The Milk's Dignity

Gastone nodded, reluctantly retracting his hand. "Alright. I'll give you space. But don't shut me out completely." 

With that, Gastone turned and walked away, leaving Lucia standing there, torn between the emotions that Gastone's unexpected appearance had stirred within her. 

"I-I'm not shutting you down," Lucia muttered, her eyes swelling with tears. She had a yearning inside to rush and begged Gastone to stay, but she fought that feeling back. 

Lucia took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart. 'Focus, Lucia. Focus on the plan, on Daniel,' she reminded herself silently, determined to redirect her thoughts and emotions toward her plans for the day. 

Lucia wiped away the tears threatening to spill over and forced herself to concentrate on her tasks. She resumed arranging the vibrant flowers, trying to lose herself in their beauty and the calming scent that filled the air.