Chapter 98 Side Story 5
Chapter 98 Side Story 5
Jessica.
After we've settled in, the pilot makes his announcement, and soon the engine roars to life. The flight attendant hands us glasses of champagne, and we clink them together in a silent toast, both of us wearing matching smiles. Devon brings my hands to his lips and presses a kiss against them, and I chuckle, feeling flutters in my heart at the act.
The plane taxis on the tarmac, and seconds later, we're airborne. The California coastline gradually recedes, giving way to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. I gaze out at the endless blue, feeling a sense of freedom and excitement rush over me. Setting my glass of champagne down, I unbuckle my seatbelt and walk out of the chair, settling myself on Devon's lap as I snuggle into his chest, closing my eyes.
"Go to sleep," Devon murmurs as he pats my hair. "I'll wake you when we get there."
I nod, closing my eyes as I breathe him in, feeling myself relax under his touch. It doesn't take long before I fall asleep, my breaths evening out in slumber. Long hours later, and we're finally in Italy. Devon wakes me up from my sleep, and we share a light meal before the plane begins its descent. The Italian landscape unfolds beneath us, revealing rolling hills, quaint villages, and the glittering waters of the Mediterranean. My heart flutters with excitement as we approach our destination.
With a gentle bump, the plane touches down on Italian soil. Devon and I gather our belongings, and as we step off the aircraft, a wave of warm air washes over us. I inhale deeply, taking in the sweet scent of a foreign country, and Devon catches my hand as we walk out of the jet to the car that's already waiting for us.
"Italy is such a beautiful country," I murmur to myself as we drive around the streets filled with people and local delights. I glance back at Devon, who's looking at me with a warm look in his eyes. "Thanks for bringing me here," I mumble, heat flooding my cheeks. This can really help in alleviating my worries for just a moment.
He smiles, holding my hands. "I knew you'd like it here," he tells me, and I chuckle, leaning back on his shoulders. Devon continues speaking. "The business party will hold tomorrow night, so you have ample time to prepare for it. I'll hire a tour guide for you so you can go shopping," he tells me, and I glance at him, a brow raised.
"Why do you need me to go shopping? I already bought clothes."
"It doesn't mean you shouldn't get more. You should spoil yourself more often."
I roll my eyes, clicking my tongue. "Whatever. If you insist, I'll go."
He presses kisses behind my ears, trailing them down to my collarbone as he whispers the next words. "I just want you to always be beautiful," he murmurs to my skin, and I smile and look out the window, feeling heat rush to my cheeks.
We finally get to the hotel and check-in, and once we walk into our private suite, I plop onto the king-size bed, relishing its softness. "I'm so exhausted," I groan, looking at him through my lashes as he takes off his clothing.
"All we did was fly, Jessica."
"Yes, but we were in the air for such a long time. I'm going to be jet-lagged for a few days," I murmur, and he grins, adjusting his glasses. Leaving only his white t-shirt on, he gazes at me as I sit up on the bed.
"I already ordered some light meals for us to eat and go to sleep. We'll need all the energy we can muster for tomorrow's party."
"Okay," I answer, removing my clothes as well. "I'll be in the bathroom," I tell him, looking for and finding the bathroom. Closing the door behind me, I strip off the rest of my clothing and step into the shower, letting the warm water cascade down my body. When I return to the room, dinner has already arrived. We indulge in gourmet meals served by the hotel before going to sleep.
The next morning when I wake up, I find Devon already awake and about. He sees me stirring on the bed and walks over to give me a kiss. I return it, still sleepy.
"Good morning," I mutter, rubbing my eyes open.
"Good morning to you too. Coffee?" He asks, and I nod. "I'll be back," he replies before walking away. Stretching, I stare out the window, rubbing my neck. Devon comes back with a steaming cup of coffee, passing it to me.
I take a sip, breathing in the delicious coffee. "This is better," I groan, taking more sips. "Thank you." I mumble, smiling gratefully at him.
"You're welcome," he answers and places the coffee cup on the bedside table. "I'll be driving you to the spot where you'll be having your shopping and makeover. I already scheduled today for it as it is a first-come, first-serve basis. The guide will take over from there. Sorry, I can't take you around myself."
"No need to worry about that. It's enough you're taking me there," I tell him, and he nods. I watch him walk away before stepping out of bed and quickly getting dressed. Once we've had breakfast, Devon drives me to the beauty place where I'll be spending my entire day before the business party in the evening. Just as we're walking out of the car, a middle-aged woman comes to welcome us in, her face bright and warm. I enter the huge building, spellbound by its intricate designs and romantic backdrop.
"Good morning, lady and gentleman. I am excited to have you here at this place," she greets us, her speech heavily accented.
"Likewise," I mutter, gripping Devon's arm tightly. "Hello, this is my wife Jessica." Devon introduces me to her, and I stretch my hand for a shake, something she gladly accepts.
"And my name is Olivia Bardot," she replies, and I nod. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Please take good care of her."
"Of course, she is in safe hands," Olivia quips. Devon turns to me, placing a soft kiss on my forehead.
"I'll see you in the evening, okay?" He says, cradling my face.
"Okay. Take care of yourself," I whisper, and he nods and with one final glance at Olivia, turns around and walks back to the car. I watch him leave, a sad smile on my face. Although it hurts that he won't be here throughout, I know he's here to work; relaxation can come later.