radicalducati Chapter 134
Chapter 134
The warm glow of the evening sun filtered through the windows of Alessia’s home as she set the table. Everything felt calm, cozy, and just… right. Theo had spent the last few weeks showering her with kindness—bringing her flowers every morning, surprising her with little gifts, and treating her to luxurious outings that made her feel like a princess. But tonight, Alessia wanted to do something for him.
Theo, as usual, arrived with a bouquet of her favorite flowers—white lilies and blush-pink roses.
“Again?” Alessia said, raising an eyebrow but unable to hide her smile. “You’re going to turn my house into a flower shop.”
He grinned, holding the bouquet out. “I like seeing you smile when you get them. It’s worth it.”
She rolled her eyes playfully, taking the flowers and placing them in a vase on the counter. “You’re impossible.”
“And you’re stunning,” Theo said, leaning against the counter, watching her move around the kitchen. “Something smells amazing, by the way.”
Alessia smirked. “I hope you’re hungry. I’ve made enough food to feed a small army.”
The table was set with warm, homey dishes that filled the room with their rich aromas. Alessia had made her famous baked ziti, loaded with gooey mozzarella, ricotta, and a hearty tomato sauce. A fresh Caesar salad sat in a large bowl beside it, complete with homemade croutons and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan. For dessert, a chocolate lava cake was waiting in the oven.
Theo’s eyes widened as he sat down. “You did all this for me?”
“Well, you’ve been spoiling me nonstop,” Alessia said, pouring him a glass of red wine. “I figured it was my turn to return the favor.”
Theo smiled, lifting his glass. “To the best chef I know.”
Alessia laughed, clinking her glass against his. “Don’t let Zane hear you say that. He’ll never let it go.”
They dug into the meal, Theo groaning in delight after the first bite. “This is incredible. How are you not running a restaurant right now?”
“Maybe because I’m running a company and having a baby,” Alessia quipped, smirking.
“Excuses,” Theo teased. “I’d eat this every night if I could.”
“Well, don’t get used to it,” she said, narrowing her eyes playfully. “This is a one-time deal.”
After dinner, they moved to the living room, where Alessia had set up a cozy spot with blankets and pillows. Theo picked the movie—a classic comedy—and they settled in, her head resting against his shoulder. For the first time in weeks, Alessia felt truly relaxed. The soft glow of the TV bathed the room in light, and their laughter echoed as the ridiculous scenes unfolded.
“You’re terrible at picking movies,” Alessia teased, her eyes shining with amusement.
“Excuse me,” Theo said, feigning offense. “This is a cinematic masterpiece.”
She snorted. “Sure, if you’re into slapstick humor.”
“Admit it—you’re enjoying this,” he said, nudging her gently.
“Maybe,” she admitted, her lips curling into a smile.
As the credits rolled, Theo turned to her, his expression soft. “Thank you for tonight. I don’t think I’ve ever felt this… at home.”
Alessia’s heart warmed at his words. “Me too,” she said quietly.
The moment of peace was interrupted by the sharp sound of the doorbell ringing. Alessia frowned, sitting up. “I wasn’t expecting anyone.”
Theo shrugged. “Maybe it’s Pamela or Zane.”
“Unannounced? At this hour?” she muttered, standing and heading toward the door.
When she opened it, her breath caught in her throat. Standing there was Christian, looking every bit as composed and confident as she remembered, his sharp jawline framed by the dim light of the porch. He was dressed in a tailored black coat, his hands shoved into his pockets.
“Alessia,” he said, his voice low but steady. “We need to talk.”
She blinked, frozen for a moment before finally managing to speak. “Christian? What are you doing here?”