by Olga GOA
Running up to Milano, Veronica suddenly stopped. She was ruminating about kissing him or smiling at him. She planned to hug him so he could voice out everything that has burdened his soul. Was she risking so much in forcing him to confess?
“Still thinking, ragazza?”[16] Milano wondered, winking at Veronica and noticing doubts on her face.
“Should I punish you or reward you? Should I use a stick or a carrot?” Veronica pondered her next move. She raised her eyes to the dark sky and hoped that it would answer her correctly.
“You’re merciful!” Milano put Veronica in the carriage, wrapping her in a shawl. “Thank you for your patience, goddess... Thank you.”
Milano sat in the carriage next to Veronica as the seat in front of them was occupied by a coachman ready to drive. He hit the rump of the horses with a whip and gave the carriage a full throttle. Sometimes Milano and Veronica looked out from the windows, eyeing the streets of Rome and its residents. People smiled at them, feeling the atmosphere of the 18th century–the century of the Enlightenment and prosperity. It seemed that everything was back to normal, and three centuries didn’t pass by so fast.
As they drove to the house, Veronica didn’t let go of the idea of Milano’s intractability. When would he deign to reveal to her what was deeply kept in his underworld?
“We’ve arrived!” Milano exclaimed; jumping out of the carriage and offered his hand to Veronica. Going down the stairs, Veronica accidentally caught on the step with her heel. She could have flown down if Milano’s reliable hands didn’t catch her. Veronica buried her nose in his shirt, and he only smirked.
“I guess if I let you go, you’ll fall!” Milano joked arrogantly, lifting Veronica in his arms and crossing the street. The coachman chuckled at the couple and soon drove away in his carriage.
Opening the front door, Milano went inside with Veronica and set her on her feet. Everywhere was dark and quiet in the cottage. Gloria, Francesca, and Lucenzo would most likely be sleeping and seeing the tenth dream already.
“Milano, the evening was magnificent and unique! However, I’m worried about where you left your car. What if someone steals it?” Veronica implored him.
“Don’t be bothered by it, sunshine. Pietro will bring my car right here. He’s away on business.”
Veronica rolled her eyes at her man for his perfect infallibility in everyday deeds.
“I’ll never be bored with you, Veronica, because I know you don’t mind sex,” Milano observed, untying his hateful tie and later, tossed it behind the couch.
“How would I close your tap, Milano?” His lady entreated him instantly, moving her eyes from his face to his crotch.
Milano stared at Veronica, stopping in halfway to kiss her on the lips. “Oh, Nicky!” He laughed sincerely, seeing the hidden meaning of her words. “You have a gift to make dirty jokes, dear. You amaze me all the time!”
He still tried to unzip her exquisite dress and didn’t stop doing it. He laid her on the sofa, admiring her gorgeous figure.
“I don’t understand,” Milano suddenly uttered, scratching his beard with a questionable expression. “Somehow I’ve lost all desire…” he concluded, as his body calmed down and his breathing became in order. His goddess had the power to influence even his male desire. He had no idea that this was possible!
“You are joking again!” Veronica did not believe him, stifling her giggles in a pillow.
“I’m serious, Veronica. Your chatter killed my lust. Let’s go to sleep!” Milano rose from the sofa, raising his bride as well. Veronica continued to giggle.
Is this daredevil Milano not willing to have sex? Veronica was bringing out his unique spiritual qualities. She lured him to a more good side of his life. It was incredible!
Entering the bedroom, Veronica quickly cleared the bed, and like a small child, Milano fell on the sheets, rejoicing at this evening’s mood. He continued to keep a sharp eye on Veronica, who hastily put on a nightgown and avoided his attention. However, when she slipped into their bed, his fingers started to gift her body with new amazing feelings.
“My sunny lady, later we will solve all our problems. Deal?” He whispered, caressing Veronica’s lips with his and hoping that the last topic of conversation was closed forever.
“Deal, my sunny gentleman!” Veronica felt his frankness, bowing a head to his neck and kissing his shoulder. “I want you to be there for me and don’t lie…”
“I’ll always be there, and I won’t lie to you.” Milano promised putting his hand on his chest.
Penetrating the bush of Veronica’s hair with his palm, Milano gently massaged her crown. He wished his Angel would quickly fall asleep; she needed to rest.
“Stay forever like you are now, my joy... Promise me...” Veronica asked him, although she knew that all his tenderness could evaporate in a moment. His abruptness was punishment for her.
“I will try,” Milano muttered, remembering their frequent confrontations and dreaming of nullifying them. “Today you made me happy, Nike... You’re my Queen for eternity!” Milano kissed the knuckles of her fingers when she approved of his gesture with a smile.
Soon they fell asleep, dreaming about preparations for Lucenzo and Francesca’s forthcoming wedding. What did Milano and Veronica have to do to make everything go smoothly? They should be calmer and tolerant of each other—to be a real and perfect couple. They should not look like lovers who would calm their anger with lust; they should reach out to each other with love. It was not easy for Milano and Veronica to follow the right path. Their inflammable passion defied the laws of logic.
~ CHAPTER 9 ~
Disclosure of Milano’s Essence
Preparations for Francesca and Lucenzo’s wedding were getting more tedious―it remained just a week to the official date. The young couple, Francesca and Lucenzo, were in special anticipation of life together. They wished everyone happiness from the bottom of their heart; they wanted happiness especially for Milano and Veronica. They liked Milano’s idea to announce his engagement at the wedding celebration. They guessed―Veronica’s enviers would be eliminated instantly after that and she would no longer have to think about their competitors. But that wasn’t what Veronica was worried about; she was concerned about how Milano’s parents would react to his hasty decision. Most likely, they will not support their eldest son who didn’t notify them about the engagement with a completely unfamiliar girl. They’ve never heard about Veronica, and now they are engaged! Would they understand her delicate situation, or would they throw her out on the street? Veronica was highly disturbed about all of these things.
Deciding to invite his younger sister Daniela to his wedding, Lucenzo called Paris where she was living and spoke with her on the phone. He was beaming; knowing that she agreed and after her exams she will arrive in Rome. She will undoubtedly please him with her presence because they have not seen each other for a long time! Lucenzo also called his parents who were on vacation on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, in a quiet place named Basse-Terre, not far from France. Their choice for some rest in such a location was not in connection with the holiday but as a result of Signora Veneziani’s health condition. Doctors advised her to stay away from the bustle of Rome and get rid of postpartum stress. Calmness and relaxation should have a good effect on the well-being of the mother and her son.
The younger brother of Milano, Lucenzo and Daniela―Luigi Veneziani―was growing up by leaps and bounds. He looked like his handsome father with his little nose and facial expressions, and the oval shape of his face was similar to his mother’s. His dark hair curled in small rings, and he always cooed over something. Milano’s parents couldn’t get enough of their fourth child. He became another ray of their blessed life!
Although, Signora Veneziani’s baby could not divert her from the thoughts about Milano. She knew the tumultuous life of her eldest son; she was aware that he never gave a crap in regards women. And she couldn’t turn a blind eye to this. She worked hard on his upbringing, imag
e, and manners, but she never looked into Milano’s soul. As she began to advance into a mature woman, to realize how badly she had treated her firstborn. And was she able to earn the trust of her eldest son again? She didn’t know.
Talking with his son, Lucenzo, Signor Veneziani declared that he promises to attend the wedding with his wife because it was a serious event in his middle son’s life. He and Signora Veneziani have long been familiar with Francesca. They also had seen her family a couple of times when Lucenzo invited the Lascatti’s to the restaurant. The personality of Lucenzo’s girl impressed his parents, and they said ‘yes’ to Lucenzo and Francesca’s union. The older couple of the Veneziani family did not agnize anyone except for Francesca which was perfect for Lucenzo.
By the way, Lucenzo never had a frivolous relationship, considering his dreams to start his own family. He always followed his rational mind and sensitive heart to be loyal to his beloved one.
With a calm heart, the Veneziani’s planned to return soon to their native city. They wished to reunite with their family and find out more news from Lucenzo. But will their eldest son accept them after such a long absence?
***
Meanwhile, Milano was working with his sleeves rolled up, giving numerous orders to his new secretary. The brunette Frea Lacroix was the complete opposite of Susan, but sometimes she liked to show herself in public. As Milano understood, she was not interested in him, and so, he played into her hands. His new assistant was an ardent careerist; she was satisfied only with a good job and a good salary. Practice for her was a means to achieve material benefits and a door to her personal improvement. While living in France, she understood that money was a solution to many problems. Especially, issues of high taxes in her country. She was a practical and wise businesswoman.
Milano was sitting at his large wooden table, buckled down. He carefully studied the project, overlaid with a bunch of papers when the cell phone suddenly called him. After seeing the number, Milano gaped in astonishment.
It was Veronica. She never called him at work. Did something happen? Or was it a surprise?
“Hi, Milano. I longed for your dark essence,” Veronica giggled, biting off a piece of the cheese pizza which a caring Gloria cooked for her.
“Are you sure, Nikky?” Milano asked with relief. Her message meant that he is free from the negativity of the day, and his Amazon will entertain him with an interesting conversation.
“I didn’t think you’d call me, beauty,” a wonder sounded in his tone. “How are you feeling?”
“Fine,” Veronica honestly described her state, sitting on the bed in Milano’s bedroom. She continued to chew pizza; its taste was simply amazing and unrepeatable. “I went to the doctor with Gloria today, so don’t worry. I didn’t come home alone. Everything is all right. You know, I feel like I’m changing, and not just in shape. Strange sensations are born inside me. I don’t know how to react to the course of pregnancy… but it seems that I am a sorceress!”
Milano stretched out in his chair, pleased with Veronica’s speech. He so wanted to feel her erotic body in his hands and breathe in her unique scent that he almost growled.
“You’re my dear fairy! I already told you that,” he snorted, distracted himself from his pesky desires. “So, our baby continues to grow and be stronger…”
“The fourth month, darling...” Veronica gently stroked her puffy abdomen, imagining that two kids could be living inside her.
“Shit! How time has flown! And my thoughts are only about work.” Milano noted sadly. He realized that he was spending little time alone with Veronica and should be at home earlier. However, work did not spare anyone; it demanded only sacrifice.
“You’ll be distracted when I show you a miracle!” Veronica exclaimed, breaking their painful silence.
Milano suddenly roused himself, hoping that his Amazon would quickly reveal her secret. But she was as silent as him.
“Milano. I get nauseous.” Veronica went on. “I hate this state of weakness and inaction.” She genuinely admitted, thinking of her health.
“I would so like to eliminate your nausea, dear, so that you will feel better,” Milano told her with gentle notes in his voice.
“But you’re not God, sweetheart!” Veronica laughed, sensing his alarms for their baby and his natural anxiety. “Thanks for wanting to help, though.”
Milano chuckled at her clever observation.
“I’ll leave you to work now, my love. We should make sure everything’s ready for Fra and Lu’s wedding.” Veronica decided, carefully getting out of bed so as not to harm her child.
“No physical labor, Nike, or I’ll have to whip your soft ass!” Milano threatened her, smiling.
“You’re a notorious sadist! But I’ll retrain you!” Veronica burst out laughing, continuing. “How do you want to punish me even in this situation?”
Milano smirked, adoring Veronica’s provocations. They both loved to tease and seduce each other at the same time. Milano liked how down-to-earth Veronica was, being infantile at times, and Veronica liked how frank Milano was in his desires. The fervor of their relationship and unobtrusive talking drove them crazy.
“In our first meeting, I advised you to read a book or an article about BDSM games,” Milano mentioned, changing the theme of conversation. “Did you study this topic or not?”
“Yes, Milano. I found it on the internet...” Veronica blushed, confident in the fact that Milano didn’t see her face. Still, the subject was intimate enough, and she did not wish to spread it.
“What did you learn there?” Milano pricked up his ears, guessing what his Amazon would say.
“I am not sure that I need to feel pain. It does not excite me...” Veronica opened up to him, not supporting the unordinary culture about sex.
“But maybe you liked the poses?”
“Milano Veneziani, the President of the ‘Romano Industries!’” She snapped at him for his excessive cockiness.
“He listens to you and is always absorbed in you,” Milano snorted, adoring their little arguments.
“I hope that the building in Barcelona won’t stop, and your firm will not incur big losses because of me, my darling,” Veronica switched to another topic, worrying about Milano’s business. “Still, I’m kind of uncomfortable that you said no…”
“Come on, baby!” Milano interfered rebuking his lady for her concerns about that problem. “All you have to think about is our baby. My job is to make money for our family. Agreed, Queen?”
“Agreed,” Veronica replied in a sweet calm voice. She closed her eyes and plunged into the lake of her endless love for Milano. Could she have dreamed of a man who would have as many virtues as Milano? Would the world be able to see these positive traits in him in spite of his shortcomings? Veronica believed that her meeting with Milano was God’s reward for all the insults she received at University. Now she had a protector like her Italian, and he would do anything to make her feel good.
“I need to finish the job, my sunshine, so that I won’t be distracted by my brother’s wedding that is coming up,” Milano said quickly.
“Of course, my light. I just missed you so much…”
“Like the sun misses the moon?” Milano queried; grinning.
“Like the sun misses the moon...” Veronica agreed dreamily.
“But here’s the rotten luck. There are spots on the moon that cannot be washed or hidden. It will haunt her entire life.” Milano responded in a sorrowful tone, knowing it was all about his private world, one that was so fickle. Milano was afraid of it.
“Milano. Don’t say that...” Veronica condemned in a gentle manner. “You’re an amazing man, and I love you.”
“Even when I’m a jerk?”
“Even then…”
“I hope life will open your eyes and you will leave me yourself.”
Milano hung up the phone unexpectedly, thereby he dumbfounded Veronica. Why did he ask her to stay and run away from him at the same time? Veronica had a
hunch that it was worth a visit to Milano’s psychologist and ask him about this. Only he could explain what is going on.
One thing was bothering Veronica―what if Milano is pretending for the sake of their child, and was he right talking about his fake personality? She needed to know his secret before it became too late―too late to resurrect a family on her own.
***
The Earth became colder as twilight descended upon it. The beginning of September suggested that summer was gone, and autumn would follow it. The leaves have turned yellow and the days became shorter. Milano’s cottage was quiet―someone was already resting in his bedroom, another was taking a shower. The decorations for the garden were completed in both Lascatti and Veneziani households. The celebration was to take place in both houses so that each side would have enough fun, and then everyone could retire to their family’s nest.
The house of the Lascatti’s was already on show, thanks to the efforts of Lucenzo and bodyguards Mario and Pietro. No matter how Andrea Lascatti persuaded her future son-in-law not to fuss over the occasion, she couldn’t succeed. He helped them with everything that concerned their daughter. Lucenzo just had a kind heart and a gentle disposition. He was worth his weight in gold.
***
Milano finished his work today late and rushed to be at home as soon as possible. He dreamed to enjoy Veronica’s lovely embraces, so he couldn’t wait anymore. He needed the true love from his Angel.
Driving to the back of the cottage, Milano got out of the car. The street was quiet; it was pitch-black. The city slept―only white dust flew in the yellow light of the street lamps.
Observing such a beautiful phenomenon, Milano smiled. Closing the garage, he went to his cottage. Leaving his laptop and his briefcase in the living room, Milano walked into the kitchen and turned on the light. What a beauty he viewed! The lanterns made of gold and silver paper hung here and there. They created a festive mood for the next week.
After drinking a glass of mineral water and putting it on the table, Milano went to the exit of the kitchen. And then, like a glow, the familiar figure blinded him.