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Post by Admin on Jul 5, 2016 16:48:35 GMT -5
Hello everyone! Okay so this would be my first Velvet fic so I hope you all like it. I'll try and update it as often as I can, so keep checking this post for new chapters. I hope you enjoy it and I hope it inspires you to write your own GH and Velvet fics so we can read them. Summary: It's been seven years since Alberto Marquez has been inside Galerias Velvet. He's been waiting for the day when he could see the love of his life, Ana Rivera, whom he left behind after being sent off to London by his parents when he was younger. Now that he's older, his father has asked him to return to help run the family business, but Alberto has other plans. He wants to begin a new life with Ana by his side. But will this new life be possible? Chapter One Seven years. Seven long years since Alberto Marquez had last set foot inside the infamous Galerias Velvet. For him, Velvet was much more than a business, it was his home. He had been longing for the moment when he would return and the moment had finally arrived. However, his desire to return was heavily influenced by someone he left when he was a young man. Now, at 29 years old, he was back and ready to fight for the woman he left behind. Despite his parents effort to make him forget about her, he never had and knew he never would. The day Don Emilio brought his young niece into the store was the best day of Alberto's young life. The moment he met Ana Rivera, he knew she was the girl he wanted to spend his life with. They had become inseparable. This displeased his father and step-mother who forbade him to be with a common seamstress. But to Alberto, Ana's status in society never mattered. He loved Ana for who she was: smart, funny, beautiful, selfless and courageous. He admired her ambition and wanted to be by her side while she achieved all her dreams. He knew his parents would never let them be together, so he asked Ana if she would runaway with him to Paris. A city she had always wanted to visit. But their plan ended before it could even begin when his parents and her uncle caught them sneaking out. Looking back, he regretted the attempt because it's what caused him to be shipped off to London, never being able to see Ana again. Until now. He had written her letters. Tons of letters. She had never written him back, but that never deterred him. He knew Ana would be here and knew neither time nor distance could ever separate their love for each other. As he steps foot inside the store, for the first time in seven years, a familiarity takes over him. The store is exactly how he remembers it. "Don Alberto, how was your trip?" An older man greets him. "Don Emilio," Alberto smiles, recognizing Ana's uncle, "It was good. How are you?" "Good. We weren't expecting you until tonight, but I assume your family is waiting for your arrival upstairs," he admits. Alberto looks around the store once more. He smiles when he sees someone quickly turn away from him on the balcony. He knows it must be Ana. His heart skips a beat at the thought. Don Emilio notices. "Some things don't change, huh?" Alberto says with a smirk. "Well, they do say it's not things that change, it's the people who do," Emilio admits. Alberto excuses himself and heads toward the elevator. He is greeted by a number of woman who all can't help but notice the handsome suitor. Once he reaches the top floor, he greets his father, Rafael. "Alberto, my son," his father greets him with a hug. "You're the one who wanted me to go to London," Alberto jokes. "Now you're ready to run the business, but first you need to change your clothes," his father says, noticing his casual looking outfit. "This is the fashion in London, father," Alberto admits. "Really? Maybe London wasn't the best idea." Alberto chuckles. "Are we going to argue about this or are you going to show me the designs for the show tonight?" He asks. They head down to the workroom where he can hear the seamstresses working. He's disappointed when he doesn't see Ana, but figures she will arrive at some point. He makes sure to steal some glances inside that room to keep an eye out for her as his father explains to him his ideas for the next season. "What do you think?" His father asks. "It sounds good," he expresses. "Good? I tell you all these ideas and that's all you can say?" A hint of frustration in his father's voice. "Look, father, I think you should start revolutionizing fashion. Target younger customers with younger designers," Alberto admits, his focus now solely on his father. "I have loyal customers who still shop here because they like our simple designs. Nothing radical," his father states. "You want me to help you run this company and we can't even agree on the direction of it," Alberto admits. His father doesn't know what to say. After several seconds of silence, his father finally speaks. "You're right, son. You know what? Let's discuss this later. Let's focus on tonight's show first. You want to know who's coming?" He says, leading Alberto outside the workroom, but not before he spots Ana entering from the opposite direction. She looks as beautiful as he remembers. He smiles at her, as his father leads him away, oblivious to his son's moment of contentment. Before his eyes can leave her face, he's certain he saw her smile back at him. Ana Rivera's heart raced a little at the sight of her first and only love, Alberto Marquez. It had been the first time she'd seen him in seven years. She had heard of his return only hours before and now having him standing only a few feet from her was a lot to take in. She had only been telling her friends, Luisa, Rita, and Clara about him for years. She had never been with anyone else and he was the sole reason why. She knew he would return eventually and the time has finally arrived. But she wasn't going to let him off easy. Since he left to London, she had never received anything from him. Not a phone call, not even a letter. She cried herself to sleep for months the day he left to London. She was heartbroken and when she never received anything from him, there were times where she felt as though he forgot about her. But that never stopped her from believing that their love was strong enough to overcome time and distance. An hour after seeing Alberto, she walks into her room and notices a gift box on her bed. She opens it, unveiling a beautiful, elegant red dress. It had been one of the very first dresses she had seen when she first came to Velvet as a young girl. It was a dress that inspired her to want to become a designer. She could help but feel the soft fabric of the dress. "That's the one you always liked, right?" Alberto greets her from the door with a smile on his face. She quickly puts down the dress and heads for the door, closing it. "What are you doing here, Alberto?" She asks, in a frustrated tone. "I came to bring you a gift," Alberto admits, noticing her tone. "This dress isn't for me. Take it back," she says, handing him the box with the dress. "Ana, listen to me, please," he begins, resisting to take the dress. "Why? It's all going to be lies," she says. "What lies? When did I lie to you, Ana?" "I don't know. You tell me?" "Never," Alberto states. "Exactly. That's because you never tried to contact me. You expect me to wait and what? You expect everything's going to change with a dress?" she states. "What are you talking about, Ana? I wrote to you every day for a year. I wrote you a month ago to tell you I was coming back," he explains. Ana looks at him in surprise. She knows he's being honest. When she doesn't respond, he shows himself out the door. "I brought you the dress because I want you to come with me to the show tonight. I don't care what anyone says, Ana," he says through the door, "If you come, we'll start over. If not, I'll stop bothering you. Just look for the letters, please." Later that evening, Alberto exits a limo long with his father, step-mother, and younger sister. They are greeted by reporters asking if Alberto is going to take over the family business. Alberto responds jokingly that his father is never going to retire. Once they get through the press, Alberto is greeted inside with a hug from his best friend, Mateo Ruiz. Alberto had met Mateo in London several years before. They shared a lot of adventures together and formed a strong bond. They were like brothers. Similar to Alberto, Mateo's parents sent him to London while they went through a separation. "And the girl?" Mateo jokes with a smirk, noticing Alberto is alone. "And you? I don't see any girls near you," Alberto chuckles. "The night is still young," Mateo responds. "Alberto!" His father calls to him. Alberto excuses himself from his best friend and heads toward his father who is accompanied by a beautiful woman whom he recognizes. "Cristina, how are you?" He greets her with two kisses, altering between both cheeks. Cristina Otegui is a woman he saw often growing up. They mostly saw each other during social events, but he did see her a few times in London. Despite her subtle advances toward him, Alberto had never seen her as anything more than a friend. "I'm good. Why didn't you tell me you were coming back?" She asks. His father excuses himself, leaving the two of them to talk. "I just got back this morning. Besides, I'm sure a busy woman like you had better things to do," he admits. "Alberto, you're my friend. Everything else could wait," she says. Alberto smiles bashfully, appreciating her words. After several seconds of silence between them, Cristina decides to make her move. "Do you want to go somewhere quieter so we can talk?" She asks, hopeful. When he doesn't respond quick enough, she makes her way to an elevator nearby, looking at him with flirtatious eyes. When she disappears through the elevator doors, Alberto doesn't follow. Instead, he looks around the crowded room and that's when he sees her. The woman of his dreams stands across the room from him wearing the beautiful red dress. He smiles at the sight of her as she notices him. She makes her way to an elevator, following an older lady inside as Alberto races inside it too. "What floor?" He asks "The tenth,' the older woman answers. "The powder room," Ana responds. Alberto presses the respective floors as the elevator doors close. He stand behind the two ladies. "The powder room's on the thirteenth floor. You must be the only woman here who doesn't know what floor it's on," he says with a smile, "You don't know this store? But you're wearing one of the most iconic dresses of Velvet," when she doesn't respond, he continues, "Am I wrong, senorita?" Ana smiles but refuses to answer. "Ok, ok. You're not going to answer my questions. I'll just have to guess," he says as he looks her over, "I didn't see you come in with anyone, so you don't have a boyfriend. You're not wearing a ring, so you're not married. You're not wearing any jewelry, so that says a lot about you. You're a simple woman. Am I right? I'm right ha?" "You're very observant," Ana chimes. "Yeah, we have that in that common," he says with a smirk, "Admit you were looking at me too?" "I wasn't looking at you, I was looking at the party," Ana says with a smile, "Despite what you think, not everything is about you." Seconds later, the elevator door opens to the tenth floor and the older lady leaves the elevator, but not before glancing back at the two young lovers. Once the elevator doors close, Ana turns toward Alberto and does what she has been longing to do for a very long time. She wraps her arms around his neck and kisses him. He returns her kiss just as passionately. Having missed everything about her. When they reach the roof, Alberto takes Ana's hand and leads her to the balcony. He lifts her up on the ledge as they take in the view. "So you found my letters?" He asks. Ana nods. She had found them earlier in a box in her uncle's room. She was disappointed that her uncle would do such a thing, especially after being the one to see her cry herself to sleep for months, making her think that Alberto had forgotten all about her. "I'm sorry, Ana," Alberto apologizes. "It's okay. You're here now," she says, giving him a kiss on the lips. "Tell me about London," she says, excitedly. "You'd love it, Ana," he admits. "How do the people dress?" She asks "Is that all that matters to you?" He laughs. "Well, what people wear says a lot about them," she admits. Alberto looks at Ana and takes in the moment. He takes in her smile, the look in her eyes, and her enthusiasm. "Come with me to London, Ana," he says. "You're crazy," Ana chuckles, assuming that he must be joking. "No, I'm not. I'm tired. I'm tired of doing what others want me to do and not what I want to do. We're not kids anymore, Ana," he reasons, "Do you want to come with me or not?" Ana looks into his eyes and doesn't need to think twice about it. She'd follow him to the end of the world if she had to. She answers with the biggest grin on her face, "I'll go." Alberto kisses her again. "We'll leave tomorrow night," he says, lifting her up from the ledge and into his arms. As they head back down to see the show, Alberto stops by his father's office. "I'll meet you downstairs," Alberto tells Ana as she stays inside the elevator, watching him go to his father who is standing just across the hall from the elevator doors. "After all this time and you still think it's going to work out with that seamstress?" His father sighs as he walks into his office. "She's not just a seamstress, father. She has a name," Alberto states, following him inside. "Yes, Ana. Ana Rivera. Emilio's niece. If it wasn't for him, I'd have thrown her out a long time ago," he says. "You're a lot of things, father, but not heartless. Besides, you know I'd have never forgiven you," Alberto states. His father sighs again. "It's never going to work out, son. You come from two different worlds." "That's because you and Gloria and everyone else doesn't want it to. But we have plans, father. Plans to get as far away from the people who keep trying to drive us apart," Alberto stammers. "It doesn't matter where you go, son. In the end, you'll always be a Marquez and she'll always be a seamstress," his father states. Alberto knows there's nothing he can do to change his father's mind. Before he can say anything he'll regret, he begins to walk toward the door to leave. "We're bankrupt," his father says before he can walk out the door. Alberto turns to him in shock. "What do you mean?" He asks. His father begins to pour himself and Alberto a drink as he explains. "We're behind in payments. There's too much debt. If tonight's show doesn't do well, it's over." "No, father, that's impossible. You would never let that happen," Alberto refuses to believe what his father has just told him. When his father takes a gulp of his drink, he knows it's true. "I wanted you back here to help me fix this and now you want to go run off with that girl," his father replies. "I can do both, dad, but you won't let me," Alberto fires back. "If you're seen with her tonight, it'll ruin everything, Alberto. This store can't afford a scandal right now," his father states. Alberto thinks about what his father has just said and he suddenly feels defeated. He knows his father is right. A scandal like this can tip off the press to want to dig more and more digging will lead to more scandals that could potentially put them out of business for good. "And if tonight isn't a success? What are you going to do then?" Alberto asks. His father turns away from him for a moment and takes another sip of his drink. "You remember Gerardo Otegui?" He asks. Alberto nods, remembering Cristina's father. "He's offered to pay off the debts and give me loan," his father explains. "Well then, you have it under control," Alberto says turning to walk out the door again. "Under one condition, Alberto," his father continues as Alberto stops to listen, "If you agree to marry Cristina."
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Post by northboundtrain on Jul 5, 2016 22:43:54 GMT -5
Can't wait!
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Post by northboundtrain on Jul 7, 2016 20:56:26 GMT -5
Wow! I was reading it and I was mostly focused on the way you were giving the characters' thoughts behind the dialogue (which I think you nailed for both Alberto and Ana) ...then when it got to the end I realized how this was going to be different -- with Rafael's announcement. Does this mean he won't commit suicide? Or will that come later?
I can't wait to read the rest and see what else is different as a result.
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Post by Admin on Jul 12, 2016 13:26:04 GMT -5
^Thank you! I actually really enjoy writing their thoughts so I'm glad you thought I nailed them. haha Yeah where I'm going with this is a slight change but I think will make a huge difference in what happens. Anyway, here's the next chapter! Chapter Two
Alberto looks at his father in utter shock. After several moments, he finds his voice. "No. I'm not going to marry her." "Son, you have to. It's the only way to save the store," Rafael states. "No, there has to be another way," Alberto stammers. "Cristina is a nice girl, Alberto. She'll make you happy," his father continues. "But I don't love her. I'm not going to marry someone just to save the store," he reasons. His father sighs. He takes the last remaining sips of his drink. "Think about it, Alberto. If this store closes, the Marquez family won't be the only ones who suffer." Alberto despises his father for giving him the guilt trip because he knows what the ramifications of this store closing could do. He takes a gulp of his drink. "Gerardo will be here tomorrow afternoon to hear your answer," Rafael finishes, exiting his office and "Gerardo will be here tomorrow afternoon to hear your answer," Rafael finishes, exiting his office and leaving his son to digest the news. Alberto slams his glass down in frustration and several moments later heads back downstairs. He spots Ana on the balcony, a place they used to always sit to watch the parades when they were younger. Alberto takes that moment to sneak up behind her and wrap his arms around her waist. Ana turns quickly in surprise. "Aye, Alberto," she laughs. He smiles back at her, wanting to stay in this moment with her. Wishing he had never went to speak with his father. "So, how'd it go?" she asks. When he doesn't answer, she grows concerned. "Let's leave right now, Ana. Let's go to London," he suddenly pleads, "Let's get away from here." "Alberto, you're crazy. The show's about to start," she smiles, but the smile quickly fades when she reads his face again, "What's wrong?" she demands. Alberto looks at her and sighs. Hating the idea of even considering marrying anyone other than her. But he didn't want to lie to her either. "Velvet is bankrupt," he admits. Ana takes in the news calmly. She considers what this new information means. Work had been slower, and she hadn't been the only one to notice. "If we leave now, we can leave this store behind and start over. Together, Ana," he says. "But what about my uncle? And Rita? Luisa? Clara? And everyone else who works here? They'd be out of work, Alberto," Ana explains. Alberto can see the concern on her face and wishes he can take it away. He knows what she's going to say next and is heartbroken. "I can't leave, Alberto. Not until I know they'll be okay," she admits. As the lights begin to dim and the music starts below, Ana walks away from Alberto and back to her room. Alberto stands there, hopeless. This was not the way the night of his return was supposed to go. Back in her room, Ana shuts the door and takes a moment to look around her room. She loves Alberto, but this place is her home. And the people in it are her family. She couldn't abandon them. Moments later, Rita, her best friend and roommate, enters. She is startled to see her friend there and not watching the show. "Ana, what are you doing here?" she asks. "I wasn't feeling well, Rita," Ana admits. "Is this about Alberto? Did he do something?" her friend asks "No," Ana admits "Then what is it?" "I can't tell you right now, Rita," she explains. Rita nods in understanding. After the show, Alberto meets up with Mateo. "And Ana?" he asks, anxious to finally meet the woman his friend had always talked about. When Alberto doesn't answer him, he continues, "Alberto, what happened?" "This store happened, Mateo," Alberto finally answers. Mateo looks at him confused as Alberto leads him outside for a smoke. Outside, Alberto explains to Mateo what his father told him. "You haven't told Ana about your father's plan to save the store?" Mateo asks "No, because that plan isn't going to work. I'm not doing it," he states, lighting his cigarette, "It's absurd." "But if it's the only way to save the store.." Mateo begins "No, there has to be another way," Alberto stammers. "When you think about it, it's not such a bad plan. Cristina Otegui is a nice girl, and anyone can see she adores you, Alberto," Mateo mentions. "She's not Ana, Mateo. I love Ana. I want to marry Ana, not anyone else," Alberto explains in frustration. "Well, tonight's show seemed to have gone well. Maybe it'll buy you a few more days," Mateo comforts. "No, my father says Gerardo wants an answer by tomorrow afternoon," Alberto states, taking a drag from his cigarette. He thinks about what he can do and then it hits him. He begins to smirk. "Which means we still have all morning to find another loaner," he says, optimistic. "We?" Mateo clarifies. Alberto smirks, "We, brother. And you want to know why? Because you're my best friend and the only one dumb enough to help a friend save a sinking business." The following morning, Ana heads toward the workroom to start her work, but Dona Blanca, the head boss of the seamstresses, stops her. "Don Rafael has asked to speak with you in his office," she informs her. Ana looks at her, stunned, but nods. She turns toward the elevator and once inside, the anxiety sets in. What could Don Rafael possibly want from her? To forbid her from seeing Alberto? To fire her? To fire her uncle? When the elevator doors open, she walks down to the end of the hallway towards his office. "Don Rafael, Ana Rivera is here," his secretary informs him. "Tell her to come in," Don Rafael says. Ana enters his office and finds him sitting at his desk. Papers scattered all over it. "Senorita, Rivera. How are you?" He asks. "Well, senor Don Rafael," she replies. "Please, sit down," he says, gesturing to the chair across from him. She does as he says. "I'm sure you're wondering why I called you here," he begins as Ana slightly nods, "I'm certain my son has already told you about the store's current situation. Is that true?" "Alberto," she begins, but then corrects herself, "Don Alberto told me the store is bankrupt," she admits. He nods. "You know I've always been against your relationship with my son. It's not personal, Miss Rivera. Your uncle has been a loyal friend to me. Something I'm certain he's passed on to you," he admits, "But you're a seamstress, an employee of this store. I know that's never mattered to Alberto, but he doesn't understand that life doesn't always work out the way you want it to." "Don Rafael, I love Alberto. Not because he's a Marquez," Ana chimes with a hint of anger. "I know," he admits, "But how much do you love him?" Ana looks at him confused as Rafael stands up from his desk and walks toward the window to enjoy the view. "Alberto has been given the opportunity to save this store, Ana. To save your uncle and your friends from losing their jobs," he begins. "How?" Ana asks. Meanwhile, Alberto and Mateo sit and wait at their third attempt to get a bank loan. The first two attempts failed and this was their last shot. "Don't worry, Diego owes my dad a huge favor, I'm certain he'll agree to a loan," Mateo assures his friend. Several moments later, Mateo and Alberto are allowed inside Diego's office. "Thank you for seeing us on such short notice," Alberto greets. "Not a problem, Mr. Marquez. Now I understand you're here for a loan?" he asks, looking over the application. "Yes. I know it's a lot to begin with, but we'll pay you back with interest," Alberto assures. "I don't doubt that, Alberto," Diego begins, "But I've offered your father a loan already and he didn't want it," he admits. "What do you mean?" Alberto asks. "Yes, you're father declined my offer a week ago. Has he reconsidered?" Diego asks. Once back outside, Alberto is fuming with frustration. "My father lied to me," Alberto states as Mateo follows him. "Maybe there's a reason," he comforts, but it doesn't help. Alberto checks the time and realizes he only has an hour before he has to meet Gerardo. "Yeah, well it better be a good one," he states. When Alberto enters his father's office, he demands an explanation. "We need to talk," he stammers as his father faces the window. "Have you agreed?" His father asks. "No. Diego Campos offered you a loan. Why didn't you take it?" He stammers. "Because he wanted 51% of the company, Alberto. My company!" his father fumes, "The one I built out of nothing. I wasn't just going to hand it over!" Alberto looks at his father in disbelief, "No, but you're more than willing to hand over your son's happiness," Alberto admits, "You can find a way to get back this company. I'll help you. But you know how I feel about Ana, if I marry Cristina, I'll lose her forever, father," he stammers. His father doesn't say a word for several moments and then reveals what he's done. "What if you already have?" He asks. Alberto looks at him confused as his father explains. "I told Ana about your predicament. She was willing to sacrifice you for her uncle's and friend's well being. She's brave, Alberto. Much braver than you," he admits. Alberto doesn't know what to say. He turns to leave, but not before his father says, "She's gone, Alberto." "Where is she?" Alberto demands. "After I told her the situation, I offered her a job out of town. A friend has work for a cutter there. She'll be fine, Alberto." Alberto leaves his father's office in a hurry. Not believing a word of what his father has just told him. He goes downstairs, searching desperately for Ana. He looks in the workroom and doesn't find her. He goes to her room and his whole body deflates. He notices her suitcase is missing and takes a seat on her bed, defeated. Moments later, Rita enters. Having noticed his agitated appearance in the workroom. "Hi, don Alberto, I'm Rita," she greets. Alberto looks up at her and smiles politely, remembering her name as one that Ana had mentioned before. "Hi, Rita," he replies. Rita returns his smile and wonders how Ana could possibly compose herself around such a handsome gentleman. She quickly snaps out of her daze and pulls out an envelope from her pocket. "Ana wanted me to give this to you," she explains, handing him a letter. Alberto looks at it and sighs. It's existence confirming her absence. He takes it and as Rita is about to leave, he asks "How long since she left?" Rita turns to him and answers, "About thirty minutes ago." He nods as she shuts the door behind her. He stares at the letter for several moments before finally deciding to open it and read its contents: Alberto, forgive me for what I'm about to do. And to be telling you in a letter. But I know that if I look you in the eyes and tell you this, I won't be able to leave you. And I need to. Don't be angry with your father for telling me about Gerardo's offer. He's done everything he can to save the store. Just like I'm certain you're doing now. But I haven't. That's why I'm leaving, Alberto. As much as I want to stay, I can't. I have to do this for my uncle. My friends. They're the only family I have. And I couldn't forgive myself if I was the reason for their misfortunes. I can't put my dreams in front of everyone else. And those of my uncle. I love you and that'll never change. Please believe that. But my uncle and your father are right, Alberto. I'm a seamstress and perhaps I shouldn't have stopped being one. Ask her to marry you and save the store.
Alberto rips the letter in half in frustration. Unable to believe she would do this to him. After several moments, he sighs and composes himself. Forcing the tears back as he leaves the room and heads upstairs to his father's office. He sits and awaits to give Gerardo an answer.
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Post by northboundtrain on Jul 13, 2016 0:04:17 GMT -5
Another great chapter. I like how some of the things are the same when the characters interact with each other, but the context is different. It gives it the feel that this really could have played out that way on the screen.
I think my favorite part was actually Ana interacting with Don Rafael, because we never got to see anything like that on the show.
And I laughed at Alberto's snarky "This store happened, Mateo."
But what a cliffhanger...now I want to know if we'll see Ana in her new place or if she'll come back and what will happen...and how things will be different between the two of them because she left and they didn't get to have those blissful romantic moments they did have in the show (before and then in the early days after his engagement to Cristina).
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Post by Admin on Jul 20, 2016 10:04:09 GMT -5
^Thank you! And yeah I felt like that was totally something Alberto would say. haha I really like exploring the Rafael/Alberto storyline. It's something that I wish we could've seen more of. And you'll see where I'm going with this by the end of this chapter. Enjoy! Chapter Three When Gerardo enters the room, Alberto and his father greet him. The three of them take a seat at the table and begin. "Alberto, I'm certain your father has filled you in on the details," Gerardo states. "Yes, he has," Alberto begins, "And with all due respect, Gerardo, Cristina is a wonderful girl, but don't you think marriage is a bit sudden?" Gerardo takes a moment to respond, "Listen, Alberto. Cristina is a wonderful girl and any man would be lucky to have her. But she has her heart set on you," he admits, "I'm willing to invest a lot of money into this company. I think marrying my daughter isn't such a bad part of the deal," he finishes. "But what if it doesn't work out?" Alberto chimes. His father glares at him for saying such a thing while Gerardo looks at him confused. "What are you saying?" He asks. "Cristina and I have only been friends, Gerardo. If we get married we're together for the rest of our lives. What if Cristina realizes I'm not the one she wants," Alberto reasons. Gerardo chuckles, "My Cristina isn't like that, Alberto. She doesn't change her mind. I know what she wants and it's you." Alberto realizes there's nothing he can say to change his mind about this. Gerardo continues, "All I ask is that you agree to this and I'll lend you the money to pay off the debts and you and your father will keep 75% of the company." Alberto turns toward his father who signals for him to agree. He looks back at Gerardo, who has his hand out for him to shake. Alberto considers what's occurred in the past 24 hours, including the fact that Ana's already gone. He takes Gerardo's hand and shakes it firmly. Rafael smiles as he and Gerardo stand up. "You made the right decision, Alberto," Gerardo states, before he and Rafael leave Alberto alone with this thoughts. Meanwhile, Ana sits inside a train headed for Barcelona. She had been devastated since Don Rafael had called her into his office that morning. He had been the one to set everything up for her departure. It had all gone so fast. She hated having to leave behind her uncle, friends, and Alberto. But the idea of seeing Alberto with someone else would've been so much worse. But not saying goodbye to Alberto, that killed her inside. She knew what it felt like to be left behind without a proper goodbye. It was the worst kind of pain she could've given him. She hoped he could someday forgive her. Later that evening, Gerardo has asked Alberto to go out to dinner with Cristina. He really wasn't up for it because of Ana, but his father had insisted he agree otherwise Gerardo wouldn't think he was going to take his part of the deal seriously enough. So, there he was sitting at a restaurant with Cristina. "Alberto, thank you so much for inviting me to dinner. To be honest, I didn't expect you to," she admits with a smile. "Well, we did need to catch up properly, no?" He smiles in return. "So, what's it like being back in Spain?" She asks. "Good," he admits, "There were a few things I missed a lot, but other things I wish I didn't have to come back to." "Things or people?" She asks, sensing a hint that he was upset about something. Alberto chuckles, "Nothing gets passed you, ha?" Cristina smirks and shakes her head no. "Nothing." Once their dinner ends, Alberto drops Cristina off at her home. "Thank you, Alberto. Tonight was wonderful," she says. "I'm glad you had a good time. So did I," he says, politely. When they reach her front door, Cristina makes the first move. She kisses him softly on the right cheek. "Goodnight," she says, before disappearing into her home. Alberto walks back to his car and sighs. He kind of hated to admit it, but he really did have a good time with Cristina. Yet, he couldn't let go of Ana. That is why instead of going home, he ended up on the rooftop of Velvet. A place he and Ana spent a lot of their time together. Away from everyone. He lays down on the floor of the roof and begins to reminisce. He remembers the time when they shared their first kiss. They had both been about 12 years old. They were having a picnic up here. "Alberto, what are you doing with these bottles?" Ana had asked him after he rolled her an empty coca cola glass bottle. "I'm looking for ways to communicate," he admitted. "Why?" she had asked him "So even when we can't be together, you'll know I'm still there," he admitted. In that moment, he pulled her face to his and kissed her on the lips. He knew he had surprised her, despite the fact that they had obviously become more than friends at that point. After all the years that had passed since that moment, he was still head over heels in love with her. He didn't know what he was going to do without her. He remembers the first night he spent in London, realizing it was going to be a long time before he could see her again. He was devastated for months and that's why he wrote to her. To remind her that he was still there and going to return to her someday. Of course there were girls who continuously flirted with him. And as he grew older and the years passed, he spent a few nights with a few of those women but none of them had been Ana. None of them could even compare. Before he can reminisce again, he hears the door open. When he looks toward the door, his heart nearly stops. "Ana," he whispers, quickly getting up and embracing her in a hug to make sure she was real. Ana embraces him just as tightly. He kisses her passionately. "I couldn't leave," she admits, when they pull away from their kiss. It was true. Once she had arrived in Barcelona, she realized she couldn't do it. She couldn't spend another seven years without seeing him. "I didn't want you to," he replies. "This is only going to make it harder, Alberto," she admits, their foreheads touching. "Promise me, you won't leave again," he pleads. Ana looks up at him and kisses him. He breaks away from the kiss, still wanting to hear her answer. She sighs, "I promise," she says, despite her conscience telling her it was going to be an easy promise to keep. They share another kiss, embracing each other, not wanting to let go for even a moment.
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Post by northboundtrain on Jul 21, 2016 20:03:34 GMT -5
Ahhhhhh...so it seems like their relationship is getting started up again even though he's not yet engaged to Cristina...now I'm wondering if he'll just put the engagement off or if he won't get engaged to her at all.
It was interesting seeing Gerardo talk about Cristina;s mind with such confidence.
And I'm still so curious to see how Rafael being alive is going to impact things.
I hope you post a new chapter soon!
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Post by Admin on Aug 13, 2016 0:10:29 GMT -5
I'm so bad at updating. haha I'll try and get the next update up sooner rather than later, I've just been so busy now that summer is ending. And those are very interesting points. Here's the next chapter (finally): Chapter Four
The following morning, Ana is in a better mood. Rita is surprised to find her friend in their room when she wakes up. "Ana, what are you doing here?" she asks, in complete disbelief. Ana hastily opens her eyes and greets her friend, "I couldn't leave, Rita," she admits with a smile, remembering her brief reunion with Alberto only hours before. Rita looks at her friend, confused, "And that smile? What happened?" she wonders out loud. When Ana doesn't answer, she attempts to guess, "Is this about Alberto? Are you back together?" "No, not really, Rita," she confesses, her smile faltering. Rita then confesses something to her, not wanting to disappoint her. "Ana, last night, Cristina and Alberto had dinner together. Everyone in the workroom was talking about it," she admits. Ana looks at her friend in surprise, unaware that things were happening that quickly between them. "But if anyone says one word about it this morning, I'll put them in their place," Rita stammers. Ana nods with a small smile, appreciating her friend's gesture, but still can't help but feel hurt. "It's okay. You're back now," Rita assures. Ana wishes she could tell her friend the truth and nearly does, but keeps it together. She knew it wasn't going to be easy. Meanwhile, Alberto goes to work with a smile on his face. He can't wait to see Ana. But before he can, he heads upstairs to see his father, who is already aware of the situation. "My friend says the seamstress didn't show. I assume she came back," he says to his son, with frustration. Alberto approaches his father, cautiously, as his father continues, "It's done, Alberto. You've already agreed with Gerardo. He expects a proposal by the end of the week." "I know," Alberto admits, regretting his decision. He wishes he can turn back the clock. "I better not see you with her, Alberto," his father warns, "If it wasn't for Emilio, I'd have her out of here. If you're seen with her, you jeopardize everything." Rather than argue with his father, Alberto leaves and heads up to the roof and waits for Ana. Several moments later, she meets him on the roof. He holds her tightly, not wanting to let go of her. "I heard you had dinner with Cristina," Ana mentions, trying not to sound upset, but failing. Alberto sighs, letting go of his embrace "I had to, Ana." "I know," she admits. "You asked me to do this. I didn't want to, Ana. I don't want to, but you left. I couldn't let that be for nothing," Alberto reasons. Ana knows he's right and for a moment wishes she could take it all back, but remembers why she needed to do it. Alberto can see the regret in her eyes and pulls her close to him again. He kisses her. "What are we going to do, Alberto?" she asks as he continues to hold her. Later that afternoon, Alberto meets up with his best friend, Mateo, at the local bar known as El Pausa. He had been rattling his brain for a solution all morning. "Alberto, you already agreed. There's no way Gerardo is going to let you take it back," Mateo reasons to his friend, "You're going to have to marry Cristina, that's it. So, start setting a date for the wedding already." And with that, a possible solution hits Alberto. A smirk begins to form on his face, "Mateo, you're a genius!" Mateo looks at him, with perplexity, as his friend explains, "Gerardo already wants a proposal, right? So, I'll give him one. But then I'll convince Cristina to set the wedding in the spring. That'll give us enough time to create a revolutionary collection, recover our debts, and pay him back. I won't have to marry Cristina, Mateo" he finishes, optimism using through him. Mateo looks at the hope in his friend, and doesn't want to burst his bubble, but has to ask the obvious question to his plan, "And if you can't convince her?" Alberto sighs, not wanting to think about that. "That's not an option," he stammers. When he heads back to the store, he gets a visit from Cristina. "Cristina, what a surprise," he says when he finds her. "Hello, Alberto," she greets, "I hope it's a pleasant surprise. Am I interrupting?"she asks. "No, no. Of course not," Alberto assures her. "Your father invited me to try on some of the new designs, I couldn't refuse," she admits. "Really? My father?" He says, now understanding why she was here. "Cristina," his father greets when he enters the office, "Thank you for coming." "Of course," Cristina greets him with a kiss on the cheek, "How are you don Rafael?" "Good, thank you. And you?" "Well, I'm ready to try on some dresses," she smiles. Don Rafael nods, ""Alberto, will you accompany senorita Otegui to the workroom," his father asks. Alberto looks at his father with wide eyes. Realizing now exactly what his father's intentions are. But not wanting to seem rude, as Cristina begins to sense the tension, Alberto agrees. "Of course. Come with me, Cristina," he says. On their way down to the workroom, Cristina can't help but comment. "Is everything okay with you and your father?" she asks. "Yeah," he replies. "Then is it me?" She asks Alberto looks at her, taken aback, "No, of course not," he assures her, "The truth is, my father and I don't seem to see eye to eye with this company. I don't think we ever will." The elevator doors open and though Alberto anticipates seeing Ana, he hopes she won't be there. "Don Alberto, Senorita Otegui, what can I do for you?" Blanca greets them when she sees them enter the workroom. "Hello, dona Blanca, Cristina's here for a fitting," he replies, glancing to see if Ana is there. "Of course. I'll grab two of the girls to assist you," dona Blanca says as she goes to the next room and calls over to girls to help. Alberto considers his luck when he sees her return with two ladies, neither one of them are Ana. "Luisa and Rita will assist you," dona Blanca says. "Thank you," Cristina says. "If you'll excuse me, Cristina. I have some work to get done," Alberto chimes. "Oh, of course. I'll see you tonight then," she says. He looks at her, confused. "Tonight?" "Yes, your father invited me and my family over for dinner," she says Alberto sees Rita and Luisa look at each other with wide eyes, aware of the situation, as Cristina continues, "Let me guess, he didn't tell you?" "No, but I'm delighted to have you over," he says, with a smile. Cristina returns his smile, "Ok. Then I'll see you tonight." After Cristina gets her fitting done, she enters the elevator and is prepared to leave the store, but on her way out, the elevator doors close right on her dress. "Aye," she says as she begins to pull on the dress, ripping it in the process. She sighs in disbelief. Not wanting to leave the store with a ripped dress, she heads back down to the workroom and searches for a seamstress, but can't seem to find anyone there. Defeated, she heads back toward the elevator and runs into Ana. "Excuse me, where is everyone?" She asks her. "They're on break," she replies. Cristina looks Ana over and by the white cloak she's wearing, assumes she must also be a seamstress. "Are you by any chance a seamstress?" "Yes, I am," Ana replies. "Can you help me? I was being clumsy and tore my dress. I can't leave like this," she admits with a laugh as she shows her the ripped dress. Ana smiles, "Of course. Follow me," she says, leading her into the workroom. "Thank you so much..." She begins, waiting for her to respond "Ana," Ana finishes. "Ana," Cristina repeats with a smile. Ana continues to fix the tear in her dress as Cristina continues, "I'm having dinner tonight with the Marquez' and if anyone saw me leave with this tear, it would have been humiliating," she admits. It suddenly hits Ana who this woman is. Cristina Otegui. The one who is to marry her one true love. Cristina notices her hesitation. "Ana, is everything okay?" She asks Ana snaps out of her daze "Yes, I'm almost done," she says, finishing the last thread, Cristina sighs in relief. She marvels at her handiwork "Ana, you're a lifesaver. And this seam looks even better than before," she compliments. "Thank you. It was nothing," Ana replies. Before either of them can say anything more, they hear footsteps headed their way. Moments later, a figure appears, and it's Alberto. Cristina greets him with a warm smile. While Alberto looks stunned at the sight of Ana and Cristina together. Ana doesn't say a word, but instead stares blankly at him. "Cristina, what are you doing here?" He asks. "If you can believe it, I had a malfunction," she chuckles, "But luckily Ana was here to fix it," she admits. Alberto looks toward Ana and they share a look of understanding. "Thank you, Ana," he says. "It was nothing, don Alberto. I'll leave you two alone," she says, quickly exiting the room before anything more could be said. Alberto watches her go and wishes he can go with her, but instead stays behind with Cristina. Cristina Otegui, who will be his fiancee in just a few days.
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Post by northboundtrain on Aug 13, 2016 17:42:15 GMT -5
Aw, I love that Rita/Ana scene the morning after Ana and Alberto's reunion! Rita is so protective of Ana.
It continues to be really interesting to see how Rafael's presence alters things. Now the dinner will be a big family affair...I can't wait to see what happens with ALL the Marquezes and Oteguis.
I'm also curious to see how Alberto will get things going with his father still around.
Can't wait for the next update!
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Post by Admin on Oct 3, 2016 12:56:03 GMT -5
I apologize for how long this has taken me to get this chapter up. But since it's Velvet premiere week, I figure now's a perfect time to UD. Chapter Five That evening, Ana can't stop thinking about her altercation with Cristina. She had to admit, Cristina was not only prettier, but nicer than she thought. And at this very moment, she was having dinner with Alberto and his family. It killed her inside. Meanwhile, Alberto arrives home, stunned to find more than just his family and the Otegui's. It looks as though his father invited more friends. "Father, what is going on?" He stammers when he sees his father, "What is all this?" "Alberto, hijo," he hesitates, "You have to propose tonight," he finishes. Alberto looks at him in disbelief. "What are you saying? You know I can't do that," he states. "You can and you will. That's why everyone is here. Gerardo expects a proposal in front of all these people." Alberto looks around the room and recognizes a journalist amongst friends. "Why is he here?" He asks his father. "A proposal between a Marquez and Otegui will make headlines, son. It's good press for the store," his father admits. Alberto sighs in frustration. "I don't even have a ring, I can't do this tonight, father," he says again. "Nonsense, Alberto, here's the ring," he says, handing him a small black box. Alberto recognizes it the moment he sees it. He quickly gives it back. "No, I'm not using this ring," he states, knowing it's his late mother's. He planned and was still planning to give that ring to the true woman of his life. And it wasn't Cristina. "Alberto, forget about the seamstress, you made a deal and you have to follow through on it. It's business," his father states. Gerardo approaches them, "Alberto, I assume your father has filled you in on the details for tonight. I've put in my part of the deal and now it's your turn," he says. Alberto forces a smile, "Of course, Gerardo. But tonight isn't really-" he begins "Alberto, Cristina hasn't been this happy in a long time. All her friends and family are here, why wait a few days when now's the perfect time?" He interrupts Alberto doesn't know what to say. He is in utter disbelief at this man's persistence. "Are you worried she'll say no?," Gerardo smiles, "I can assure you, she won't." Alberto looks away from him and toward his father. He sighs in defeat, knowing that if he proposed tonight with giving Ana any warning, she would be devastated and for good reason. Gerardo calls Cristina over, "Hija, how are you feeling?" he asks "Oh, father, this is wonderful. I wasn't expecting all these people," she admits, "Isn't it lovely, Alberto? To see all your friends after all this time?" Alberto tries his best to smile, releasing the tension he was feeling about the current situation. "Yes, it's wonderful," he admits. Cristina can sense the tension and remembers what Alberto had told her earlier. "Please, gentlemen, this is a dinner, not a business meeting. Let's leave all business talk in the offices, ok?" She warns. "Of course, Cristina," Rafael smiles, chuckling. Suddenly, Cristina notices her brother and sister-in-law enter through the door. "Barbara and Enrique have arrived, if you'll excuse me for a moment," she says. Gerardo smiles, "After dinner, Alberto, make the announcement," he warns, leaving to greet his son and daughter-in-law. Alberto stands there defeated as his father slips him the box with his mother's ring. Before anyone can approach him, he quickly heads outside the room, unnoticed and makes a phone call from upstairs. In the boarding halls of Velvet the phone rings. "Hello," Pedro Infantes answers. "Hello, can I speak with Ana Ribera?" A man from the other side says "Ana?" Pedro clarifies, remembering that Rita mentioned she had left somewhere, "Ana isn't here. Can I leave a message?" Alberto sighs, "No, thank you," he says, hanging up. Before feeling even more defeated, he dials another number. "Hello" he hears his best friend answer. "Mateo, I need a favor," he states. Half an hour later after he received a call from his best friend, Mateo Ruiz Lagasca finds himself in front of Velvet. He enters the store and heads toward the engagement rings section. "I'm sorry, sir, but we're about to close," a saleswoman greets. "I just need an engagement ring, any ring will do," Mateo admits. "Any ring?" Another saleswoman from behind says, appalled. Mateo turns around and finds an attractive blonde standing in front of him. The expression on her face reveals that he's just said the wrong thing. Mateo chuckles, "No, my mistake. Not any ring. Obviously a beautiful ring for my beautiful girlfriend," he smirks. "Clara, we're about to close," the dark haired saleswoman states. Clara rolls her eyes, "Carmen, I'll handle it," she says as she walks toward the ring displays. Carmen leaves as Mateo keeps his eyes on Clara. He smiles at her as she points out two types of diamonds. When she asks him if his girlfriend would like one of these, he snaps out of his bewitchment. "Which one would you like your boyfriend to give you?" He asks Clara smiles, "Since you said any ring will do, I'll do you a favor and pick the one any girl will like," she says, picking the ring on the left and then heading over to ring him up. "I guess I owe you, Clara," Mateo smirks. "Don't be so sure yet, she can still say no, for all you know I gave you the one she'd hate," Clara smiles. Mateo looks at her once more, and smirks, "And if she does, I can come back and return it to you, right?" Clara gets flustered a bit, and can't help but feel attracted to this man with a mustache. She smiles bashfully, but before she can respond, Don Emilio enters. Mateo politely smiles at him and then smiles once more at Clara "Thank you for your help tonight, Clara," he says, leaving. Meanwhile, Alberto watches the time on his watch and waits impatiently for his best friend to arrive. Dinner is about to be served, but he excuses himself to go outside for a smoke. Outside he greets his friend. "Thank you, brother," Alberto says as Mateo hands him the small box. "Are you sure about this?" Mateo asks "No, I don't want to, Mateo. But I don't have a choice. Gerardo is persistent it be done tonight." "And Ana?" Alberto sighs, "I called a few times, but she wasn't there. I have to see her before she sees the paper" Meanwhile, Ana lay up on the rooftop where she and Alberto had shared so many memories when they were younger. As she looked up at the stars, she wished Alberto were beside her. She knew it was selfish to feel any sort of anger toward him because after all, she was the one who asked him to save the store. As she lay there thinking, suddenly sleep overcame her. When Ana awakes, she finds Alberto laying beside her. She rubs her eyes open, making sure she isn't dreaming. He slowly opens his eyes and smiles, gently. "What are you doing here?" She asks "I missed you," he confesses, but then his fall to the floor again, knowing he has to tell her, "Ana," he begins She knows something happened and isn't sure she can take it, "I proposed to Cristina tonight." She takes the news calmly and nods, tears welling up in her eyes. "But listen to me, Ana. I have a plan," he explains, optimistically,"I'm engaged to her now, but the wedding date will be set after the spring collection, that gives me time to save the business and pay back Gerardo and the wedding won't happen." Ana looks at the hope in his eyes, realizing how much he believes in this plan. A part of her thinks it can work too, but knows it won't be easy. Alberto can sense the doubt in her silence, "I just need ten months, Ana. Can you wait ten months?" he asks "I waited seven years, Alberto. I can wait a lifetime," she admits. He kisses her softly as they lay back down. He wraps her in his arms as they lay together, both of them knowing from that moment on, things between them wouldn't be the same.
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Post by northboundtrain on Oct 4, 2016 23:51:21 GMT -5
Ahhhhhhh! I started freaking out when his father brought out the ring that was Isabel's, and then I started freaking out EVEN MORE with that adorable new first meeting between Clara and Mateo. Love how she reacted when he said "any ring" would do. I've said it before, but I'll say it again: it's so much fun getting to see the characters in different circumstances!
And Barbara is here earlier too! (So is Enrique, but we won't talk about him. VV, if you want to kill him off, I think that'd make for an excellent next chapter, LOL.)
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Post by debmac on Oct 5, 2016 10:19:00 GMT -5
I am loving this. They should have hired you to write the series. Great job. Looking forward to the next chapter
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Post by Admin on Dec 5, 2016 17:42:19 GMT -5
I know I'm 2 months late on updating but really appreciate the feedback! debmac, thank you for such a compliment! lol It's a joy writing these characters and it's surprisingly very easy. And don't worry, north, I've got some plans for Enrique. In due time,though Chapter Six The following morning it begins. Pedro Infantes heads outside to pick up the daily newspaper. He doesn't see it at first, but then right there in bold: 'Wedding Bells for Marquez & Otegui'. Underneath was a photo of the two. Alberto Marquez down on one knee with Cristina Otegui wearing the biggest smile on her face as he held out a ring in front of her. "Ay, Ay...but what's this?" He says to himself as he rushes to find Rita. He's so anxious, he nearly knocks over her drink.
"What's with you?" Rita asks.
"It's..it's...take a look," he says, handing her the paper.
Rita nearly cackles her coffee as she reads the headline.
"Has Ana seen this?" She asks, concerned.
"Ana?" Pedro asks, confused, "What does Ana have to do with this?"
"Nothing," Rita says, ignoring him and quickly walking back toward her room.
She sees Ana, who is nearly finished getting dressed for work. Rita sets her coffee down and approaches her with the newspaper in her hand.
"Ana," she begins.
"I already know, Rita. Alberto told me last night," she admits.
"Are you okay?"
Ana nods, but the expression on her face says different.
"Ana, I don’t know what he did to you, but this is too much. He's only been back a week and he's already engaged to someone else," her friends begins to get upset, "He's..."
"No, Rita. It's not his fault. It's mine," she admits, tears beginning to well up in her eyes.
She can't hide the truth from her best friend anymore. She had to tell someone.
"What are you talking about, Ana?"
"I made him do it, Rita," she confesses.
"What? But, Ana, why? You're not making any sense?" Her best friend says.
And that's when she tells her everything. How the company is bankrupt and how Gerardo made a deal with Alberto and Rafael. How it was the only way to save everyone.
"Ay, Ana. You're crazy," Rita admits, "To give up your own happiness for the rest of us? I don't know whether to call you brave or dumb. We can find other jobs, Ana."
Ana sighs
"That's not so easy, Rita. You know that."
"But Ana, he's marrying another woman."
Ana hears those words out loud for the first time, making it ring true as she looks at the newspaper in her friend's hand. Despite what Alberto told her last night, everyone else believed it.
"Are you going to be okay, Ana?"
Ana dreads the rest of the day, but nods.
"I'll have to be."
Meanwhile, Alberto heads to his office, more than ready to work on Velvet's newest collection. He knows the quicker he gets it going, the quicker he can pay off Gerardo. But when he goes to his father's office to greet him, he is met with Enrique Otegui. "Enrique, what are you doing here?" Alberto asks.
His father sighs, while Enrique answers.
"My father wants me to manage the 20% of his shares in this company." Alberto looks at his father, "20%?"
Rafael sighs, "That was a condition, Alberto."
"My father did just save this company from bankruptcy, the fact that he only wanted 20% is a miracle," Enrique admits, "Now, shall we begin?"
Alberto sighs, but follows them into the boardroom. One hour later, the three of them are in agreement that they need a new collection, but are in total disagreement on a designer. "Raul de la Riva," Alberto states. "Raul de la Riva?" Enrique questions. "No, he's not a designer, Alberto," Rafael stammers. "He's changing fashion, father. He can help revolutionize Velvet. Bring in young, fresh clientele," Alberto explains. "We don’t need revolution, Alberto. We just need new, simple, elegant designs. Like how our clients expect."
"Pardon me, don Rafael, but I agree with Alberto. This new collection has to be different, but Raul de la Riva?" Enrique chimes.
"Yes, Raul," Alberto states "All I'm asking is to give him a chance. Give me a chance, father."
His father sighs, knowing his son is not going to let this go. "Fine. He's an option, but only an option, Alberto."
Enrique looks as though he wants to chime in again but holds back. "Anything else to discuss?" His father asks.
"I want Mateo to work alongside me," Alberto states.
"Who?" Enrique asks, while Rafael ponders his son's statement.
"He's my best friend and an excellent businessman. We studied together in London. He's great with numbers," Alberto explains. "No," his father answers, "We have enough people working here, we don't need anymore."
"I won't do this without him," Alberto presses.
"With all due respect, don Rafael, if that's what Alberto wants then I don't mind. There's a lot of work to be done and another hand wouldn't hurt," Enrique admits.
Don Rafael gets up and serves himself a drink while Alberto awaits his father to give him an answer. He slams his drink on the table. "Fine, but remember this is still my company and I still get final say about everything," he stammers.
Alberto smiles, "Thank you, father."
Meanwhile, downstairs, Patricia Marquez enters her father's store and is aware there is a meeting going on. She can't believe that after everything her father still refuses to allow her to be involved in the family business. She hurriedly walks towards the elevators, bumping into someone on the way.
"Sorry, I didn't know where I was going. Please, forgive me," a man with a suitcase apologizes.
"And who are you?" Patricia asks the unfamiliar face.
"I'm Jonas Infantes," the man says with a smile, "I've come from the village to see my cousin. Do you happen to know where I can find him? His name is Pedro. Pedro Infantes," he asks.
"Do I look like I work here?" Patricia asks. Jonas looks her over, admiring her curves in her outfit. "No, forgive me," he admits.
"Now, if you don't mind, I have somewhere important to be," she says, heading into the elevator. Jonas watches her go, completely bewitched by the woman he's just met.
"Primo! Is that you, primo!" A voice calls out.
Jonas turns around to see his cousin, Pedro.
"Primo, how are you?" Jonas greets with a hug.
"Good, good. How was your trip from Porillos?" Pedro asks.
"Long, very long, but hey, I've only been here five minutes and I just met an angel, cousin. A beautiful angel with a figure like no other," Jonas admits with a bright smile.
"But what are you talking about, primo? Come on, let's go. I'll show you around the galerias. And then we'll talk to don Emilio about work," Pedro says, leading him away.
Meanwhile, Clara is with a customer when she sees a familiar face. It's the handsome man with the mustache. He doesn't seem to notice her as he continues walking straight into the elevator. She watches him go and wonders what he's doing here again.
Upstairs, the meeting is just about to end when Patricia enters, ignoring her father's secretary.
"Hija, what are you doing here? We're in a meeting," her father states.
"Forgive me, father, but as your only daughter and the one who's been by your side during your son's absence, I thought I should be here." "Patricia, now's not the time," her father states.
"Yes, Miss, I'm afraid we've just finished," Enrique chimes, "I'm Enrique Otegui, by the way," he smiles, handing out his hand.
Patricia unwillingly shakes it and moves on.
"If you two will excuse us," Rafael says.
"Good morning, sister," Alberto says, before leaving.
"Patricia, hija, I know how you feel about the store and that you want to be involved, but I don't want this life for you. I want you to get married, have kids. Leave the business to the men in this family." Patricia has heard her father give this speech a thousand times, but she didn't care. She wanted to be involved and she was going to be. "I don't care about all that, father. I want to be taken seriously about my involvement. I've been by your side since Alberto left. You involve him and not me?" "Patricia, please."
"No, father. I'm going to prove to you that I can do it. That I know this store better than your son," she stammers, leaving. Meanwhile, Alberto meets Mateo in his office. They greet each other with a hug.
"Welcome to Velvet," Alberto smiles.
"What? You're father said yes?" Mateo asks, a smile on his face.
"My father said yes. But don't blow it, eh?"
"But, hey, you know who you're talking to, right? When have I let you down?" Mateo jokes.
Alberto smiles at his best friend, glad to have him by his side.
"And how are you?" Mateo asks, changing the subject, "I saw the paper this morning."
"I spoke to Ana last night, but haven't seen her since," he admits.
Downstairs, Ana is burying herself in work. Trying her best to ignore the talk of don Alberto's proposal to Cristina. "I heard he proposed in front of all her friends. He was planning it for weeks."
"Hey! We're here to work, not socialize," Rita chimes as she heads toward Ana.
"Are you okay?" She asks.
Ana sighs, "No, but what can I do?"
"Dona Blanca wants me to go to the storage room for some fabric. I can tell her you offered to take my place? Get some space from here?" Rita asks. Ana nods. She could use some space.
"Thank you, Rita." As she heads toward the storage room, she spots Alberto coming out through the elevator. Their eyes meet. Ana quickly looks away. Alberto rushes to her side. "How are you?" He asks, concerned. Ana pulls away from him, gently. Not wanting anyone to see them. Alberto looks around, making sure no one is watching. He looks back at her and can see the pain in her eyes.
"Meet me on the roof in an hour," he says, walking back toward the elevator.
Back in his office, Alberto is startled to find Cristina there.
"Hi, fiancee," she greets him with a kiss.
"What are you doing here?" He asks.
"I know you only proposed last night, but there's a lot to do," she admits, "Especially if we want a wedding by the end of the year." Alberto's heart nearly skips a beat,
"But that's in three months? We can't get married in three months," he states, a hint of worry in his voice. Cristina looks at him in shock and concern.
"I'm sorry," she apologizes, "You're right. Three months is too soon. It's just my father insisted on it and I was too excited," she admits, "I apologize, Alberto," though a part of her is hurt by his urgent reaction to decline her request.
Alberto notices and tries to reassure her. "I was thinking sometime next year would be better. That way you have all the time to prepare the wedding you want," he says. "You're right," Cristina smiles, "Besides, it'll give me more time to convince Ana."
Alberto looks at her confused, "Ana?"
"Yes, Ana. Remember the one who fixed my dress? I think she'd be perfect to help with my wedding dress, don’t you think?" She smiles.
Alberto tries his best to meet her smile but inside he knows how much this will hurt Ana.
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Post by northboundtrain on Dec 6, 2016 19:00:26 GMT -5
Yaaaaaay! I was wondering how you'd get Patricia and Jonas together, and now here's the answer. I love their first meeting (and got a good chuckle out of her reaction to Enrique -- very therapeutic! If he has to be here, I will trust your judgment).
I also continue to enjoy how the little differences between this fic and the show keep building on each other...i.e., how Rafael being alive keeps some things the same but changes other things.
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Post by jodgrl on Dec 7, 2016 21:04:32 GMT -5
I just discovered this story. I really like how you write in depth to the character. I'm curious do you have a writing background?
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