Chapter 8

I kept walking and walking, not really sure of where I was going. I just wanted out of this place and go somewhere I could relax and think thoroughly. John's words were still in my head, repeating over and over like a broken radio.

It was special. We were special. You were special.

What does he exactly mean by that anyway? That he looked at me in a different light but still not the way he looked at Trish? Or maybe he wanted me there so he could satisfy himself anytime, minus the effort? Oh God, now I feel so cheap.

I looked at my feet as I sprinted down the hallway. It seemed like my body was acting on it's own, not wanting to reflect or consider other options other than to go away. Suddenly, I bumped into someone, hitting my head in his chest. The collision caused me to fly backwards a bit but I managed to regain my balance instead of falling to the ground.

"Whoa there horsie!" It was Vince McMahon, the owner of the company, who was looking down at me with a troubled expression on his face. "Are you okay Ms. Stratagias?"

I tried to fix myself in the subtlest way possible. It was more than awkward to bump into your boss like that. "I'm sorry, sir."

"It's okay, no one got injured." He gave me a warm smile as he fixed his grey suit. "Seems like you're in a hurry, is something wrong?"

"No, sir." I kept my eyes on the floor. "I was just rushing outside to get some fresh air. Things have been hard recently."

"I heard about your sister and Mr. Cena." He declared in a voice that was obviously distinct. "I guess we are all tired. Why don't you take the day off tomorrow? You look like you could use some sleep."

I blinked at him making sure that I was hearing the right thing. "Day off?"

"Yes. There's not much to do after the show anyways and I bet there are make-up artists intended for whatever photo shoot the divas are doing. I'll provide a driver for you tomorrow." He tapped my shoulder as he started to walk away. "Take Care of yourself, kid."

"Thank you so much Sir!" I called after him as he disappeared into the hallway, a bunch of guards following after him. I must've looked so bad for him to conclude that I lacked sleep, but I didn't care. I'd gladly look bad everyday if it means that I'd get a day off every week.

Suddenly, everything John said was like a distant memory. I just wanted to fall asleep.

*

One of the things I loved the more than coffee was not waking up early in the morning. Aside from feeling and looking refreshed, it also gives me an optimistic mindset. As soon as I woke up, I could feel the positive energy surround me. I jumped out of the hotel bed in my pajamas and quickly took my cell phone from the bedside table. I suddenly had the urge to talk to my dad.

I dialed his number and listened as it started ringing.

"Hello?" My dad's voice was hoarse as if he just woke up.

"Dad!" I screamed. "How are you?"

"Diane!" He sounded surprised. "My Goodness sweetie, why are you calling at this time of night? It's 1 in the morning! What time is it there? "

"It's 11 am here in Italy." I pushed the window blinds and beamed at the amazing view of Venice. "The place is amazing, Dad. The weather, the view, everything. It would've been great if you and mom came here with us."

"Dear, I'm sure it's beautiful, but you know me and your mom aren't fond of traveling. The farthest we've been to is the garden in the backyard!"

I gave out a small chuckle. "Sorry for calling late dad. I just needed to hear your voice."

"Aww baby," He sighed. "You and Trish are not in a fight again, are you? I swear you girls should start learning to compromise!"

"No, dad." I rebutted, finally closing the blinds and moving back to the bed. "We didn't fight. We're fine."

"That's good to hear. She's not depressed, is she?"

"No. I don't think so."

"You? How are you coping?" His question troubled me but I shook it off. "We all know your sister gets too emotional sometimes but just understand her, she's just used to getting everything all of the time."

"Yeah, I know."

"Are you not working today?" He inquired.

"Mr. McMahon actually gave me a day off. He even provided a car for me today. He's so nice!" I headed to the bathroom to check my reflection on the mirror. "It's like an answered prayer. It's exactly what I needed."

"I'm sure you deserve it, Diane." I had the feeling he was smiling. "You work pretty hard, I'm so proud of you."

"Love you Dad. It was nice talking to you. I miss you so much." I sighed.

"I love and miss you more, dear." His voice was soothing yet somehow rough. "You take care always. Remember what I always tell you.."

"Do what makes you happy and live without regrets." We both said in unison.

"Yes, Dad. I will. Sleep well. Bye." I hung up and faced myself in the mirror once again, immediately seeing the difference sleep makes to my face. I gave myself a warm smile as I quickly made my way to the shower, determined to not waste any time. Today was my day and no one would be able to change that, it was as if God has planned this for me- a well-deserved break for Diane Stratagias. It was more than perfect. Me alone to wander in the streets of Venice!

I prepared the best way that I can, putting on a pretty red sundress that fell right above my knees and white wrap around sandals. I also took time making myself up, I was so used to making other people pretty that I felt it was my turn to feel that way now. After finishing, I took a final look at myself at the bedroom mirror. When I was satisfied, I grabbed my shoulder bag and sunglasses and headed downstairs.

"Wait for me!" I shouted as I saw the elevator almost closing. I ran as fast as I could and was surprised to see Randy holding the door for me. He was wearing a gray affliction t-shirt and denim jeans. He examined me as I ran towards him.

"Hey!" He looked at me and smirked. "Someone looks beautiful today."

"Thanks. Now you made me think of how bad I usually look." I laughed as we both went inside.

"So, do you have a date or something?" He was staring at me intently.

"Not really. Just a day off." I replied as I checked my bag, making sure I didn't leave anything behind. "I'm gonna go sight-seeing."

"Sucks that I have work today." He scratched his head. "I wanted to sight-see too."

The elevator arrived at the ground floor. Randy ushered me outside and we stood there for a brief moment. He kept on glancing at me as if he wanted to tell me something.

"You look really pretty." He said after a while.

"Thank you." I blushed a little as I smiled back.

He crossed his arms in front of himself. "Aren't you going to compliment me back?" His smirk was hilarious.

"Why should I?" I raised my eyebrow at him.

"Well.." He walked towards me until we were an inch apart from each other. "The way you hugged me yesterday gave it away, Diane."

"Gave what away?"

He chuckled a bit and pouted his lips, something he does when he's feeling a bit arrogant, I observed.

"You don't have to be shy because we're friends, Diane." He told me. "I know you have a crush on me."

I started laughing and tapping his arm, as he stood stationary in front of me. I just couldn't stop myself from laughing.

"What's so funny?"

"You, my friend, are delusional." I said in between giggles. "That's why you're cute, Randy. Keep it up." I pulled him down and planted a kiss on his cheek.

"That's it? You're not going to admit it?" He asked me as I walked away.

"Nice talking to you, Randy!" I bid him goodbye and walked straight to the hotel lobby.

"Good Afternoon Ms. Stratagias." The receptionist greeted me as soon as I got to the lobby. I headed to her and greeted her with a smile.

"Good Afternoon! There's a car for me?" I gave her the toothiest grin possible. I just couldn't hide my excitement.

"Yes, your companion is already there. It's the white car up front." Her thick Italian accent made it a bit hard for me to understand what she was saying.

"Companion?" I wondered.

She nodded. "He's just got here too. Enjoy your day, Miss."

The positive energy I had with me was suddenly altered. Butterflies started to form in my stomach as I walked to the car parked up front. The guards greeted me with a smile as they escorted me to the car.

The moment they opened the door I was shocked to see John inside. He had the exact same surprised emotion on his face.