Page 36 of And Back

Valerie's expression turns serious again. "And that's valid too," she acknowledges. "It's okay to feel hurt and betrayed by his actions. But understanding his reasons can help you see the complexity of the situation. He left you there so you could continue to make your own decisions and follow through with the deal you had struck with his brother."

I nod slowly.

"Virgilio treated you like a human capable of free will," Valerie continues gently. "That’s significant."

I swallow hard, realizing how true that is. In all the chaos and manipulation I'd endured, Virgilio was the first person who saw me as someone who could make her own choices.

"But why didn't he fight for me?" I whisper, more to myself than to Valerie.

"Maybe he thought it was the best way to protect you," Valerie suggests softly.

I look up at her, tears welling up in my eyes again. The realization doesn't erase my pain or anger completely, but it helps me understand Virgilio’s actions better.

"I still don't know if I can forgive him," I admit.

Valerie squeezes my hands reassuringly. "That's something only time can tell."

I take a deep breath, trying to steady my emotions. "I think I need to focus on my project for now," I say, my voice trembling slightly. "The day is getting closer, and I'd prefer not to think about Virgilio or Dante or anyone else."

Valerie's expression softens, and she nods understandingly. "That's a good choice, Zoe," she says gently. "Let's put our energy into your work."

We finish our breakfast in companionable silence. The food tastes good, but my mind is already shifting gears, thinking about fabrics, designs, and the upcoming challenge with Sabine. It feels like a lifeline, something tangible I can hold onto.

Once we clear the table, Valerie grabs her keys from the counter. "Come on," she says with a reassuring smile. "Let's head to the studio."

I follow her out to the car, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. The drive to Valerie's studio is peaceful; the familiar streets pass by in a blur as I lose myself in thoughts of colors and patterns. Valerie hums softly along with the radio, creating a comforting background noise that helps me push aside my worries.

When we arrive at the studio, Valerie parks the car and turns to me with a determined look in her eyes. "Let's make some magic happen," she says with a smile.

I can't help but smile back at her enthusiasm. As we step inside the studio, the sight of fabric rolls, sewing machines, and design sketches instantly lifts my spirits. This place feels like home—a sanctuary where I can lose myself in creativity.

Valerie leads me to a large table in the back room already covered with my fabric and sketches. "Here we are," she says, spreading her arms wide as if presenting a treasure trove.

My eyes widen with excitement as I take in the fabrics. They're just as I envisioned—soft silks, vibrant satins, and textured linens, all laid out in a beautiful array of colors. I can't help myself; I turn and hug Valerie tightly.

"Thank you, Valerie! These are perfect!" I say, my voice brimming with joy.

Valerie laughs softly and returns my hug. "I'm glad you like them. It is worth it to see you so happy."

I pull back and look at her with gratitude shining in my eyes. "You always go above and beyond. Thank you for believing in me."

Valerie smiles warmly and pats my shoulder. "You have incredible talent, Zoe. It's easy to believe in someone like you."

She turns and calls out to a woman working at another table. "Emma, could you bring the other fabrics once they're ready?"

Emma nods and gives us a thumbs-up before returning to her work.

I turn back to the fabrics, my fingers itching to start creating. The mannequin stands waiting, an empty canvas for my vision. I begin by draping a piece of vibrant silk over its shoulders, pinning it in place with precision.

"Thank you so much for your help, Valerie," I say without looking up, already lost in the world of design.

Valerie's phone buzzes on the table, and she glances at the screen. "I have to take this call," she says apologetically. "But I'll be back soon."

"Take your time," I reply absently, already engrossed in adjusting the fabric on the mannequin.

I walk around the mannequin, scrutinizing every fold and drape of the fabric. Something doesn't sit right. The line of the silk seems off, disrupting the flow I envisioned. "Okay, Zoe," I mutter to myself, "let's fix this."

I carefully unpin the fabric, letting it fall gracefully to the floor. Picking it up, I shake it out and drape it again, this time adjusting the shoulder seams. Stepping back, I tilt my head to one side, analyzing the new arrangement. It's better, but still not quite there.

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