130- The kidnapping
**GIULLIA SANTORI'S POV**
*One week later...*
During the past week, we've been distant. I feel like we need this time, that these events have been painful for both him and me. Vittorio is struggling to manage the change of us returning to his life and still having the responsibility of leading the mafia.
I drop the kids off at school and head to my parents' new house. They moved in two days ago and are loving it. That makes me very happy. As I arrive at the gates, security opens them, and I enter the spacious premises. I park the car, along with the security team accompanying me in another car. In recent days, Vittorio has increased the number of men responsible for my security, growing more nervous.
As I step out of the car, I see my mother in the garden, tending to the beautiful roses that have bloomed, while my father is seated on a chair on the wide porch.
"Mom, these flowers are beautiful." I beam a wide smile.
"I'm fertilizing them every day, dear." She responds enthusiastically.
I climb a few steps and go to where my father is, crouching down to hug him affectionately. I've noticed a change since they moved; they're relaxed and content. I believe they sensed the danger lurking in the small old house. I'm immensely happy to provide comfort and security for them, as they deserve it so much.
"You've settled in quickly, I'm so glad." I smile and sit beside him.
"Yes, dear. Look, we have a swimming pool. Your mother is going to start doing water exercises with a teacher. It helps with old and tired bones." He chuckles.
Their smiles are contagious. We laugh animatedly, and the staff I hired serves us juice and cake. I feel hungry and take the opportunity to satisfy my appetite. We talk about the current changes, and I'm also urged to bring Luca to stay for a few days at the new house. I promised that soon, the holidays are coming, and he can stay with his grandparents.
An hour has passed since I arrived. I glance at my wristwatch and realize I'm running late. I scheduled the fitting for my wedding dress. I feel nervous because we're going through a turbulent time, but I would never change my mind. Couples go through crises or problems; that's completely normal.
After bidding farewell to my parents, I return to the car and drive towards the city center. A while later, I arrived at the store I chose and parked the car in the designated spot. I step out and enter the establishment, greeted by the saleswoman with a wide smile on her lips.
"Miss, it's a pleasure to assist you!" She gestures to a seating area for me.
She brings champagne served in a beautiful glass. I look at the tray and realize it's too early. I can't drink anything, plus I have to pick up the kids from school.
"Thank you, but... I'd prefer not to drink." I smile and decline the offer.
"It's a special day. We serve champagne for our customers to celebrate this beautiful moment. Just one glass is perfectly fine; it's our tradition." She insists, and she's excited.
I look at the glass, imagining it's a delicious champagne. I smile and nod in confirmation that I'll accept the drink. She becomes even more excited and hands me the glass. I sip the champagne and taste its sweetness; it's different but enjoyable.
"I've selected these options for you. As you informed me over the phone, the wedding will take place late afternoon, so I chose a dress according to the event." She drags the rack in front of me.
I observe the beautiful dresses hanging, and she takes them out one by one, showing me the different styles. I start to envision myself as a bride, with Vittorio waiting for me at the altar. I've never been one to dream about weddings, but now, that's changing, and I'm starting to feel anxious.
"I like this one!" I point to a beautiful dress, fitted at the waist and flared like a princess.
"It's gorgeous! Let's try it on, please follow me, Miss!"
The attendant carefully holds the dress and indicates a fitting room. I finish the rest of the champagne and leave the glass on a small side table. I follow the girl to the fitting room. It's a circle in the center, mirrors spread around, and a bright, well-decorated environment.
She helps me put on the dress after I've taken off my clothes. I look at myself in the mirror attentively, tears welling up in my eyes. I run my hand over the fabric and feel like a bride, for the first time. I wish my mother could accompany me here for the next fitting.
As I look at my reflection, unexpectedly, my vision starts to blur. I rub my hands over my eyes and look in a mirror again. I glance around, feeling weak, but I don't see the saleswoman. I didn't notice when she left because I was too excited to see myself in the dress. Something strange is happening; I can feel it.
"Hey... help me, I'm not feeling well!" I try to speak loudly.
I hold onto the dress and step down from the center circle of the room. I stagger until I lean on the chair and watch someone approach. I blink several times, looking at the person walking towards me. When they're about a meter away, I can see the blonde hair and light eyes, and I realize who it is.
Alessandro has his hands in his pockets, looking intently at me.
"Feeling unwell, Giullia? Must have been the champagne!" he chuckles.
"What... what did you... do to me?" I become terrified but increasingly drowsy.
"Don't worry, I didn't poison you like Vittorio did to my father. You'll be sleeping for a good while until we reach our new home." He continues smiling.
I could panic and try to escape, but my body doesn't allow any sudden movements. I feel my hands and feet go cold, like a sudden drop in blood pressure. My eyelids are heavy; I can't keep my eyes open, even with a lot of effort. I feel like I'm floating, and I fall into a deep sleep. Darkness takes over.
"Sleep, darling!" I hear the whisper from afar.