Luiza's POV

I stood next to Dinah and Claire, seeing Valentina's helicopter take off. Through the glass window I could see the woman wave with a beautiful smile on her face. Our daughter raised her little hand to wave quickly in response. Soon the helicopter moved, flying away from the Albuquerque's Industry's building. I sighed heavily, with certain dissatisfaction. Receiving an attentive look from Dinah, who smiled weakly. 

- Come on, Lulu! Don't stay like that. – My best friend commented in the attempt to cheer me up.

I hated when Valentina had to travel, I hated to stay away from my wife. We were both totally busy women. Despite working relatively in the same place, we didn't come across much. We both had important positions, which demanded a lot of our attention. Lately we had promised to spend more time together, to spend time with our daughter and Sofi. As promise, Valentina made it clear that in the weekend of my birthday, which was on Sunday, our family would go to the cottage along with our closest friends and family, everything in a big celebration for my 31st birthday. Time flies, right? I know.

- Ah, Dinah. You know I don't like when she travels without me.

- I know, you stay with that frown every time she goes.

Dinah laughed as she walked back to the central elevator. I held my daughter's hand, leading her into the metal box.

- Mommy doesn't like to be alone. – Claire told Dinah.

- That's why you will sleep with her! You heard what Mama Valentina said?

- Yes! I'm going to sleep in the big bed! – She celebrated excitedly, making me smile.

- Atta girl!

Dinah extended her hand so that Claire high-fived it. The two were simply glued, I loved the affectionate relationship that existed between them. Many times my best friend offered to take care of my daughter when Valentina and I needed to travel for business, and honestly, there wasn't a better person to take care of her. After the breakup with Alfredo, Dinah was alone for some time. Which made me very sad, I loved their relationship and always expected a beautiful wedding. But over time we found out that the blonde had other interests, and well known. At Ally's and Troy's wedding party, Dinah told us along with Normani that they were dating. That really had been the surprise of the year, for all of us. The atmosphere weighed initially, which resulted in Alfredo distancing himself from us, but nowadays it was all very natural. He was dating a beautiful Canadian, and always came to visit us. 

- Where is Normani? – I asked when we got out of the elevator. 

- She's at "Imperium". She said she had to pay some suppliers today. 

- I don't know what I would do without Normani in that place. 

- My girlfriend is awesome, I know. – Dinah spoke smugly. 

- She is, but don't feel cocky about it, Jane. I also have a wonderful wife. 

- You say that for years, Lulu. I can't forget it.

We stayed for a few minutes in my office while I solved some Albuquerque's Industry's pending issues. Dinah had now taken over the position of general supervisor at the headquarters, and relied on Allyson's help, who controlled the financial sector. Honestly, Valentina was like a hurricane, not only in my life, but in everyone around me. Compared to our situation years ago, in which Ally, Dinah and I lived in a small apartment sharing economies, today we were much better than we imagined. With my ascension to the presidency, I saw as my duty to help both women who helped me throughout the years. And Valentina didn't question it, she knew the trust I had in my friends, or rather, in my sisters. Today, not only me, but all of us lived in a great financial situation.

- How about we go have lunch in "Le Café"? I went there last week, Gerald said he misses you. – Dinah said.

I smiled and nodded briefly.

- Uncle Gerald! – Claire said excitedly – We are going, right? – She asked as she pushed the papers and crayons away.

- Yes, sweetie. Grab Mommy's purse from the couch. 

The little one nodded quickly, carrying my purse to me. I grabbed it from her arms, organizing a few things to put inside.

- I'm going to call Ally, meet you at the entrance. 

- Alright, I'll go down with Claire. We are going with Alfred. 

- Okay. – That was what Dinah spoke as she left my office.

We walked hurriedly towards the elevator. Claire extended her arm to the panel, where she pressed the first floor button. The little girl smiled excitedly, she loved going to "Le Café", Gerald always made sure to fulfill all of her wishes. Which yielded good hours inside the place.

- Don't even think that you'll eat a bunch of sweets with uncle Gerald, okay?

- But Mommy...

- But nothing, young lady. Now you don't have your Mama to cover your back. – I said tickling her. 

- I have aunt Dinah!

I frowned as I shook my head. Claire put her little hands over her mouth, trying to contain a mischievous laugh. God, Valentina trained the girl perfectly well. Before I could say something, the elevator doors opened, freeing my daughter from any lecture. The little one ran through the Albuquerque's Industry's reception until reaching Alfred who was at the entrance. We waited for a few minutes until seeing Dinah and Ally walking towards us. For a split second I remembered when we met every day at the bistro on the corner of Albuquerque's Industry, to talk about all kinds of subjects that surrounded that company, including Valentina.

- I'm sorry about the delay, Lulu. – Ally said as she approached, depositing a small kiss on my face. 

- Don't apologize, you didn't even take long. 

- I honestly couldn't even if I tried, Dinah came screaming to the seven winds that I needed to hurry up because we would go lunch together.

- Otherwise you would take forever. We know you, Brooke.

It was Dinah's turn to speak in a tone that feigned seriousness. I smiled at both of them and nodded.

- I have to agree with Dinah. 

Ally rolled her eyes and removed her reading glasses from her face, placing them inside the small box.

- Where are we going? 

- To uncle Gerald! – Claire said excitedly. 

- Hey, little one! How are you? 

Ally bent down staying at the same height as Claire, who kissed the older one's face fondly.

- Ally calling Claire little is a bit comical.

- I heard that, Dinah! 

I let out a chuckle and walked out of Albuquerque's Industry. Alfred stepped forward to open the car door. It was a black Mercedes Class S. Valentina always too demanding with her cars, now, ours. Dinah sat in the front, next to Alfred. Ally and I sat in the back along with Claire. Soon we arrived at "Le Café", Claire excitedly ran inside the establishment without even waiting for us. 

- You can have lunch wherever you want, Alfred. I'll stay here for a while. 

- Yes, Mrs. Campos Albuquerque. – The man spoke as he closed the car door – Have a good lunch! 

- You too. 

Upon entering "Le Café", I immediately saw my daughter sitting on one of the stools near the counter, she talked in an entertaining way with Gerald who listened attentively.

- Good Morning, Gerald.

- Good Morning, Miss Luiza. – The man spoke good-humored

It's been years since I met him, and the gray-haired man never lost his sympathy. We always frequented his coffee and restaurant, due to being one of Valentina's favorite places in Miami. And now, it was mine and Claire's as well.

- Where is Valentina? 

- She had to travel, you know how it is. Business. 

- And that frown is because of it? 

- It is, uncle. My Mommy is sad. – Claire said leaning on the counter with her small arms. 

Gerald smiled at the little one and then looked at me. 

- Ah Luiza, despite bad, I'm glad you are like this, it shows that you don't like to stay away from Valentina. 

- I hate it! 

- I imagine so! But I bet that she also hates to stay away from you and the little one over here. 

The man brought his hand to my daughter's long hair, stroking lightly. I heard Dinah's and Ally's voice in the background, they were approaching us.

- I'll take you to a good table! 

Dinah smiled, receiving a hug from the man, who soon after repeated the act with Ally. 

- I already missed the food from here! 

Ally murmured following right behind Gerald who led us to the back of the restaurant, to the more open area. We were in a kind of balcony of that place, very close to the small playground that was there. Claire didn't even ask, she just looked at me with that pair of pleading green eyes, and I nodded with a smile.

- Claire having Valentina's eyes really is a weakness for you. – Ally said laughing as she accommodated herself on the chair next to me.

- I think about that every time I look at her.

- I'll ask one of the girls to come serve you. – Gerald spoke serenely as he rested one of his hands on my shoulder. 

- Alright! But then sit with us to chat a bit.

- Of course, child, it's my pleasure. We'll drink a coffee together. And don't worry about Claire, I'll ask them to make a special dish for her! 

- Thank you so much, Gerald. 

The man nodded and walked away, leaving us alone at the table. At every instant I allowed myself to take a brief look at my daughter, who seemed to have fun on the playground next to the other kids. Claire was a very easily sociable kid, she had a huge easiness to fit in and make friends.

- Relax a little, she's just playing. – Dinah said touching my hand on the table.

- I just don't want her to get hurt or get all dirty.

- Who would say that Luiza would be a so protective mother? – Ally asked laughing. 

I stared at her frowning, and before I could say anything, one of the employees approached. We took few minutes to choose our dishes, but soon the young woman wrote down our orders and left. 

- Don't even start! You have even more care with Thomas! 

- Lulu, Thomas is a very euphoric boy! I really have to be. The other day he was on top of our dog playing horse.

- I bet it was Troy's idea! – Dinah spoke in an amused laugh.

- Tell me about it, Claire wants to do the same thing with Cronos. 

- I don't know what else to do. He's too advanced for a five-year-old. 

- I imagine! Claire with three and a half years is already too smart.

- You two talking about the kids like this makes me want to give up having children!

It was Dinah's turn to speak, somewhat frightened, which made us laugh.

- At least you'll be able to get ready before deciding to have one. It's not like Ally who can get pregnant with another baby at any time. 

- That's true! Something tells me that Ally has a very active sex life. 

- Let's not talk about that! – The shorter one said trying to change the subject.

- Ally, do you remember that book? 50 shades of gray? Did you do something with Troy? Whip or handcuffs? 

- I can't believe you are asking that, oh my God!

I let out a laugh at the evident nervousness that Ally transpired. 

- You are very nervous, Ally! You did! – I spoke accusing her

- Lulu! – She exclaimed.

- Wow, and here I was thinking that Ally was still a church person! 

- I am! The pastor by the way always asks for you. 

- I thought he never wanted to see us again! Remembering Dinah saying that the woman from the choir was hot was tragic.

- Clear signs of the lesbianism possessing my body.

- I never thought, Jane. – Ally said with a mocking laugh.

- Don't even start. We never know what the future holds, what if you divorce Troy and decide to have a wonderful sex experience with a woman? Ally, you have no idea of how delicious it is to..

- In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, be quiet. – The shorter one said extending her hand to Dinah. 

I couldn't control my immense urge to laugh. It was as if the years hadn't passed by, we were still the craziest friends in Miami. Dinah still lived with her love disguised of sexual teasing towards Ally, and her with her Christian teachings. We lived in this little game that amused us, despite the many bullshit spoken, we knew that it was all elements of our strong friendship.

- What? I was just going to say that sucking... 

- Shocked in Christ! – Ally exclaimed. 

Before Dinah could complete the sentence, I quickly put my hand over her mouth, avoiding possible looks around us. I widened my eyes, controlling my urge to laugh.

- I know what you were going to say. It's great, but be quiet, Jane.

Dinah frowned, and I removed my hand from her mouth. She accommodated herself better on the chair and looked at me with a mischievous expression.

- So it's great? Always too lesbian this Luiza. Valentina's fault, the alpha. 

- I've always been.

- Lulu, I have to agree with Dinah. Valentina increased from 50% to 100% the level of lesbianism in you! 

- I defend you and you accuse me? 

- I work with the truth. – Ally said smugly.

We cut the subject when one of the employees approached, serving our dishes delicately. We exchanged an accomplice look, and I think the same thought. "Did she hear our conversation?" I shook my head and waved at Claire who from afar saw me. She smiled and ran towards our table.

- Sit here next to Mommy. Gerald made your dish with a lot of love.

- Mommy, Liam told me that he has two dads! 

- Hmm! Really? And who is Liam? 

Claire accommodated herself in one of the chairs next to me, as I put her dish close to her. Gerald had made a beautiful decoration on my daughter's dish, all very colorful and tidy in a happy face shape.

- He's my friend, I met him in the park now. – She said picking up the fork – There he is! 

I looked at the little boy who was being pushed on the swing by a tall blond man, who I thought to be his father.

- I told him I have two moms! And he asked me if it was fun like having two dads.

- And what did you say?

- I said it was very cool! And that my moms play with me every day.

I smiled at her and deposited a kiss on her face. Early on, Valentina and I taught Claire that in this world there were several types of family, and that all were as beautiful and happy as ours. She seemed to have understood perfectly well, and she loved the idea, which made me much more relaxed. We knew that there was still some ignorance on people's part towards this issue, but we would always give our best to make our daughter open-minded. Lunch went by peacefully, between a pleasant and enjoyable conversation. Dinah played with my daughter, who seemed to love it. While Ally and I talked about some matters of Albuquerque's Industry. It didn't take long, and my friends said goodbye, according to both of them there was an important meeting in the financial sector, and they couldn't be late.

- We'll see you later, Lulu. – I heard Dinah say as she walked away with Ally.

I got up from my chair and walked to an even closer area to the small park. Claire was on the seesaw with little Liam, they seemed to have gotten along well. I got distracted for a split second, when I felt someone approaching.

- I feel a little bit older every time I see this little girl. – Gerald spoke when he stopped by my side.

I looked away from my daughter to look at the old gray-haired man. He was wearing brown pants, a white button up shirt and on top of it a beautiful blue sweater. Gerald had the appearance of that silly grandfather, who did everything for his grandchildren and children, it was at least charming for a man like him. 

- I'm serious, to think that I saw Valentina this size and now I see her daughter is too much for me. 

- I imagine. Valentina was like this too? 

The man nodded as he analyzed Claire. 

- Claire has a lot of Valentina, but she has a lot of you too! It's incredible! 

- That's wonderful to hear! We know that we couldn't have a unique combination of Valentina and me. But we did our best. 

- She is perfect, Luiza. 

- Yes, she is the best thing in my life. Along with Valentina and Sofi of course. 

The man laughed and walked slowly to the marble bench that was there. "Le Café" had a beautiful garden inside, which gave a calm and familiar air, different from the outside reality. I followed his path, sitting next to him.

- You don't think about having another child? – He asked curiously.

My eyes accompanied the man's countenance, who seemed to hope for a positive response from me.

- We thought about it, actually Valentina has been asking that a lot. – I let a brief smile escape from my lips.

- I imagine so! Miss Luiza, you changed Valentina in an incredible way!

- She changed me too.

- I truly believe that. But I think the change you did in her was much greater! I knew that Valentina was a sweet woman, despite that tough cover. But a so careful mother like she is? I never imagined!

Gerald was right, no one expected that version of Valentina. Well, actually I always expected it, and I wasn't surprised at all. I always felt that Valentina was more than what everyone saw. I always knew that behind that strong and imposing woman cover, there was a sweet and loving wife. Valentina was a perfect mix, every detail that made up her personality, her body, her way of being, it was perfect for me. Like a merger of qualities and flaws, which together were transformed in the most beautiful creation of God. At the thought of the person that fate placed in my life, to hold my hand and to face any situation that opposed against me, she was, and always would be the best of all

*Flash Back On* 

- Do you think I can feel something? – Valentina asked curiously as she placed her hand on my belly.

I flashed a broad smile at the sight of her so eager for a sign of our baby. We were lying on the couch of our apartment. After an exhausting day in Albuquerque's Industry, we decided to stay home and watch a movie. Sofi was in Valentina's parents' house, in a kind of improvised vacation by Mr. Albuquerque. So, Valentina and I had the whole house to ourselves

- Baby, I'm only with a few months. You can't feel anything yet.

She frowned, making a sulky face. I brought my hand to her hair, stroking Valentina's locks. I was sitting on the couch and my wife was lying with her head rested on my thighs. She closed her eyes when she felt my caresses, and sighed heavily. 

- When do you think we'll be able to feel the baby move? 

- I don't know, I think with about four or five months. 

- Damn, it will take forever! – She complained making me laugh.

- So much hurry!

- I just want to feel the baby there.

Valentina opened her eyes and looked at me, she turned her body on the couch, lying face down, to then inch closer. Gently she lifted a part of my blouse and slid the palm of her hand on my belly.

- What do you think it will be? – She asked thoughtfully.

She looked beautiful that night, she was wearing short jeans and a white shirt of soft fabric, everything very simple. But Valentina didn't need absolutely anything to look beautiful, she already was.

- I don't know. 

- Ah, come on, Lu! I don't believe that you have no idea. 

- Well, I think it will be a girl. 

- Really? 

I nodded quickly. 

- I also think it will be a girl. Normani said she thinks it will be a boy. 

- Dinah too! 

- Well, it doesn't matter if it is a boy or a girl. I will love it the same way! – My wife said as she made a soft caress with the tip of her fingers on my belly. 

- Really? 

- Of course, baby. 

Valentina lifted her body and sat next to me on the couch, folding her legs to accommodate herself closer to me.

- You have no idea how happy and excited I am that you are pregnant, Lu. God, I have the feeling that I am going to explode of such happiness just to think that we are going to have a baby together.

- I am too, Valen. A lot! 

- We'll be very happy with this baby here, I'm sure! 

- Promise? – My eyes fixed on hers, which stared at me hopefully. 

- I promise, baby.

*Flash Back Off* 

I heard the loud laugh of my daughter who ran towards me, she was already sweating because of the frantic games with the others. She walked over, putting her hands on my legs, as she chattered nonstop about how she had fun there. We talked a few more minutes with Gerald, who showed interest in Claire's stories. Then we said goodbye to him and went back home with Alfred

-----

- Let's go young lady, to bed. – I said as I led my daughter to the bedroom.

- Mommy, I don't want to. 

- It's already getting late, and Sofi is already lying there. 

- Are we going to sleep all together? 

- Yes! I want both of you with me. 

We entered the room, it was cold, to the point of making me shiver. Claire ran to the bed, where Sofi was already sitting, wrapped with the white thick comforter. 

  -Your bed is huge! – Sofi exclaimed as she lie on the bed. 

- Valentina likes space. 

- I don't know why, I see you sleeping together and you two are always cuddling. 

I looked at my sister, letting an involuntary smile escape from my lips. Sofia was right, Valentina had a habit of always wanting to sleep holding onto me, perhaps that's why I missed having my wife with me so much in the nights she traveled.

- It's good to sleep like that, but now enough chit chat! 

- Can we watch a movie?

I looked at both of them who had a pleading look towards me. I let out a heavy sigh and nodded. Soon we were all under the thick bed covers as we watched an animated movie that Sofi had chosen. Claire was exhausted, we had an excited afternoon full of games in the pool, she would soon fall asleep. I brought my hand to her wavy locks, initiating a soft caress, which made her sigh. Claire accommodated herself closer to my body, probably in search of warmth. The room was dark and cold, which helped that atmosphere that soon would lull my little one's sleep. I didn't pay attention to the movie, we had already seen it a dozen times, but the two of them loved it and I wouldn't oppose to watch it. My thoughts wandered to my wife, when I heard my phone ringing.

Slowly I got up from the bed to not wake my daughter who had fallen asleep. After a lost sleep, Claire would sleep through the whole morning, and that was all I least wanted. I grabbed the device from the nightstand and went to a farthest area of the bedroom.

- Hello? 

- Miss your wife? – I heard Valentina's voice sound on the other side of the line. 

- I don't know, let me think.

- What? 

I let out a chuckle as I walked to the balcony of our bedroom. 

- Of course I miss you, baby. I thought you wouldn't call me. 

- I'm sorry, Lu. I just got to the hotel. We spent the whole day in the branch office here and then Alfredo took me to dinner along with some other people. 

- Other people? 

She sighed on the other side of the line, she was probably smiling.

  -Yes, some beautiful Canadians, you know? – She teased.

I bit my lip and walked to the other side of the balcony. I knew that Valentina was joking and teasing me, but I could not not get angry with the possibility of having women hitting on my wife. 

- You better have behaved, Albuquerque. 

- I behaved, I kept thinking about a wonderful Latina who happens to be married to me. – Her voice tone was seductive, shit, I loved it.

- Don't try to soften me. 

Valentina laughed.

- I love you feisty like this, Lu. I feel the urge to kiss you, too bad I can't.

- Too bad indeed, I'll kiss another then! – I shot back with a sarcastic tone.

- Luiza Campos Albuquerque, don't even think about such possibility. – She let out in a serious and bossy tone.

I sighed as I heard her. Valentina was now less jealous than before, perhaps because now our relationship was based on total trust. But she still had her moments of jealousy, which modesty aside I loved it. Healthy jealousy is always welcome, right?

- Then don't take long to come back. I already miss you. 

- I'll be back tomorrow afternoon, baby. 

 - Alright, I'll wait for you in Albuquerque's Industry. 

- It's fine by me! Where is my little nugget? I miss her already. 

I smiled at the melancholic way she referred to our daughter. Valentina and Claire were always glued, always hugging or exchanging affection. 

- She's sleeping, baby. You called too late. But I can wake her up. 

- No, you don't need to. Let her sleep, we know that if she wakes up now she won't sleep so soon. – She let out with a soft and muffled laugh. 

- That's true. But you can call tomorrow to talk to her! 

- Yes, I'll call. Now I'm going to sleep cause I'm very tired, and I imagine you are too. 

- I am, a lot. Claire and Sofi wore out all my energies. – I spoke feeling my body weigh. 

- Tomorrow I'll wear out the rest. – Her voice came out low, almost hoarse. 

- I'll wait for it. – I countered with mischievousness – But go to sleep, rest so you can do what you have to do tomorrow and come back soon. 

- Alright, Miss Campos! As you command. – She pretended to be serious, and then laughed – Good Night, baby. Sleep tight and give Sofi and Claire a goodnight kiss for me. Tomorrow I'm back. 

- Leave it to me. Good Night, baby. I love you. 

- I love you too, my Lu. – Those were her words before hanging up. 

I went back into the room in slow steps, I didn't want to wake up both girls who were fast asleep on my bed. Tiptoeing I approached the bed, leaving my phone back on the nightstand, to then go back to my place. I missed Valentina in that bed so much, in this moment she would be letting me accommodate myself on her body, as she stroked my hair lightly. It's amazing how you start being dependent on someone when you are in love, perhaps it's an involuntary process, the other person ends up being your pillar to support the silliest moments to the more serious. Every detail of your everyday ends up interconnecting with the other person's, in a clear message that we'll always be connected. I grabbed the TV remote to turn it off. The room got completely dark and silent, now I could only hear both girls' breathing next to me. Sofi was sleeping in the corner, wrapped in the duvet, while Claire hugged the small unicorn that Valentina had given her. I kissed my daughter's face lightly before snuggling closer to her. 

I felt Valentina's hands caress my belly in a gentle and affectionate gesture. I was sitting on our bed, leaning on the pile of soft pillows made by my wife, who was sitting next to me with a silly smile on her lips. She had two small little pink shoes on her fingers, which she used to make a kind of walk on my belly. 

- Come on, little nugget! I want to feel you move. – She whispered closer to my belly. 

If there was one thing that Valentina loved, it was talking to our daughter. I was in the eighth month of pregnancy, soon we would have the pleasure to meet the new member of our family. 

- You know that this is a bit uncomfortable, right? – I asked laughing. 

- I'm sorry, Lu! But I love to feel her move. Have you noticed that she always does it when I'm talking to her? 

I nodded smiling, to then capture Valentina's hand quickly, putting it in one area of my belly. Valentina's eyes sparkled when she felt her move there. 

- Hey, sweetie. Mama is dying to see you, you know? Today we bought your crib and your stroller. I wanted green, but your Mommy chose pink. I hope you like it! 

My wife spoke very close to my belly, as if she was telling a secret to the baby. Claire, as we had chosen, moved inside my belly slowly, causing that little kick. 

- She must have liked it, she moved a lot. – I said to Valentina who smiled. 

The woman inched closer, now lying partially on the bed. Valentina caressed once again to then deposit a kiss on the area. I felt my chest fill with a wonderful feeling, an unexplainable feeling. Valentina's evident happiness infected whoever it was, no one there was as happy as her for me being pregnant. She fulfilled all my urges and desires, no matter the time nor the place. She took care of me as if I was the best thing in her life. 

- We are so eager to have you, sweetie. I bet that you'll flood this apartment with so much happiness. You'll make me a silly mama, and Luiza a loving and responsible mommy. Because honestly, responsible I won't be. 

Maybe the pregnancy hormones were affecting me more than expected. I felt my eyes water at the scene, Valentina moved between my legs, while talking entertained with our daughter who was still in my belly. 

- But don't you worry about that, we'll find away to escape the lectures. I promise! 

- You are already teaching that to our daughter, Albuquerque? – I asked pretending to be serious. 

- She has to be born ready to face the rules in this house. Soon you'll have one more to increase the mess that Sofi, Cronos and I make. 

- I'm screwed with all of you here! 

Valentina held in the laugh and lifted her body, staying face to face with me . 

- You really are. – Valentina inched closer, to the point of letting her nose brush slowly on mine – But you'll love it, I'm sure. 

- I will? 

She had her eyes closed, as she brushed her face on mine. I sighed and smiled. 

- You will! We'll have the best family in this whole world! 

I opened my eyes and came across that pair of green eyes, right in front of me, they were in a clear and bright tone. I smiled at her, who did the same before brushing her lips on mine. 

- We will. 

- Yes, baby. I promised that I would make you happy and I will! 

- You already make me happy, Valentina. You made me the happiest woman of all. 

She deposited a kiss on my lips and smiled. 

- I love you, I love you more than you can imagine, Luiza. 

- Oh my God! What now? – Valentina asked clearly nervous. 

- Valentina, relax, okay? Breathe. – Dinah tried to calm her down.

I saw my wife walking from one side to the other, with a nervous and worried countenance. I couldn't calm her down, my waters had broken and my contractions were becoming even more frequent. Alfredo held me in his arms, walking to the parking lot. Valentina walked behind along with Dinah and Vero. 

- Albuquerque, for the love of God! Who's having a baby now is Luiza. So calm down. 

- Vero, it's my wife who's having our daughter! How am I going stay calm?! 

If I didn't feel so much pain I could laugh at the situation. But that wasn't the best time. I sat in the backseat, and then Alfredo took over the steering wheel. Dinah sat next to him and Valentina next to me. 

- Fuck, this is horrible. – I said loudly when I felt the strong contraction. 

Valentina looked at me scared, but held my hand delicately. I squeezed it more than I should, because I saw her white hand turn red in a matter of seconds. 

- Easy, baby. 

Valentina as much as she was nervous, she tried to pass all the calmness in the world to me. 

- Lulu, breathe! Breathe real deep! – Dinah shouted. 

- God! – I exclaimed loudly, holding my belly. 

- I'm gonna be sick. – Valentina whispered. 

- No, baby. You can't be sick right now. Nope. – I said nervously.

Valentina was paler than usual, if that was even possible. She stared at me scared and at the same time worried, I knew that that was totally different from what she expected. We had scheduled the surgery to have the baby, but Claire decided to come early that morning. 

- Alfredo, for the love of God, speed up the car! – I shouted. 

- We have to get there as soon as possible. 

- Fuck, this is nerve-racking! – Dinah exclaimed. 

When we arrived to the hospital we were immediately taken care of, before long I was inside the delivery room, feeling that infernal pain take over my whole body. At first, Valentina refused to watch, she said she would pass out in there and would get in the way of everything. But in the end, there she was, holding my hand, asking affectionately for me to push hard and to take deep breaths. I felt my sight blur amid the colossal pain that made me cry out. 

- Take deep breaths, baby. Almost there, come on. 

- I can't anymore, oh my God, Valentina! – I groaned in pain, squeezing her hand. I felt the tears running down the corner of my eyes. 

- Yes, you can! You are almost there, our daughter will be born, Lu. 

It didn't take long, and the baby's crying flooded that entire room. I rested my body on the stretcher, feeling my chest rise and fall quickly. I opened my eyes and stared at Valentina's smile towards me. 

- I love you. – She whispered before letting go of my hand. 

Claire cried scandalously, making me smile weakly. Valentina approached the doctor who put the baby in a small blue blanket. In the most careful way possible, Valentina accommodated our daughter in her arms for the first time. You have no idea how much that moment was important to me, to us. Seeing the woman of my life holding our daughter, with that big smile and teary eyes, it was the best moment of our life. I saw a few tears trickle down my wife's face, who whispered something to our little baby. 

I sighed heavily, closing and opening my eyes slowly. Whereupon my wife approached me. 

- Hey, Mommy, welcome our baby. 

I couldn't help myself, I let the tears fall down in pure emotion. Claire was gradually ceasing her healthy cry, as I stared at her reddish little face. 

- Welcome, sweetie. – I whispered, receiving a smile from Valentina. 

I woke up with the sun hitting my face, as I felt my body being shaken on the mattress. Claire jumped on the bed in pure excitement. Sofia laughed in the corner, next to Cronos who tried to pull the sheet.

- Oh my God, you can only be kidding me! 

- Mommy! – Claire shouted throwing herself on top of me – Good Morning! – She whispered sweetly, depositing a kiss on my cheek. 

- Can I know why so much excitement? – I asked sleepily. 

- Aunt Ally said Thomas wants to play!

- And...? 

- She said that she's coming here to pick her up. – Sofi said. 

I sat up on the bed slowly, rubbing my eyes that with difficulty opened. 

- I'm the last to know? 

Sofia shrugged with a smile.

-----

I had a pile of folders on the desk. All of them still needed to be properly analyzed to see if the projects would be accepted or not. But I confess that on that day I didn't have the patience, it was already past 5PM and I hadn't received any sign of Valentina. I had stayed practically all morning in Albuquerque's Industry, and then I would still go to "Imperium" to sign the contract for the new supplier that Normani had hired. I huffed irritated as I drank the Whiskey in my glass. 

I can't believe this, Valentina!

I got distracted for a split second with the view of the afternoon outside, it was already getting dark and forming a wonderful evening. When I heard my phone vibrating on the glass desk. I moved quickly in hopes of being Valentina, but Normani's name flashed on the iPhone's screen.

- Hi, Mani. 

- Wow, so much excitement! I expected at least to be greeted with an "Hello, Queen". 

I let out an involuntary laugh after what she said. 

- I'm in a bad mood, don't make me laugh. 

- What happened? 

- Valentina! That... 

- Hey, no cussing the wife. – Normani spoke seriously – That's only acceptable in bed. 

- Idiot. What do you want? 

I turned in the swivel chair, stopping with my body before the desk.

- I want to know if you are coming here. I'm just waiting for you to come to sign this contract. I told you that he'll come here tomorrow morning.

- Can't I sign it tomorrow morning? I still have to go to Ally's house to pick up Claire and Sofi. – I grumbled in a bad mood.

- Nope! I told you in advance, Luiza.

- I know, I would go there with Valentina after leaving Albuquerque's Industry. But that idiot didn't show up.

- Do you think something happened? 

- No! I called Alfredo and he said that she was watching the project of some Canadian suppliers.

- So she won't come back today? 

- No, and if she comes back she'll sleep on the couch.

Normani let out a laugh on the other side of the line.

- I doubt that, you must be missing her to death.

- I am, but now my anger is bigger.

- Cheer up! Hey, let's go out today. Me, you and Dinah.

- I'm not in the mood, Mani. Not to mention that I don't want to be the third wheel.

- Stop being grumpy. It will be fun, I promise that we won't flaunt our love in front of your grumpy self.

- You are so funny today, Kordei. 

- I'm always, dear. Now I'm serious, we'll wait for you here in "Imperium".

- I'll think about it. 

- Kisses. – She said before hanging up.

I threw the phone on the desk, when it rang again. I huffed thinking about what Normani had forgotten to tell me, it was always like this. I grabbed the phone once again, now seeing Valentina's name.

- Hi, baby. – She said in a low tone, almost guilty. 

- What, Valentina? – I cut her angrily. 

- Lu, I know you are mad at me. But look, I'll take the first flight tomorrow. 

- You promised to come today, Albuquerque! 

- I know, but I had some unforeseen events here. 

- Great, very good. – I said angrily. 

- Baby, don't be like this...

- I'm normal, Valentina. Now see if you finish what you have to do there and take the first flight tomorrow.

- I'll do that. What are you going to do today?

- I'm going out with the girls. To some club, I don't know.

- Excuse me? – She asked somewhat serious. 

- Exactly what you heard. But don't worry, Claire will stay with Ally. I'm going with Dinah and Mani. 

- Luiza..

- I'm busy right now, we'll talk tomorrow.

- Are you really going to stay angry because of something that is not my fault? 

- Bye, Valentina. 

I ended the call and threw the phone away. Valentina knew how much I hated when we planned something and she couldn't go. She always tried to make me forget with her caresses, but they didn't always work out. Especially when she was kilometers away from me.

The hours went by quickly, in the midst of so much work I didn't even notice that it was already dark.

God.

I packed my things, putting everything inside my purse. I grabbed my phone that was lying on my office's couch, noticing some missed calls. All from Valentina. I made sure not to open the notifications, I didn't want to throw in the towel and answer her calls and say that my anger was me missing her. Instead I left the device in silence and went on my way. It was 8PM and I was on my way to "Imperium", where Normani and Dinah were waiting for me. I saw the screen of my phone flash, so I grabbed it seeing a text from Valentina: 

Valentina: I hope that your irritation passes, and that you call me. I miss you too. I love you.

I rolled my eyes and dropped the phone again

- Idiot, stupid, I hate you. – I cussed, but in thought murmured that I loved her and missed her.

I parked my car in front of "Imperium"'s building. That night it was closed because of some kind of maintenance that I was unaware of. But I didn't care, Normani knew very well what to do with that place, so much so, that it was the best nightclub in all of downtown Miami. I got out of my car, seeing Dinah's car parked right beside, they were already waiting for me. I walked to the entrance, which was open. 

The place looked completely empty, total silence. I only heard the sound of my heels against the corridor wooden floor. The heaters in that area must be off, the cold made me better accommodate the beige overcoat on my body. I walked slowly to the entrance of "Imperium"'s main room. Today the club was much more sophisticated than years ago, everything in the best possible quality. In the center was a huge oval bar, and in its center was a small stage with a pole, for people to watch the show while drinking there. In the back, the main stage was still familiar, now with more glamour of course. I frowned when I noticed the reflectors on, surely they had forgotten to turn them off. I crossed the room slowly, when a light cannon lit up on a table, one single table in front of the main stage. On it was a metal bucket with a bottle that I thought to be champagne, and two glasses. I looked around, trying to see who was there. 

- Dinah? Normani? – I called, but there was no answer.

I took a deep breath and approached the illuminated table by the light cannon. On it was a small envelope. I grabbed the piece of paper, removing the card that was inside. And with perfectly drawn and familiar letters was written:

"Today we'll do it differently. I will be your stripper. – Michelle"

Before I could think about what was going on there, the light cannon lit up in the center of the main stage, on the body of the beautiful woman. My heart pounded in violent and frenetic beats. I knew that body, better than anyone. And it was now leaning against the pole dancing pole. She had her head arched back, letting her long hair fall on her back like a beautiful waterfall. A red overcoat, high heels and a mask.

I swallowed hard, static. 

- Valentina? 

-----