The Two Of Us

Chapter 16: Valeska's decision

Emma found Valeska sitting alone in a quiet corner of the cafe, her thoughts clearly miles away. She approached her sister with a sense of determination, knowing that she had to have this conversation, no matter how difficult it might be.

"Valeska, can we talk?" Emma asked gently, taking a seat beside her sister.

Valeska looked up, her expression a mix of surprise and curiosity. "Sure, Emma. What's on your mind?"

Taking a deep breath, Emma plunged ahead. "It's about Alexandru."

Valeska's eyes widened in surprise at the mention of his name. "What about him?"

"I...I talked to him," Emma confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Valeska's brow furrowed in confusion. "You talked to him? About what?"

"About you," Emma replied, her voice tinged with regret. "I told him that you...that you're interested in him."

Valeska's eyes widened in shock at her sister's words. "Emma, why would you do that?"

Emma sighed, her gaze filled with sympathy. "Because I had to, Valeska. I couldn't stand by and watch you pine after someone who doesn't feel the same way about you."

Valeska's heart sank at Emma's words, a mix of embarrassment and disappointment washing over her. She had hoped to keep her feelings for Alexandru hidden, but now it seemed that her secret was out.

"I'm sorry, Valeska," Emma continued, reaching out to squeeze her sister's hand. "I didn't mean to embarrass you. I just wanted to make sure you knew where you stood with him."

Valeska nodded slowly, her mind swirling with conflicting emotions. She had spent so long trying to deny her feelings for Alexandru, but now that they were out in the open, she didn't know what to do.

"I think...I think I need some time," Valeska murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "I need to figure things out."

Emma nodded understandingly, giving her sister a reassuring smile. "Take all the time you need, Valeska. And remember, I'm here for you, no matter what."

With a heavy heart, Valeska made a silent vow to herself. She would avoid Alexandru at all costs, giving herself the space she needed to sort through her feelings and move on.

And as she walked out of the cafe, her mind swirling with uncertainty, Valeska couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her. No matter what the future held, she knew that she had made the right decision for herself. And that was all that mattered.