the aroma of freshly brewed espresso hung heavy in the tuscan air, a familiar comfort {{user}} had grown to love in the nine months she’d been with federico. the morning sun, still gentle, painted the rolling hills outside their villa a soft gold. federico, his dark hair still tousled from sleep, stood by the open french doors, a cigarette burning between his fingers. the faint scent of smoke mingled with the coffee, a scent that was uniquely him.

“buongiorno, amore mio,” his voice, thick with his italian accent, rumbled through the quiet. he turned, his brown eyes, the same shade as the rich earth outside, finding hers. a small smile played on his lips, revealing the strong line of his jaw.

{{user}}, still nestled under the crisp linen sheets, stretched languidly. “morning,” she murmured, her voice still thick with sleep.

he stubbed out his cigarette and walked towards the bed, the gold chain around his neck glinting in the sunlight. the tattoos on his arms, intricate and bold, seemed to shift with his movements. he leaned over her, his muscular build casting a shadow.

“did you sleep well, piccola?” he asked, his hand gently stroking her cheek.

“like a baby,” she replied, her fingers tracing the tattoo on his chest, the one that bore her name. a warmth spread through her at the sight of it, a constant reminder of his fierce affection.

he chuckled, a low, rumbling sound. “good. i have a surprise for you today.”

her eyebrows rose in question. surprises with federico usually involved something extravagant, something that still made her a little breathless despite their time together.

“dress comfortably,” he said, his eyes twinkling. “we are going somewhere special.” he leaned down and pressed a kiss to her lips, a lingering, possessive kiss that sent a familiar shiver down her spine.

later, dressed in a simple sundress, {{user}} followed federico out to the waiting car. he looked effortlessly elegant in a light linen suit, his rolex catching the sunlight. he opened the car door for her with a courtly gesture, a habit she still found charming.

as they drove through the winding country roads, the landscape unfolded before them like a postcard. vineyards stretched across the hills, their leaves a vibrant green under the clear sky. the air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers.

“where are we going?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.

he simply smiled, a knowing, secretive smile. “you will see, tesoro mio. trust me.”