Chapter 51 - Bellissimo

The flight had been long and exiting took even longer. As a foreigner entering the country, that is to be expected. I preferred to travel as others do, despite the lack on convenience, as it made it easier to remain unnoticed.

"Where are you traveling from?" The immigration agent asked, interrupting the quiet of my thoughts. "From Milan, Italy." I responded. I had my passport and customs declaration documents filled out ready to show the agent.

"The purpose of your visit?" This was where I needed to be careful of my wording. Normally when I traveled it was for business, but this time was more for tourism. I needed to keep my mind clear and focused and not running on autopilot.

"Tourism. As well as visiting old family friends." The agent proceeded to verify my visas and confirm my place of stay as well as checking how much money I brought for the length of my stay.

"Ok all clear. Enjoy your visit." She stamped my passport and directed me to customs and then baggage claim.

When I finally retrieved my belongings I stood at the entrance of the airport as my team loaded my luggage into the car to take me to my temporary place of residence.

Though Celeste offered to meet me at the airport I declined because I did not want her to wait on me. I would much rather wait on her.

As the driver took me to my apartment, I looked briefly at the file with her information which she sent me. She was a very pretty woman. Her auburn hair was cropped to her chin and looked soft in addition to framing her face beautifully. Her features as a whole looked soft.

Her eyes an alluring brown and her cheeks rosy and fair. She looked healthy.

Aside from her photo the few details she gave about herself indicated that she was an incredibly smart and accomplished individual. I was not someone who looked at nobility or family name. So when my family reached out about meeting her I almost declined.

But something instinctively told me to give her a chance. The few times we have spoken she intrigued me. Her careful words and demeanor was striking.

She felt like a royal, someone who was pristine and untouchable. But when we spoke on the phone she seemed more humble and down to earth. Her voice was soothing to the ears and soul.

I pulled out my phone to let her know of my arrival. The penthouse I was staying at was located downtown just a few blocks from the business district. Just on the drive, I got a good gauge of the city and its people. It was very much a different vibe from Italy.

Back home it was more relaxed and less hustle and bustle. Though despite it the city also had it charms. The architecture was unique and grand. Even the smaller shops had different looks and designs to fit the brand they wanted to present.

The weather was much cooler than home. But seeing the transition from summer to fall was amazing. Though in the past I have come to the States to conduct business. I have never been to this area and even more so at this time of year.

We pulled up to my residence for the next two weeks where my team was already waiting for my arrival to get my belongings. As the team worked I met with the lobby to get my keys and process the paperwork needed for my stay. Despite my family owning the place, as per their security detail they needed to know who had clearance as well as how cleaning would proceed since I will be there. "Signore your bags are all settled in your space." My secretary Gio ensured everything I needed for two weeks was finalized. He would return home to delegate any affairs until my return. "Grazie I shall see the team in about two weeks. Ciao." He bowed and the team left.

The penthouse was a huge space but stylized like a modern Italian home with rustic elements blended in. I was not aware that my family owned a building in the area but my nonna informed me that they purchased it when they met Celestes nonni.

I began to unpack my bags. I brought a few things for Celeste and her family so I wanted to ensure those arrived safely. As I inspected each gift I felt my stomach rumble. 'I suppose now is a good time for dinner.'

As I checked the fridge for ingredients, Celeste called me. "Dante I just got your message, have you arrived at your place yet?" In the background I could hear what sounded like a television running. 'She must be home.'

"Yes, I arrived safely. Right now I am looking at what I can make for dinner. Have you eaten yet?" Prior to my arrival, we had decided to meet the next day for brunch so I could rest after a long travel time. Though despite my initial exhaustion, I felt reinvigorated and wanted to meet with Celeste after hearing her voice.

"I just finished though if you would like I can bring you some of the leftovers. Our cooks made Ossobuco so we have quite a bit leftover. We also have some cannolis which my mom made." It was a tempting offer. I really wanted to shower and get cleaned up before it gets too late. I also did not want to leave a lot of dirty dishes when I had an early appointment tomorrow.

But I did not want to make her come all the way here when it sounded like she was already resting at home.

"Are you sure? It won't be a bother or inconvenient?" I heard her bell like laughter from the other line. "No worries I offered. Send me your address and I can stop by. Though I won't be able to stay long." Normally I am not one to give in quickly but with her I felt no desire to deny her wishes.

"Of course one second." I sent her my address and texted her the code to enter in the elevator. I also informed the front desk security team of her arrival.

"Ok see you soon!" She confirmed before hanging up. A warm feeling spread across my heart. It felt nice that despite how far from home I was, I still got that homely feeling that I get from family. The feeling of being taken care of.

With one less worry I grabbed what I needed to get cleaned up and popped into the shower to be ready before she arrived. I felt a ghost of a smile grace my cheeks. 'Bellissimo.'