Chapter 17. The Stockholm Syndrome

One night, we were staying in a beautiful villa in Tuscany. We were both feeling very romantic and decided to take a walk together there.

We took a walk down a secluded path surrounded by tall trees and vibrant flowers. The air smelled like jasmine and the moonlight cast a beautiful, romantic glow. We walked hand in hand, talking about our dreams and plans for the future.

We eventually came to a clearing with a large pond in the middle. The water was still and reflective, like a mirror. Riccardo took my hand and said, “Let’s go for a swim.”

We both stripped down to our underwear and jumped into the pond. The water was cool and refreshing. We swam around and played in the water. Riccardo grabbed me and pulled me close. He kissed me passionately and I felt my heart flutter. I felt so alive and so in love.

We eventually got out of the water and lay down on the grass. Riccardo looked into my eyes and said, “Alessia, I love you. I have never felt this way about an