Moving to Milan felt like stepping into another world. Vanessa had always told me about her family's base of operations, but I wasn't prepared for the sheer elegance and scale of it. Her mansion sat on the outskirts of the city, nestled in the rolling hills, far enough away from the hustle and bustle to feel like a private kingdom, but close enough to still feel connected to the vibrant energy of Milan.
The mansion itself was a work of art. It sprawled across several acres of perfectly manicured land, the stone walls of the estate rising up like something out of an old Italian dream. The building was a blend of classical Italian architecture with modern touches—archways, grand columns, and balconies overlooking the vast, green gardens that stretched out as far as the eye could see. Olive trees lined the winding driveway, and a grand fountain stood at the entrance, water cascading down in a soft, soothing rhythm.
Inside, the mansion was even more stunning. Every room was bathed in warm light, the high ceilings making each space feel vast and open. Marble floors gleamed underfoot, and every corner was filled with beautiful, handpicked pieces of art. It wasn't just a home; it was a masterpiece. The kind of place you could get lost in, both physically and mentally.
Vanessa led me through the main foyer, her heels clicking softly on the polished floor. "Welcome to Milan, darling," she said with a smile, gesturing to the space around us. "This will be your home for as long as you'd like."
I nodded, still taking it all in. "This place is... unreal."
She smiled knowingly. "It has its charms, doesn't it?"
Vanessa was always understated about her wealth, but the mansion spoke for itself. Everything here was on a different level, from the towering ceilings to the intricate chandeliers hanging overhead. It was the kind of place you only saw in magazines or movies, but here I was, standing in the middle of it, about to start a new chapter of my life.
As we made our way down one of the many hallways, Vanessa stopped in front of a large set of double doors and turned to me. "Before you start working with me, I think it's time we get you properly dressed for the part."
I raised an eyebrow, feeling a little self-conscious in my jeans and hoodie. "What do you mean?"
She smiled, opening the doors to reveal a private room that looked like a high-end boutique. Inside, racks of fabric samples hung on the walls, and standing in the center of the room was a well-dressed older man with silver hair, measuring tape draped around his neck. He looked every bit the part of a master tailor, his sharp eyes scanning me the moment we walked in.
"This is Alberto," Vanessa said, introducing him with a nod. "He's the best tailor in Milan, and he's here to make sure you look like the part of my private secretary."
Alberto stepped forward, giving me a polite but appraising look. "Signor Tristan, it is a pleasure. I have been given the task of creating a suit that will not only fit you but elevate you."
I glanced over at Vanessa, feeling a bit out of my depth. "A custom suit? Isn't that a bit much?"
Vanessa waved off my concern, her smile playful. "Darling, when you're working with me, you need to look the part. This isn't a desk job at a coffee shop—we're playing in a different league now."
Alberto motioned for me to stand on the small platform in the center of the room. "Come, Signor. Let me take your measurements."
I stepped onto the platform, feeling awkward as Alberto began measuring every inch of my body with precision. He worked quickly, jotting down notes in a small leather-bound notebook as he went. The whole process felt surreal—like I was being transformed into someone else.
"So, what kind of suit are we talking here?" I asked, trying to make conversation as he measured my shoulders.
Alberto's eyes sparkled as he spoke, clearly passionate about his craft. "We are talking about a suit that will reflect both your personal style and the elegance required for the position you will hold. A well-tailored suit speaks before you do. It is the foundation of respect."
Vanessa watched from the corner, arms crossed, clearly enjoying the process. "You'll want something classic, but with a modern edge. I trust Alberto to find the perfect balance."
I nodded, feeling the weight of the moment. A suit wasn't just a suit in Vanessa's world—it was an extension of who you were, how you were perceived. And here, in this mansion, with this level of attention to detail, there was no room for anything less than perfection.
Alberto finished measuring and stepped back, jotting down his final notes. "I have everything I need. Now, we will discuss the fabrics."
He led me over to one of the fabric racks, pulling out swatches of rich wool, silk, and cashmere, each one more luxurious than the last. He spoke with enthusiasm, explaining the benefits of each material, how they would drape, how they would feel against the skin. I nodded along, trying to absorb the information, but honestly, I had no idea what the difference between any of them was. It all felt incredibly foreign to me.
"I think something in navy blue would suit you well," Vanessa said, running her fingers over one of the fabrics. "It's classic but still modern."
Alberto nodded in agreement. "Yes, navy blue would complement your complexion beautifully, Signor. With a crisp white shirt and a subtle tie, you will look impeccable."
I raised an eyebrow, feeling a little overwhelmed by all the choices. "You guys really know what you're doing, huh?"
Vanessa smiled, leaning in to give me a light kiss on the cheek. "Trust us, darling. You'll look incredible."
After choosing the fabric, Alberto took more detailed notes about the style of the suit—single-breasted, slim fit, with narrow lapels. He promised that the suit would be ready in a few days and that once I put it on, I would never want to wear anything else.
As we left the fitting room, I couldn't help but feel a little lighter. The idea of wearing a custom-made suit, of looking the part, suddenly didn't feel so daunting. Maybe this was what I needed—a fresh start, a new direction.
Vanessa slipped her arm through mine as we walked down the hallway. "You're going to look amazing in that suit," she said with a grin.
I smiled, still feeling the weight of everything, but somehow, it felt a little less heavy now. "Thanks, Vanessa. For everything."
She gave me a knowing look. "Don't thank me yet, darling. The real work starts soon."
Q: Have you ever been to Milan?