Episode 19

Eduardo frowned, feeling a pang of jealousy as he imagined Mel being flirted with by someone during his trip to Italy.

"Henry, you're not helping!" Eduardo said, trying to hide the irritation in his voice.

"Don't tell me!" Henry laughed at Eduardo. "I'm just saying don't let time pass, Eduardo. If you really like her, don't let fear or pride push you away. Do something before it's too late."

Eduardo knew Henry was right, but he needed to figure out what he was feeling and face the fear he still felt.

"I'll talk to her, but I still need some time..." Eduardo still felt some fear of getting hurt.

"Good luck, my friend... And remember, be honest with your feelings. That is the most important thing," Henry advised, patting Eduardo on the back. "Now let's eat, I'm starving."

Eduardo smiled, feeling a little lighter and determined to resolve the situation with Mel, but back at work, he was so busy, solving problems, that the day ended without him taking any action regarding Mel.

On Friday, Mel arrived at the office carrying her suitcase, planning to go straight from work to the airport. She was excited for Isabela's wedding in Italy, thinking it might take her mind off things for the weekend away from home.

Eduardo watched her discreetly during the morning, and seeing her suitcase, he remembered that Mel would be gone, and it bothered him more than he cared to admit.

Mel organized herself meticulously to ensure she wouldn't be late for her flight. After a quick lunch, she was returning to work when she suddenly ran into her ex, Alexandre, in the middle of the way. He stopped her, looking surprised.

"Mel…" Alexandre smiled at her, thinking that Mel was still in love with him and that he could manipulate her. "You look beautiful! And... you know I miss your company..."

Mel glared at Alexandre, her face closed, and she didn't even want to greet him, wondering how she had stayed with him for so long without realizing he was cheating on her.

"Are you working around here?" Alexandre insisted, trying to hold Mel's arm, who broke free.

"That's none of your business, Alexandre," she replied, walking away. "Oh, and don't think I've forgotten what you did that day. Betrayal isn't enough, now you're going to chase me. I know you threw water at me on purpose."

"What are you talking about?" Alexandre looked confused.

"The day you drove through a puddle and splashed water on me on purpose!" Mel recalled, her emotions on edge.

"Mel, I don't know what you're talking about. It wasn't me."

Mel scoffed, incredulous.

"I saw your mistress in the car, and she was laughing at me. Don't deny it!"

Alexandre's face turned pale, and a shadow of doubt crossed his eyes. He was silent for a moment; he didn't know what Mel was talking about.

"Mel, I swear it wasn't me," Alexandre tried to defend himself. "Renata..."

Mel shook her head, her expression full of disdain.

"It doesn't matter anymore. I just want distance from you two."

Mel walked away, leaving Alexandre standing there, full of doubts, wondering if Mel was telling the truth, that she had seen his mistress in a car with someone else.

"Idiot!" Mel muttered as she walked away, feeling relieved that she was sure she didn't have feelings for Alexandre anymore.

When the clock struck the end of the workday, Mel went to Eduardo's office to ask if he still needed her. Eduardo stood up, trying to find an excuse to talk to her.

"Mel, do you have a minute?" Eduardo asked, walking towards her.

Mel stopped, surprised, but waited for him, feeling her heart race, thinking he was going to say something about the kiss they shared.

"Of course, Mr. Bittencourt," she replied, trying to maintain a professional tone.

Eduardo hesitated for a moment, searching for the right words.

"I just wanted to wish you a good trip..." Eduardo looked at Mel and said nothing more.

"Thank you. And don't worry, I won't be late for work on Monday," Mel thanked him, feeling a mix of emotions before leaving.

Eduardo watched her walk away, a feeling of emptiness settling in his chest. He wanted to say more, do more, but the words stuck in his throat. With a sigh, he turned his attention back to work, trying to concentrate, but his thoughts kept returning to Mel.

Mel, on the other hand, headed to the airport, trying to focus on the trip and Isabela's wedding, and forget about the confusion Eduardo was causing in her head. She was looking forward to flying for the first time, but she couldn't deny that part of her mind was still at the office, with Eduardo.

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