gets in, I stare at the doors as they close.

You’re right Gabriel, it isn’t a fucking marathon.

I’m going for a sprint.

CHAPTER TWO

GRACE

Six months later

I print the letter out and carefully fold it, with my heart in my throat, I slide it into the envelope.

Today’s the day.

I’ve bought a house in Greenville and am moving interstate.