Annika Remo.
I looked out the window as we passed the beautiful farms stretching out into the horizon. The vibrant green fields were adorned with colourful flowers, creating a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a postcard. The gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the trees lining the farms, adding a soothing melody to the idyllic countryside. I couldn't help but be captivated by the simplicity and tranquillity of it all, momentarily forgetting the worries and stresses of everyday life.
Matteo's men followed closely behind in their black vehicles, their presence starkly contrasting against the serene backdrop. The sound of their engines disrupted the peaceful atmosphere, shattering the illusion of solitude.
"Cosa c'è che non va, bella?" Matteo asked, his voice laced with concern as he noticed the change in my demeanour.
My Italian wasn't good enough to fully understand Matteo's question, but his tone conveyed genuine worry. "Cosa c'è...?" He laughed a little at my attempted response, realising that I didn't understand. He switched to English, a hint of a smile still playing on his lips. "What's wrong, beautiful?" he repeated.
I sighed, trying to shake off the unease that had settled in my chest. "Nothing; I'm just tired." I placed my hand on his cheek as he drove, creasing his soft skin with my thumb. Matteo glanced at me with concern in his eyes, his grip on the steering wheel tightening ever so slightly. Taking my hand from his cheek, he placed a kiss on it before intertwining our fingers together.
"It will all end soon. I promise." I smiled weakly at Matteo's reassurance, grateful for his comforting presence. The weight of the world seemed to lift slightly as he spoke those words, and I couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope. The road stretched out before us, the city lights flickering in the distance, as if they were whispering secrets of their own. I leant my head against the window, watching the sky unfold above us—a canvas of white clouds with possibilities. Matteo's hand squeezed mine gently, a silent reminder that we were in this together.
Will it, though? Everything. Will it all end? That question echoed in my mind as I gazed out at the vast expanse before us. The uncertainty of the future weighed heavily on my heart, but at that moment, I couldn't help but believe in the power of love and resilience.
We had faced countless challenges together, and somehow, against all odds, we had always found a way to overcome them. As the car continued to speed down the open road, I couldn't help but hold onto the glimmer of hope that had ignited within me.
***
After a while, we were back in America. The comfort of the estate was soothing. The gates opened to welcome us back, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me. The familiar sight of the sprawling gardens and grand entrance filled me with a sense of nostalgia. As the car came to a stop, I took a deep breath, knowing that we were finally home. Stepping out of the vehicle, I was greeted by the familiar faces of the staff; their warm smiles and genuine happiness at our return instantly made me feel at ease.
Matteo placed his hand around my waist and pulled me closer, his touch offering a sense of security amidst the familiar surroundings. The soft breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly cut grass. It was as if time had stood still in this haven of tranquilly. The sound of birds chirping and the distant hum of the fountain filled the air, creating a symphony of serenity that embraced me like an old friend.
I look up at him. Running my hands through his hair as I stood on my tiptoes to reach his height, I couldn't help but feel a surge of affection for this person who had become such an integral part of my life.
A slight smirk on his lips as he leant his forehead down on mine, his warm breath tickling my skin. In that moment, everything else faded away—the worries, the responsibilities, the outside world. It was just the two of us, lost in our little bubble of love and contentment. The world could be falling apart around us, and I wouldn't notice.
"You should go inside. I have something to handle." I reluctantly pulled away from his embrace, feeling a twinge of worry. His tone was serious, and I could see the weight of something pressing on his shoulders. I nodded, unable to find the words to express my concern.
He pressed my head to his chest and kissed the top of my forehead, his touch offering me a sense of reassurance. I could feel his heartbeat, steady and strong, as if it were syncing with my own.
I walked inside the mansion. The grandeur of the entrance hall enveloped me, with the opulent chandeliers casting a warm glow over the marble floors. As I made my way through the lavish corridors, my mind raced with thoughts of what he could possibly be handling outside.
"Miss Annika, welcome back!" a familiar voice called out from behind me. I turned to see Mrs Reynolds, the head housekeeper, standing with a warm smile on her face. She was a constant presence in this sprawling mansion, and her genuine care and attention to detail always brought a sense of comfort. "Thank you, Mrs Reynolds," I replied, returning her smile. "It's good to be back."
The maids came and greeted me with a smile and a hug as they passed by, their cheerful energy was infectious. It felt like a family reunion, with each member of the staff playing their part to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Placing my bag on the nightstand, I fell onto the bed with a sigh of relief. The familiar softness of the mattress, the crispness of the freshly laundered sheets, and Matteo's perfume enveloped me, instantly easing the weariness that had settled in my bones after a long journey.
My bag fell to the floor with a thud. I looked down at the ground and noticed the little blue-knitted shoes that fell out. I forgot that they were still in my bag. I picked up the tiny shoes, feeling a rush of emotions wash over me.
I reminisced with a smile about the memory of the elderly woman who gave the shoes to me by force. The blue shoes are so small that they fit perfectly in the palm of my hand. The intricate details of the knitting, the delicate blue colour, and the tiny buttons on the side all indicate the love and care that went into making them.
I smile at the thought of a little Matteo running around the estate wearing these shoes, his laughter echoing through the halls. The image of him toddling around, stumbling occasionally but always getting back up with determination, fills my heart with warmth.
Would he have Matteo's handsome features? His angry and grumpy personality? Or would he inherit my gentle nature and love for adventure? Will he be a mischievous troublemaker, constantly keeping us on our toes? Or will he be a quiet and introspective child, lost in his world of imagination?
I laugh at the thought of all the possibilities, knowing that no matter what kind of child we have, they will be a unique blend of both of us.
Shaking my head in amusement, I can't help but imagine the joy and chaos that this little one will bring into our lives. But not now. Everything is too dangerous. I can't be pregnant. Placing the shoes in the drawer and closing it gently, I take a deep breath, trying to push away the overwhelming sense of fear and uncertainty. The world feels like a dangerous place right now, and the thought of bringing a child into it feels like an impossible task. As much as I long to experience the joy of motherhood, I can't help but question if it's the right time.
"Miss Annika," I heard the bedroom door creak open, and I turned around to see the maid.
"I thought you might like to help with the baking." I forced a smile, grateful for the distraction from my swirling thoughts. Perhaps it would bring some clarity to my conflicted heart. "Thank you," I replied, my voice wavering slightly.
"I could use a distraction right now. I will be down in a second; I'm just going to quickly change my clothes if that's okay." The maid nodded understandingly, her kind eyes filled with empathy. "Of course, Miss Annika. Take your time. I'll have everything ready for you in the kitchen when you're ready." With a gentle smile, she quietly closed the door, leaving me alone in the room once again.
I wear a long knitted sleeve dress, stitched to my curves. The soft fabric brushes against my skin, providing a comforting touch. Brushing my light wavy hair out of my face, I take a moment to admire myself in the full-length mirror. The dress complements my figure perfectly, accentuating my curves in all the right places.
My eyes land on my stomach, and I place a hand over it. No Annika. Stop. I'm not pregnant. I let out a small chuckle at my silly thoughts, realising how my mind tends to wander. I remove my hand from my stomach, and a pang of longing tugs at my heart, reminding me of the emptiness I sometimes feel. But for now, I push those thoughts aside and focus on the present moment.
I make my way to the kitchen. The maids greet me with their lovely smiles as they pass me an apron. I tie it around my waist, feeling a sense of familiarity wash over me.
After about an hour, we made many pastries. Placing them on a large plate in the centre of the table, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, making my mouth water. The maids and I exchange glances, proud of what we have created together. It's moments like these that make me forget about the emptiness I sometimes feel. I feel at home and peace in this kitchen because of the warmth and love of those around me.
"Please give them to everyone around the estate." I say this to the maids as I hand them each a small stack of pastries. They nod in agreement and begin to distribute the sweet treats to the staff and residents. The joy on their faces as they receive a warm, homemade pastry fills me with happiness.
I take a plate myself to the front gate. There, I see the security guards, always vigilant and dedicated to their duty. They greet me with smiles and gratitude as I offer them the pastries. Their faces light up, and for a moment, I can see the stress and exhaustion fade away. It's moments like these that remind me of the power of a simple act of kindness.