Eve Young, MY Group's new president, had taken on her responsibilities with poise and determination.
Even though Emily completely trusted Eve with the firm, it was strange to leave everything behind. She knows that everything will be in capable hands. Thus, she can complete her bucket list without worry.
Eve felt confident in her ability but clarified that she did not want Emily's absence undetected.
"Well, I know. And I'm glad you can finally relax and enjoy your life. However..." Emily pulled her into a close embrace before she could finish what she was saying.
"Eve, I trust you. You're the only one I can trust besides Jake, and he's swamped overseeing Lewis Group and M. Group. MY Group is our sweat and blood; thus, you are the only one who can handle it, and no one else can." Emily said solemnly.
"Okay, I believe you. Even though I don't believe in myself, with your encouragement, I know I can do it. Fighting!"
While just reestablished, their link had grown more profound over time, and Eve pledged to keep her updated on everything.
"I promise I will ensure that everything runs smoothly while you're gone; when you return, it will be my turn to have a very long vacation. So, enjoy, and don't worry about anything. I love you, cousin." She then pulls Emily into a tight and loving embrace.
***
***
Jeb, however, was another story. His arrival in Europe was bound to stir things up.
He was filming a huge drama series in the locations Emily intended to visit. Being near him frightened her wildly because Jake's jealousy was already bubbling.
Jake had expressed his worries several times, particularly after learning that Jeb's initiative was in Europe.
Although Jake had backed Emily's wish to travel, the prospect of his half-brother blatantly pursuing her made him furious.
Emily groaned and wondered how things had gotten so complex. Her relationship with Jake had always been a precarious blend of old emotions, fresh tensions, and unsolved issues.
They had spoken a lot, yet there were still things they hadn't said, secrets that could be fatal and cause them to break up.
Even though it was expected, Jake's jealousy worsened the uncomfortable situation.
Emily knew Jeb was up to his usual tricks, trying to make trouble for his amusement. But this time, Jake's fury was distinct—it was more intimate.
She feared what might happen if the two men again engaged in combat in Europe.
Emily found it difficult to resist the allure of exploration, even in the face of Jake's reserved manner.
In her drive to explore the globe, she sensed that Europe could offer more than beautiful landscapes.
She tried to welcome the strange, even if it meant getting to know new people.
Emily couldn't help but feel anxious and excited as the travel date drew near.
She didn't understand how much Europe would affect her, but she knew it would. Will it make things even more confusing or help her find the clarity she needs? Time will tell.
Emily glanced around the house, with Aiden and the Hernandezes at her side and the promise of excitement ahead.
She was about to enter a world of possibilities and prepared to seize every opportunity.
Italy, with its breathtaking vistas and romantic appeal, would serve as the background for this new chapter in her life. Emily would see herself again.
Even though she hadn't planned to fall in love while traveling, whatever she may encounter would cause her to reevaluate her relationship with Jake.
It was hard to say goodbye when the future was uncertain. Jake's face was unreadable as he bid goodbye to Emily, Aiden, and her faithful companion, Mr. and Mrs. Hernandez.
***
The first stop is Italy... As her trip to Italy developed, Emily was mesmerized by its beauty and history.
It seemed like a dream come true—the sun-drenched vineyards, the cobblestone walkways, the art and culture that appeared to emanate from every corner.
They visited several cities and took in the sights, but their voyage took an unexpected turn in the center of Florence, which has stunning architecture and a creative spirit.
One pleasant day, Emily strolled into a little, hidden café close to the Piazza della Signoria to avoid the crowds of visitors.
With its original oak beams and the aroma of freshly made espresso, the café exuded charm.
Satisfied to observe the world briefly, she located a peaceful table near the window and ordered a cappuccino. Aiden and Hernandez opted to spend time indoors, still jet lag.
It was then that she saw him.
A man sat alone at the far end of the café, scribbling in a notebook.
His remarkable features were black hair, a prominent jawline, and a confident yet quiet demeanor.
He didn't appear to be aware of anyone else around him, completely engrossed in his task. Emily was drawn to something about him that she couldn't quite grasp.
As she sipped her coffee, she couldn't help but glance in his direction now and then.
The man seemed familiar, yet entirely new to her. He had an artistic aura, like a figure from a Renaissance painting, as if he belonged to this ancient city.
His hands moved deftly over the paper, capturing whatever vision he had in his mind.
At one point, their eyes met. It was brief, but in that fleeting moment, Emily felt a strange connection.
He smiled—just a tiny, knowing smile—and returned to his drawing, leaving her heart racing.
It was as if the rest of the café had faded away, and for a few seconds, it was just the two of them.
She discovered his name was Antonio. He was a temporary resident in Florence, a Rome-born artist working on a new project.
His genuineness and charisma enthralled Emily, and his enthusiasm for life, art, and the world around him was contagious.
It seemed fate had interwoven their paths when Emily and Antonio often crossed paths over the following several days.
"Hello!" Antonio greeted her with a sweet smile, eyes shining brightly looking at her...~~