Shadows of Affection (GxG)

A week had passed since the gallery event, but the image of Lily's wide, emerald eyes still lingered in Alessia's mind. She found herself replaying their conversation, the ease with which they'd connected, and the almost tangible tension between them.

She was going through some of the new art pieces for her gallery when her phone buzzed, indicating a new message. She picked it up, and her heart did a tiny flip when she saw Lily's name flash on the screen.

*"Buongiorno, Alessia! Vorrei vederti di nuovo. Coffee? ☕"* Lily's message read.

Alessia couldn't help but chuckle at the attempt. While Lily's enthusiasm was evident, her Italian was all over the place. The sentence somewhat translated to, "Good morning, Alessia! I would like to see you again. Coffee?"

Deciding to play along, Alessia replied, *"Buongiorno, Lily! Il tuo italiano è molto carino. Sì, per il caffè. Dove e quando?"* (Good morning, Lily! Your Italian is very cute. Yes, for coffee. Where and when?)

A few minutes later, Lily responded, *"Ah, mi dispiace per il mio cattivo italiano! Let's say, Café Bellezza, 4 PM?"* (Ah, I'm sorry for my bad Italian!)

Alessia couldn't help but smile. *"Va bene. Ci vediamo lì."* (Alright. See you there.)

---

As 4 PM approached, Alessia found herself unusually nervous. She reached Café Bellezza a bit early, securing a quiet spot by the window. Her friends had teased her relentlessly when they'd found out about her date, but for once, she didn't mind.

She was adjusting her cufflinks when she heard a familiar voice tinged with a touch of nervousness, "Buona sera, Signorina Sorento?" (Good evening, Miss Sorento?)

Looking up, she met Lily's gaze, trying hard not to burst into laughter at her valiant attempt at formal Italian. "Buona sera, Lily. Though, 'Signorina' might be a bit too formal for a coffee date, don't you think?" Alessia winked.

Lily blushed, "I was trying to impress you with my Italian. Guess I need more lessons."

Alessia chuckled, "Your attempt was adorable, if not accurate. But hey, if you ever want lessons, I'd be happy to help."

They spent the next hour talking, laughing, and getting to know each other better. Lily's infectious enthusiasm and genuine interest in Alessia's world drew her in, while Alessia's depth and mystery intrigued Lily.

At one point, Lily, feeling a bit adventurous, tried to order in Italian, resulting in a mix-up where she accidentally ordered a sandwich instead of a dessert. Alessia, ever the gallant, swapped their plates, sharing a playful grin with Lily.

The sun set, casting a warm golden hue over the city. As they left the café, Alessia turned to Lily, her voice sincere, "Thank you for a wonderful evening."

Lily smiled, her eyes twinkling, "Thank you for putting up with my terrible Italian."

Alessia smirked, "Anytime. Looking forward to our next... unintended meeting."

And as they parted ways, the promise of many more such meetings hung in the air.

Lily watched as the silhouette of Alessia's car disappeared down the street. She felt a giddy warmth spread through her — an anticipation of what was yet to come. There was a story unfolding, and she was eager to see where it would lead.
___
A/N:

Hey kids.✨️
It has been a while since the last update, ik. I have a lot going on rn. Assignments to be completed and such.
But new chapter, though it's a short one, for you guys cause I love you.❤️
See y'all in the next one.
Don't forget to vote and comment.

~K.