hollywood system: art

Billy held Monica's hand as they discussed countless topics, from life in Italy to the nuances of living in other countries, which transported them on a journey through various cultures. Monica remarked that even in some Italian regions, atmospheres were more akin to German culture—not entirely, but the borders blurred.

Unease and ominous conversations were left in the past. Monica's feelings were raw, sensitive, and hurt. She wanted everything with Billy, valuing his honesty and the way he directly told her that the coming months would likely be spent focusing on his relentless work and the future of his company. Yet, he never left her alone. This was how they lived now. Perhaps she was pushing life aside, too, doubting what the days ahead might bring.

–When two people marry under this altar for a second time, it is said they'll live happily ever after.– The tour guide spoke as he showed them the architectural wonders of Arezzo.

–Do you ever think about getting married someday?– Monica asked hesitantly, curious about his response.

–I would, but not now. Marriage isn't something I'm ready for… but I don't dismiss my relationship with you because I'm not taking that step.– Billy replied, looking at Monica.

–That's not what I asked.– Monica responded, feeling again that their love story had reached another crossroads.

–What happened? Is the distance between us so great now that you must push me away? You've spent so much time thinking only of yourself, and now you're set on these decisions, changing your mind. I thought things were different between us—no pressures, just love. Is there someone else?– Monica asked, her gaze soft and devoid of resentment. She carried herself with too much dignity to be angry, too confident in matters of love to be shaken. Her cool charm could captivate any man, her doe-like eyes breaking through the sharp demeanor she hid so well.

–There's no one else.– Billy replied, his cynicism rooted in his reasoning that Anne was merely a business arrangement.

He could almost feel her sigh, but instead, she focused her attention on the man guiding them from one site to another.

–It's just that I see our relationship as special. I care deeply for you. I know you expect more from me, and I don't want to disappoint you—that could happen. Asking for a committed relationship is entirely your right. Ultimately, it's more than a simple transaction. You want to share your life with me, and I like that—I see it in a positive light. Perhaps I'm overthinking, and what I'm saying now is nothing more than my imagination.– Billy responded.

He was a fool, once again caught between emotions and logic, struggling to navigate when two wills diverged so sharply.

–Don't confuse me… You say little about love, and when you do, it's complicated. You're afraid this will end, I know that. I'm older—a woman a decade ahead of you, experienced, with a marriage behind me. But I like feeling loved and protected. My past relationships, though beautiful, turned into headaches. Men who hide things and stop loving, even when they have the most beautiful woman by their side, are never satisfied. If I were to open my heart and give it all, they wouldn't value it. It's the dissatisfaction of wanting to live differently or dismissing what men and women can build together. The pain of being forgotten—that's the greatest hurt. Contempt burns more than anything else.– She continued walking, her demeanor dignified and icy. Her words were measured but sharp, cutting like blades and full of meaning.

–I can see that.– Billy admitted, lost in his thoughts. Anne's call that morning had unsettled him, leaving his emotions in turmoil.

–Then it's better not to ask such things.– Monica said as she moved forward. Her heart pounded painfully in her chest. Perhaps he'll leave me, forcing everything just to discard me? Could it be that blonde with blue eyes from the interview? A romantic evening had meant everything to her.

She felt Billy's hands rest on her slim waist—a waist even more defined now, thanks to her strict exercise and diet routines.

–I wouldn't abandon someone who hasn't abandoned me.– Billy reassured her, trying to calm her spiraling thoughts. He'd done it with Alice and Gwyneth, forgetting women as he moved on to other stages of his life. It hadn't mattered to him at the time; his work consumed him, leaving no room to heal properly.

Anne was at the doctor's office, her lips pale, her anxiety evident. She wasn't sure how to handle this situation. She'd taken a pregnancy test, and it was positive, but she didn't believe she was truly pregnant. It felt like a trap. She wasn't ready to be a mother or endure nine months of pregnancy. She only wanted something she didn't have and had acted out of rebellion. For the first time, that fiery vein that had driven her for so long burned even brighter. The thought of someone like Billy—a man she found worthy—overwhelmed her in ways she couldn't explain. If not for their closeness, she'd never have attracted a man of his caliber; perhaps he wouldn't have even noticed her.

–Mrs. Hall, I'm glad you came in. I'm not sure how to put this, but you're not pregnant.– The doctor said.

–What?– Anne replied, her voice rising.

–I'm sorry to say this, but you have what we call a phantom pregnancy.– The doctor explained carefully. –In certain situations, not fully understood, some women experience the symptoms of pregnancy without actually being pregnant.–

–So I'm not?–

–No, you're not. It was a false alarm. Though uncommon, this happens to women with an intense desire for motherhood. I'll recommend some vitamins and refer you to prenatal care. You can still conceive up to the age of 37 without risk. Don't worry—the baby will come when the time is right for you and your husband.–

Anne wanted to say something but remained silent. She was stunned. Now she wanted to be pregnant and broke down crying like a child, while the doctor, an older man in his sixties, waited patiently. The pain of not being pregnant—it made her feel pathetic.

–I'll schedule some appointments to help you.– The doctor added.

…

In the car, Anne's thoughts swirled. What if I didn't tell Billy and orchestrated an unplanned pregnancy? She felt a wave of disgust and shook her head.

–It's all in my imagination.– Anne muttered to herself.

Her grandmother, Serena Wickins, a sharp and intuitive woman, quickly grasped the situation and offered comforting words to ease Anne's conflicting emotions.

–Now, you just need to breathe. These things happen to many women. Sometimes, what we want most is an uphill battle full of difficulties.– Serena said with tact.

–Yes, I have to get to the office to resolve some matters. I'll be home late.– Anne replied, regaining her composure.

Sitting in the parking lot, she began to steel herself. It was three in the afternoon—10 PM in Italy. Billy wouldn't respond at this hour. She'd have to keep her thoughts to herself until the right moment.

–You just need to carry on as you always have.– Anne said, gathering her strength. Applying makeup to conceal her tear-streaked face, she prepared to face the day once more.

....