The Decision Luca Couldn't Buy
Chapter 15 - The Decision Luca Couldn't Buy
Luca offered Ruth a private rehabilitation facility with a lake view and a staff of specialists. Ruth refused. "The clinic I have knows me," she said. "They know when I pretend I'm not hurting. I'd rather you help make it easier for people like me to get their appointments covered."
Luca looked at Olivia, who raised her eyebrows in silent agreement. He funded an independent community transport program through the foundation, subject to board oversight and public reporting. Ruth accepted the first ride, then criticized its uncomfortable seat. The program bought better cushions.
Olivia completed a training course in hospitality management while working part-time at an independent restaurant. She enjoyed the pace, the ordinary bickering among cooks, and the fact that her supervisor apologized when she made a mistake. She was determined to build a career nobody could threaten away from her.
Luca began inviting her to coffee. She declined twice, accepted the third time, and insisted they meet somewhere without drivers or bodyguards hovering around the table. He arrived early and looked almost nervous.
"I know there's an imbalance between us," he said. "I don't want you to feel pressured because of what happened."
"Then don't pressure me."
He laughed softly. "That's straightforward."
They talked about books, cities they'd never seen, Ruth's determination to learn how to use video calls, and Luca's failed attempts at baking. Olivia found herself looking forward to his jokes. That frightened her more than she expected.
May you like
One evening she told him, "I like you. I also need time. And I need to be certain I can walk away without losing anything." Luca answered, "You can." When she asked him to put appropriate boundaries between his business and her employment, he agreed and followed through.
Affection, Olivia decided, might be possible. But it had to grow where choice was real.
