#Carlos Santoro

[booksandmemes]

Idk, bro. One day I had 5 favorite characters in 5 fandoms, the next I got 18 characters in 14.

(I think I'll even forget some if I list them all 💀)

[pier-carlo-universe]

La profezia del tempio perduto: Un thriller storico avvincente tra misteri e segreti medievali. Recensione di Alessandria today

Un viaggio nell'oscurità del Medioevo con un frate alchimista-detective

Un viaggio nell’oscurità del Medioevo con un frate alchimista-detective Recensione “La profezia del tempio perduto” è un avvincente thriller storico scritto da Pierpaolo Brunoldi e Antonio Santoro, che trasporta i lettori nel cuore del Medioevo, tra intrighi, misteri e profezie. Ambientato nel 1220, nella città crociata di Acri, il romanzo racconta le indagini di Bonaventura da Iseo, un…

[matchalovertrait]

Alegría v Caruso: Day 3, Pt. 1

This was it. The final day. If today's lineup of testimonial witnesses and evidence didn't help, then what would? It would be over for a certain team.

Antonio adjusted his black tie with blue stripes. He would never pick out a suit like this, but Yoltic insisted on it. "You two have to match. It's psychology stuff! It will help," he claimed when Antonio went to pick up his clothes at The Beehive. Yoltic doesn't do this with Antonio's other clients, but okay....

"Please state your name and occupation for the record," Antonio asked.

"Carlo Mancini. Long-time chef. Food entrepreneur," the man briefly stated.

That name held weight for the former Diced Junior competitors. Lewis, who was in attendance with Rubiya and Alex, felt the ginger hairs on the back of his neck stand up. They all looked like intimidated middle schoolers again in the presence of the harsh critic.

"How do you know Ms. Alegría?"

"I judged her on Diced Junior about nine years ago."

"And what was your impression of her as a young chef?"

"Immature," he responded matter-of-factly.

The people in the courtroom gasped. They thought he was on her side! What?!

"But," Carlo continued, "she was only a child. A talented one. She has a great career for someone her age, certainly not immature."

Ohhhhh.... okay, let him cook.

"Would you say her dishes had a recognizable style, even back then?"

"Yes. She's big on tomatoes for some odd reason, but that is only one of her signatures."

"Based on your expertise, does Ms. Alegría's work show originality?"

Carlo was already getting bored, but he wanted to help. If he had to explain things simply for these people to understand, so be it.

"If one competes on Diced Junior, they must be original. They are given mystery ingredients and brainstorm on the spot. Perhaps on other shows, the contestants are given a heads-up prior to filming, but not on Diced Junior. It's a rigorous show that holds it chefs to much higher standards."

"Thank you, Mr. Mancini. No further questions."

Isabela was next. "Mr. Mancini, do you believe that someone being selected for Diced Junior proves they can be a good student at Santoro?" she asked.

"Not necessarily."

"But how can you be so sure that Ms. Alegría's skills were refined enough for Santoro? That she deserved that spot?"

"I've tasted her food. She has talent."

"And yet, you eliminated her," Isabela expressed directly.

"Because of simple mistakes. Someone had to be eliminated-"

"Ms. Alegría couldn't even make it to the final round of a children's cooking competition, yet we're supposed to believe she was one of the most promising culinary students at a prestigious school?"

"Yes, actually. And if she had made it onto the third round, I'm sure I would be able to guess which was her dish without being told. She didn't need to steal any recipes."

Start from the beginning (Gen 2)

Previous | Next

[its-all-or-nothing94]

Racing Hearts - Part 1 // Charles Leclerc x Reader

Summary: Charles Leclerc, a beloved and celebrated F1 driver, yearns for a meaningful connection amidst the glitz and glamour of his high-profile job. As the Monaco GP is around the corner, he fatefully crosses paths with Y/N Y/L/N, an ordinary girl who captures his heart with her genuine personality and kind spirit.

Masterlist

Warnings: None

Pairing: Charles Leclerc x Reader

A/N: Sooo, this is my first F1 Story :) I hope you enjoy it. It's a typical romance for all you romance lovers out there ;) Like, Reblog, tell me what you think :D It's highly appreciated!

Disclaimer: This story is purely fictional, and any character portrayals are just how I wrote them - hence fictional! I don't know them, except my OCs.

Tagging: @liebgotts-lovergirl, @softly-writes, @bellewintersroe (I thought, you might enjoy this ;))

The streets of Monaco shimmered under the golden rays of the sun, casting an ethereal glow upon the grand city. You stood at the edge of the bustling harbor, your eyes wide with wonder. You had arrived in this glamorous playground by chance, a spontaneous detour on your adventure across Europe. The winding cobblestone streets, the opulent yachts bobbing in the azure waters, and the hum of wealthy tourists filled the air, creating an atmosphere of indulgence and sophistication.

Your Y/H/C hair fell softly around your sun-kissed shoulders as your Y/E/C eyes scanned the crowd, searching for your best friend, Sofia. Minutes turned into an impatient eternity until, finally, a familiar figure emerged from the throng. Sofia Santoro, her dark hair cascading down her back, approached with a radiant smile that reached her warm brown eyes. You embraced, reuniting after weeks of exploration and discovery.

"Y/N!" Sofia exclaimed, her voice alive with excitement. "You won't believe the sights I've seen! And the food... Oh, you have to try the pastries here. They're heavenly."

You chuckled, your spirited personality shining through. Sofia lived here for a year now, and finally, you came to visit your best friend. "I can't wait to hear all about it, Sof. Monaco truly is a dream."

As you strolled through the luxurious streets, your laughter mingling with the splash of waves, an unexpected occurrence startled them. You stumbled, your steps faltering as if an invisible force had collided with you.

"What is it?" you asked your best friend, but Sofia just looked at you, confused.

"I didn't say anything... But hey, there is that store I told you about. Be right baaack", she sings as she walked away into the store across from the harbor.

You, meanwhile, stood at the edge of the Monte Carlo harbor, your eyes wide with wonder as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the glistening water. The air was thick with anticipation as if the city itself was holding its breath, awaiting the arrival of someone extraordinary.

You took a deep breath, the salty scent of the sea mingling with the aroma of fresh pastries wafting from a nearby café. Your heart fluttered with excitement as you adjusted the strap of your worn leather backpack, the only constant companion on your solo adventure across Europe.

"A breathtaking view, isn't it?"

You turned your head, Y/E/C eyes meeting the warm gaze of a stranger beside you. Chestnut hair, emerald green eyes, and a smile that could light up the night sky - it was as if destiny had brought you together at this very moment. Your heart skipped a beat as you stumbled back, blushing furiously.

"Uh, yes, it is," you stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.

The young man chuckled, a sound that was both melodic and infectious. "Apologies if I startled you. I couldn't help but notice your awe as you took in the beauty of Monaco."

Your cheeks flushed an even deeper shade of crimson, your Y/H/C waves tumbling down to frame your face. "It's just...I've dreamed of visiting this place for so long. And to see it like this, it's...magical."

"I couldn't agree more," he replied, extending a hand. "I'm Charles, by the way."

You couldn't say much as you were captivated by him. "Euh Y/N," you managed to squeak out, a shaky hand reaching out to meet his.

Your fingers intertwined an electric current passing between you. At that moment, the noise of the bustling harbor faded, and it was as if they were the only two people in the world.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Y/N," Charles said, genuine warmth in his voice. "Are you enjoying your time in Monaco?"

You nodded, a shy smile gracing her lips. "I am. I've been traveling across Europe, and this is my last stop. My best friend moved here last year. Her dad is a designer, and she took over the store here. But it feels...right, being here."

Charles's eyes sparkled with interest as he leaned in closer. "And for how long are you staying?"

You hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. But with Charles, there was a certain comfort, an inexplicable connection that compelled you to share the truth.

"I actually don't have a set schedule. I'm a freelance photographer taking a break, so I... have no obligations."

Charles chuckled, his cute dimples appearing on his cheeks. "That actually sounds quite nice. Not having any obligations, I mean."

You smiled at him as the bell on the store door rang, and Sofia made her way back to you. 

"Okay, I've got everything, we can... go," Sofia said, the last word hesitant, finally noticing Charles. "Uh, hi," she greeted, and Charles nodded in response with a small smile. 

A young man who bore an uncanny resemblance to Charles walked out onto the street from behind him. You guessed that this must be his brother. He called out something in French and waved at Charles, eyeing him for a second, before disappearing back into the restaurant. 

"I have to go," Charles said. "But maybe we'll see each other again, Y/N. It was really nice meeting you."

He nodded at Sofia before following his brother into the restaurant. You watched him leave with a content smile. 

"Oh my god! Do you know who that was?!" Sofia exclaimed as soon as Charles was gone. 

You looked at her, confused, while you shrugged. "He said his name is Charles."

"Yeah, Charles fucking Leclerc! The Formula 1 driver? Don't tell me you don't know him?"

Sofia raised her eyebrows at you, making you feel foolish. 

"What?"

Sofia put her hand on her hip and rolled her eyes. "You just flirted with one of the most famous Formula 1 drivers there is. He's from Monaco, and you, my dear, didn't even recognize him."

"Why would I? I've never watched Formula 1!" you defended yourself. 

Sofia shook her head. "No, you haven't. But he definitely had his eyes on you, girl." Sofia smiled widely and nudged you.

"So? It's not like I'm going to see him again," You shrugged, turning your gaze back to the ocean. 

"Oh, don't be so quick to dismiss it, girlfriend. Monaco is a magical place. And if he wants to find you, he will find you, I promise."

Meanwhile, at the restaurant, the Leclerc family had gathered, rejoicing in the reunion of all the children back in Monaco.

"Who was that? Another tourist fan?" Arthur inquired, settling down beside their mother, Pascale, and their brother Lorenzo.

"No, actually, she wasn't," Charles responded. "I don't think she even knew who I was."

Pascale glanced at her two sons. "What are you talking about, mon chéris?" she asked just as their entrees arrived.

"Charles was talking to a girl outside. I thought she was a fan," Arthur explained, and Pascale turned her attention to Charles.

"A girl?"

Charles seemed slightly irritated by his younger brother. "It's nothing, Maman. We were just discussing Monaco, nothing more."

Pascale studied her son's face. She knew him well enough to sense that there was more to the story than met the eye.

She sighed. "Well, as long as you don't plan on rekindling things with that dreadful Isabella..."

"Maman!" Lorenzo interjected, shaking his head slightly.

"What? They're not together anymore, so I can speak my mind, can't I?" Pascale asked, looking at Charles, who shook his head, annoyed.

Charles loved his mother, but she had a tendency to be outspoken, even when it would be best to hold her tongue. Charles knew his mother had never approved of his ex-girlfriend, Isabella Rossi. They had met at a charity event in Monaco, where Isabella's wealthy businessman father and her career as a model brought them together.

Initially, Isabella was sweet and caring, and Charles had fallen deeply in love with her. However, after four years, his feelings changed. When he confided in his brothers, best friend Pierre, and his athletic trainer Andrea Ferrari, they all agreed that their relationship had become toxic.

Ending things with Isabella hadn't been easy for Charles. The life of a Formula 1 driver could be lonely, constantly jetting around the world. Having someone who cared about him was a comfort. But eventually, Charles accepted the fact that his feelings had faded, and he ended the relationship. Needless to say, Isabella didn't take it well.

That had been a month ago, and ever since, she had made numerous attempts to win him back. As the Monaco Grand Prix was just around the corner, she knew Charles was back home.

"You can, Maman, and you know it. But can we just enjoy dinner and talk about something else?" Charles asked, digging into his pasta.

"She was really pretty," Arthur chimed in, causing Lorenzo and Charles to look at him, perplexed. Arthur couldn't be referring to Isabella. Arthur, noticing his brothers' confusion, rolled his eyes. "The girl outside? She was really pretty. Are you going to see her again?"

Charles glanced at Arthur for a moment. "Why would I?" he asked, although deep down, he wanted to. There was something about Y/N that stirred something inside him as if she were something special.

"Why not? Don't tell me you don't want to see her again. I saw the way you looked at her, Charles."

Charles took a deep breath. "Even if I wanted to, Art, I don't have her number, just her first name. I don't even know where she's from."

Arthur looked at Charles with an exasperated expression. "Are you shitting me?"

"Arthur!" Pascale immediately intervened.

"Sorry, Ma. But seriously, Charles. You know that if you want to find her, you will. We all know that. So get off your ass and go find that girl!"

"Is she really that special?" Lorenzo asked, looking at Charles.

The middle brother hesitated and then nodded. "I don't know why, but I have this feeling that our story isn't finished yet."

Pascale kept a watchful eye on her son. She took a deep breath and spoke up. "Then why don't you look for her, Charles? If she truly is that special."

Charles looked surprised at his mother. Pascale wasn't one to believe in fate, but if even she was advising him to pursue it, then he knew he should.

He set his fork down and gazed at his family, one by one. "Okay, starting tomorrow, we'll begin searching for Y/N."

"We?" Lorenzo immediately questioned, but Arthur simply nodded and grinned.

Basking in the warm Mediterranean sun, you and Sofia lounged beside the pool at Sofia's opulent apartment the next morning, which her father had graciously rented for her. You relaxed, sipping on glasses of wine and sharing laughter as you reminisced about your European escapades. However, Sofia's mischievous grin indicated that she had something up her sleeve.

"Sooo, Y/N," Sofia said, her grin widening, "Oh my gosh! I can't get over what went down yesterday with Charles Leclerc!"

You blushed slightly, attempting to downplay the encounter. "Oh, come on, Sof. It wasn't that big of a deal. We just chatted for a few minutes. It doesn't mean anything."

Sofia playfully raised an eyebrow. "No big deal? I saw the way he looked at you, and trust me, that wasn't ordinary. Charles is a charming guy, but he's not usually so forward with strangers."

You took a sip of her wine, trying to conceal your excitement, and shrugged nonchalantly. "Well, he was simply being friendly, right? I mean, he interacts with fans all the time. I didn't even know who he was until you told me."

Sofia shook her head, her grin refusing to fade. "Are you serious? The way he gazed at you, Y/N. Trust me, he knows you left an impression."

You shook your head at your friend, well aware of Sofia's tendency to read too much into things. "Yeah, right."

"But Y/N, I've seen Charles with fans before. He's usually reserved, quiet. Yet with you, it was like there was something more. He couldn't take his eyes off of you," Sofia stated, sitting up from the sunbed and raising her sunglasses. "I'm serious!"

You looked at your best friend, your cheeks tinged with a hint of red. "I-I don't know what you're talking about. It was just a chance encounter, nothing more."

Sofia's eyes sparkled with excitement as she continued to prod. "Oh, come on, Y/N! You can't deny the connection between you two. It was written all over his face."

You rolled your eyes. "Could you just stop? I'm not even looking for someone at the moment, and you know that. After everything that happened with Oliver..."

Sofia sighed. "I know, I know. He was a jerk, and you've sworn off love. Got it." She slipped her sunglasses back on. "But I'm still rooting for the perfect celebrity love story." She reclined back into her chair.

You glanced over at your best friend, and then you couldn't help but burst into laughter at the absurdity of the situation.

You lingered at the pool a little longer, enjoying the warm sun on your skin. Suddenly, Sofia's phone interrupted your peaceful moment. She quickly answered, speaking rapidly in both Spanish and French. After hanging up, she turned to you with an apologetic look. "Please don't be upset with me," she pleaded, and you raised an eyebrow in curiosity. Sofia sighed, explaining, "There's an issue at my dad's store that he insists I handle personally. I'm really sorry, Y/N."

You studied your best friend for a moment before responding, "No worries, Sof. I can handle some alone time."

Sofia observed your determined expression. "Are you sure? I promised I would clear my schedule for you."

You sat up and grasped Sofia's hand. "Hey, don't worry about it. I've been traveling solo through Europe for the past six months, so I think I can handle an afternoon alone."

Sofia chuckled, grateful for her best friend's easygoing nature. That was one of the reasons she loved you so much.

Thirty minutes later, Sofia arrived at her father's store. "Okay, what's the problem?" she asked her employee, Cassandra, who explained the situation. The problem turned out to be more time-consuming than Sofia had anticipated. After three exhausting hours, they finally resolved everything. Annoyed, Sofia walked to the counter and set down her phone, which she had used frequently throughout the afternoon. Suddenly, the bell above the door jingled, causing her eyes to widen.

"I knew it!" she exclaimed, her gaze fixed on the individual who had just entered the store. With a wide grin, she approached none other than Charles Leclerc, accompanied by his brother Lorenzo. "I knew you would come back."

Charles looked at her, initially confused, before recognition dawned on him. "Wait, I saw you yesterday, didn't I?"

Lorenzo glanced between Sofia and Charles, raising an eyebrow in confusion.

"Yes, you did. At the harbor!" Sofia replied excitedly.

"So, we finally found her?" Lorenzo asked hesitantly, trying to make sense of the situation.

Sofia smiled at Lorenzo. "Yeah, it's not her," Charles clarified, causing Lorenzo's attention to snap back to his brother. "But she's the friend with the designer store."

Sofia maintained her smile, shrugging lightly. "That's me, and I'm thrilled you found me. But on the other hand... How?"

Charles chuckled. "Y/N mentioned that she was visiting a friend here who owns a designer store. So we went from store to store today, searching for a clue. And now we've found you."

"You searched all over for her?" Sofia asked, amazed. Charles nodded. "That's incredibly sweet."

A faint blush tinted Charles' cheeks. "So, can you tell me where she is?"

Sofia's smile persisted as she replied, "No."

Lorenzo's head shot up, confusion etched on his face. "No?"

"No... I mean, yes, but let me explain. She's at my place and, well... Okay, never mind. I have a proposition for you. Y/N and I will be at Jimmy'z tonight, so why don't you surprise her and join us there?" Sofia proposed, locking eyes with Charles before glancing at Lorenzo.

Charles exchanged a brief glance with his brother before turning back to Sofia. "We'll be there!"

Lorenzo looked at his younger brother, still perplexed. "We will?"

Charles met Lorenzo's gaze with a firm expression. "We will," he affirmed.

Sofia's grin widened, and she nodded enthusiastically. "Great! OMG, Y/N will be overjoyed when she sees you. She didn't want to believe me when I told her you would search for her and that you two had a special connection..." Sofia rambled, noticing Charles' amused expression.

"Sorry," Sofia finally said, realizing she had been babbling.

Charles chuckled. "It's okay. See you tonight." He took his brother's arm, and they exited Sofia's store.

A mischievous smile played on Sofia's lips as she watched them leave. Oh, Y/N was going to love this.

Upon returning home, Sofia found you emerging from the shower, clad in towels. As you applied moisturizer, Sofia entered the room with a smile on her face.

"Oh, you're back," you greeted your best friend.

"I am, and I come bearing gifts as an apology for taking so long," Sofia replied, placing a jaw-dropping black dress with golden sequins on your bed.

Curiosity piqued, you examined the beautiful garment. "Sof, no! I can't accept this, and you know it," you protested. You were well aware of Sofia's affluent background and her tendency to shower you  with gifts, but you always declined.

"Come on! It's from my store, and I insist, Y/N. I want you to have it," Sofia insisted, revealing a pair of matching shoes from behind her back.

Your fingertips trembled with anticipation as your gaze shifted from the mesmerizing dress to Sofia and back again. With a gentle, hesitant touch, your fingers delicately brushed against the luxurious fabric. It felt soft and smooth beneath her touch, its fine craftsmanship evident in every thread. The sensation sent a shiver of excitement through you, making you appreciate the dress even more. "No, Sof... I wouldn't even know when to wear it..."

"Oh, I do! How about tonight, at Jimmy'z?" Sofia proposed.

"Jimmy'z?" you questioned. "Oh, no, Sof! You know I despise those types of clubs..."

Sofia draped her arm around you, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Well, that's a shame, but there's no way you're getting out of this one, my dear. I've already made all the arrangements."

With that, Sofia pranced out of your room, leaving her best friend in stunned silence. However, a smile crept onto your lips as you shook your head in amusement. Once again, you gazed at the dress. It truly was a stunning piece, and in that moment, you felt a flicker of excitement at the thought of wearing it tonight.

>> Part 2

[germanpostwarmodern]

Auditório Claudio Santoro (1977) in Campos do Jordão, Brazil, by Plínio Croce, Roberto Aflalo & Gian Carlo Gasperini

[welp-back-on-my-bs]

Gambling or Gold

"Silvio... what will you do when you're king?" Morgan asked while studying in the library.

"Well, I'd work on making trades more efficient, growing and strengthening bonds with other countries, and making sure that fewer people here suffer because of the rules in place," Silvio explained.

"... would you break the system?" They asked

"Break the system?" Silvio looked surprised, the mere idea never passing his mind.

"Everything that has been in place only served to hurt you. So, you rely on the money you make to produce defenses for yourself, but more harm has come to you due to that money. Would you set in place a system that makes things better?" They asked, looking to Silvio.

"I think I will at least try, I have you by my side, and I will find others to help as well. We aren't the size of Rohdilite, but we are smaller than Obsidian, so I will be sure that whatever harm left from the last system leaves. No stone unturned. " Silvio looked to Morgan, serious and clearly dedicated.

Morgan smiled softly, leaning against Silvio. "I'm glad..."

"It's not going to be perfect, but I will do my best so that people don't have to be hurt to survive"

They nodded in agreement. "I'll be there to help when the time comes"

The time came over a year later.

There was a gathering, people of all different sotal standings, mixing and mingling together.

Silvio managed to buy out everything, then got people to have their own homes, tailored clothes made the way that they wanted, everything.

There were representatives from the three other nations there. Clearly confused as to why they were requested to attend this event.

"Good afternoon, everyone. I'm sure you're wondering why you are here, for the most part. 'Is this Prince Silvio's crowning ceremony?' Is probably the most asked question. My father may have given me the throne, but I've decided that... an amazing, beautiful, complex country like ours is too big for one idiot to run. So today, I will not be crowned king. Instead, I went out and found a board of differnt kinds of people to help me run this country, haveing power over differnt sections, and haveing to meet up to talk about plans that may intersect in other areas.

All of you have experienced these changes in one way or another. With open and free schooling to anyone who wishes to attend, houses haveing been gifted to those who need them, tailor made clothes directly to people, changes in schooling that doesn't focious on the trades but instead fociouses on what the individual needs to learn and prosper. With these changes, no individual needs to worry about money or work within the country. That was the main goal here. To erase the systems that were made to idolize tyrants like me.

Now, you all may be scared because change is such a big thing. And what will happen when those I've selected die? I am currently working on that with those i now work alongside.

This is The Council."

Different individuals walked on stage and introduced themselves and what their duties on the council are.

"Carlo Santoro, I-I am a marine Biologist, so I will be making sure that the sealife that is in and a-around the country continue to thrive -"

After some more, the last two finally introduced themselves.

"Morgan Solace. I will continue my work helping those who struggle with day to day, along with the transition into our new system of government. I will not stand for the continued oppression of those who have been oppressed in the previous system." They said with a determined smile before taking a seat.

Silvio finally went ahead. "I am Silvio Ricci. I will be doing the trades and international disputes. Please do come to any of us if you ever have questions that relate to what we are doing. For now, I want everyone to enjoy the new chapter we are entering in Bentonite and hope for a bright future!" Silvio raised a glass of wine, and so did everyone else in cheers and drank it.

[mama-ivy]

The Other Ex

This is for both @monthlywritingchallenges Finding February Day Seven and @the-slumberparty Year of the Snake 2025.

Please read this first.

Now that you've seen Craig, meet Tina.

Tina sat all by herself on the far right of the large study that her father had used for decades. It still smelled like him - patchouli and tobacco. The combination continued to make her nervous. Fine leathers and deep mahogany covered the room. Her father didn’t like a lot of fabrics.  It took away from his commanding echo, he said. Chairs had been brought in and placed in a half circle three deep surrounding the large desk behind which stood Carlo Rossi, her father’s trusted advisor, right-hand man, and long-time friend. He was also the executer of the estate.

Every chair had been filled by large and burly men, all dressed to the nines. Tina knew most of them by face and last name only. Santoro ran the Southern sector, Ferrara, the Northern one. Their second in commands, Leone and Martini, were as always, at their sides. The army of accountants, the two surgeons, the four policemen and their chief, and the judge along with their assistants, all of which Tina had only recently found out were on the payroll, filled the rest of the seats. A sea of men all wanting a slice of her father.

No one noticed Tina sat on a small stool in the corner willing herself to sit tall and proud despite still smelling of the stuffy plane that had brought her back from school.  She had missed the funeral last month, according to her father’s wishes, to finish her finals and receive her Bachelor’s Degree in business. Now that she was home, the Last Will and Testament could be read.

Everyone wanted the big prize, of course, but most of the men in the room were expecting either Santoro or Ferrara to be named successor. A couple of the men suggested Carlo take over the business. Only Carlo knew the truth. Only Carlo had spoken to the boss in great length about the future of the family business.

“Along with my personal effects which have been aforementioned and previously allotted to her, I leave all business affairs of the Tomanelli name, including titles, responsibilities, respects and financial records encompassing all eleven businesses to which I have held ownership, to the only living Tomanelli – my daughter, Tina Marie.” Carlo paused to allow the murmurs and gasps that he knew would take place.

“What the fuck?” Martini stood and was immediately pulled back down by Ferrara with a look that everyone in the room knew to mean ‘Shut up now, or I will make you later’.

“Tell me this is a joke, Carlo.” Ferrara spoke up without standing.

“Mr. Tomanelli and I discussed this in great length for many years.” Carlo’s voice never faltered. “Tina has been groomed and taught since she was small for this moment – even if you didn’t know it.” Carlo smiled and nodded in Tina’s direction. “Business will remain exactly the same for a period of one year while The Mistress Tomanelli learns the inner workings.  We will meet back here at that time and she will announce her plans for the future of the business to include, if desired, naming a different successor.”

Murmurs rose and fell among the men. No one was happy. Tina rose quietly and walked around the swarm to take her place at Carlo’s side. She remained unnoticed. “Can I say something?”

The men continued to speak amongst themselves. “Excuse me, gentlemen!”

The noises of disagreement remained. Carlo took a pistol out of the side drawer of the large desk and handed it to Tina. He then walked around the desk and took his place at the back of the room in front of the door.

Tina watched him carefully and then emptied the chamber and laid the bullets in front of her. Taking a deep breath, she gripped the pistol by the barrel and brought the heavy grip down onto the desk causing a loud thump and consequent tinkling as the bullets bounced up and fell back down.  The entire room jumped and turned to look at her.

“I said, Excuse me, gentlemen, but apparently you are too wrapped up in your own selves to listen to your boss. This will not happen again.”

The Chief of Police, Johnson, chuckled. “You coulda killed one of us or yourself, girlie.”

“I couldn’t have. This pistol is empty, but never you worry, I have another that is loaded, if you’d like to test me again.” Tina paused and then looked around the room. “Carlo has made it clear my name is not girlie. I will not be referred to as such in the future. As was previously stated by my father through Carlo, business will remain the same until one year from today. If you want out, you have that amount of time to decide how you will leave the company without pissing me off or causing mistrust. If you remain, I expect the same amount of respect and loyalty that you showed my father. Do not test me. You will not like the results. I am my father’s daughter, and whether you were aware of me or not, my position was decided and made clear to me at a young age. I know the size of the shoes I am filling and I intend to do so in heels.”

Tina sat down in her father’s oversized leather seat and calmly put away the pistol and bullets. Without looking up, she addressed the men again. “I am done talking which means you are done being in my presence.”

The men rose and left without a word.

Carlo entered the office with Tina’s breakfast as usual on a silver tray. An English muffin with butter and jam, half of a grapefruit, and a cup of coffee with milk. “I wish you would move into your father’s bedroom suite.” He set the tray down in front of her while she moved the documents that had been splayed across the desk. “It will make it so much easier on the staff.”

“I have six weeks left in my year, Carlo. Once I make the final decision, I will be happy to move. After a deep renovation, of course. Black and forest green are not my colors.”

“Let’s not kid ourselves, Mistress. The decision was made on the day the announcement was read.”

“Yes, but they don’t know that.” Tina motioned for Carlo to sit in one of the empty chairs facing her. He did. “Have a muffin. I never eat both halves.”

“You are always playing that game with them. Eventually, you will have to convince yourself that they don’t matter and have faith in your decisions.”

“I will feel better after my final announcement and I can start implementing changes.” Tina took a muffin half and bit into it. “I found your personnel file, by the way.”

“Oh?”

“I couldn’t figure out why yours was the only one missing. Until I found it. Daddy had put it in the safe with the other family members.” Tina smiled at the older man. “Honestly, I should have looked there first. It’s safer there anyway.”

“Any news from Mr. Smith?”

Tina set her muffin down and pulled a file from a desk drawer to hand to Carlo. “He’s been found. Safe and far away.”

Carlo took the file and quickly skimmed it. “Teaching mathematics.”

“Of course, he is.” Tina chuckled. “Did you honestly think he would be doing anything else?” After a pause, she continued. “Have Mr. Smith check in on him periodically. I need to know if he makes any moves that might put him too close to all this danger.”

Carlo nodded, stood, and handed the file back to Tina. “Yes, Mistress.”

“And call Jessica. I’m going to need a blow out and a manicure before tonight’s meeting.”

Carlo nodded again and left Tina to her breakfast.

“And that policy, gentlemen, will be implemented immediately.” Tina crossed the room in front of the large group of men once again sitting in the semi-circle surrounding what had officially become her desk. “You have twenty-four hours to make the necessary arrangements, after which, penalties for not conforming to my new policies will be swift and severe. Any questions?”

She had honestly been surprised that not a single man had used the given year to back out. Carlo warned her it was because they were all hoping that she had come to her supposed senses and decided to name one of them as successor. Tina didn’t care. She had been preparing for this day since starting school, and while business was not her first choice as major, she took to it like it was her destiny. And maybe it was.

Ferrara raised his hand like a scared school boy eliciting a few titters from the back of the room.

Tina smiled warmly at him and nodded.

“I don’t understand the no-hit list. Everyone was fair game to your father. Family came first.”

“The business will be coming first, but how can I properly run it without the necessary manpower?” Tina paced once more in front of the group, her stilettos clicking on the wood floor. “All of you are on the no-hit. This means that you can not go after anyone on this list – in this room – without my written and explicit permission. Only I will order the punishments of those on the list.”

“All of us, yes, but who is Craig Finch?” Ferrara glanced back down at the paper in his hand.

Tina paused, desperately trying to maintain her poker face. “A member of my family. You are to leave him be no matter the cost. He is not your concern.”

Tina waited a few moments studying the faces of the men sat before her. “Gentlemen, my father ran a family. I intend to run a business. While there are many gray areas that overlap, our relationships will boil down to business associates. Nothing more. I will protect you as such so that my business can thrive. If you are no longer valuable to the company, you will be disposed of.”

Murmurs ran through the seats. Tina continued. “Over the next few weeks, I will be meeting with each of you individually to discuss personal goals and reset pay rates. My father severely underpaid most of you. I will be correcting that. If there are no further questions, this meeting is adjourned. You are dismissed.”

Carlo waited until all of the men had left the office, most flashing excited smiles at the prospect of a pay raise, before approaching Tina as she collapsed into the overly large leather chair behind the desk. “The men look happy.”

“I know daddy liked to rule through fear, and while I do enjoy the exhilaration of fear-based loyalty, I need the men to stay out of respect. Flies and honey.”

Carlo nodded solemnly. “Can I get you anything?”

“An interior designer that specializes in minimalism. This wood has got to go. I want marble. I’ll be using daddy’s bedroom suite as an interim office space while they are gutting this horrid room, and then they can rip out that disgusting velvet in the suite.” Tina sighed.  “Also, a tailor. I need some new suits.”

“I can have both of those by tomorrow.”

“Thank you, Carlo. I’m going for a spa day. That meeting was stressful.”

“Mistress?” Carlo crept into the office.  He had been told no disturbances, but this was definitely important enough to ignore the request.  Still, she hated distractions, so he was cautious.

“Carlo?” Tina spun around in the overly extravagant chair that sat behind an enormous desk made of glass to face poor Carlo.  “Are you serious right now?”

“I’m so sorry, Mistress.”  Carlo bowed low.  “Jake Winslow is here.  He says it’s important.”

Tina’s dark eyes flashed.  She slowly stood behind the desk and ran her hands down her thighs to straighten the wrinkles in her tailor-made Italian skirt suit.  “He seems to think everything is important.  He tires me.”

“Yes, miss.”  Carlo readily agreed.  No one in the family liked Jake Winslow.  He was the cockroach that none of them seemed to be able to squash.  “But, he has told me his reason for disturbing, and I believe that this time he is right.”

Tina reached up and tucked a stray strand of jet-black hair behind her ear before walking around to the front of the desk and perching lightly on the edge.  “Send him in, then, Carlo.” She nodded at her friend.  Carlo nodded back and left, closing the door behind him.

Tina got an uneasy feeling as soon as the gutter rat entered her pristine office dragging his dirty trench coat all over her freshly mopped floor. The feeling only worsened when he yanked the bag off of his poor captive.

Craig.

“Jake, get out.” She whispered.

“But, the reward, Mistress.”  Jake tentatively argued.

Tina tore her eyes away from Craig and stared at Jake.  “Reward?” she bellowed through gritted teeth, “Reward?  There was never a price on this man’s head.  In fact, Jake, you did the exact opposite of leaving him alone.  You tied him up and brought him here – the one place I didn’t want him to be.”

Jake started shaking and slowly backing away towards the door.

“I never want to see your face again, Jake Winslow.”  She spat at him while following him out of the office.  “This is the last straw.  Direct disobedience does not warrant a reward.  I. SAID. GET. OUT.” She slammed the heavy door behind him and slowly took in a breath to calm her nerves. She turned and walked past Craig towards her desk, her heels echoing against the marble floor. He is trembling. He’s scared.

Tina picked up a letter opener and turned back towards Craig.  She took his hands in her left hand and used the letter opener in her right to cut him free. Chills went up her spine and she lingered with her touch. She had thought about this man so often, too scared for his safety to ever indulge in her desires.

“Thank you.” Craig muttered.

“I apologize for the way that street rat treated you.” She said as she walked back to the desk and laid the letter opener back in its place.  “It was never my intention for you to be harmed in any way, Craig.”

Craig froze. “You- You know my name?”

He didn’t recognize her. She thought he might not. She had worked very hard on her business image. Still, she had to admit, it hurt just a bit.

Tina turned to face him and smiled.  She walked back to him and stood like a statuette only inches from his face.  “Concentrate.” She whispered while placing a hand on his cheek.  “It’ll come to you.” His face was so warm. Adrenaline, probably, but the warmth was welcoming and Tina was instantly addicted.

“Tina.” He whispered. “God, I thought you had left town.”

Tina wanted to leap into his arms. She wanted to kiss him until they were both breathless. From what Smith had told her, he was still single, but Smith had only recently become most unreliable, so his word was worth less than a grain of salt. Better to air on the side of caution.

They spoke for several minutes about this and that, all the while Tina tried to figure out her next steps. He was back in town. Back in danger’s way. The safest place for him now would be in her line of sight. Permanently.  The damned charity function. She had planned on just not showing up, but this might be better. Let everyone see, he was under her wing now. Under her direct protection. Untouchable.

She rang for Carlo.  “Craig needs a tuxedo for tonight.  He will be joining me.  Please escort him to Antonio’s.  My dress will be sapphire.  Have him coordinate.”

“Yes, Mistress.”  Carlo motioned to Craig to follow him out of the office. 

Tina watched the two men leave her office and immediately pulled out her phone to call Smith.

“Any news?”

“You’re sure about that?”

“When was the last time you checked on him?”

“I do actually have a concern, Mr. Smith. My concern is that while you were looking at him this morning on the West Coast, he was here, on the East Coast trying to get a loan from a bank that was being robbed.”

Her voice gradually rose in volume with every word.

“He was brought to me in my office by a low-life that is now regretting every breath he takes. Do not tell me to fact check my own eyes, Smith!”

“I don’t care about your stupid excuses, Mr. Smith! You are finished. Your best course of action will be to stay where you are, because there is no longer any work for you here!”

Tina wished she could throw her phone across the room, but with everything going on, she did not have time to shop for a new one. She ended the call quite anticlimactically and dialed Carlo.

“We are getting in the car now. I’ve called ahead to Antonio’s. We’re expected.”

“Thank you, Carlo. We will need a new P.I. I’ve fired Mr. Smith.”

“I already have Junior on it.”

“Thank you.”

“Are you sure this is wise, Mistress?”

“No, but what are my other choices? The safest place for him now is with me.”

“And if he refuses?”

“I can’t think about that right now. Neither my head nor my heart can bear it.”

divider by @thecutestgrotto

[burlveneer-music]

Kobe Gregoir Group - Co-Motion - jazz quintet from Belgium

Daniëlle Zawadi – Spoken Word Carlo Nardozza – Trumpet Claudio Jr. De Rosa – Saxophone Vivienne ChuLiao – Piano Ignacio Santoro – Double Bass Kobe Gregoir – Drums/Compositions Composer: Kobe Gregoir Arranger: Claudio Jr. De Rosa Images and sleeve design: Jelle Martens

[falaalexandre]

A América grande novamente?

por Carlos Alexandre

O doutor em Ciência Política, Maurício Santoro, falou ao Meio que...

não existe na história nenhum país que conseguiu se reindustrializar.

Esse é grande desafio para os Estados Unidos, se a foto que se tem hoje (fechado para o mundo), permanecer.

Make America great again?

[alephsblog]

Sarebbe assai mal giudicato chi sminuisse le responsabilità degli intellettuali che negli anni Trenta del secolo scorso, e fino a che l’Italia giunse a scoprirsi composta da quarantacinque milioni di impeccabili partigiani, sostennero fattivamente il regime fascista o anche solo collaborarono ad accreditarlo. Nessuno, senza esporsi a qualche riprovazione, negherebbe oggi che quegli scrittori, quei filosofi, quegli accademici contribuirono con più o meno efficacia, ma comunque in modo non irrilevante, non solo all’impianto del regime fascista ma anche alla curatela delle ragioni storiche che ne evocavano la necessità e, soprattutto, dei “valori” di cui provvidenzialmente esso si faceva realizzatore.

Sarebbe incongruo e sbagliato, dunque, fare le mostre che sia innocuo il manifesto che il fisico Carlo Rovelli e un suo collega hanno esposto alla pubblica sottoscrizione. Intitolato “Scienziati contro il riarmo”, l’appello enumera le presunte ragioni per cui l’Europa, irresponsabilmente, si sarebbe fatta prendere da istanze guerrafondaie sul pretesto del conflitto tra la Russia e l’Ucraina: che non è l’aggressione scatenata dall’esercito russo contro i civili ucraini ma, spiega il manifesto rovelliano, una guerra «finanziata dai Paesi della Nato con la giustificazione di difendere ragioni di principio». Non hanno scritto guerra per procura perché l’avevano già detto Aljaksandr Lukašenka, Michele Santoro, Vauro e l’Anpi, e ci voleva un pizzico di autonomia accademica.

Una inopinata «paura della Russia», spiega il manifesto «degli scienziati» (tutti eh: non sono Rovelli e quell’altro, sono “gli scienziati”), alimenta senza ragione le brame di riarmo dell’Europa, la quale schiaffeggia in tal modo i proponimenti di pace di soggetti ben altrimenti orientati. Vale a dire (non è uno scherzo, hanno scritto così), Donald Trump e Vladimir Putin (chiamati rispettivamente «l’attuale presidente degli Stati Uniti» e «l’attuale presidente della Russia»), i quali hanno avviato lodevoli processi di «normalizzazione» mentre (ancora: non è uno scherzo) «il presidente cinese ha chiesto ripetutamente la de-escalation ed è passato da una mentalità conflittuale a una mentalità collaborativa».

La pace, faticosamente in via di costruzione grazie a quello che vuole prendersi la Groenlandia e il Canada, grazie a quello che vuole prendersi l’Ucraina dopo che questa l’ha selvaggiamente aggredito, grazie a quello che vuole prendersi Taiwan per esportare anche lì un po’ di democrazia, insomma la pace salvaguardata da questo trio gandhiano rischia di essere travolta dall’Europa che, da faro «di stabilità e pace», si appresta «a diventare un nuovo signore della guerra». Testuale.

Tutti avrebbero il dovere di prendere molto sul serio quel che dicono questi scienziati che parlano a nome «degli scienziati». Adesso è facile prendersi gioco dei proclami a petto in fuori – effettivamente ridicoli, riletti oggi – con cui gli antenati di questi intellettuali descrivevano le ragioni di resistenza del regime agli appetiti mortali dei corrotti sistemi liberali: anche Hitler era “uomo di pace”, ma non c’era proprio nulla da ridere quando lo dicevano. Sarebbe stato necessario piangere sulla Cecoslovacchia, sulla Polonia, su sessanta milioni di morti, su sei milioni di ebrei e sul Vecchio Mondo che scelse il disonore ed ebbe la guerra, per poterne ridere. Per quel manifesto servono pubblico disprezzo e dileggio, non noncuranza e spallucce. E servono ora, non quando arriverà il 25 aprile del 1945 che rischia di non arrivare.

[bleedingheartsfm]

mwm in their 40s??

wow, coming in hot with the perfect question for me! let's see, right off the noggin, i'd love to see diego luna, rodrigo santoro, dan stevens, oscar isaac, gabriel luna, ebon moss bachrach, lee dong wook, mousa kraish, alfonso herrera, mike colter, gong yoo, charles michael davis, rajkummar rao, jang hyuk, jake johnson, carlos miranda!

[oltrescrittura]

Dalla luce al buio e... ritorno. Il miracolo del Signore.

di Maria Raffaella Santoro  GFE EDIZIONI STANDARD Raffaella è un’insegnante elementare che svolge il suo lavoro con passione e amore. Sposata con Carlo e madre di Davide, è in procinto di adottare un bambino quando viene colpita da una emorragia cerebrale. I medici non danno molte speranze. Per la famiglia inizia un periodo di buio. Raffaella resta per oltre due mesi in coma, durante il quale,…

[pacosemnoticias]

Bancos controlados por capital estrangeiro são 60% do sistema português

Os bancos controlados por investidores estrangeiros ou em que o capital destes é preponderante representam mais de 60% do sistema bancário português, quer em ativos quer em passivos, segundo cálculos feitos pela Lusa com dados da APB.

Estas contas foram feitas a partir dos últimos balanços dos bancos disponíveis no 'site' da Associação Portuguesa de Bancos (APB), referentes a junho de 2024.

De acordo com os cálculos da Lusa, os bancos detidos ou controlados por capital estrangeiro (em que se destacam BCP, Santander Totta, Novo Banco, BPI mas também Bankinter ou Abanca) representam mais de 60% do ativo e passivo total do sistema bancário.

O ativo dos bancos agrega o crédito a clientes (a principal rubrica), mas também aplicações em outros bancos e instrumentos financeiros como ações e obrigações. Já o passivo bancário agrega as responsabilidades que os bancos têm para com terceiros, desde logo os depósitos.

Estes dados indicam o reforço do capital estrangeiro no sistema bancário português em quase 10 anos, pois em 2016 os bancos de capital estrangeiro representavam cerca de 50% do sistema bancário (abaixo dos cerca de 60% atuais).

Atualmente, os principais bancos a operar em Portugal são a Caixa Geral de Depósitos (totalmente detida pelo Estado português), o BCP (os principais acionistas são a chinesa Fosun e a angolana Sonangol), o Santander Totta (detido pelo grupo espanhol Santander), o Novo Banco (detido em 75% pelo fundo norte-americano Lone Star) e o BPI (detido pelo grupo espanhol Caixabank).

Nos bancos de média dimensão destacam-se os portugueses Crédito Agrícola e Montepio e depois os espanhóis Bankinter e Eurobic Abanca (marca transitória após o grupo espanhol Abanca ter comprado o Eurobic).

Na banca portuguesa é tradicional a predominância de Espanha, mas o seu peso reforçou-se na última década. Em junho de 2024, os bancos com capital espanhol representavam quase 30% do total.

Para isso contribuiu, designadamente, a tomada de controlo do BPI pelo Caixabank (em 2017, no âmbito da Oferta Pública de Aquisição), mas também a integração de parte da operação do Banif (na resolução deste) no Santander Totta e a entrada em força no mercado português do Bankinter (em 2016 comprou parte da atividade do Barclays) e do Abanca (em 2018 o grupo do multimilionário Juan Carlos Escotet comprou o retalho do Deutsche Bank e concluiu em 2024 a aquisição do EuroBic).

Em contrapartida, reduziu-se o capital angolano na banca portuguesa, sobretudo devido ao desinvestimento da empresária Isabel dos Santos (filha do ex-presidente de Angola José Eduardo dos Santos) envolvida em vários processos judiciais.

A 'holding' Santoro (de Isabel dos Santos) saiu do BPI em 2017 durante a OPA do Caixabank e, no ano passado, foi concretizada a venda ao Abanca do Eurobic (banco que foi dominado por Isabel dos Santos).

Já a participação da petrolífera angolana Sonangol no BCP tem-se mantido nos últimos anos, sendo o segundo maior acionista (com 19,49% do capital social).

Quanto aos investidores da China na banca portuguesa, há quase 10 anos, aproveitaram os preços a 'desconto' como oportunidade para entrarem na Europa e desde então são discretos.

O grupo chinês Fosun entrou, em 2016, no BCP e tornou-se ainda nesse ano o maior acionista. Desde então, a Fosun reduziu a posição mas mantém-se como principal acionista (com 20,03%). Antes, em 2015, grupo Haitong tinha comprado o BES Investimento, hoje denominado Haitong Bank.

Por fim, o capital dos EUA está presente através do Novo Banco. A instituição nascida em 2014 na resolução do BES é detido, desde 2017, em 75% pelo fundo de investimento Lone Star. Os restantes 25% são do Estado português.

A Lone Star quer vender o Novo Banco e tem em curso os preparativos para a entrada em bolsa este ano.

Em qualquer dos casos, a venda do Novo Banco (pelo seu peso no sistema bancário português) levará a uma grande alteração do panorama da banca nacional a médio prazo.

[trastornadosrevista]

La Org. No Nos Cuenten Cromañón será distinguida en la Legislatura Porteña

NO NOS CUENTEN CROMAÑÓN: Semana de reconocimientos en la Legislatura Porteña "EN HONOR A LA VERDAD"

A 20 años de la tragedia de Cromañón, la organización No Nos Cuenten Cromañón encara otro año consecutivo las actividades de comunicación institucional que confluyen en el acto del 30 de diciembre, homenaje a las víctimas y sobrevivientes, que congrega a miles de personas sin la intervención de ningún tipo de política partidaria.

El próximo martes 10 de diciembre a las 14 hs, se llevará a cabo un acto en la Legislatura Porteña para conmemorar la declaración de interés cultural del libro "Voces, Tiempo, Verdad". Esta obra, escrita por Bruno Larocca, plantea una mirada reflexiva sobre la mayor tragedia no natural de la Argentina y reúne testimonios directos de referentes como Estela de Carlotto (quien escribió el prólogo), Indio Solari, Eugenio Zaffaroni, Víctor Hugo Morales, Gabriel Solano, Alfredo Moffat, José Palazzo, Alejandro Kaufman, Leandro Santoro, Carlos Sica, Fabio Lacolla, César San Juan, junto a músicos y sobrevivientes.

“Voces, Tiempo, Verdad” marcó un hito al ser presentado en 40 ciudades de Argentina, recorriendo todas las provincias y siendo parte de la Feria Internacional del Libro de Buenos Aires.

El viernes 13 de diciembre, la organización será reconocida por su labor desde el Centro Internacional para la Promoción de los Derechos Humanos (CIPDH), institución dependiente de la UNESCO. Este homenaje destaca el liderazgo y compromiso en el acompañamiento de las víctimas, familiares y amigos, la promoción de la salud mental y la creación de conciencia social.

Estas actividades convergen en el acto central que se realizará el próximo 30 de diciembre en el Obelisco, al cumplirse 20 años de la tragedia. Bajo el lema "En Honor a la Verdad", se recordará a las víctimas y sobrevivientes, renovando el compromiso con la memoria, la justicia y la transformación social.

[aldanrae]

ideias de fcs para professores?

Xá comigo, aqui umas carinhas que eu gostaria de ver:

MWM: Manny Jacinto, Travis Fimmel, Sam Reid, Louis Garrel, Regé-Jean Page, Richard Madden, Rodrigo Santoro, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Theo James, Michael B. Jordan, Kim Seonho, Danny Ramirez, Tom Hughes, Freddie Stroma, Carlos Miranda, Lucien Laviscount, Aidan Turner

MWF: Anna Sawai, Jessica Alba, Kristen Kreuk, Kat Graham, Evan Rachel Wood, Rosamund Pike, Anna Diop, Willa Fitzgerald, Tessa Thompson, Cassie Clare, Gemma Arterton, Kang Hanna, Jennifer Connelly, Shelley Conn, Jade Eshete, Beren Saat, Jacqueline Fernandez, Priyanka Chopra

MWNB: Sara Ramirez, Emma D'Arcy, Nico Tortorella, Kehlani

[matchalovertrait]

Hmm, do tell.

Start from the beginning (Gen 2)

Previous | Next

Transcript

Lewis: Welcome to my humble abode. Make yourself at home.

Dulce: Oh. My. Gosh.

Dulce: I love these portraits of Devin Villareal! Are you kidding me right now?

Lewis: Ah, I had to put those up. She’s amazing in everything she’s in.

Lewis: You kind of remind me of her, you know?

Dulce: Makes sense. We’re both pretty amazing.

Lewis: [Laughs] You haven’t changed one bit, I see. Let’s have a seat.

Dulce: Thanks. How have you been, by the way? I saw that you won in an episode of Diced! Congratulations.

Lewis: Thank you. I wasn’t sure if I should do it. I was pretty mortified when I lost in Diced Junior, and the stakes seem so much higher in Diced.

Dulce: No kidding, that’s terrifying. I bet you almost wet yourself when you got Carlo Mancini as a judge again, huh?

Lewis: YES! I almost ran out the building. I am so glad I tried it, though. Makes me feel much closer to my goal of becoming a food critic.

Lewis: I’m more motivated now to finish my degrees in culinary arts and journalism. Two more years and I’m done! You’re finished with school, right? Ms. Santoro Academy of Culinary Arts.

Dulce: That’s right. Working on my first cookbook. I think I want to be a freelance chef and open up a cooking school for kids.

Lewis: That’s amazing, Dulce. I’m incredibly happy that you’ve been doing well.

Dulce: Same here..

[Silence]

Dulce: You know, I want to apologize for not keeping in touch. I’ve been a terrible friend.

Lewis: Hey now, chin up. I know you were going through some things. I’m sure Alex would want to catch up too. They don’t live very far from here. We’ve grown pretty close recently.

Dulce: No, I don’t think I should. I doubt they want to see me again. Either way, I’m with Caruso now. That’s all in the past now.

Lewis: Oh, no! You misunderstand me. As a matter of fact, I think you and Alex are better off as platonic friends. You two weren’t really meant for each other.

Dulce: What are you saying..?

Lewis: Oh dear, I might have said too much.