Print Page - The Inheritance: Chapter 5

The Inheritance
Chapter One
May 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_3569b24e.jpg)
I didn't cry when the mail-carrier handed me the telegram. I hadn't seen or heard from my husband Roger since his last leave, two months before. It was a surprise, to be sure, but the place in my heart that once belonged to Roger had been cold and empty for a long time.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_9569b353.jpg)
I didn't bother to change out of my clothes from the factory where I worked and set the telegram down on a table in the hall. I thought back on my life with Roger and I simply couldn't gather the heartfelt tears of a widow.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_5569b331.jpg)
I was born in 1922 in California. I went out with Roger in high school. He was a wonderful boy back then--handsome, athletic, and charming. We married in 1941, the week after Pearl Harbor and the day before he enlisted. He returned on leave a few times, but each time our relationship seemed a little worse. He had changed, or maybe I had. Our relationship had become perfunctory; there was no love, no affection in our actions. But like the other women in my generation, I knew my place and I knew the alternatives. So I stayed.

When I laid down for bed that night, in a bed that had barely ever seen Roger, the empty space next to me seemed to go on forever. And then something strange happened. For the first time since I first married Roger, I felt so empty and alone that the pain was physical. And I wept.

Two Weeks Later

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_956af916.jpg)
As I climbed out of the car, I knew I was out of my mind. "She needs something to take her mind off the grief," said my mother. She and my Aunts, Angela, Maria, and Marta decided I should return to the family villa outside of Florence, Italy. "After all, the war is over, it's completely safe!" And so I took the voyage across and found the villa.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556af968.jpg)
The place was a wreck! The columns that held up the balcony and roof were broken; the windows were shuttered or broken open; the door was hanging off its hinges. Whoever was responsible for the upkeep of the yard had failed miserably. Instead of grass there was dirt; the trees were dead and dried up.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_356af937.jpg)
I glanced at my watch as the rain began to fall. The guide and 'caretaker' of the villa was late. My mother had warned me that in the "old country", people had a flexible relationship with time. I thought of returning to the car, but the nauseating scent of the leather seats told me I should stay in the rain.

Finally, a pair of headlights appeared down the road, and after a few minutes a car pulled up into the driveway. The driver's door opened and someone stepped out. And suddenly, I was happy to be standing outside a trashed villa in the pouring rain...

To be continued!

Thank you for the encouragement! Your wish is granted with...

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part II
June 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_156c07d9.jpg)
He was like an ancient Roman statue cut from warm, tan marble. Although his hair was disheveled from the wind and rain, I could tell he was remarkably handsome. My irritation at his lateness dissolved as he waved me over. He pushed the broken door out of the way and helped me over a puddle and into the foyer of the house. As he set the door back in the frame, I set Roger's ashes on a small table off to the side; I would find an appropriate place for him later.

"I am Durante Moretti, Signora Weelyums, the caretaker of your villa. Please, allow me to give you the grand tour."

I agreed, but judging from the state of the foyer...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_956afb3a.jpg)
"Apologies, Signora, but the stairs were destroyed during a fire here in the last days of the war. I had not been able to replace them yet."

...the tour would be less than grand.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556afab9.jpg)
"I'm replacing the wallpapering in here, Signora," said Durante, explaining the exposed walls of the hall. A weathered set of arches separated the kitchen/dining area, which reeked of mildew.

"The roof leaked for awhile," said Durante by way of explaining the mold growing on the floors and counters.

"But not anymore?" I said, glancing around the kitchen. A chipped wooden table and chairs had been set up, looking unsound and uncomfortable.

"No, Signora. I fixed it when I returned. And over here is the living room..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_156c151d.jpg)
"Oh!" He stopped so short that I nearly ran into him. "Is this yours? It wasn't here when I left yesterday." He gestured to the urn on the table.

"Yes," I said. "That's my husband, Roger. He was killed in the war."

"I see," said Durante, studiously avoiding my gaze as he pointed out the features of the room.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_d56afaae.jpg)
There was a worn sofa and two ratty armchairs, an ancient lamp whose glass looked like it hadn't been cleaned since the Napoleonic era. A weathered bar sat in the corner near a warped billiards table whose felt was ripped.

"Charming," I said through gritted teeth; this was not what I had expected, not what I had seen in the family photo albums. But like the rest of Europe, the war had taken a toll on my family's villa. "And...upstairs?" I asked, rolling my eyes skyward, to the chipped, flaking ceiling.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_b56afb24.jpg)
"An office on the left, Signora," said Durante. "Most of the furniture was destroyed when the Allies captured the villa; this was what was left here."

I ran my hand over the rough-hewn surface of the desk. It wasn't much, but it would hold my typewriter. And there were more than a dozen books on the bookshelves that were improvised from concrete blocks and planks of wood.

Across the second floor foyer was a bedroom without a bed. Durante said that the bed had been badly damaged during the Allied occupation of the villa, along with the dresser and bedside table.

"Is there a telephone?"

"Why of course, Signora. It is only a fifteen minute drive to town--" Durante said.

"There's no--my God, how do you--" I bit my lip before I could make a fool of myself, then offered him an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry. Shall we sit in the living room for a few minutes and discuss the reconstruction?"

"Of course."

"But first, where's the powder room?"

Durante pointed out the bedroom window towards the back yard. I walked over and peered out.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_156c1ee7.jpg)
"Oh dear God..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f56c195c.jpg)
We settled in the sitting room, where we agreed that certain renovations must be made, not least of which to wire the house with electricity and indoor bathrooms!

"I apologize for the state of the villa, Signora. I was part of the resistance here in Italy during the war; if I had known someone would finally return, I would have--"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f56c193e.jpg)
"Been killed by the Allies if you tried to stop them thrashing the place," I said, trying to sound kind. It really was not his fault that the place was in this condition. Or maybe he was just too handsome and earnest to blame.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_356c1961.jpg)
"Are you feeling all right, Signora?" Durante's words pulled me from my reverie. "You're looking quite pale."

"I'm fine," I said. This wasn't particularly true; I was feeling a little nauseas and tired. "Just a little unsteady on my feet after all that time at sea coming over. Thank you for asking, Mr. Moretti."

"Please," said Durante. "Call me Dante. All my friends do."

I smiled and nodded. I had the feeling that Dante Moretti and I would be good friends. And a part of me hoped that we could become more than just friends. But it never occurred to me...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_956c1972.jpg)
...that God and my husband had other plans.

To be continued...

I hope you're all enjoying the story so far. But I couldn't resist adding some intrigue and strife, so without further ado I present...

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part III
June-July 1945

I knew from the first morning at the villa. A woman just knows these things. I was sick several times over the next few weeks, but nothing stood in the way of Dante and I refurbishing the villa. And as we did, we learned more about each other and our friendship blossomed.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_956c2561.jpg)
I came home from the market the first Saturday I was there to find Dante in the hall. In the two hours I had spent at the market, he had covered half the hall in the wood paneling we chose.

"Dante, it's so beautiful," I exclaimed, brushing the hair over my shoulder happily. For the first time, I felt like I might actually be able to enjoy my stay here.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_156c23db.jpg)
Later, over dinner, he laid out his ambition for the kitchen and living room. We talked about our pasts. I told him about my work in the factories back home during the war. He thrilled me with tales of his adventures in the Italian resistance and sheltering Jews from the fascists.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556c301f.jpg)
The next week, as we finished the tile work in the kitchen, he told me of his father's death at the hands of Mussolini's blackshirts, and I shared the story of Roger and my tumultuous romance, climaxing just after Pearl Harbor in a hasty and ill-advised wedding.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f56c2aad.jpg)
Two weeks later, we were putting the finishing touches on the living room walls, when he shared his dream of a house in the country, a loving wife and as many children as they could handle. I told him about my dream to be a writer and described my first (and worst) finished novel to him.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_956d3e56.jpg)
A week after that, he dropped by to tell me he couldn't work until the afternoon; he had to take his mother, Maria, to the doctor's office in town. He apologized profusely; I could tell he was uncomfortable about letting me down. I took his hands and told him that it was fine, that family came first.

He smiled, released my hands, and turned to go before turning back, almost as if on an impulse. He kissed me, stroking my cheek lightly with his calloused hands.

"I...I have to go. I'll be back this afternoon," he said, and before I could respond, he was climbing into his car. I stood in the pouring rain and watched him drive away and wondered if he would be coming back.

And then I decided that, if he did come back, I would have to stop hiding the truth and just tell him.

That Afternoon
(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_756d3f84.jpg)
Having changed out of my wet clothes, I heard a car rattle to a halt in the drive and went to the kitchen window. Dante was getting the mail for me; he did that when the yard was muddy. I left the window as he came up the drive and opened the door. I stood in the doorway to the kitchen as he greeted me without looking up from the envelope he was reading.

"It looks like you're in for a real treat," he said lightheartedly. "The Thornycrofts are back in the country and it looks like they've invited you to tea. It'll be...interesting. They're quite the characters, really strange somet--" his voice dropped off as he turned to face me, and his jaw dropped.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_756d404e.jpg)
"Wh-what?" he asked, staring at me.

I could only offer an embarrassed smile. "I'm sorry, Dante. I should have told you before. I mean...after the way we've become fr-friends," I said, wondering whether that word was still descriptive of our relationship.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556d4099.jpg)
He said nothing; I don't think he could have if he wanted to. I could read shock on his face, but was there something else? Did he think I had betrayed him? After all, until then...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_956d4092.jpg)
...I'd been hiding a big secret.

Time to introduce some new characters for Dante and Elizabeth to interact with!

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part IV
July 1945

As Dante was discovering my secret, not far from my family's villa, another secret was being covered up...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_f56d3ac7.jpg)
"I hate it here, Mummy," said Grant Thornycroft. "I don't see why we need to come every summer, not when all my friends go to Scotland for summer."

"Smile, dear," was Lady Esther Thornycroft's response. "Your father loved this house and had deep connections with Italy. Can you imagine what he'd say if he heard you say you hate it?"

Grant, Lord Thornycroft for less than a year, muttered, "No, but I can imagine what he'd say if he heard you talk so admirably of the fascists."

"Watch your mouth," Esther said through her smile as she watched the porters bring their bags in. "I'd just as soon send you back to Scotland, but I need someone to look after--"

"Be quiet, mother, someone might hear."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_156d3b02.jpg)
"Yes," said Esther, more to herself than to her son. "Richard loved this house and this country. He would have wanted us all to come out and remember the happy times. After all, all the best families have houses on the Continent."

They went up into the house and Esther to her bedroom.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_956d3b68.jpg)
Grant entered the bedroom just as Esther was sliding the secret bookcase door shut. "Is everything all right, mother?" he asked, glancing skyward.

Esther shrugged, her own mind's eye wandering through the secret passage...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_956d3ba5.jpg)
...up the ladder and through the door marked 'danger, electrical room...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_756d3bc2.jpg)
...and into the secret compartment. Back in the bedroom, Esther began unpacking her suitcases. "I hate this situation, but you know we don't have any other choice."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_b56d3bd4.jpg)
In the secret attic room, a frightened woman could hear raised voices, then outright shouting from beneath her. A trembling hand wrote across her diary page: "I've escaped."

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part V
July 1945

It went better than expected; Dante left that day and didn't come back until the next day. He invited me to his home for lunch with his mother.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_956c01ed_156e61fe.jpg)
Mrs. Moretti was an old woman, Italian to the roots. She reminded me a lot of my aunts who lived in New York: brassy and full of personality.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_956c01ed_356e621c.jpg)
The look on her face when she saw the bump under my dress was one I remembered from my childhood, when a "scarlet woman" blew through our town in search of work. It was a mix of pity and surprise and a touch of revulsion, but when she welcomed me to her home, her voice was warm and kind.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_956c01ed_f56e6271.jpg)
We had a delicious lunch of pasta, salad, and chicken. She kept serving and serving and serving, telling me that a woman in my condition needed to eat. When finally she either had no food, or could tell that I was completely full, we moved to the living room.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_956c01ed_f56e62fb.jpg)
I found that the food must have been a lure. Mrs. Moretti then put the screws to me, to the chagrin of Dante. "You're pregnant," she said.
"Yes, I am."
"Forgive me if I sound blunt, child, but my son has become quite taken with you and he has asked for my advice on this matter. Do you mind?"
"No, Mrs. Moretti."
"Who are you pregnant by?"
"My late husband, Corporal Roger Williams."
"He was killed in the war?"
"Yes."
She stroked her chin and looked at me thoughtfully."You intend to stay in Italy for how long?"
"Indefinitely," I said, which was true. I had no interest in returning to America, not when I had a chance to see where this thing with Dante would go.
"What is it you do?"
"I...well, I write books."
"I see. Nothing trashy, I hope."
"No, not at all."
"Very well, then," said Mrs. Moretti. She nodded at Dante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_956c01ed_d56e6515.jpg)
The next thing I knew, Dante was kneeling in front of me. He took my hand and looked up at me and said, "Elizabeth, I want to marry you. Will you be my wife?"

Of course, I said yes. I'd made plenty of mistakes in my life, but rejected Dante was one mistake I wasn't going to make.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part VI
August 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_156d3b02.jpg)
The news of my engagement to Dante spread through the neighborhood, but only inasmuch as "the stranger in the ruined villa is getting married." A week after that day, I was bundled into the car on my way to the Thornycroft Villa for a tea party.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_556e9026.jpg)
I must have arrived a little late; everyone else who was invited was already there. Dante was right about Lady Thornycroft: she was a character. She was wound a little tight, but she was terribly polite. "Come in, dear, come in. Let me introduce you to everyone. The most exclusive set in the neighborhood, I say!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_d56e913b.jpg)
"My son, Grant, the current Lord Thornycroft," said Lady Thornycroft. "And I believe you know Signora Moretti? And this is Adela Koenig, she runs that fabulous German bakery in town with her brother. Everyone, this is Mrs. Elizabeth Williams." I sat down near Mrs. Moretti and accepted a cup of tea from Lady Thornycroft.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_d56e917f.jpg)
"Mrs. Williams," said Grant. "Mr. Williams couldn't make it?"
"I'm afraid Mr. Williams is no longer with us," I explained calmly. "He died in the war."
"I'm terribly sorry," said Grant. "So did my sister; she was an auxiliary nurse and she died in the Blitz."
"That's terrible," I said sympathetically, but Lady Thornycroft cut across our conversation.
"That's quite enough, Grant," she said firmly. "Really, there's no need for such unpleasantness. Tell us, Mrs. Williams, how is the renovation of the villa coming?"
"Oh, quite well, thank you. I'm hoping to have a nice little soiree there as soon as it's finished. Of course, you'll all be welcome."
"That sounds lovely," said Lady Thornycroft. "Perhaps you could get Fraulein Koenig here to help with the food; it's simply divine."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_b56e9192.jpg)
"Ja," said Adela. "I vould be quite happy to assist." At that moment, there was a huge crash from the hall. "Mein gott, vot vos that?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_956e9461.jpg)
We all rushed out into the hall, but none before Grant Thornycroft. He shoved me aside in his haste, and was followed by Lady Thornycroft. "What's happened?" I asked, rubbing my hip where it had been banged against the doorway.
"Oh, nothing," said Lady Thornycroft. "It's just our maid; poor dear has been having dizzy spells lately. Grant, take her upstairs."
"Are you sure she's all right?" asked Mrs. Moretti. "She should be taken to the hospital."
"No, she'll be fine. Grant, now." The chill in Lady Thornycroft's voice was evident. She began to usher us towards the door as Grant continued to shield the woman from our view.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_556e9436.jpg)
"Thank you all for coming, I'm so sorry we've had to cut it short, but I really must look after the maid," said Lady Thornycroft. "We really ought to do it again sometime, don't you think?"

As she pushed us out the door, I couldn't help giving once last glance back towards the hall. Grant was carrying a woman with long-brown hair up the staircase. "Goodbye, Lady Thornycroft," I said with a smile. "Thank you so much for having me."

And as I walked towards my car with Mrs. Moretti, I told her, "There's something not right about this place."

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part VII
August 1945

I had my suspicions about the Thornycroft family, but little did I know that I was not the only one whose interest was raised...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_d587a4d5.jpg)
The little bakery downtown was known for its delectable goodies--and not just the baked kind. It was a place to swap gossip for pastries and secrets for cups of coffee, all in the interest of good natured curiosity.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_3587a4f0.jpg)
But behind the loaves of fresh-baked bread and sweet donuts...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_f587a510.jpg)
...and beyond the delicious cobblers and savory lunch pastries...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_d587a594.jpg)
...hidden behind a padlocked door above the garage was where the real gossip was traded--and not among the neighbors.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_b587a4a9.jpg)
"Was that her? Was it all true?" demanded Erik Koenig. He had been left home to mind the bakery all day, and had been sorely disappointed at the fact that he had missed out on the pair's greatest breakthrough to date.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_f587a494-1.jpg)
"I can't be sure," said Adela firmly. "But I think it was. I'll try to get a closer look...somehow. From the way it looks, she's been locked up all this time."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_3587a47a.jpg)
"We'd better find out and be sure," said Erik darkly, turning to glance at the map of the world behind him. "It's very important that we get this first step right, or we'll have missed a golden opportunity to control it all."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_d587a490-1.jpg)
Adela looked coldly at her cohort across the table. "Don't think I don't realize what the stakes are," she said, her voice tinged with ice. "I know the stakes more than you realize."

Two weeks later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_356e7fe0.jpg)
I had a doctor's appointment in Florence. I stayed two nights in the city and arrived back on a rainy night. The first thing I noticed was the large fountain that had been installed in the courtyard. It was running beautifully, adding a nice cadence to the falling rain.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_956e80c0.jpg)
I knew Dante was at the villa because I saw the lights on from the driveway. I called for him, and he called that he was in the nursery, but not to come in yet. I smiled; he had been surprising me with little things for the past few weeks. It felt nice, after those years married to Roger, to have someone who wanted to make me smile.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f56e80fa.jpg)
"What are you doing in there?" I asked through the door. He only laughed and said, "Wait and see. Have patience, my dear." I returned the laugh and stood outside the door, waiting patiently--or perhaps a little impatiently--until he said, "All right, come in!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556e820b.jpg)
He stood in the center of the nursery, which had been redone completely since I saw it last. Gone were the moldy carpets, the peeling wallpapers, and the splintered furniture. In their place was a warm, safe haven for my child, who was due to arrive within a month. "Oh, Dante, it's beautiful! You shouldn't have."

"I wanted to have somewhere beautiful for your child. For...our child," he said, placing a hand on my swollen womb. "I want to help you raise the baby. I want to be its father, Elizabeth."

"You are," I said, and kissed him. "You will be."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_356e83f9.jpg)
We spent hours that week planning our engagement party, which would double as the showing off of the refurbished villa. Dante continued to surprise me. But unknown to me, there would be more surprises to come...

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part VIII
September 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f56ec9e3.jpg)
Dante and I sat in the library, finally finished planning the party. It would be tonight, tonight that we celebrated with family and those we had come, through various social occasions, to know as friends.

There was nothing left to plan for that night as Dante combed his hair back and I put in my best hair pin. We had only to enjoy ourselves. Unfortunately, fate had dealt us another hand.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_d56ec2ca.jpg)
The whole neighborhood showed up for the party: Lady Thornycroft in her furs; Adela Koenig in her fashions from Paris; Lord Grant Thornycroft in his medals and sashes; Erik Koenig in his favorite suit; and Mama Moretti in her sensible dress.

I must admit that everything was beautifully done. It may sound immodest, but the table was tastefully set; the food was immaculately prepared, and the music was played on my new, top of the line gramophone.

The conversation went from gossip ("Did you hear about Maisy Wilcox's husband? He nearly drowned in the swimming pool!" said Grant), to religion ("I simply don't see vhy ve need Gud," intoned Erik), to politics ("I see no problem with Mussolini's fascism, it was Hitler where things went wrong; no offense, Fraulein Koenig," gushed Lady Thornycroft).

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f56ec429.jpg)
We laughed and drank good wine and ate good food and enjoyed ourselves. That is, until Lady Thornycroft got up to indulge in another slice of cake.

"My dear Elizabeth, there's something out in your garden. My goodness, it looks like a man!" I hurried over to the window to have a look for myself. There was a man in my garden! I went to the door, Dante hurrying after me.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556ec619.jpg)
"Who are you?" I asked, peering into the darkness. "What do you want?"
"It's me," said a voice that was all too familiar.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_756ec5e4.jpg)
And then Roger Williams stepped into the light from the window, his handsome face unchanged by his supposed death.

The party ended immediately. Lady Thornycroft, perhaps remembering her own experience at the tea party, helped to corral the guests as they left. Dante and I retired to the lounge to talk with Roger.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556ec7e8.jpg)
"Roger, what...?" was all I could say. My voice refused to form words, even if my mind could could have lined them up into an intelligent sentence, which it couldn't.

He looked sheepish as he sprawled over my new sofa. "I'm sorry, Lizzy, I really am. I never meant to hurt you, but I really needed to get away. Who's this?" he added, pointing at Dante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_b56ec777.jpg)
"He's my... we're getting married," I said, still dazed.

"What? But you're still married to me," said Roger, jumping to his feet.

"You're dead," said Dante heatedly. "She's free to do what she wants."

I staggered to my feet; my stomach was turning and I thought I might be sick.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f56ec8b1.jpg)
"You're pregnant," said Roger with a smile. "That's great! It's mine, right?"

"Yes," I said weakly. I felt dizzy, I felt warm and uncomfortable. I was humiliated, but I had done nothing wrong. The world was spinning, and I reached for the mantle as support. "Roger, if you're here, who the hell is this?"

I nodded at the ashes on the marble mantle. "Oh," he said. "I put my tags on one of my squadmates when we were ambushed."

The matter of factness with which he described his fraud threw me into a rage. I lifted the urn with every intention of hurling it at his head, but at that moment, I felt wetness in my shoes. I looked down. My legs were wet. My water had broken. The baby, it seemed, was on its way.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part IX
September 1945

While I was going through the pain of labor, in town at the Koenig Bakery, Erik and Adela Koenig were experiencing some discomfort of their own.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_95894997.jpg)
"What the hell was that?" Adela shouted so loudly that a cat scampered out from the alley between the garage and the bakery. "What the hell was that?"
"I don't know," Erik admitted. "Be quiet, someone will hear you. For the love of--just be quiet, all right, and we'll figure it out."
"We need to call the Commissar," said Adela forcefully as she drew the curtains on the window.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_35894a01.jpg)
Adela made no move for the phone, however. She remained staring at the pinboard on the wall. "We had no idea," she said. "I can't believe it. We had absolutely no idea. This changes everything, don't you understand that?" She ran her fingers through her hair, shaking the rings loose in a burst of nervous energy.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_158949ee.jpg)
"We might not have to call in the Commissar yet," said Erik darkly. "You know he'll just--"
"You don't understand. This was a stupid assignment, it was simple. Find the girl to leverage the Thornycrofts. The Americans weren't even supposed to be involved!" said Adela.
Erik stroked his chin thoughtfully. "It's possible that this is all just personal. He could just be--"
"Don't be stupid," Adela said. "An American soldier shows up in this town, at this time, just after we've set up shop?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_f5894a41.jpg)
Five minutes later, Adela had dialed and been connected. "Leningrad; the Black Commissariat; clearance level highest; passcode 'Pride of Proletariat'," she said in her native Russian.
"Da, Commissar Ysadrov here."
"Commissar, we have a problem..." said Adela, twirling the cord for the phone around her finger nervously.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_75894baa.jpg)
"I still don't know about this," said Erik as he settled into his seat. "I still think we should wait more and see how things go."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_75894b9e.jpg)
"It's too late now," snapped Adela. "We're, as they say, locked in. Perhaps we can benefit from Commisar Ysadrov's expertise. In the mean-time, get ready."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_f5894b96.jpg)
They both looked at the chair at the head of the table. Soon it would be occupied and soon, they hoped, they would make sense of this rapidly-complicating situation. And if they were lucky, they might just survive.

Three hours later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_556ec99c.jpg)
Josephine.

The name meant nothing to me, and it meant everything. It wasn't a family name, or the name of a myth of which I was familiar. But every time I looked into the face of my beautiful baby girl, the only thing I could think was "Josephine". She was perfect; ten fingers, ten toes, and the smoothest skin I had ever felt.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_756ec67f.jpg)
I didn't want to go back to the problems that were swallowing my life, but I did. I left Josephine in her crib and went back downstairs, where Dante and Roger were glaring daggers at each other.

"Are you all right?" Dante demanded.
"The midwife left hours ago, where have you been?"
I gave a weary sigh and took a seat on the sofa with Dante. "Resting," I said.
"How's the baby?" Dante asked.
"Josephine Marie," I said with a smile.
"Can I see her?" asked Roger.
"Um..." I said. I didn't want to have him upstairs; it felt like he was intruding on my life, the life I was trying to build with Dante. But Roger was Josephine's father; I couldn't refuse. "Yes, all right, for a moment. Dante..."
"I'll wait down here," he said softly.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_d56ec978.jpg)
"She's beautiful," said Roger.
"Yes, she is. Roger, now that we're alone, I need to know what it is you want. You faked your death to get away from me; I can't imagine you've come to claim me."
"I realize now that I was wrong," said Roger earnestly. "I mistreated you, I know that now. I want to be a family, with you and little Josephine. What's the harm in that?"
"I've moved on, Roger. You're dead, remember?"
"But I'm not. In the eyes of God, we're still married."
"I don't think so, Roger."
"For God's sake, Lizzy!" he said loudly. Josephine began to wail, and I picked her up.
"Just go, Roger. Please go. We'll talk about this... tomorrow. Okay? Please, go." I comforted Josephine as Roger picked stood and then left. I held Josephine and looked into her face. Her facial features were mine: the slightly upturned nose, the formed cheekbones, the pink lips. But her eyes, I realized... her eyes were Roger's. And for the first time I began to consider that we were a family now. Did I have a responsibility to Roger, after all he'd done? Would he be a good father for Josephine?

These were questions I couldn't answer.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part X
September 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_b58a7245.jpg)
I didn't sleep the whole night, and in the morning I needed advice. I called the local cathedral and spoke to Father Bianchi. He invited me down to speak and pray with him, and I left Josephine in the care of Dante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f58a7270.jpg)
"What is troubling you, my child?" asked Father Bianchi. He was an older man, a native Italian, and a man of the cloth. "You look as if you've been through a storm."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_558a728e.jpg)
"I have a question," I said. "A question about marriage. You see, I married a man named Roger four years ago. Shortly thereafter we became...estranged, but mindful of the church's teaching, we tried to work it out. He went away to war and I received a telegram saying he was killed."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_158a730d.jpg)
"Yes, my child. The church is very clear on this. What is your concern?" asked the Priest.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_158a72f2.jpg)
"After my husband died, I came here to my family's villa. I met a man there and.. well, a relationship developed and he proposed to me and I accepted. This whole matter is complicated by the fact that, before he went off to war, I became pregnant with my husband's child."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_758a72b6.jpg)
"Are you thinking that, perhaps, continuing this relationship with this new fellow would be being unfaithful in the eyes of God? The Bible doesn't forbid remarriage after being widowed, my child." Father Bianchi patted my hand comfortingly.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_958a7296.jpg)
"Well," I said, shifting uncomfortably. "The thing is, Roger...didn't die. He faked his death and has come back. He says he wants to be a family with me and our daughter, Josephine. But, Father, I'm not comfortable with this. Roger's deceit makes me uneasy."

Father Bianchi nodded thoughtfully. "The situation is not one that is covered in the scriptures," he said kindly. "I can only say that you should think about it and pray about it and in the end you must be guided by your conscience and the will of God."

The Father blessed me and said to come by if I ever needed anything, and led me to a prayer altar.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_758a7636.jpg)
Kneeling under the cross, I prayed with all my might that God would grant me the wisdom to make the right choice, for me and for my daughter. Most of all, I wanted a safe, nurturing home for my family. My heart sang for Dante, but my Catholic sensibility said I was pledged to Roger.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_358a76d9.jpg)
As I left the church, I recalled the verse inscribed on the base of the cross at which I had been kneeling. Of all the promises that God had made his people, I felt his promise to be with us was the one that was least fulfilled.

Back at the Villa...

Dante came down the stairs when her hear my car in the drive. "Josephine is soundly asleep," he told me as he helped me out of my coat. I swept my hat off my head and tucked it in the closet before following him into the living room. "Let's open that champagne; we never got a chance last night."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_958a7b28.jpg)
"Here's to us," said Dante. I wanted to tell him everything, about being torn between faith and love, duty and self-indulgence. But I couldn't, not yet, not until I had made a final decision. And so I drank to us.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f58a7b2e.jpg)
"Before I forget," said Dante, as he returned our flutes to the bar. "Come here, I want to show you something."
I went over and was shocked to find a service pistol on the table. "Dante, what in the world are you doing with that?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_358a7b7d.jpg)
A sudden wind swept over the hill, and gray clouds billowed outside. Dante said, "I don't like the looks of Roger. Something about him isn't right. I want you to be safe in case he tries anything."

As I looked down at the gun, a chill trailed down my spine. "I hope I never need to use it," I said quietly.

"So do I," said Dante, his eyes brooding.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part XI
October 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_d58b8e8f.jpg)
Appearances could be deceiving--it was a lesson that Ashka Ysadrov had learned at an early age and one that she had tried to teach those under her charge. From the looks of the bakery, Erik and Adela had learned well.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_358b9048.jpg)
"Welcome to--ah, Commissar!" said Adela, straightening up. "We didn't realize you'd be here so soon."
The Commissar folded her arms. "I hope that would have no impact on your readiness status. Is there somewhere private we can talk, Comrade?"
"Of course, we can go to the safe room."
"Wait. This is a functioning bakery, yes?" asked the Commissar. Adela nodded. "I am hungry. Make me something for dinner, would you?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_d58b918c.jpg)
"Greetings," said the Commissar as she stepped into the kitchen to find Erik reading the newspaper. "I am Ashka Ysadrov, two times winner of Order of Lenin, Colonel in the revolutionary intelligence service."
"Yes, Commissar," said Erik with disinterest. "We've met several times."
"Of course. It is you who leads this outpost, am I correct?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_958b91a9.jpg)
As Adela served the sandwiches, she listened to the conversation between Erik and Ysadrov. What fools they were, she thought to herself. Erik was more interested in bedding the wives that came to the bakery than executing their mission. And Ysadrov thought that he was heading the mission.
"I want no more excuses," said the Commissar as Adela set out the sandwiches. "We will discuss this when I have been fed."

Night fell, and the trio went to the secure room above the garage.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_b58b96cb.jpg)
"This is the American?" Ysadrov asked, pointing at a poor-quality photograph on the bulletin board. Erik had snapped the photo using a tiny camera the night of the engagement party.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_758b96e9.jpg)
"Yes. We don't know what he's doing here, but we thought it prudent to alert you," said the Commissar.
Ysadrov sighed and walked towards the conference table. "The Americans have been posturing for some time. Since Potsdam, since Yalta certainly. It's possible they know about your mission here. And if they do, the British do, so be wary of the Thornycrofts."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_d58b9769.jpg)
"The world is reshaping itself, Comrades. If you are capable of keeping up and doing what is required, you will have a place in the new regime. We all will," said Ysadrov, a sinister glint in her cold, grey eyes.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d911a_d58b976f.jpg)
"But if you fail," she continued, "you shouldn't expect a place in the Soviet Union. In fact, if you fail, you shouldn't expect a place in this world at all. I hope I needn't explain it more clearly."

Meanwhile, at the Thornycrofts'...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_558aa3f9.jpg)
While the Koenigs were dealing with their new visitor, the Thornycrofts had a guest of their own. Throughout the previous two weeks, Grant Thornycroft had run into Roger Williams several times. Tonight, Grand invited Roger over for dinner.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_758aa4dd.jpg)
"Mother," said Grant while they enjoyed after-dinner drinks in the lounge. "I'd like to ask Mr. Williams here to stay with us. We have the spare room, after all, and Mr. Williams has just been staying at the dreadful little in in town."
Lady Thornycroft was hesitant. "Well, I don't see why not. I'll have to get the guest room ready. Shall you being your visit tomorrow?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_958aa4ee.jpg)
"I would be honored and quite grateful," said Roger, smiling at Lady Thornycroft. "I appreciate your hospitality."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_558aa4f8.jpg)
"Don't imagine you'll get something for nothing," said Lady Thornycroft, a coy smile playing across her lips. Roger looked at her uncomfortably, and she laughed. She gestured to herself and to Grant and said, "I hope we'll get to know everything about you."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_758aa51f.jpg)
But little did the Thornycrofts and Roger know that, thanks to a broken latch on the attic door, someone else would be hearing everything too.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part XII
October 1945

Later that week, I received an invitation to another tea party at the Thornycrofts. Dante picked me up and drove me over, and we found that we and Mama Moretti were the only ones invited; Roger was already there, and the Koenigs, we were told, were settling in their elderly mother at the bakery.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_358bc91d.jpg)
I stood by the pool, watching my reflection in the water. I heard footsteps in the gravel behind me and turned to find Roger walking up behind me. "Let's sit down and talk," he said gesturing to a bench in the garden.
"Yes," I agreed. "I think we'd better."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_f58bca43.jpg)
I can never be sure, but I feel that I made my final decision on the walk to the bench. We sat down and I took his hand in mine. "Roger, this whole... situation has been such a shock. When I found out that you weren't dead, I wasn't so much surprised as blown away."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_d58bca36.jpg)
"I understand that," said Roger. "I really can't explain what happened or why, and I'm sorry for what I did. But I need you, Lizzy. Can't you see that I need you?" His eyes were pleading.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_758bca75.jpg)
"I do know that," I said kindly. "The thing is, Roger, I can't trust you anymore. I can't trust you to do what's right for me and for Josephine." I saw him glance behind me and turned to see Dante standing by the pool, watching us. He caught my eye, then turned and walked inside.

Roger looked angry when I turned back. "You can't leave, Elizabeth. You're still married to me."

"No, Roger, I'm not. And I'll tell you why: because if you contest our annulment, I'm going to call the War Department and tell them exactly what you've done." My voice trembled as I threatened him. "You're dead, Roger. You need to stay that way. Excuse me."

I stood and walked away, my fists clenching and unclenching. As I moved towards the door, I heard him shout, "You can't keep Josephine from me!" I stopped in my tracks for a moment, stunned, before continuing on. I didn't know what would happen to me, but I knew one thing: Roger wouldn't be getting his hands on my daughter.

The next day...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_b58bdc17.jpg)
I went to get the mail and found a letter. I opened it and found a note that read: Mrs. Williams: Your presence (and that of your daughter) would be appreciated at the law offices of Giovanni Giorelli. Another note, this one without a stamp or a postmark, just had a blood-red X on the paper.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_358bdb81.jpg)
Later that afternoon I was singing to Josephine in the nursery when I heard the sound of breaking glass from downstairs. I set Josephine in her crib and rushed down the stairs.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_b58bdcd4.jpg)
I was shocked when I found the one of the kitchen windows shattered. I looked out and saw no one around. I quickly shut the shutters and locked the others before snatching up the phone. I called the police and told them what happened; they said they'd send someone out in the morning. I tried to get someone to come sooner, but they couldn't be bothered.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_958bdeb6.jpg)
I moved Josephine's crib up to my bedroom and locked the doors and windows. As I knelt at the side of my bed, I prayed for the wisdom and the tools to protect myself and my daughter.

And as I slipped under covers for bed that night, I felt calmer and resolute. For the first time, I felt that if we pray hard enough...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_558bdf50.jpg)
...God gives us the tools to our salvation.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part XIII
October 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_558d316b.jpg)
Angela Giorelli always wanted a house in the country, but part of marriage was compromise and so when her husband said that they needed to be close to town for his law practice, she consented.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_b58d3238.jpg)
That's why when Elizabeth Williams showed up at her door to meet with Angela's husband and his client, Angela couldn't help but feel a stab of envy. Everyone who went to the bakery knew that Mrs. Williams was staying in that big, beautiful country villa up in the hills.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_358d31b1.jpg)
"Now, Signora Williams. Signor Williams," said Giovanni Giorelli, leaning back in his office chair. "I'm glad you could both make it. Mrs. Williams, I take it you received my note."
I nodded. "Yes, I did."
"And yet you did not bring the child with you as I requested," said Giorelli, looking at her sternly.
I met his gaze resolutely. "That's right. There's no need to drag her around this town for this nonsense."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_b58d323b.jpg)
"You can't keep her from me," said Roger heatedly. "She's my daughter."
I shook my head at him. "Yes, Roger, I can. Don't think I don't know what you've done. You're not coming near Josephine."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_b58d33d5.jpg)
"Mrs. Williams, I asked you here to inform you that I would be moving to open custody hearings in court on the matter of Josephine. We'll be suing for full custody," said Giorelli.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_f58d33b8.jpg)
I was shocked. "What?" was all I could muster. My world was spinning, especially since I couldn't imagine Roger as a father figure.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_558d33c3.jpg)
"Fathers have rights, too, Lizzy," sneered Roger. "I'm going to get Jo' and take her home. If you want to come back and be with us, that's your business, I won't stop you. But one way or another, I'm taking her back."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f58d2a16_b58d3372.jpg)
"You go ahead and try it, Roger," I said angrily. "See what happens. Signor Giorelli, this meeting is over. You'll be hearing from my lawyer." And with that, I stormed from the house. As Angela Giorelli watched me go, I could almost see in her eyes that she no longer envied me my villa.

Later that night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_f58d4521.jpg)
The Thornycrofts arrived home from dinner in town. Lady Thornycroft was wandering through the lounge in search of her cross-stitch, complaining about the food. "I swear, that marinara is going to keep me up all night. My goodness, how dreadful. And--" She turned to see a window that had been shattered, leaving shards of glass on the carpet and chair in front of the window. "Grant! Grant, go check the attic! Check it now!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_558d4624.jpg)
Grant rushed through his mother's bedroom to check the attic. He peered inside and found nothing amiss. Indeed, after a more thorough look over the house, it was decided that nothing was taken. But that wasn't entirely true.

The Thornycrofts lost their most valuable asset that night, though they didn't know it...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_158d463d.jpg)
...they lost their most precious secret. And it was Adela Koenig that took it from them.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part XIV
October 1945

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_758e6e5f.jpg)
I needed Dante's support. He had been somewhat cold and distant since he witnessed my encounter with Roger at the Thornycrofts and I needed to tell him what was transpiring. I called him and arranged a dinner date at Dinozo's, a restaurant in town. I called Lady Thornycroft, who was so taken with Josephine, and asked if she could sit with the baby. She agreed, explaining that with "the boys off in town, I could use some company. I'll come right over."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_d58e709b.jpg)
"I'm glad you came," I told him, giving him my best smile. He seemed reluctant to reciprocate, and so I turned on the gas, so to speak. "Listen, I just want you to know that this whole thing with Roger doesn't change anything with us."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_758e70ab.jpg)
"So...you're not breaking it off with me?" he asked, softening a little. I shook my head and explained what Father Bianchi had told me, and how I had decided that my marriage with Roger was over in name as well as in fact.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_d58e70d1.jpg)
"That's wonderful!" he said, and covered my hand with his.
"So tell me, Dante," I said. "How do you feel about a Christmas wedding?"
"I'd marry you tomorrow, mi amore," he said.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_558e70d3.jpg)
"I love you, Dante," I said, and I meant it more than I ever had. "But I do need some time to plan!"
"Whenever you want, Elizabeth. I'll be there."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_158e73b2.jpg)
By the time I got home, an early snow had fallen, but as I slushed through the snow, I couldn't help but ignore the biting cold. Indeed, there was a much more pressing matter that held my attention.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_b58e73fa.jpg)
My house, my villa, my work for the past many months was in flames. And Josephine was inside! I battled through the snow, wrenched the door open and rushed up the stairs into the nursery. I was horrified by what I saw.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_958e742e.jpg)
The nursery was all but up in smoke. I could hardly breathe from the smoke filling the room, and I could barely see anything. But I had to battle on, I knew. I turned to the corner where Lady Thornycroft had been rocking Josephine's cradle.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_358e741d.jpg)
Where my daughter should have been, there was only ash, and soot, and smoke, and flames.

The Inheritance
Chapter One - Part XV
October 1945

Meanwhile, that same night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_b58e8282.jpg)
As darkness fell over the Thornycroft manse, a white sedan pulled up to the driveway and a pair of darkly-clothed figures stepped out. As they hurried towards the window that one of them had already broken, the slimmer one said in Russian, "We know Grant isn't here, but what about that Roger Williams? What about Lady Thornycroft?"

The more muscular of the pair said, "Why do you think we brought weapons?"

"I don't like it," replied the woman. "We shouldn't kill unless we have to."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_f58e8306.jpg)
They were lucky, though. Neither Roger Williams nor Lady Thornycroft nor any other soul was in the manor, except for their target. Adela led the way; she knew the route best, having taken it before. "Hurry up," she called down the ladder as Erik clambered into the attic. "We haven't got all night."

They pushed into the secret room, ignoring the warning sign on the door, not quite sure what to expect. What they found was both shocking and pitiful, and Adela's heart was wrenched. "The poor thing," she said to Erik. "Can you believe they keep her up here this way?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_558e83db.jpg)
"I'd keep her up here if she looked like that, too," said Erik as they moved into the room. He was unable to take his eyes from the deformed woman before them. Adela stepped forward.
"What is your name, my dear?"
"Eleanor," said the girl, her voice thick with confusion. "Who are you?"
"We're friends of your mother," said Adela, trying to sound calm and kind. "She sent us to take you to a safe place while she goes back to England."
"Why?"
"She didn't say, dear. Come with us, now."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_158e83ec.jpg)
The confusion was evident on Eleanor's face. She considered for a few moments before finally saying, "All right."
"So she is deformed mentally as well as physically," said Erik with a self-indulgent chuckle.
"Shut up," Adela snapped. "This is the worst kind of exploitation; we should be ashamed of ourselves."
"Come on, let's just get her out of here."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_756d2b2d_f58e84b5.jpg)
As the white sedan trundled away from the Thornycroft's manor towards town, they didn't know that less than a mile away another family was being torn apart--my own.

Back at the villa...

The last thing I remembered was the nursery. Josephine was gone, gone, and the smoke was choking me, and then...blackness. The first thing I felt was the chill. I was cold everywhere. I opened my eyes and saw Dante kneeling next to me.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_758e8bd1.jpg)
"Where's Josephine?" I blurted out. From the look in his eyes, I knew before he even shook his head. "No. No, no, no. She's got to be--she's--"
"Hush, child," said a warm voice from behind me. Mama Moretti stroked my hair as she helped me to sit up. "It'll be all right, my dear. Please, calm yourself."
I wept silently into Dante's shoulder until we all heard a shout. "Who's that?" I asked.
"A police investigator. You've been out of it for a little bit. Come on, let's see what he's found," Dante said. He helped me up and we walked towards the shed.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_558e8b21.jpg)
"I've found someone," said the investigator. "Do you know her?"
"Yes, that's Lady Esther Thornycroft," I said, feeling cheated. I thought he had found Josephine. My arms ached to hold her. "Have you found my baby?"
"A baby? No, no baby. I'm sorry," said the investigator. "But this Thornycroft lady, it looks like she's been whacked pretty hard."
"What does that mean?" I asked. "What is she doing way out here behind the shed?"
"The footprints indicate that she was dragged here."
"But that would mean that someone was here at the time of the fire," I said, my mind working overtime. "That might mean whoever did has my baby!"
"Don't get your hopes up," said the investigator. "Infant lungs aren't as strong as adult ones. Unless your child was out of the house before she inhaled much smoke, there's not much hope..."
When he saw the look on my face, he allowed the sentence to trail off, looking sheepish.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_5569b059_f58e8c4c.jpg)
Dawn broke over my home, but for all the anguish I felt, my life was being overtaken by dusk.

The Inheritance
Chapter Two - Prologue
November 1961
16 Years Later

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_759a22d8.jpg)
"...and so I just had to pull myself together. Every policeman I talked to, every fire investigator, every official told me that my daughter was gone. The pain never went away, but I did have the ability to deal with it. I felt that marrying Dante would be a good step towards recovery, now that I could make a clean start. Roger had fled, God knows to where, so I was rid of him.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_9597d120.jpg)
The wedding planning took two months. We were eventually married on Christmas, just as we had planned. Look at this photo in the album. Dante was so handsome in his suit, but I looked like a great snow monster. Hush, Dante, I'm telling the story. Anyway, it was during the planning of the wedding when everything changed. You see, I went down to Koenig bakery--not the one that's there today; Adela moved out of there after the accident. Anyway, I went down to the bakery to order a cake and it was then that Adela, who I had befriended over the course of knowing each other, told me she had seen Roger sneaking around the church, which was right across the street.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_3597d10f.jpg)
Oh yes, the Thornycrofts know it well. This is all very complicated, even I don't fully understand it, but here's what I was told. The Koenigs, Adela and Erik, were spies for the Russians. They came to the countryside on a tip that they could find information that would embarrass the Thornycrofts' cousin, who was at that time the Minister of Defense in the United Kingdom. They ended up kidnapping Lady Thornycroft's daughter, who was born with a sort of deformity--nothing too bad, but it was an embarrassment to the political family, so they kept her out of site where she wouldn't be jeered at or attacked, which had happened before.

At any rate, Adela and I broke into the church that night. Yes, really. Would I make this up? Now be quiet and listen. We broke in but we didn't find Roger. No, we found a beautiful baby girl named Josephine. Roger had kidnapped her and burned down the villa to cover it up. He was going to take her back to America. I don't know, why does anyone do anything? So I was picking the baby up when we heard footsteps coming into the church's dungeon, where she was being kept.

It was Roger! He tried to take the baby away, but Adela fought him off. There was a struggle, they were hitting each other with whatever they could find. And then I... no, Dante, I'm fine. It's just hard to talk about. Give me a moment. ... I got my hands on my purse, where I was keeping a gun. Roger had been threatening me so Dante gave it to me for defense. Well, long story short, I ended up shooting Roger in order to keep him from hurting her.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_d597d0fe.jpg)
See? This picture is Adela and Josephine at the wedding. No, Erik wasn't there. Erik was arrested by the Italian police on behalf of the Americans when they came to investigate Roger's death. Well of course I was cleared of all charges. And Erik and Adela's boss had to go back to Russia or she'd have been caught too. No, Adela didn't go to jail because she released the Thornycroft girl and because she helped me get my baby. I vouched for her, and she promised that never again would she be involved with the Communists. She wanted to start a new life here, just like I did with Dante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_b597d135.jpg)
Of course, Father Bianchi didn't know that his church was being used to house kidnapped victims. Here's a picture of him, marrying me and Dante in a little chapel. After what happened at his church, we didn't want to go to the cathedral.

After everything was said and done, Dante and I were married, Josephine was safe, Adela set up a bakery that wasn't a spy outpost, Roger was dead and his lawyer, who helped him kidnap Josephine, was disbarred and sentenced to prison for five years.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_d59a2218.jpg)
And then all three of us moved into Dante's house, then we moved here.
And a year later, along came you, Marco, my handsome son, and then your brother and sister. But we'll have to wait until they're older to tell them this story, agreed?

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/thumbnail_f5968280_d59a2207.jpg)
"But mom," asked Josephine, now 16. "Whatever happened to the Villa?"

I smiled and waved my hand around us. "We live there, darling. It took awhile to fix back up, but we rebuilt it bigger and better than ever, because we needed a safe place to raise our family. You and your brothers and sister."

"Did you really do all that stuff, mom?" asked Marco, the picture of his father's dark good looks.

"Of course I did," I said with a smile. "You don't think your old lady could do it?"

"It's not that," he said with a laugh. "It's just...it's just like in the movies!"

"I hope not," I said. "All right, I told you the story again, so now it's off to bed with you."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_159a2290.jpg)
As I got off the sofa to see them up the stairs, I looked into my daughter Josephine's face. She was a beautiful girl, and she was becoming a beautiful woman. Although I loved her as much as I loved anything or anyone, it sometimes gave me a sharp pain to look at her. In the right light, it wasn't my daughter looking back, but a man I killed sixteen years ago.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_f598d52e.jpg)
You see, not all ghosts come in the form of floating spirits and misty figures.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part I
November 1961

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_559a12d1_159a19a0.jpg)
I was at Adela's one day buying a loaf of bread when I heard that a new family had moved to the neighborhood. (Even after she opened the new bakery, Adela never did lose her knack for having the freshest gossip in addition to the pastries.) Josephine and I went over to the new family's house, which was situated on the outskirts of town. It was tiny but clean, and I could tell that there was a lot of care that went into the house.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_559a12d1_359a19c6.jpg)
As I rang the doorbell, I glanced back to find Josephine, who was distracted by something I hadn't noticed before: the motorcycle parked in the driveway. "Come along, Josephine," I told her, jerking my head towards the door. She hurried to my side as the door opened.

"Hello," I said with a smile to the brown-haired woman who answered the door. "I'm Elizabeth Moretti, this is my daughter Josephine. We wanted to come over and drop by a cake to welcome you to the neighborhood." I offered her the bag that contained the cake I had baked earlier in the day.

"Oh, how lovely," said the woman in a warm Irish brogue. "I hope you'll come in for a slice and a cuppa!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_559a12d1_f59a1a63.jpg)
As we set to work (her brewing coffee and me slicing the cake), she introduced herself as Judith O'Reilly and told Josephine to "have a seat, dear, let me call my son to keep you company. Donovan!"

A bedroom door opened and a young man about Josephine's age stepped out. "Sit down, would you please, and have a chat with Mrs. Moretti's daughter," said Judith as she gathered coffee cups.

I watched them as I sliced the cake; Josephine was shy and quiet, but there was something guarded about Donovan. He spoke only in response to Josephine's questions.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_559a12d1_d59a1aa0.jpg)
We all sat down to cake and conversation. "You're Irish, then?" I asked kindly as I took a sip of my coffee.

"Yes, I am. And you're American. I'm told there are several foreigners in the area," said Judith. "Is that right?"

"Oh, yes. Well, less now than before. But there's me, a British family that owns a home here, and the baker, Adela, she's...German." I smiled over my coffee; part of my friendship with Adela was to keep her secrets. "By the way, it's the best bakery in town, you really must try it."

"Thank you, I shall. What does your husband do, Mrs. Moretti?"

"He's a caretaker for several properties in the area. And what does Mr. O'Reilly do?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_559a12d1_f59a1ac0.jpg)
"Speak of the devil and he shall appear," said Judith as another door opened. "David, come say hello to our neighbors."

David was like a grown-up Donovan. He waved dismissively and said, "Ladies. Keep an eye on him, would you?" The later part, I guessed, was addressed to Judith.

"Yes, dear. Have a nice day at work." Judith smiled as her husband left, then turned her attention back to us. We had more small-talk as we finished the cake and coffee and then Josephine and I excused ourselves. "Thank you so much for the cake and company. Goodbye!" Judith said as she saw us out.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_359a5dbf_159c80e6-1.jpg)
That evening, across town, my friend Adela had closed up her shop and was preparing to spend one more night in a long line of them alone. These bouts of melancholy didn't make sense to her; she had had a remarkable life. She had traveled to six continents in the past fifteen years, trying to forget the sins of her past and the friends she'd lost.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_359a5dbf_f59c80f3.jpg)
She had many acquaintances, some friends, and close allies. She had memories and mementos and more money than she knew how to spend in a numbered Swiss account from her days in the Soviet secret service. But there was something missing, something big and something important.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_359a5dbf_959c810d.jpg)
As she flipped listlessly through a magazine, she couldn't focus on the pages and the pictures. Adela knew that if she continued on her current path, she would go crazy from lack of social contact.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_359a5dbf_159c84e7-1.jpg)
And so Adela phoned me. "Elizabeth, it's Adela. Are you busy?"
"Not at all," I said.
"I was thinking. I'd like to start a sort of... social club for the ladies of our neighborhood. I'm going crazy alone in my bakery; normally I would just take off on another vacation, but I can't think of anywhere I'd like to go."
I laughed; that did sound like Adela's usual plan of action. "Well how can I help, dear?"
"I can supply the food, but I don't have a venue. I was hoping..."
I cut her off. "Of course, of course. Dante and the children are gone in the day, we could have it at the villa."
"Oh, wonderful. We can be co-hostesses!"
"Excellent, darling, excellent. Listen, can I call you in the morning, I've got to get the roast out of the oven."
"Of course. Good night, Elizabeth. And thank you."

The next morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_159ca380_b59ca381.jpg)
While Adela and I were hashing out plans, old friends were returning like birds coming back from their winter migration...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_159ca380_959ca3a8.jpg)
"I was reluctant at first," said Lady Thornycroft, her eyes sweeping over the house that her husband built twenty years ago. "But damned if I don't feel wonderful just being back."

"And the doctors say it's good for you," said Grant, Lord Thornycroft as he helped her up the stairs. "And for Eleanor."

"Yes," said Lady Thornycroft, glancing up towards the attic before turning to give a warm smile to her daughter. She reached out and took her hand, squeezing lightly. "All of us together again."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_159ca380_159ca543.jpg)
Upstairs, Eleanor was settling into her bedroom--on the second floor, with a door that locked only from the inside. Esther came in and leaned against the fireplace, catching her breath from the stair trip. "Are you comfortable, Ellie?"

"Yes, mother," said Eleanor, whose communication skills had improved greatly over the years of treatment she had received. "It's lovely. Much nicer than...the other."

"I know, darling. Oh, come here, please." Lady Thornycroft spread her arms.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_159ca380_359ca571.jpg)
"I'm so sorry, Eleanor. I'm so, so sorry for what I did to you. Can you ever forgive me for being a foolish, vain old woman?"

"Of course, Mother. Everyone makes mistakes." Eleanor hugged her mother tightly.

Esther rocked back and forth on her feet, whispering in her ear: "I was so stupid, Eleanor. So, so stupid. Forgive me. Forgive me."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_f5968280_f59ccd71.jpg)
Fifteen years had passed since I first came to the villa. Then, it was a refuge from widowhood, a quiet place to wait and give birth to my daughter. But now it was more than that. It was my home, my family's home. I was surrounded by friends and the beautiful Italian countryside.

If only I had known then that the idyllic country peace would soon be shattered.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part II
November 1961

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_159e3c60.jpg)
I walked Dante out to the driveway the following morning. He had to survey a property a few hours outside town and wanted to get an early start. As we walked out together, I asked: "Will you be home for lunch? Remember that I'm having the ladies over, but I'm happy to leave a sandwich in the icebox or some leftover meatloaf in the oven."

"That's all right, I'll go to that diner on the highway."

"Don't you like my meatloaf?" I asked, giving him a mock pout. "You always have second helpings."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_359e3c8a.jpg)
"I don't like your meatloaf," Dante said after giving me a goodbye kiss. He climbed into his car and rolled the window down so he could look back up at me. "I love your meatloaf. But I don't want to ruin your tea party. Have a nice time, my love."

I waved him off as he drove away, then turned and picked up the newspaper and walked back into the house. I had preparations to make for the ladies' gathering that day.

Meanwhile, across town...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_759a1e99_f59a3e34.jpg)
Angela Giorelli had no idea that, in a few hours' time, all the ladies in the neighborhood would be meeting without her. Indeed, in the five years since she had moved to her modest country house just down the hill from the my villa, she had never been invited to an event at which I would attend.By virtue of being married to the man who had conspired to kidnap my daughter, Angela was persona non grata in my social circle. But what she didn't know about the activities of the other women in the neighborhood wouldn't hurt her.

Besides, Angela had other matters to occupy her mind and her time.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_759a1e99_559a3e0c.jpg)
For much of her 15 year marriage to Giovanni Giorelli, Angela had believed that compromise was the key to a successful marriage. And so she agreed to live in the city (which she hated) to support her husband's law career.

But when Giovanni was implicated as an accomplice to Roger Williams' kidnapping of baby Josephine, Angela received just the leverage she needed to make certain changes to her lifestyle. You see, Giovanni's actions extended far beyond arranging a safe haven for housing a stolen baby on that fateful night. Angela's leverage was permanent; the statute of limitations on her husband's crimes had no expiration.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_759a1e99_759a3eea.jpg)
And so it occurred to Angela as she looked around the front yard of her modest villa that the key to a successful marriage was still compromise. And though her husband Giovanni hated her more each day for forcing him to live in the country, it was much easier to compromise...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/snapshot_759a1e99_959a3e7b.jpg)
...because, anymore, it wasn't Angela doing the compromising.

A few hours later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_959e3d4e.jpg)
After I had bundled the children off to school and picked up the house, the ladies arrived, Adela with a few bags of goodies. We decided that, because it was such a lovely day, we should have coffee out on the backyard patio.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f59e3e7c.jpg)
The conversation was somewhat limited. After all, Judith didn't know anyone there, and even after I introduced her she limited herself to observing and answering questions directed to herself. Eleanor Thornycroft was shy and self-conscious, and her mother seemed unwell, often staring into space at nothing in particular.

Adela, though, was in her element. She sat opposite me at the head of the table and behaved as the social butterfly that she longed to be. As she chatted away to Judith, Esther, and Eleanor, I thought she looked happier than she had in a long time.

After we finished our coffee, I wanted to give Adela a chance to be a solo hostess. "I'm going to go wash out the coffee cups and bring out the sandwiches. If you'll excuse me, please. No, Adela, you stay and entertain your guests!" I waved Adela away and she sank back to her seat to continue talking. Next to me, Judith sprang up before I could refuse her help.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_759e3f23.jpg)
"Thanks for your help," I told Judith as we walked into the kitchen, each with an armful of coffee mugs.

"Not at all," said Judith cheerfully. "But to be perfectly honest, I'm afraid my motives weren't entirely altruistic. I wanted to get you alone and ask you a favor."

"Oh really?" I asked as I filled up the sink with hot, sudsy water. "What can I do for you, Judith?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_359e3f88.jpg)
"First of all, let me ask. Miss Josephine--does she speak Italian?" asked Judith.

"Yes, of course. All the schools are Italian here, naturally." I began to wash the cups in the sink, carefully rinsing each one afterwords and placing it in a dish rack.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_159e3fea.jpg)
"That's exactly right. My Donovan, though, he's having trouble with Italian. I was hoping that we could procure Miss Josephine's services as a tutor. We would pay her, of course," Judith added nervously as she began to dry the cups from the dish rack.

"Well, it's up to her, of course. When she comes home from school this afternoon I'll ask her about it. If you leave me your telephone number I'll have her call you with her decision." I went to the refrigerator and picked up a tray of sandwiches. "Could you get the sun tea off the windowsill, Judith, and bring it out to the patio?"

"Of course," said Judith happily. "Oh, that's wonderful!" said Judith. "That's such a relief. I do hope she'll help him."

We went back out to the patio and continued the party, which broke up soon after the finger sandwiches were eaten with promises to meet again on a regular basis.

Later that night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b59cae0a.jpg)
I went to tuck the children into bed that night. Josephine and Lara were asleep in the girls' room, and Andre was dozing in his bed in the boys' room. Marco, however, sat quietly at the desk in the childrens' common room, sketching in a notebook. "Sweetheart, it's time for bed. You have school in the morning."

"Yes, mother. May I just finish this?" he asked, gesturing at his notebook. "It'll only take a few more minutes."

"Is it homework?" He shook his head. "Then it will keep until the morning." I bent to kiss him on top of his head, his smooth black hair so reminiscent of his father's against my cheek.

"Yes, mother." He packed his notebook up in his bookbag and went off to bed, his face downcast. For a moment, I wanted to stop him, to ask if the melancholy shadow that crossed his face was my imagination. But then he was gone, disappearing into his bedroom. The door shut across my inquiring gaze.

The next morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b59caed6.jpg)
I went to bed the previous evening concerned about my son and woke up feeling the same concern. As I waited for Dante to finish brushing his teeth so I could do my morning routine, I finally lost control and had to ask: "Dante, do you think Marco is happy?"

"What?" he asked, stepping out of the bathroom with a touch of toothpaste on his chin. "Why shouldn't he be? He's doing well at school, he's strong in his faith, he has good friends."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_159caec6.jpg)
"I don't know why he shouldn't be," I confessed, watching as Dante shook his wet hair loose with his fingers. "But sometimes, maybe it's the lighting, I look at him and he looks...lonely. Am I being ridiculous?"

"No, darling," he said, wiping his chin off with the back of his hand. "You know, when I was about his age, my mother arranged for me to sit down with Father Bianchi to discuss what I wanted to do with myself. Maybe we ought to do the same for Marco."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b59caf6d.jpg)
I stood and embraced my husband. "This is why I love you, Dante. You always know what's best." But even as his arms encircled my waist, I couldn't bring myself to discuss my darkest anticipation: that Father Bianchi might tell us something about Marco that we didn't want to hear.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part III
December 1961

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_b59f7879.jpg)
Angela Giorelli hated unexpected visitors. She never did know quite what to do with them. So when the doorbell rang one night in the first week of December, as she was beginning to cook dinner for herself and her husband, a sense of impending dread came over her. When she answered the door, she found her recently-widowed sister-in-law and niece on the doorstep.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_b59f78ac.jpg)
"Sorry to drop in on you this way," said Maria, Giovanni's sister. "But you said you wouldn't mind taking Eva for a few days, Gio. I could really use some time to get the affairs of my house in order. Do you mind?"

Angela could tell that there was something that passed unsaid between the siblings. Before she could say anything, Giovanni said, "Of course Eva can stay with us. And if there's anything we can do to help with Ricardo's affairs, let us know."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_959f78b7-1.jpg)
"Thank you so much," said Maria. "Her school is nearby so you don't have to worry about anything. Now, Eva, you behave yourself for your aunt and uncle, do you understand me?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_d59f78ed.jpg)
"Yes, mother," said Eva sweetly. "Thank you for having me to stay, Aunt Angela, Uncle Giorelli. If there's anything I can do for you while I'm here, I'm happy to help out."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_d59f78c8.jpg)
"She's very good with her hands," Maria said proudly to her brother.

"Is she?" asked Angela idly. Angela wondered what her niece's other skills were. After all, there was one skill that Eva had yet to learn.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_159f7910.jpg)
Hiding her injuries...and her secrets.

Meanwhile, at the Moretti Villa...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d59ccd0b.jpg)
That night, I was entertaining a visitor of my own--and worrying about my daughter, who had not yet returned from her tutoring appointment. As I finished the roast, Dante called the O'Reillys and confirmed that Josephine was still there.

Right on time, Father Bianchi arrived. He was old, yes, but he had a quiet strength about him that said he should be ministering to us for quite some time. I walked him into the dining room, explaining, "I'm sorry you won't get to see Josephine, she's tutoring a young man in town tonight. But I think Dante told you over the phone why we needed you."

"Oh yes. But I must reiterate that if you'd like my services you ought to let me do my dance. Many parents attempt to interfere during my questioning, and it sometimes leads to resentment on all parties."

"Yes, Father."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_75a2231b.jpg)
We sat down to dinner and after some time, Father Bianchi turned his attention to Marco. "Tell me, Marco: do you intend to go to the university?"

"I don't know, Father. I hadn't considered it."

"It's a wonderful place to meet people your own age," said the priest. "Are any of your friends going to college?"

Marco considered this for a moment, then bent his head over his plate and began to cut his slice of roast. "I guess," he said noncommittally. "I don't really...pass the gravy, please?" He looked at me and I passed him the gravy boat.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f5a22309.jpg)
"If you don't go to university, what will you do?" asked Father Bianchi, who looked as if he had made a note of something in his mind. "Do you intend to follow your father into the management business?"

"No," said Marco. He took a bite of his pot roast.

"Carpentry?" asked Father Bianchi. Marco shook his head. "Another trade?"

"I don't know," said Marco honestly.

"What would you like to do?" asked Father Bianchi kindly.

"Do you really want to know?" asked Marco, looking somewhat ashamed. My heart was wrenched; he obviously didn't understand why the old priest was badgering him.

"Of course."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55a2236e.jpg)
He looked at Father Bianchi earnestly, then looked at me. "I was thinking I might go into the priesthood," he confessed, blushing profusely. Clearly he was embarrassed.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b5a223d0.jpg)
"Really?" Dante asked, his jaw dropping. I knew that he had thought I was imagining things, and never imagined that he would possibly be interested in the way of the Cloth.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b5a223c3.jpg)
Dante's shock was nothing to my own, but I had been imagining things that were much worse: that he was despairing and lonely and couldn't tell us. I beamed down the table at him. "That's wonderful, Marco. I think you would make a wonderful Priest."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15a2241d.jpg)
"Mrs. Moretti, please."

Father Bianchi held up a hand. "Marco, if you would like to enter the Priesthood, then I would be happy to help you to do so--with your parents' kind permission until you're an adult, of course."

Marco smiled, and looked genuinely happy. "Thank you, Father. I would appreciate your help." And after this exchange, I served dessert, and Father Bianchi returned home. Marco, excited about Father Bianchi's encouragement and Dante's and my acceptance, ran to his room to study his Bible.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15a2270b.jpg)
Dante went to bed at eight after I told him I would stay up and wait for Josephine's return. The longer she was out in the darkness, the angrier I got until I was nearly trembling with anger.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5a22737.jpg)
Josephine came walking up the path to the door at 8:30. She was trying to sneak until she noticed me sitting by the stairs, waiting for her. She came in and shut the door behind her. "Mom, I'm really sorry for being so late, but--"

"We'll talk in the morning, young lady," I said sternly. I didn't even care at this point if I sounded harsh. She had behaved irresponsibly and violated the rules that Dante and I had set down. "We'll talk about this in the morning."

"But mom," Josephine started, but I didn't let her continue.

"March," I said quietly. Josephine, seeing the unpleasant look on my face, dropped her case and took to the stairs. A moment later, I heard the door to the childrens' rooms close. I locked the door and went upstairs to Dante. I was burning to talk to him about what had happened, but I wouldn't wake him up. So I settled down to a sleepless night.

The next day...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_15a2403f_b5a25487.jpg)
The next afternoon, my friend Adela was washing her front windows when she spotted something that she hadn't noticed before: a man had moved into the shop across the street; she hadn't noticed him carrying boxes and crates into the shop.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_15a2403f_75a256fb.jpg)
Adela closed the shop early and crossed the street. She went into the store and a cultured Italian voice said, "I'm sorry, we're closed and I'm very busy."

"I'm sorry," Adela said. "I'm not here to shop. I own the bakery across the street; I came over to welcome you to the neighborhood."

"Oh," said the man behind the counter. "In that case I'm not busy at all, come in."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_15a2403f_b5a25762.jpg)
"I'm Adela," she said as they shook hands. "Adela Koenig of the Koenig Bakery."

The olive-skinned shopkeeper bowed over Adela's hand. "And I am Silvio de Luca of Confections de Luca."

"I get that," said Adela with a humorous smile. "That's funny."

"And delicious, I hope," said Silvio, finally releasing her hand. "Please, try a truffle. The caramel are my favorite."

When Adela left the shop ten minutes later, she couldn't help but think (licking melted chocolate from her finger) that a little competition was just what the town needed. And if it was a handsome Italian confectioner that provided it, then that was just icing on the cake.

Meanwhile, across town...

While Adela was getting carried away with the idea of a new neighbor, I was dealing with a situation that was somewhat less pleasant. I had arranged to pick up Josephine from school and to have a talk with her on the ride home.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15a2281d.jpg)
"Where were you last night?" I demanded as soon as she buckled herself in.

"I was at Donovan's. We were studying for the grammar test we had today." She looked at me sidelong. "Mom, I'm sorry I was late home, but Donovan's motorcycle broke down on the way, and we had to walk back to get his dad to fix it."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15a22883.jpg)
"Motorcycle?!" I demanded. "Josephine Moretti, under no circumstances are you to ride a motorcycle!"

"Well," said Josephine. "You can't really hold me responsible for breaking a rule yesterday that you made up today!"

As much as I hated to admit it, she had a point. I said, "Fine. From now on you'll study at our house, and he can be out in the night until eight thirty."

"Okay, Mom." Josephine sighed contentedly. "We'll study at home."

That night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_55a23c5c.jpg)
Angela Giorelli cleaned off the table after serving her husband and niece dinner. By the time she returned, having set the dishes in the sink, the conversation had turned to the death of Eva's father.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_35a23c71.jpg)
"Your mother told us about the accident, Eva," said Angela kindly. "If you ever need to talk about it, you can always talk to me or to your uncle. Or we can take you to Father Bianchi; his counsel is always helpful to me."

"Why would I need to talk?" asked Eva, sipping her water and framing Angela with a curious look.

"Because," said Giovanni. "Your mother told me that you might think it was your fault."

Eva smiled at both of them, setting her water glass down. "Of course not, Uncle Giovanni. It's not my fault; it was my father's. I didn't kill him for no reason, you know. Is there anything for dessert?" She looked around at her aunt, smiling as if she had just been discussing the weather.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_95a23d29.jpg)
Angela and Giovanni exchanged alarmed glances. Neither knew quite what to say, so Angela stood and went to the kitchen to cut Eva a slice of cake. But Giovanni knew a possible opportunity when he saw one. He leaned close to Eva and said, "Eva...we need to talk."

"About why I did it?" asked Eva angelically. "That's all my mother wants to talk about."

"No, Eva," said Giovanni. He cast a covert gaze into the kitchen, where Angela was working. "I'm sure we'll get to that. But I wonder if... if you might... how do you..."

"It's easy," said Eva, a thrill coming to her voice. "You just have to want it, and you'll find the tools you need. You have to hate them."

Giovanni glanced back into the kitchen doorway, where Angela was carrying a few plates of cake into the dining room. He patted Eva's hand. "Don't worry, my dear. That isn't a problem."

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part IV
December 1961

The second week of December, while looking in on one of Josephine's study sessions with Donovan, I stumbled upon something that I didn't want to see.
(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55a3995e.jpg)
To say I was shocked would be an understatement. Here was the O'Reilly boy, kissing my daughter, bold as brass! I shut the door noisily and watched (with no small measure of satisfaction) as the two sprang apart.

"Good night, Donovan," I said brusquely. Josephine began to protest, but I simply stood aside and opened the door for Donovan. With an apologetic look at Josephine he walked out.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35a39ab0.jpg)
"I can't believe you just did that!" Josephine cried. "You embarrassed me!"

"You were about to embarrass yourself," I replied. "What were you thinking? You don't even know that boy. How could you be kissing him?"

"I like him!" Josephine shot back. "We were just kissing, mom, don't make such a big deal out of it!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55a39a0b.jpg)
"You think I'm making a big deal out of it, young lady? How about this: you are forbidden to see that boy again, do you understand me?"

"You can't do that!" Josephine said. "Mom, please. I didn't do anything wrong, how can you do this?"

"Forbidden," I said. "You'll call Mrs. O'Reilly tomorrow and apologize. If he still needs help then your brother can tutor him."

Josephine, giving a disbelieving groan, stormed into her room and slammed the door. I did the same to my bedroom.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5a39c7a.jpg)
I explained the situation to Dante. Amazingly, he thought I was overreacting. "What do you mean, overreacting?" I demanded confrontationally. "She was kissing him! Kissing him!" I reiterated, gesticulating wildly, as if he was having trouble understanding me.

"She's sixteen," Dante said reasonably. "Why shouldn't she have a kiss?"

"You didn't see them," I said, folding my arms. "You didn't see the way he was... they were... he was kissing her," I all but shouted. "How can you be so calm?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5a39ce0.jpg)
"It's not that big of a deal," Dante said. "You need to relax, Elizabeth, I mean it. You're being to hard on her."

"Well, of course you wouldn't feel this way," I said without thinking. "She's my daughter. I have to protect her."

"You mean she's not my daughter? Really, Betty, I think it's a little late in the game to be playing this game."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_75a39d42.jpg)
"I didn't mean--I forbade her to see him, so it'll be fine," I said, trying to reconcile without explaining my motherly protectiveness. "Come to bed."

Dante walked over to the door without looking back. "I think I'll sleep on the couch. After all, this is your bedroom, in your house."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f5a39d6c.jpg)
I heard Dante's feet on the stairs as I lay in bed, fuming. I tried to justify my words: they were said in haste, I couldn't help it, it was my maternal instinct kicking in. But the truth ate at me: I had hurt Dante in one of the deepest ways possible.

The next morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b5a39f44.jpg)
We hadn't spoken to each other all morning. My guilt had manifested itself as defensiveness and he had retreated into a gruff exterior to protect his vulnerability. When all the children had gone off to school, I went out to the car to find Dante preparing for work.

"Where are you headed?" he asked casually, not meeting my gaze.

"I'm going to look in on Lady Thornycroft. Grant says he's not doing well and could use some company."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5a39f55.jpg)
"Should we talk about last night?" Dante asked after an awkward pause.

I stiffened. "I don't have time right now, and neither do you. You'd better get to work."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_75a39f65.jpg)
"Fine," said Dante.

I smiled coldly. "Fine. I'm serving fish for dinner tonight," I reminded him.

"I'll get a bottle of white wine."

And for the first time in fifteen years, we parted without kissing goodbye.

Meanwhile...
That day at the Giorelli household started with a crash.
(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_55a3a44f.jpg)
Angela and Giovanni rushed into the kitchen to find their niece on the floor, retching onto the stone tile. A plate containing a small pastry lay broken beside her. "Oh my God, what happened?" asked Angela.

Eva tried to talk, but only ended up vomiting again. Giovanni turned to his wife and shouted, "Phone a doctor. Now!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_35a3a556.jpg)
Forty minutes later, Eva was resting in bed. Giovanni sat with her, brooding. The doctor had come and gone, declaring that Eva had food poisoning and would recover soon enough.

Giovanni sat by her bedside, praying constantly. He prayed for her recovery, yes. But mostly, he prayed that she would forgive his clumsiness.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_b5a3a5b2.jpg)
You see, what Angela didn't know while she cleaned up the broken plate and ruined pastry was that the pastry was meant to be her breakfast...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_75a3a561.jpg)
...not Eva's.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part V
December 1961

As difficult as it was for me to recognize, outside the drama of my home life the lives of all the other people in the world went on. Indeed, while I was struggling with my daughter's willfulness, the lives of my friends and neighbors was changing.

Adela, when not gazing hungrily at the handsome chocolatier across the street, was meeting a new neighbor...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_359a5dbf_f5a49b57.jpg)
The woman arrived in the shop covertly. Adela didn't hear her come in, didn't hear the bell on the door announce her entry. She simply came in to find her browsing the desserts.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_359a5dbf_b5a49bda.jpg)
"Good morning," she said politely to the woman. "Can I cut you a piece?" she asked, gesturing towards the cake that the woman had been eyeing.

"No," said the woman in a lilting Italian. "I would prefer something for breakfast."

"Some croissants?"

"That would be fine," said the Italian woman.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_359a5dbf_d5a49c49.jpg)
As Adela was ringing her up, she made smalltalk with the stranger. "I'm Adela, by the way," she said.

"I am Capricia Volante," said the woman with a smile that didn't reach her eyes.

"Are you new to town?" Adela asked as she wrapped up the croissants.

"Visiting," said Capricia with another smile. "For now." It occurred to Adela as she watched Capricia Volante leave that this time, the smile reached her eyes. And this time, she had a somewhat sinister glint in her eyes.

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_159ca380_55a3a045.jpg)
Lady Thornycroft was not doing well. In her advanced age, she was struggling with memory and energy. Grant spent a lot of time with her, but the doctors said it was a good idea to be social, so I spent a few mornings a week with them.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_159ca380_95a3a082.jpg)
"...and he was kissing her!" I said, unable to recognize that this was becoming a broken record with me.

"Oh, I remember when I was that age," said Lady Thornycroft, a cloudy look coming over her face. "Grant, your father and I would...well, I'm sure I shouldn't say, but he was quite the romantic, back then."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_159ca380_95a3a05b.jpg)
"So who was this boy?" asked Grant idly, finally setting down his newspaper.

"Donovan O'Reilly. His parents are Judith and David."

"Wait a moment. O'Reilly?" interjected Lady Thornycroft. "I know that name. Grant, darling, do we know them?"

"No, mother."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_159ca380_15a3a0f9.jpg)
Lady Thornycroft closed her eyes, trying to remember. Suddenly she sat upright. "Oh dear. David and Donovan O'Reilly. They're...oh, dear, dear, dear. If I'm not mistaken, they were involved in something bad back home. Grant?"

"Mother, I don't think you--I don't remember anything of the sort." He looked at me apologetically. "Nevermind that. Sometimes she thinks she remembers things, but..." His voice trailed off and he shook his head.

"I'm not imagining things," said Lady Thornycroft stubbornly. "I... I really do... but I can't quite remember what..." She gave up, shaking her head stubbornly.

That afternoon...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_55a63a4e.jpg)
"Gentlemen, thank you for coming," said Giovanni Giorelli as Father Bianchi and Marco walked into Eva's sickroom. She had kicked her blankets off because they were too warm.

"Of course," said the Priest. "I hope you don't mind that I brought my...apprentice, you might say. Marco Moretti."

"Sure," said Giovanni, avoiding Marco's gaze.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_35a63a75.jpg)
As Father Bianchi and Marco prayed over Eva, Eva's eyelids fluttered open. She looked up at the men and, realizing they were praying, and folded her arms over her chest to join the prayer.

"Thank you for coming," Eva said when the prayers were over. "I feel comforted by your presence, Father. And who's this? Come closer?"

Marco glanced at Father Bianchi, who nodded his encouragement. He stepped to the side of the bed.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_35a63ac4.jpg)
And as Marco stepped forward to introduce himself, Eva Giorelli was able to see him more clearly. It occurred to her that, if this handsome young man was part of the faithful hierarchy, she was about to become far more devout.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part VI
Christmas Eve 1961

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_95a9d91c.jpg)
I was determined to get to the bottom of this. If Josephine wouldn't give up Donovan because I asked her to, she would have to if it was true that he was bad news. And so I went to the local library and checked out a collection of newspapers for earlier in the year.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f5a9d93d.jpg)
The librarian had agreed to search the newspapers for any keywords I might like, and I had the results in front of me: a thin sheaf of British and Irish broadsheets that I couldn't dare to open. What if this was all a mistake, and I was violating the O'Reillys' privacies for nothing? I hesitated, then stood from my chair.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f5a9d8a8.jpg)
I dialed Judith. "Judith, it's Elizabeth Moretti. You'll be coming to next week's social club, won't you?" I asked casually.

"Why yes, I thought I would," she replied.

"Could you come early?" I asked. "I could use some help and, uh, Adela won't be able to come early."

"I'd be happy to," she said.

"Thank you. Happy Christmas, Judith."

"Merry Christmas."

I hung up and looked at the sheaf on the desk. I would need to read it, to know what questions to ask. But I needn't spoil Christmas Eve by so doing. It would keep until the New Year.

Meanwhile...
While I was toying with the problem of whether to open the newspapers, my son and my husband were playing a game of a different variety.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5a9d6ba.jpg)
"...party officials are looking to replace the Senator, who doctors say died of a heart attack, but have yet been unable to find a candidate. In other news..." the newscaster said as Marco came into the living room.

"Dad, could we talk for a minute?"

"Sure," said Dante. He turned off the television set and went over to the chess set. "Sit. We haven't played for weeks."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f5a9d70f.jpg)
"I just got off the phone with Signor Giorelli, who was calling on behalf of his niece. They invited me to Christmas lunch with Father Bianchi," said Marco as he began his opening gambit.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15a9d75b.jpg)
"And what did you say?" asked Dante evenly.

Marco smiled weakly. "I said that we had other plans. But he just said that they'd like to see me at some time."

"Marco, my son," Dante began. "I know that it's unreasonable, but you must never, ever get involved with the Giorellis. I've been trying to get your mother to work through this, but she hates them. What he did, all those years ago...well, your mother hasn't been able to forgive him or his wife."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15a9d723.jpg)
"It's only lunch," Marco muttered.

"I realize," said Dante, keeping his voice low. "But your mother is having enough trouble with your sister. I know it's unfair and un-Christian, but I really don't want to try your mother's patience anymore than your sister already has. Do you?"

"No, sir," said Marco. "You're right."

Later that night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55a9dc50.jpg)
That Christmas Eve was probably the happiest in my entire life. The beautiful tree, in the foyer of my family's home, and all the family together. It was made all the sweeter by the fact that, even though our family was having some unity issues...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5a9dca3.jpg)
...we could all smile and enjoy each other's company.

At All Saints Cathedral...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_35a9f69a.jpg)
It was fitting that the Christmas Mass that year was on the topic of love. Because as I looked around the cathedral, I could see nothing but love.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_b5a9f5de.jpg)
There was the grateful love of a brother for his little sister's warm forgiveness, and her grateful love that they would no longer be parted by the shame of her appearance...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_95a9f5ec.jpg)
...and the love of a mother for her son, despite a troubled past, returned with the love of a son for his mother's kind protection...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_55a9f5f5.jpg)
...the love of my family for all its members...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_15a9f633.jpg)
...and the phony, forced love between two people who despised each other, for the sake of appearance...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_55a9f618.jpg)
...love whose seeds had been planted but had not yet flowered...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_15a9f672.jpg)
...and love for a shepherd for his flock. Yes; it was fitting that the sermon would be on love. Love conquered, and calmed, and warmed the lives of all it touched. But most importantly...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_95a9f5d9_35a9f608.jpg)
...love sowed the seeds of hope for redemption and forgiveness.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part VII
January 1962

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_75ab15bc.jpg)
The night before the ladies' social club, I finally bit the bullet and opened the cache of newspapers. As I read through them, an eerie pattern began to emerge. The O'Reillys, the papers held, had been a prominent Irish family with ties to the peace movement. Their stated goal was to end tensions between Ireland and the United Kingdom--until a string of articles that started just a year previously.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55ab15d6.jpg)
A bombing along the border had killed several people, among them a sixteen year old girl. The bomb-making materials were traced to the O'Reillys, and the investigation focused on Donovan, based on testimony from his parents and other witnesses. The girl, it was later discovered, was romantically liked to Donovan, and police speculated that the bombing was revenge for her cooling affections. Like the girl's love for Donovan, my blood ran cold.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35ab164c.jpg)
"Is that today's paper?" asked Dante as he came into the living room.
"No," I said, and handed it to him. "Look, here."
I watched his eyes trace across the paper, reading the story I had just finished. He looked over at me. "We have to keep them apart."
"I know," I said dully, the thought of losing Josephine causing a cold sweat to break across my brow.

The next morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55ab17d9.jpg)
At the breakfast table, I handed out assignments for the day. Lara and Dante were to spend the day playing quietly outside or in their room.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55ab187c.jpg)
Josephine was to accompany Marco on his rounds with Father Bianchi and then they would go to the library in town to study for when classes resumed the next week. Under no circumstances was Marco to leave her alone.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5ab18ba.jpg)
"And I'll be late tonight," said Dante as I walked him to his car. "I'm going to go over to the O'Reillys and have a little chat with David, see if I can't get to the bottom of this. If these stories are true, I'll try to convince him to leave town for the safety of all the neighbors."

"That's a good idea," I said, grateful that my husband could differentiate between maternal paranoia and genuine, justified concern. "I love you."

"I love you too." We kissed goodbye and he drove off, leaving me to prepare for the gathering, and my meeting with Judith.

A few hours later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f5ab19dd.jpg)
Judith arrived right on time. We exchanged pleasantries and I invited her to my office so that we could discuss the burning questions on my mind.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_d5ab1a9c.jpg)
The dossier sat between us as I made my opening statement. "Judith, I want you to know how sorry I am about this, but you must understand that I have to protect my daughter. I had the librarian pull some articles about...well...about your family. About why you had to leave Ireland. I need to know if your son did what he's been accused of doing."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55ab1a81.jpg)
Judith looked apprehensive. "I cannot talk about it," she said uncertainly. "Please, Elizabeth, please. We moved here for a fresh start."

"But our children have developed a relationship, and if these news accounts are to be believed, if they split up then my daughter's life is in danger. You must understand how important this is."

"Elizabeth, I assure you that my son is harmless. He would never hurt a fly!"

"Is that right?" I opened the dossier and held up the newspaper holding the photo of the girl who died. "What about Jennifer Wallace?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b5ab1a79.jpg)
"Please!" Judith cried, a tear coming to her eye. "Please, I cannot talk about this. It would be such a betrayal to David, we have come here to start over."

"Can you do nothing with Donovan? A boarding school with close supervision, perhaps?" I asked, trying to sound diplomatic.

"No, no." Judith took a tissue as I offered it. "He's a good boy, he wouldn't hurt anyone. I won't punish him for a crime he didn't commit."

"Then why did you flee Ireland? All the authorities think he must be guilty that you'd run away with him." I asked.

"David de--David and I decided that we all needed a new beginning."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55ab1a66.jpg)
As I looked over at Judith, I could see that she was clearly convinced of her son's innocence, which meant that he was innocent or that she was a good liar.

But there was something else about her then, as she dabbed her cheeks dry: a look of fear in her eyes. Was it fear of discovery, of betrayal, of her past? At once I felt compelled to know more, but horrified that it could mean continued threat to my family.

I had no time to consider the matter; the girls had arrived.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_75ab1bb7.jpg)
To say that that meeting of the ladies social club was awkward was an understatement. Judith was silent and distant, and I could tell she was still collecting herself from the meeting before.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_95ab1c02.jpg)
Lady Thornycroft recounted a story of a couple coming to her door and pressuring her to sell her home. "They seemed quite insistent and got angry when I refused," she said, shrugging her shoulders.

Eleanor said, "Mother, Grant said not to worry about that. Sometimes you just imagine these things."

Lady Thornycroft shook her head. "Eleanor, please!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35ab1c0c.jpg)
Adela Koenig was breathless and giddy with the prospect of new love. "I have a date with the new chocolatier," she confided with us, the picture of girlish delight. "I'm cooking for him and his son."

After another hour of gossip over lunch, the meeting broke up. We all had things to do: Adela had to prepare for her date; Eleanor had to get her mother home to rest; Judith had to decide just what to do about her family secret; and I had to think of a way to protect my daughter.

That night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_15ab1e51.jpg)
Dante stopped by the O'Reilly's house after work and was greeted by David O'Reilly. My husband found David to be oddly distant and defensive, but he invited Dante in.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_95ab1e80.jpg)
"What can I do for you, Mr. Moretti?" asked David as they settled down in the living room.

"I want to know about your son," said Dante.

David didn't seem surprised. "What do you want to know?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_b5ab1ec9.jpg)
"Is he dangerous? As you know, my daughter and your son have developed a...well, a relationship. But my wife found some disturbing newspaper articles about a bombing in Ireland involving your son."

"It was an accident, Mr. Moretti. My son did not kill that girl because they were breaking up, regardless of what the press say."

"But he did set that bomb? He did kill those people?"

"I don't see the necessity of digging into the past. I think you should go now."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_75ab1ef5.jpg)
My husband looked at the mysterious man across the room from him. There was something both fearful and dangerous in his eyes. As Dante stood and headed for the door, David called after him. "Oh, Mr. Moretti?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_55ab1eed.jpg)
"Yes?"

"I would recommend to you to keep your family away from mine. I would hate for something awful to happen to one or many of them."

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part VIII
January 1962

That very night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_b5ab02d0.jpg)
As the sun was setting over the Italian hills, Marco walked around the yard with Eva as Father Bianchi visited with her aunt and uncle. "You look remarkably well, Miss Giorelli," Marco said quietly, blushing slightly.

"I feel remarkably well," Eva said. "Praise be to God, he delivered me. I have no doubt that he brought you here for that purpose."

Marco smiled abashedly. "He does work in mysterious ways, and if my presence has been a comfort to you in this trying time, then I am only too happy to help."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_55ab0361.jpg)
"I'm afraid there is something else I must ask for you to help with, then," Eva said slowly, as if choosing her words carefully. "I'm frightened, Marco."

"Frightened? But why, the doctor says you're fit as a fiddle."

"No, not of that," said Eva quickly, glancing sidelong at the house. "I'm afraid my uncle is going to kill me and my aunt."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_35ab0372.jpg)
Marco listened to Eva's tale. He held her as she cried, hesitant to betray her uncle but duty-bound to protect her aunt. What a brave girl she was, Marco thought. And for the first time, Marco felt his interest veer from spiritual to worldly.

Eva sensed it, and she made her move.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_b5ab034b.jpg)
The kiss was passionate but brief. Marco pulled away, embarrassed and confused. He stammered an apology and set off running. Eva watched him, and through the crocodile tears on her cheeks she smiled.

Later that night, at the O'Reillys'...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_d5ba000f.jpg)
It was happening to David O'Reilly again. Nosy neighbors. A pesky young woman distracting his son. Soon the police would come and they would have to flee again. Unless he could somehow get the Morettis to drop their inquiry now...

He went to his bedroom and opened the little box he kept handy at all times and flipped the lid open. With a grimace, he wheeled around and walked out.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_55ba00cd.jpg)
David pounded on Donovan's bedroom door. "Donovan, where's my gun? Your mother knows not to touch it. I know you've been on a little rebellious streak, so where is it?" He pounded the door again, shaking dust from the ceiling. Finally, the frame splintered and the door swung open.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_35ba013e.jpg)
"Don't come any closer," Donovan warned, brandishing his father's pistol. "I've been thinking, Father, and I think it's time that we came clean about what happened back home."

"It would destroy us," David hissed. "Haven't we been through enough because of you? Think of your mother!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_15ba00eb.jpg)
"I love Josephine and she loves me. We'll be together, one way or another. You can't stop me anymore. I'm not afraid of you!"

David took a menacing step forward, clenching a fist. "You should be, Donovan, my lad. Remember that I have the best interests of this family at heart, and if that means knocking some sense into you, well, I'll do it."

Donovan lunged, struck!

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_559a12d1_15ba01a5.jpg)
David fell, clutching his head where the butt of his own pistol had knocked him down. Donovan went for the door, and moments later David heard the roar of the motorcycle engine.

Donovan was gone.

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_55ba1bf2.jpg)
Giovanni arrived late from work, after Angela had gone to bed. He went to the stairs to go up to join her but stopped when he saw his niece kneeling on the top of the stairs. "Eva," he hissed. "What are you doing?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_55ba1c03.jpg)
"Shh," she said. "I'll explain in a moment."

Eva finished her work and stood up, carefully avoiding the first stair on her way down. "I figured since you almost ended up killing me last time, I would take care of this once and for all." She hefted a can of shortening. "Now you get out of here; you spent all night at the office, right?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_f5ba1c57.jpg)
"Eva, this is--we shouldn't do this--I mean--" said Giovanni uncertainly as Eva steered him out towards his car.

"Don't be so weak," Eva sneered. "You want this, but you nearly killed me last time, so just be grateful. Now go!"

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_f5ba0c15.jpg)
The Morettis were awakened by the roar of a motorcycle. Dante and I rushed to the window in time to see Josephine climb onto the back and the bike rush off into the night.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_95ba0c33.jpg)
"I'll get the car," Dante said with a sigh.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part IX
January 1962

We spent an hour tailing Donovan and Josephine, finally stopping them in town. Dante hoisted Josephine off the back of the bike, dropped her in the back seat of the car, and we took off. No words were exchanged; this had gone farther than that. She went to bed immediately upon getting home, and we were happy to let her.

Teenagers, I thought. I surely hope I didn't give my mother this kind of problem.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_d5ba1d3d.jpg)
The next morning at the Giorelli house started with a bang as Angela slipped on the top step and tumbled all the way to the bottom. Eva, who had spent the morning doing some gardening, rushed in, trying to look shocked. "Aunt Angela!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_95ba1da9.jpg)
Eva was dismayed to find her aunt still breathing, but knew that she could do nothing. She went to the phone and dialed the police, asking for an ambulance. When that was taken care of, she called her uncle's office. "Uncle Giovanni, I'm afraid I have some terrible news."

"It's all right, Eva. I'm alone."

"It's done. Come home."

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55b9c570.jpg)
Dante and I had received some interesting guests. As I served coffee, one of the men, Modesto, explained why they were here: "As you may be aware, Senator Mentoli died during his term, and we've been searching for a replacement. Unfortunately, we've not yet found a replacement and the filing deadline is tonight."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55b9c547.jpg)
"Is everyone comfortable?" I asked as I handed out the last cup of coffee. "Is there anything else I can offer?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35b9c554.jpg)
"We're fine, Mrs. Moretti. Thank you," said Flavio, the other man. "As Modesto was saying, it would be an embarrassment to the party if we were to not field a candidate, and you're our only hope. No one else living in the district is willing or qualified to run."

Dante looked at me and I offered an encouraging smile. He turned back to the men. "Let me think about your offer, and talk it over with my wife. You said you needed my answer by tonight?"

"Yes, Mr. Moretti."

"Then you shall have it."

I said, "Why don't you both come over for dinner tonight?" The matter was agreed.

"Mr. Moretti, why don't you come by the office downtown today? You can have a look at the operation, see what you might be getting into."

Later that morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_b5ba1ee8.jpg)
Giovanni arrived just in time to see the ambulance technicians load his wife into the ambulance. He went to Eva and said, "What happened?"

"She's alive. But the men aren't hopeful." She gestured towards the retreating ambulance. "It could go either way."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_759a1e99_d5ba1f08.jpg)
"Thank God for you, Eva," said Giovanni. He was free, finally free! He swept her into a hug. The ambulance driver, looking in the rearview mirror, was touched by the show of familial sorrow. But what he didn't know was that the gesture was one of shared triumph, not sadness.

That afternoon...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_b5bdacae.jpg)

Taking advantage of the quiet day, I sat down at my typewriter and looked at the half-typed page in front of me. It was a page in a book I had been working on for years, but I never seemed to be able to finish it, as much as I was determined to do so.

But the best laid plans often go awry, and my son came in and sat down. "Can I talk to you, mom?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15bdacd1.jpg)
"Of course," I said. "What's on your mind?"

"I got a phone call from Father Bianchi. Mrs. Giorelli has had a terrible accident. Only..."

"Only what?" I asked, instantly suspicious of why he would bring the Giorellis up to me.

"Only I don't think it was an accident. Eva told me that Mr. Giorelli was trying to hurt her and her aunt."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35bdacdd.jpg)
"My word, is she all right?" I asked, my head buzzing. For all these years, had I been unfairly painting her with the same brush with which I painted her husband? Had she been his victim, too, like my Josephine had once been?

"She's had a bad fall, but she's expected to recover."

"I must go and see her," I said, seizing upon the guilt that was like a knife in my chest. "Has your father left?"

"Not yet."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_95bdad04.jpg)
"You were right to tell me, Marco, my son. Sometimes it takes the wisdom of a boy...a young man... to correct the foolishness of an old woman." I hugged him tightly.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35bdad00.jpg)
"You have good instincts, my boy," I told him. "Listen to them."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35bdad3d.jpg)
A few moments later, I was down in the driveway. "Dante, wait!" He had been about to climb into the car to go to his appointment with the politicians downtown. "Can you drop me at the hospital on the way to your appointment?"

"Of course, it's just across the road. What happened?"

"It's Mrs. Giorelli. I'm afraid I've been wrong about her all along."

Downtown...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5af8d72_b5af9237.jpg)
"What do you think?" breathed Flavio. "I think it really catches the youth and vigor of your campaign."

"It's-- I haven't agreed to run yet, Flav--"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5af8d72_55af9231.jpg)
"Imagine!" said Modesto. "Just picture this everywhere in the district."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5af8d72_b5af925f.jpg)
Dante cocked his head to the side and examined the poster. "Well... I like it, generally. But my wife and I still have to talk about this."

"Of course," said Flavio generously. "But first, get behind the podium. See how you feel."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5af8d72_b5af9311.jpg)
Dante stood behind the podium and read the remarks that were there, trying to sound authoritative and charismatic. The two consultants watched, nodding. "With the right polish..." said Flavio. "The wardrobe needs work, but..."

"And he'll need a better speech than that, but that's for the policy shop--you'll meet Castelli later," said Modesto.

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_55bda414_b5bda6db.jpg)
"Mrs. Giorelli, you have a visitor."

Angela looked up with some effort to see me standing in the doorway. She neither smiled nor denied my entry, so the doctor left us alone.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_55bda414_75bda773.jpg)
"I, uh, thought you might like these," I said, showing her the bouquet I had purchased at the florist near the hospital. "I was so sorry to hear about your, ah, accident."

"I doubt that," Angela said coldly, her voice strained and brittle. "We've lived nearby for fifteen years, and I've never even spoken to you more than a handful of times. Why would you care now?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_55bda414_75bda7e7.jpg)
"I've been terribly foolish about you," I admitted, feeling the color rise in my cheeks. "And unchristian. I had hoped that it wouldn't be too late to make amends."

Angela considered this for a moment, then said, "You know, I never even knew about my husband's crime until after he was caught. He never brought your daughter to my home; how would I have known anything?"

I sighed. "I don't know, Angela. I honestly don't. I'm very sorry for the way I treated you. It was wrong, and I want to make things right." I sighed and took her hand; she let me. "Angela, do you know what happened?"

"I must've slipped," she said. "The doctor said so."

"My son, Marco, was looking in on your niece. He said that she was afraid that your husband was trying to do you in."

Angela looked at me, and I saw pieces fall into place behind her eyes. "Giovanni?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_55bda414_d5bda85e.jpg)
Just then the door burst open and the doctor rushed in. "Ma'am, was yours the red sedan?"

"Yes, why?"

"It's...well, it's on fire!"

"Oh my God!" I shouted. "Angela, I'm sorry, I--"

"Go," she said, looking concerned.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_55bda414_95bda990.jpg)
As I watched the car burn, Dante came up to me. "Thank God, I saw it from the window. What happened!"

I didn't know. All I knew as I watched paint crackle under the heat, and heard the squeal of tires on the street, was that there would always be people who suffered misfortune...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_55bda414_75bda961.jpg)
...just as there would always be people who brought misfortune on others.

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part X
January 1962

Despite the violent destruction of our car, life went on in the Moretti household. I was a good housewife, and I had invited company for dinner, so come hell or high water they would be fed!

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_75bc948b.jpg)
The men brought a woman to dinner that I had not met before. She introduced herself as Chiara Castelli, and she was the brilliant political mind in the team, according to Modesto and Flavio.

I had cleared off the table and was waiting for coffee to percolate when the political discussion swelled again.

"Have you given any thought to whether you'd like to run, Signor Moretti?" asked Flavio.

"Yes," said Dante. "My wife and I talked about it and we've decided that I should give it a shot."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35bc9447.jpg)
"Wonderful," said Modesto. "If you'll just sign this paper..." He slid a filing paper over to Dante with a pen. He picked up the pen and examined the page before signing it.

"Modesto and I will take it over to the filing office immediately," said Chiara.

"Don't you want to stay for dessert?" I asked politely.

"We're on a deadline, Signora Moretti," Chiara said dismissively. We all stood.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_75bc9538.jpg)
"Thanks so much for doing this for us, Signor. And, Signora, for your hospitality," said Modesto as the others walked out the door. "We can do great work together."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_55bc96d0.jpg)
Later that night, Dante and I discussed what to do about Josephine. We finally settled upon sending her to a boarding school in Switzerland, just over the border, until the situation with the O'Reillys blew over.

"She won't like it," Dante warned as I sat down to unpin my hair.

"She won't have to," I said sternly. "It's for her own good."

Dante was quiet for a few more minutes before he said, "What do you think about this election thing?"

"I think it's a good opportunity," I said with a smile at his reflection in the mirror.

"But do you think I can win?"

"I don't think you want to win, darling. You're doing them a favor, that's all." Dante looked at my reflection in the mirror as I brushed my hair back from my face, then nodded.

"That's right."

That night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5af8d72_95bc8f8e.jpg)
"That's all taken care of," Chiara said, crossing the room to where the podium was. "Make way in the Senate!"

"You know, we might not win this thing, Chiara," Modesto warned. "This is a long shot."

"I know," said Chiara. "But I have a feeling that with our help..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5af8d72_35bc9026.jpg)
"...we can turn Durante Moretti into just the puppet we need."

The following morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_75bd9967_75be0660.jpg)
"I can't believe you're doing this," said Josephine sulkily as she followed her parents into the train station. "I can't believe you're sending me away. This is so unfair!"

"Josephine, I told you that it's for your own good," said Elizabeth.

"But you won't tell me what that means!" Josephine shot back angrily.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_75bd9967_b5bda10f-1.jpg)
Josephine, listen to your mother," said Dante as he examined the envelope he was going to give Josephine. It contained an encouraging note, her train ticket, and enough pocket money to buy food for the trip, and a check for the school. "This is for your own good, whether you choose to accept it or not."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_75bd9967_55bda128-1.jpg)
The train rolled in, and Dante handed the envelope to Josephine, hugged her, and kissed the top of her head. "We'll send for you as soon as it's safe," he promised.

Josephine turned to me, daring me to try to hug her. I knew she wouldn't accept it; she knew this was my doing. I said, "Josephine, I've put a folder in your attache case. I want you to read it on the train, and then you'll understand."

"What is it?" Josephine asked suspiciously.

"Some newspapers involving your friend Donovan." I stood and straightened my skirt. "Have a safe trip. We'll telephone later tonight." I patted her shoulder, felt her tense resentfully under my touch, and then followed Dante out.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_75bd9967_75be07b9.jpg)
Dante was working the key into the door lock when a car's wheels squealed on pavement. I barely had time to cry, "Dante, look out!" before the car barreled through. Dante leapt out of the way in the knick of time, narrowly avoiding being hit by the white car.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_75bd9967_f5be0894.jpg)
We ran after the car, but it was going too fast to catch up. I stopped in my tracks when a realization came over me. "Dante," I said.

"What," he asked, wiping his bruised, scraped hands on his pants.

"That car was driving past the hospital when our car was on fire. I know it was."

"Do you recognize it?"

"I didn't until I saw the license. That's Judith O'Reilly's car!"

"Do you think Donovan...?" Dante asked as we climbed into the car.

"I don't know, Dante. I just don't know."

That afternoon...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15befecb.jpg)
I heard the roar of a motorcycle engine and went to the window to see Donovan O'Reilly walking across the yard. I hurried out into the yard to greet him, afraid of what might happen if I let him in the house. "Hello, Mrs. Moretti," he said. "Is Josephine home?"

"What? Oh, no, she's, ah, visiting," I said, backing up a little.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_35befed7.jpg)
"I just wanted to see her..." said Donovan, sighing. "To apologize for everything. And to apologize to you. I'm sorry for the trouble I've caused."

"You mean like almost running over my husband?" I demanded.

"What do you mean? I didn't run over anybody!" Donovan said, then he visibly recoiled, fear in his eyes. "Wait a minute!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_15beff91.jpg)
I turned to see Dante crossing the yard, his service pistol in his hand. "Elizabeth, get behind me."

"Mr. Moretti, I swear, I didn't!" said Donovan, stepping back.

"Josephine's gone," said Dante sternly. "It's over."

"Where is she?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_f5968280_95beffa7.jpg)
"Gone," I said. "Please, Donovan. Go home and forget about her."

"I can't!" he shouted. "I love her!"

"I know," I said, my voice trembling with emotion even as I recoiled with fear. "That's what terrifies me."

"Whatever my father told you, I didn't kill that girl. I didn't!"

"Go home, son," said Dante. He took my hand and started pulling me towards the house.

I could barely hear Donovan as he walked towards his bike. "I wasn't even the one who was in love with Jennifer Boyle!"

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Part XI
January 1962

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_75c6ecb6.jpg)
The following day I went to Judith's and was surprised to find a moving van in the driveway, and boxes of things being packed into it. One of the movers said that the lady of the house was inside and I let myself in.

"Judith?" I asked, and she looked up from where she sat. "Can I come in?"

"Why not?" she asked bitterly. "We're going soon anyway."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_15c6ed13.jpg)
I sat down opposite her and said, "I'm sorry, Judith. I didn't...I had to protect my daughter."

Judith gave me a kind smile and reached across the table to pat my hand. Only then did I notice the wild look in her eye. "It's all right, dear. None of this, and I mean none of this is your fault. I should have known all along..."

I held her hands between mine and squeezed them, feeling her own anguish. "Judith, talk to me. What's happened?"

"It wasn't Donovan," she said simply. She was silent for a moment, and then she began to tell me a story...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_95c6e611.jpg)
"We had a lovely little cottage in Ireland, near the border. It wasn't much, but it was enough for the three of us. David and I were very dedicated to the peace process, and we would have regular meetings between sympathetic types of all stripes--British, Irish, it didn't matter.

One of these days, we were getting ready for a meeting of the minds. I was out, tending the garden, and David was getting things ready inside--or so I thought--with the help of Donovan's girlfriend, Jennifer Boyle. Oh, they weren't a serious item--not as serious as the papers suggested after the--but they were going steady, you could say. Donovan was out, getting groceries, but was walking home when it happened. He told me he was walking through the back yard and saw what happened through a window."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_75c6e700.jpg)
"While I was out in the garden, my husband, the pig, put the moves on poor Jennifer. Bless her heart, she didn't know what to do..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_75c6e702.jpg)
"Other than push his lecherous arse away, of course. Donovan said she gave him a good shove and really embarrassed him."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_d5c6e73e.jpg)
"David, the Don Juan he thinks himself, was upset and they tuffled. Donovan said he had her by the throat and then she began to choke."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_55c6e7c4.jpg)
"Not such a brave man was he after that, no: he moved away, insisting that she was faking it. But as she continued to choke..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_b5c6e7df.jpg)
"...he could see that this was not an accident that he could just explain away."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_95c6e814.jpg)
"The poor girl died, and for what? Because she bruised my lecherous husband's pride. He panicked and did what he thought he had to: began to cover his tracks. He hid the body in a wardrobe..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_95c6e923.jpg)
"...went out into the shed and got one of the bombs he had confiscated while patrolling the border, and wired it there. And just before the English delegation was set to arrive, it went off."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_f5c6e9bd.jpg)
"Several men ran in to look for Jennifer; my husband, who had escaped, said he had been unable to find her. I know now that this was all cover for his crime. And all those men died trying to save her, not knowing she was already dead..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_95c6ecf3.jpg)
"When did you find this out?" I asked gently, offering her my kerchief. She dabbed her eyes gratefully.

"Donovan told me yesterday, after you sent Josephine away. He said that his father had now cost him two girls--two opportunities to find love, you know?--and then told me what he saw. And Elizabeth, I know he was telling the truth. A mother knows."

I nodded my head. "Yes, she does." Just then the door opened and I turned to see David standing there. I stood up; I didn't know what I could do, but I could at least try to defend myself if I was standing.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_95c6eda3.jpg)
"What are you doing here?" he demanded.

"Visiting your wife," I said coolly. "And where is young Donovan?"

"Who knows what kind of trouble he's getting himself into?" David asked casually. "Not bothering your daughter anymore, is he?"

"You bastard." I turned to see that Judith had stood and was inching forward. "You lying, murdering bastard!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_35c6ee06.jpg)
"I beg your pardon?" asked David, trying to seem collected and cool, but we could both tell that he was suspicious.

"You killed Jennifer Boyle. You blamed it on Donovan and told me what to tell the police, not to protect us but to protect you. You would have our boy accused of a crime that you committed!" spat Judith.

"Why you..." said David, striding forward.

"Not so fast," I said stonily, mustering all my bluster. "I know the whole story and I've phoned the police. Unless you want them to find two more of your victims here, you'll stand back. And you'll have to kill me to get to her."

"This is none of your business," said David.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_15c6edf2.jpg)
"When lying murderers go free, that's everyone's business," I said, not knowing where I was getting this bravery.

"Oh, stuff it. Judith, get your things. We're leaving now."

"No," said Judith. "You're leaving. Donovan and I are staying."

"Judith, you are my wife and he is my son, and you will do as I tell you. Now, get in the van!"

"No!" Judith shouted. "You get in the van and go far, far away. Don't ever come back."

"Judith--"

"I'm calling the police," she said. "We'll see what they say when they here that you're the one that murdered Jennifer Boyle and all those people who went in to save her, not Donovan?"

David took another step as Judith went to the phone. I moved with her, picking up a skillet out of a moving box and watched him closely. I would defend Judith if I had to, I knew.

Luckily, David knew it too. He turned and left.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b1e67953_b5c6ee15.jpg)
I hurried to the porch and watched as he climbed into the moving truck. It roared to life and he was gone.

Judith came out on the porch and put her arm around my waist. "Thank you, Elizabeth. If not for you, I don't know if I could have done that."

"You'll stay, won't you?" I asked her, putting my arm around her shoulder. "You and Donovan?"

"I think I'd like that."

The Inheritance
Chapter 2 - Epilogue
January 1962

That same day...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5c72586_f5c729f0.jpg)
"You'll regret this," Eva Giorelli shouted at her uncle as he left the house.

"No, my dear. You think you're the fox, but you are but the hen. You see, it was you who greased the step that caused your aunt's accident. You are unwise to attempt to blackmail me, for I have an alibi."

"Where are you going?" she called.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5c72586_35c729fd.jpg)
"I'm going to the office, then I'm calling your mother and telling her to come and pick you up. You are no longer welcome here," said Giovanni. With that, he turned on his heel and began to cross the street.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5c72586_d5c72a15.jpg)
"Uncle, wait!" cried Eva--but Giovanni didn't listen...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5c72586_55c72a37.jpg)
...much to his detriment.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_b5c72586_15c72a72.jpg)
And that was the last any of us saw of David O'Reilly for a long time.

At the Moretti villa...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_15c5f6c0_d5c7525b.jpg)
I arrived home to share the news with Dante. He was glad to have the affair sorted out and promised to talk to the police about keeping an extra close eye on the O'Reilly house in case David tried to come back.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_15c5f6c0_35c75219.jpg)
I looked over the living room of the villa in which I had lived for so many years and for the first time in months felt completely content. Yes, my daughter was in Switzerland, and my younger son was out running around, but my family still felt complete.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_15c5f6c0_b5c754aa.jpg)
Night fell over the hills of Italy, and as Dante wrapped his arms around me and we settled in for a quiet night together with the children, I knew that there was nothing that we could not face together. But as Abraham Lincoln once said...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%202/snapshot_15c5f6c0_55c75588.jpg)
...a house divided against itself cannot stand.

To Be Continued in
Chapter Three

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part I
March 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d1b862.jpg)
Ever since Dante's victory in the election that everyone, including both of us, had expected him to lose, he had become quite a busy man. He had to set up a whole new life in Rome, coming home some weekends but spending most weeks away.

At first, we called each other at least once a day--I would call him in the morning after getting the children off to school, and he would call me in the evenings when he was done with his legislative duties. But lately it had occured that I was doing most of the calling.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_95d1b9d0.jpg)
"I'm sorry, darling. I can't come home this weekend, we have a budget meeting that I have to go to. Perhaps next weekend?"

"Well, all right," I said, half-expecting yet another governmental obligation that would keep my husband away. "Andre was so hoping...well, it doesn't matter. He'll understand."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d1b862.jpg)
"Apologize to him from me, would you? I wanted to make his recital but things have just gotten too busy here."

"I will."

"Are you having the ladies over tonight?"

"Oh yes, in fact I have a meatloaf in the oven."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_55d1b9d3.jpg)
"I won't keep you, then, darling."

"All right. Good night, Dante." I paused for a moment. "I love you."

"I love you too, Betty. Good night."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_55d1b892.jpg)
I hung up the phone and looked around my bedroom. Everything was neat and tidy, so much so that it felt like it was unused. It felt like no one even lived here, and indeed, I couldn't remember off the top of my head the last time I had spent the night here with Dante.

But I would have plenty of time later to dwell during the dark of the night. At this moment, I had a ladies' social gathering to host.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d1cf0d.jpg)
We met that night as we frequently did, in the sunroom of the villa, eating and chatting and gossiping. But that night was different: a cloud hung over the gathering. Lady Esther Thornycroft was very ill. Her mental condition had, in the past several months, been accompanied by a striking, wasting illness.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d1cede.jpg)
The empty chair that belonged to Lady Thornycroft stood empty, and Eleanor was gone as well, caring for her mother. But present were Mrs. Capricia Volante, Mrs. Adela de Luca, Judith O'Reilly, who had been granted an annulment after her husband fled from the authorities, and Angela Giorelli, who was technically still married despite the fact that her husband had been in a coma for two years.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d1cecb.jpg)
"I can't understand why the real estate company is causing such trouble," said Judith, who had been wanting to buy a building downtown with her savings in which to open a new business. "They keep saying it's administrative work, but it's been going on for weeks!"

"I've heard that," said Adela. "Rumor has it some new group of investors is trying to buy up some of the properties. Maybe they're holding out on closing your sale in hopes of getting a better deal."

"Whatever it is, I'm tired of it," Judith confessed as the phone rang. I excused myself to go and answer it.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_75d1d06e.jpg)
I hung up the phone a few moments later, feeling stricken. I couldn't put thoughts to words, nor convert the words I had just heard into actual meaning.

Slowly, I turned and walked back towards the sunroom.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d1d0a2.jpg)
"Ladies," I said. Something in my voice must have told them that I had something to say, and their voices died down.

"Ladies, I'm afraid...I'm sorry to have to tell you... Esther--Lady Thornycroft--died just a few moments ago."

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part II
March 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_55c70ebc_35c83f86.jpg)
All of Lady Thornycroft's friends gathered at her home for her funeral. Even Dante, who had been so busy earlier in the weekend, made the drive back for the funeral.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_55c70ebc_35c83f44.jpg)
We listened as Father Bianchi practiced the funeral rites and prayed for the soul of Esther.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_55c70ebc_f5c8417a.jpg)
After everyone else had filed away to the dining room for lunch, I stayed behind to pay my respects to Esther. After all, we had been friends for so long. She had been kind to me, had loved me like a daughter and Josephine like a granddaughter.

I was praying at the side of the coffin when I heard voices from the hall...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_55c70ebc_d5c84197.jpg)
It was Grant, first, and then Capricia Volante.

"No, Signora Volante, I know you were hoping but now it just seems wrong."

"But, my Lord," Capricia said in her lusty Italian way, "I know your mother was against it, but this is a very good opportunity for you. For both of us."

"What about your husband?" asked Grant.

"Never mind my husband. What he doesn't know can't hurt him. And it can't hurt us, either."

"I'm sorry, Capricia. I'm very flattered, very tempted, but no."

And with that, I heard a set of footsteps set off across the hall, followed by the reluctant click of Capricia's heels.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_55c70ebc_35c84258.jpg)
The luncheon was lovely. We all sat and ate Lady Thornycroft's favorite dishes and shared stories about our experiences with her. It was a joyous occasion despite the sadness that enveloped us.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_75cf08ed_75d1d6bc.jpg)
As I walked home from the funeral, I found that one of the houses that had long been abandoned had a car in the driveway and a few people unloading it. As I walked by, the man gave me a friendly wave and I stopped for a chat.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_75cf08ed_75d1d700.jpg)
As it turned out, the man was Signor Esposito, and he had owned the house for some time, returning only now after spending many years with his sick wife in another town. She had died and so he and his family moved back.

A figure in military fatigues was at the trunk of the car, fiddling with boxes. "Is that your son?" I asked, gesturing towards the car.

"Oh, no," said Esposito. "My daughter. Gia, come over here."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_75cf08ed_b5d1d74f.jpg)
We were introduced and talked for a few moments more before I left them to their packing, and deciding that I should bring a casserole over later in the week.

One thing was clear. There was something strange about a family where a daughter wore military fatigues, but I detected nothing sinister. I bid them good day and returned home.

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part III
March 1964

While I was meeting a new neighbor, my friend Angela Giorelli was waiting for a surprise from her niece, Eva. And what a surprise it was...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_b5c72586_75d1d989.jpg)
Angela was quite pleased with the way that Eva Giorelli had turned out. Her mother had never really recovered from the death of her father to the point where she could take over responsibility for her daughter. Just the same, Angela was happy to Eva now that her husband was indisposed. It was true that she despised the man even more, having been informed by Eva that it was indeed Giovanni who tried to kill her, but he had at least been someone to talk to.

Angela glanced at her watch, then called out, "Eva, come on. What's the big surprise?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_b5c72586_95d1d9b4.jpg)
Eva came out of her bedroom and walked around the couch to sit adjacent to her aunt. Angela was extremely taken aback. "What's this?" she asked, gesturing at Eva's novice's habit. "Is this a joke?"

"No, Aunt Angela," said Eva quietly. She had been demure and sad, Angela had noticed, since her friend Marco Moretti had gone away to the priesthood. "I've decided to join a nunnery and I would not like to argue about it."

"But...are you sure?" asked Angela.

"Yes, I am. Only God can offer the peace I need," Eva said. Angela was somewhat shocked at the serious demeanor of her niece. It was a definite change from her care-free, fun-loving and (Eva thought) somewhat irresponsible predeliction to fool around with her sweetheart Marco.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_b5c72586_95d1da5f.jpg)
Angela didn't argue. She simply told her niece as she walked her out to the waiting car that her home would always be open for her and to please write.

"Thank you, Aunt Angela. God be with you."

Eva ducked into the car.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_b5c72586_35d1dadb.jpg)
"And with you also," said Angela.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_55d309ec.jpg)
That night, over dinner, I gave Dante the rundown on our family which, by now, was somewhat farflung. Josephine was away at college studying drama and making good grades.

Marco had decided to join the priesthood after all, though his resolve to do so had ebbed and flowed (with the continued presence of Eva Giorelli, though that was a detail I neglected to mention to Dante) up until the last minute.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_15d309cd.jpg)
Dante gave me a briefing on his activities in Rome (though I was to find out later that this list excluded certain extracurricular activities): he was serving on a few different committees, even being a Vice Chairman of one of them. "A few decades and I could be chairman," he said proudly.

"I have no doubt, darling," I told him, giving him a smile that I didn't quite feel. After all, he had only been in government for two years and already he was hardly home. But I refused to put the damper on his ambitions and earn his resentment. "But I bet you'll get on the cabinet before then."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d30a7f.jpg)
After dinner, Dante cleared the table and helped me wash the dishes. "I wanted to ask you something," he murmured to me. "Chiara--Ms. Castelli, my Chief of Staff?--thinks it's time to start fundraising."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d30aa9.jpg)
"Oh, really?" I asked absently, setting a dish in the dishrack. "What does Chiara suggest?"

"An event. I was hoping, to keep costs low, to host it here." He looked at me sidelong.

"Yes," I said. "Why not? I'll need some time to prepare, so...when is it?"

"September."

"That's certainly long enough to plan. I'll start planning the menu now."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d30bf8.jpg)
Later that night, we were watching the television with Andre and Lara. During one of the commercial breaks, Andre turned to Dante and I and said, "I want a car."

"What?" asked Dante. "A car of your own?"

"Yes, why not?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_b5d30c04.jpg)
"I don't see any reason why not," Dante confessed. "Where are you going to get the money?"

"Well, I was hoping..."

I gave a chuckle. "No, sir. Your brother and sister never got a car. If you want one, you'll have to find a job."

"You'd be okay with that?" asked Andre.

"Why not?" asked Dante.

"I'll start looking tomorrow."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_75d30c89.jpg)
Halfway into the news broadcast, Dante stood and announced that he had to get going in order to be on time for his meeting. "You have a meeting?" I asked, lulled from my near dozing next to him.

"Yes, didn't I say? With Flavio and Modesto." He got his coat and walked to the door. I followed him, kissed him goodbye, and watched him walk off into the night.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_15d30cd0.jpg)

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_75d30dd7.jpg)
That night I lay awake, unable to sleep. I watched the minutes tick to hours until I heard the door downstairs open and close, and footsteps on the stairs. A moment later Dante came in to find me with a book in my hands and the light on. It was just past ten.

"How was the meeting?" I asked conversationally, not looking up from the book.

"Productive," said Dante as he went into the bathroom. I heard the water running and a few moments later he came back to lay next to me.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_95d30e0f.jpg)
"What time are you driving back to Rome tomorrow?" I asked as we settled in bed.

"Probably eight o'clock. Not later than nine." He kissed me on the cheek and turned on his side. "Good night, Betty."

"Good night, Dante."

The following morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d3106f.jpg)
After bundling the children off to school, Dante packed his small suitcase and loaded it into the car. I went out with him with a basket of cookies I got up early to bake for his road trip.

"Have a safe trip," I told Dante. "Call me when you get there?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%202/snapshot_d5cbc708_55d31086.jpg)
"I will," he promised and hugged me. He released me and I watched him get into the car. As he drove off, I found myself standing in the shadow of a big, empty villa, alone.

Alone again.

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part IV
May - June 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5d70593.jpg)
After visiting the Esposito family later in the week they moved in, I knew that I had to do what I could to provide the family with what motherly attentions I could, for Giorgia's sake. The death of her mother had left them without a decent cook. So I had resolved to have them over for dinner.

And, of course, I could use the company, too.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d705da.jpg)
"Why Giorgia," I said happily as I opened the door to them. "How lovely you look. Do come in, please. Both of you."

It was Friday and, given the Catholicism of all parties present, I served fish.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d70856.jpg)
Over dinner and over the weekly Friday dinners, our families learned things about the other.

For instance, on the first Friday I learned that Giorgia was expected to be Giorgio. But the surprise of her gender did not overrule the plans that her mother and father had for her. So she had gone to a strict military-style boarding school, played sports--in short, she had been the son her father always wanted.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_d5cbc708_75d70828.jpg)
The next week, I had the chance to talk about the work I had done writing, and my hopes to have a book published.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_d5cbc708_b5d708ba.jpg)
The week after that, Paolo revealed that his late wife was tied to our neighborhood--a sister of Capricia Volante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_d5cbc708_75d708ad.jpg)
And the next week Andre shared his desire to find a job, and Paolo promised to get him an interview with the downtown real estate company.

As much as I liked to pretend that I was reaching out to the community around me as part of my Christian duty, I was driven by selfish means. Without Josephine, Marco, or Dante to keep me company, I was lonely.

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_b5c7600f_15c84637.jpg)
Damiano Volante was a man who enjoyed his work. He was a botanist of the finest order and was credited in half a dozen new species of flowers. He was hard at work in his laboratory creating yet another new species.

But unlike for his last projects, this was one that his wife Capricia had taken an active interest. For the third time this week, he heard Capricia's high-heeled footsteps coming up the stairs to his lab. A moment later she arrived and asked, "Is it ready yet?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_b5c7600f_95c846a9.jpg)
"No, dear," said Dr. Volante. "I'm afraid I've hit a metaphorical wall. My crossbreeding isn't working as well as I thought--"

Capricia waved his words away impatiently. "Spare me the bio-babble, Damiano. I'm not interested in your excuses, only your results!"

"I'm well aware," Dr. Volante replied apologetically. "I'm working as fast as I can."

"As I said: results, Doctor."

Later that week...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_55c866a8_f5d7010d.jpg)
Once again a new family had moved into the neighborhood although this family could hardly be considered 'new'. Indeed, thirty-six years ago (twenty-one years before I came to the neighborhood), one of the people moving in had been born at this very house.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_55c866a8_b5d70143.jpg)
Amelia Somerset (née Waldorf) was widowed again. Her first husband had died in World War II. Her second, a London stock-broker, had had an unfortunate accident in the lift of their flat just weeks after the birth of their daughter, Andrea. Her third husband had been a loud-mouthed Irish rugby player who was killed on the field when tackled by the entire defensive line. Her fourth husband had been to the wealthy, aged Lord Sebastien Somerset, from whose death she retained a title and wealth.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_55c866a8_b5d70162.jpg)
Andrea had been a sickly child, unable to travel much and a constant burden to her mother's attempts to enjoy life as a young woman. But now Andrea was recognized as the asset that she was, for Lady Somerset was now a member of the nobility. Sons were good for carrying out the family name. Daughters were useful for marrying off.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_55c866a8_55d70206.jpg)
But as they settled down for their first meal in a half-unpacked home, Lady Somerset thought that perhaps she would like to marry again. After all, there was something to be said about the lucky number five. But given the fate of her past husbands, just how lucky would that number be for her next husband?

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_b1e67953_b5d71ba5.jpg)
While the Somersets were unpacking their belongings, Judith O'Reilly was doing what she had been doing for sustenance since her husband had fled the authorities. She cut and dyed hair in her home for a moderate fee, and so when Angela Giorelli came in deciding that it was time for a chance, Judith helped her pick out a bold choice.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_b1e67953_35d71bae.jpg)
But Angela's decision on a new hairstyle was nothing compared to the decision that Judith herself was contemplating.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_b1e67953_95d71cd9.jpg)
After the haircut, Angela and Judith had a cup of coffee and Judith shared her idea with Angela: "I want to open my own salon. The area is growing quite fast and we don't really have a reliable hair-care service in town. What do you think?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%204/snapshot_b1e67953_35d71ce7.jpg)
Angela, somewhat shocked but deeply impressed by her new hairstyle, offered Judith friendly encouragement. "You have a real talent, Judith, and I think you could be very successful."

And so Judith's ambitions to become an entrepreneur blossomed. What Judith didn't know, in that thrilling moment of affirmation, was that this choice was to put her and others on a collision course with a deadly foe.

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part V
July 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75cf08ed_15d859a6.jpg)
The first week in July, Paolo Esposito called me. "Listen, I have to go to Rome to pick up a piano. Yes...a piano. It was my wife's and we didn't have room in the van the first time--I won't bore you with the details. But I wanted to ask if you wanted to come. I know your husband lives there and I thought you might like to visit since I'll be going that way."

I paused for a moment to consider. It was a few hours' drive, but if I left a meatloaf in the oven for Andre and Lara with instructions, they could manage. "Yes," I said. "I think I'd like that."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75cf08ed_75d859af.jpg)
"I'll pick you up at seven in the morning," said Paolo, and he disconnected.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d85d0e.jpg)
The next day, Paolo was as good as his word. He arrived after I had got the children up for school and we set off for Rome before the oddly out-of-season frost had managed to melt.

On the way, he told me the story of the piano. It had belonged to his wife, a concert-quality pianist, but he had been unable to find room for it in the van with his other furniture.

It was a pleasant ride, I'll admit. We talked and joked, laughing along the way. I knew that his company was a welcome change from helping my son with his homework and reading to my daughter--a realization that hit me with a pang of guilt. But I told myself that I was going to visit Dante, so my justification was sound.

And I could tell that Paolo was happy to have adult company, as well. It was a win-win situation. That is, until we arrived at Dante's apartment.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75c75907_d5d861c1.jpg)
I knocked on Dante's door. It was the first time I had been to the apartment, so I wasn't sure I had the right number until the door finally opened and a very shocked Dante let me in.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75c75907_95d8641e.jpg)
Despite the happiness I felt at seeing my husband, I could tell that my surprise visit had annoyed him somewhat--whether it was because I had surprised him, or because I was even there I didn't know.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75c75907_b5d863f9.jpg)
We talked about the new neighbors, Judith's burgeoning business plan, and the children's accomplishments in school.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75c75907_95d863c0.jpg)
By the time our visit ended, Dante was physically relieved, I could tell, to see me go. I tried to understand his position, but I couldn't deny that my feelings were hurt by his brusqueness. He kissed my cheek and saw me out.

But little did I know that it wasn't my presence that had him on edge, but the presence of someone else...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75c75907_75d86430.jpg)
...who was up the stairs...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75c75907_95d8643f.jpg)
...and through the bedroom...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_75c75907_b5d86449.jpg)
...but most of all he was nervous that I would discover his extramarital secrets.

Later that month...

As it turned out, Lady Somerset worked a lot more quickly than even she could have imagined and within two months of moving in had caught and captivated her old childhood friend Lord Grant Thornycroft. The last week of August the neighborhood was invited to their engagement party.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_15d86b91.jpg)
I came in from the backyard where I had been visiting the plaque that was dedicated to Esther. But as I silently shut the door behind me, I found that I had walked into another secretive conversation between Capricia Volante and Grant Thornycroft.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_15d86b4b.jpg)
"Do you imagine that this changes anything?" asked Capricia quietly, her voice like silk against the phonograph music wafting from the living room. "Your engagement doesn't change how I feel or what I want, Grant."

"I'm engaged to be married, Cap--Signora Volante. I can't do this, I have to think of my new family," said Grant, tugging the collar of his uniform. "Please, this has to stop."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_b5d86b5b.jpg)
"I get what I want," said Capricia as she reached out to smooth the sash on Grant's uniform. "You should know that by now."

"I should get back to my fiance," Grant said sternly, and he walked away.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_15d86a60.jpg)
Meanwhile, Paolo was introducing himself to Angela.

"A pleasure to meet you, Miss Giorelli."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_d5d86a70.jpg)
"Actually, it's Mrs. Giorelli. Unfortunately," said Angela with a smirk.

"Sorry?" asked Paolo, confused.

Angela explained, "My husband, Giovanni, is in a coma. It's a shame because I can't divorce him until he wakes up."

"Giovanni Giorelli? Did he happen to serve in the War?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_15d86a60.jpg)
"Why yes," said Angela. "Do you know him?"

"Was he a sniper?" asked Paolo.

"Yes he was."

"I knew him. We served together. He's in a coma? That's too bad."

"Don't feel too bad," said Angela with a chuckle. "He did try to kill me."

"Oh..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_f5d86dd1-1.jpg)
As the party was winding down, we gathered in the living room. As we continued to chat, I was lost in thought, wondering if I should discuss what I overheard between Grant and Capricia. Finally, after conferring with Adela, I said, "Lady Somerset, I'd like to invite you to our ladies' social gathering the day after tomorrow. We'd so love to have you."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%205/snapshot_55c70ebc_d5d86dbe-1.jpg)
"Thank you," said Lady Somerset graciously. "I would very much like that."

Little did I know that that by inviting Lady Somerset to the gathering with the intentions I had, I was just asking for trouble.

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part VI
August 1964

It was the first week of August when we held our next ladies' social gathering.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5d9935c.jpg)
I pulled Lady Somerset aside while the ladies were enjoying cocktails. I wasn't sure how to broach the subject of Capricia's predatory nature, so I finally decided to just say what I needed to say.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_d5cbc708_b5d99374.jpg)
"Listen, I know it's none of my business," I said quietly. "But you should know that Capricia...you know, Mrs. Volante?...well, I've overheard her twice...er...propositioning your groom-to-be."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_d5cbc708_55d99395.jpg)
"Whatever can you mean? I've found Capricia to be just lovely," said Lady Somerset.

"She is. I'm just warning you that--" I broke off as Lady Somerset glanced up. I turned to see Capricia standing on the landing.

"I'm sorry," said Caprcia with a smile. "I didn't mean to intrude, Elizabeth, but I was wondering if you should show me where the powder room is?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d99421.jpg)
I stood and showed her to the powder room. Before Capricia went in, she put a hand on my forearm and said, "By the way, Elizabeth, if I were you I'd worry about my own marriage before butting my nose into other people's business. I'll pass on your respects to your husband--remember that he lives next door to my apartment in Rome."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5d995de.jpg)
As soon as Capricia disappeared into the powder room, I hurried up the stairs to my bedroom to call Dante. I didn't know what I would say, what there was to say. As it turns out, I didn't have to worry about that; Dante didn't pick up the phone.

I sat in the dark for a few, frustrated and suspicious. Guilt at my suspicions compounded the unsettling feeling in my stomach. But I had guests to consider. I straightened my dress and walked back down the stairs.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_d5cbc708_35d99648.jpg)
I put the food out on the buffet, and some of the ladies offered to help. I could tell by the way that Adela looked at me that she could tell I was upset, but when she opened her mouth to ask, I turned back to the ladies and said, "The buffet is now open. Please, help yourselves."

The next day...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_b1e67953_55e2ce55.jpg)
It was my son André's first day on the job for Real Estate Italia, and he was given an unpleasant task that brought him to Judith O'Reilly's house. She invited him in for lemonade and cookies.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_b1e67953_55e2ce7b.jpg)
"I'm afraid I'm here on business, Mrs. O'Reilly. Your bid to buy the lot on Primo Street has been rejected by REI," he said between cookies. "The owners are looking for another type of business."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_b1e67953_d5e2ce9c.jpg)
"What do you mean?" asked Judith. "That building has stood empty for over a year. Surely they'd rather have someone there, using it and paying rent, than letting it rot."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_b1e67953_35e2ce7f.jpg)
"I'm sorry, but the word is final. I have the file here for you." André slid the file across the table to her. "I've got to go, but thanks for the cookies, Mrs. O'Reilly, and the lemonade."

Later that week...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_75cf08ed_55e2d152.jpg)
I needed to talk to someone about Capricia's accusation, but I needed someone who wouldn't go blabbing it around the neighborhood, so I went to Paolo. When I got there, Giorgia was playing on the piano.

"Can we talk?" I asked Paolo. He nodded and asked Giorgia to go upstairs.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_75cf08ed_75e2d184.jpg)
"What's bothering you?" he asked as we sat at the table. "You look exhausted. Are you feeling okay?"

I told him about my predicament, about what Capricia had said, and how I didn't know what to do next.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_75cf08ed_d5e2d19c.jpg)
After I finished my story, he took my hands in his and squeezed them. "Don't worry about a thing, Elizabeth. I'm going to get to the bottom of this for you, all right? Capricia is probably lying. So don't you worry."

I nodded, grateful for the strength Paolo was showing me. It helped me to feel grounded and more confident. "Thank you, Paolo. You're a good friend."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%206/snapshot_75cf08ed_55e2d1cb.jpg)
He hugged me and promised to call when he found anything. Part of me couldn't wait for the call. The rest of me hoped that Paolo wouldn't find anything.

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part VII
August 1964

A week later, Adela came over to share some bad news...
(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_95e2d4b9.jpg)
"We've been evicted," she said, handing showing me the order. "We have thirty days to move out.

"What? Evicted?" I demanded, taking the paper from her. I gave it a glance. "REI has chosen not to offer a renewed lease of your premises."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_75e2d4ae.jpg)
"Who are these REI clowns?" Adela demanded angrily.

I hesitated. "My son works for them as a courier."

"Andre?" she asked.

I nodded. "He's at school right now, but when he gets home I'll ask him. I'm expecting him any time."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_b5e2d4c0.jpg)
"I just can't believe it," Adela said. "After all this time, they want to kick us out?"

"Do you need somewhere to stay?" I asked. "Mother Moretti's visiting her sister in Venice, I'll call and ask if you can use her guest room."

"No, I'm sure we'll be fine," said Adela. She gave me a thankful smile. "But thank you very much."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_75e2d55b.jpg)
The door opened and closed and I turned to see Andre walking into the living room. "Hi, mom, Mrs. de Luca."

"Andre--" I was interrupted by the ring of the telephone.

"I'll get it." He went over to the phone, picked it up. "Hello? Yes, just a second. Mom, it's Mr. Esposito."

"I'm sorry, Adela, I need to--Andre, watch your sister, I'm going out."

I launched out of the chair and was out the door before either could say another word.

Five minutes later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_f5e2d708.jpg)
I knocked on the door and Paolo called from inside that the door was open. I walked in to find him pouring drinks at the bar. "Come in, Elizabeth. Have yourself a drink."

"Is it...Paolo, is it bad?" I asked, my voice trembling.

"Have a drink," he insisted and handed a tumbler to me. He took a sip, watching me. I downed it in one long draw and set it down. "Fair enough. Let's sit down."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_55e2d755.jpg)
"Paolo," I said as I settled onto the sofa. "Please, I need to know."

"Are you sure about this?" Paolo said. "No matter what I say, that's it--it's out there and I can't take it back."

I closed my eyes and shook my head thoughtfully. For a few moments I sat in silence before finally saying, "Yes. Tell me."

"Your husband is sleeping with his chief of staff."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_b5e2d78d.jpg)
The tears came before I could stop them. I wiped my nose with the back of my hand as my life flashed before my eyes. Only it wasn't my past that I saw; it was a future that was cold and lonely, without Dante.

"You're sure?" I finally managed, my voice cracking.

"Yes," said Paolo. "I'm sorry."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_b5e2d7b7.jpg)
Paolo stood to fix me another drink. I sat there, my shoulders heaving, the silence broken only by the strangled sobs that escaped my throat. He brought a tray of drinks; I took one, downed it at once, and found myself coughing even as I reached for another.

"Elizabeth, are you..."

"Don't. Just...don't say anything." I took another drink.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_15e2d797.jpg)
I was never a heavy drinker. To be honest, I seldom drank than more than a glass of wine or two with dinner. But the drink felt good, and the next, and the next.

Paolo hesitated, but relented to my requests for more. When I finally got a grip and realized how drunk I was, I sat slumped against the armrest of the sofa, sobbing for the loss of my marriage and my dignity. Paolo came to sit next to me and hugged me against his chest.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_35e2d808.jpg)
"There there," he said quietly. "I can't imagine how you must feel, but you have to hold it together. All right, Elizabeth?" He raised my chin so he was looking into my face.

"I'll try," I slurred, leaning forward to balance myself.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_35e2d80c.jpg)
"Be strong," he said, pulling me closer. And even without thinking or deciding, our lips met. He pressed forward, kissing me, and for a moment I wanted to return the kiss, and then--

"No," I said. "No. I'm married!"

"I'm sorry," he said. "I'll...I'm sorry."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_d5e2d86b.jpg)
I didn't hear his apology; I had finally passed out. Paolo let me lay across the sofa and went to clean up all the glasses.

I slept fitfully, dreaming of the day I met Dante, pondering what it would have been like if I had known he would break my heart. I slept, knowing that someone was watching over me, but never thinking for a moment...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_15e2d87a.jpg)
...that my guardian might have cruel intentions.

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part VIII
August 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_d5e2da2b.jpg)
I was hungover by the time I woke up the following morning. I looked around for a clock, only to find Paolo sitting in the chair near where I was lying. "What time is it?" I blurted.

"Almost seven."

"In the morning?" He nodded. "I have to get home." I stood and headed for the door, feeling slightly dizzy from nausea and the leftover effects of alcohol.

"Let me help you." He reached for my arm, but I was already moving.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_75cf08ed_35e2da41.jpg)
"The children must be worried sick," I said as I stalked up the sidewalk. Paolo hurried after me. "How could I be so stupid?"

"Elizabeth, come on, don't be so hard on yourself." He took my arm, but I shook him off.

"Don't touch me!" I shouted angrily, wrenching my arm away. "I'll never let another man touch me as long as I live." I quickened my pace, running back towards my home and leaving Paolo behind.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_75e2db93.jpg)
I let myself in to find Andre helping Lara get ready for school in the hall. He sent her into the kitchen for breakfast when he saw me come in and crossed his arms. "Mom, are you okay? Where have you been?"

"I wasn't feeling well last night. I couldn't come back, I'm so sorry," I said, feeling a little pang of guilt at my lie. But what could I do, tell my children that their father is an adulterer and that I was too drunk to come home? "Was everything all right last night?"

"Yes, I made eggs for dinner. Mom, you don't look so good."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5e2db9f.jpg)
"I don't feel so good, Andre." I heaved a sigh. "I'm sorry about last night. I hope you weren't too worried."

"No, we were fine. Oh, dad called last night."

"What?" My throat closed up and I had to cough to free it. "What did he say?"

"He's sending out one of his staff to help coordinate the fundraiser next week."

"When?"

"This afternoon."

"Lovely," I said. "Can you help Lara get ready for school? I need to get the house cleaned up for our guest."

That Afternoon...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_15e2dd3b.jpg)
The car arrived just after one, and I (freshly cleaned up and feeling better) went out to meet it. For a moment, nothing happened, and then...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5e2de80.jpg)
Chiara Castelli climbed out of the car. My husband's chief of staff and mistress gave me a smile and said, "Signora Moretti, thank you again for agreeing to help us out."

I was at a loss for words for a moment until I finally said, "Ah, yes, well. Anything I can do to help."

"Can I get a tour of the premises?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_15e2dddd.jpg)
I led her inside, seething at the irony of it all. Of course Dante would send her; she was his chief of staff and this was an important fundraiser. It made perfect sense.

"I thought I'd set up a bar in here and have this be the main room. We can dine in the sunroom or out on the patio." I mounted the stairs to the landing. "Dante can give his speech from up here."

"Yes, lovely," said Chiara. "And the kitchen?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_55e2de27.jpg)
"What did you plan on serving?" she asked.

"I haven't fully fleshed out the menu yet, but I have a few of Dante's favorite dishes in mind."

"Signora Moretti, need I remind you how important this event is? We must know now what is to be done."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5e2de1f.jpg)
I paused, feeling my blood pound in my veins. I forced myself to be calm and offered a chilly smile. "Miss Castelli, I have no doubt that you do many, many things for my husband, and you do them well. But I have entertained before, and I'll thank you to trust me to do this. Now, I think you'd better head over to your hotel to work on Dante's speech."

Chiara seemed to recognize that she was being asked to leave and she nodded. "Of course, Signora. I apologize if I came on too strong. I'm sure it will be lovely." As I walked her out to the car, I could tell she was nervous and wondering; did I know?

I was happy to let her sweat it out.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_55e2df74.jpg)
That night, Capricia came early to the ladies social gathering. It was awkward to see her, and I had halfway hoped that she wouldn't show up after what had happened the time before. She offered me a beautiful bouquet of flowers and said, "Elizabeth, I'm so sorry for what I said last time. I absolutely meant nothing by it. Can you forgive me?"

I took the flowers, arranged them neatly on the table in the hall, thinking of what to reply. "No forgiveness is necessary, my dear. It turns out you did me a favor."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_75e2e085.jpg)
The ladies arrived and we all sat down to eat. It turned out that each of us had something big going on in their lives.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_75e2e0ab.jpg)
Eleanor said, "Grant is thinking of selling the house. Too many memories." She hesitated. "But I don't want to go. It's been in our family too long to just sell."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_75e2e09a.jpg)
"We've been evicted," said Adela. "I can't believe it's really happening, but we're going to have to find another shop to keep the business going."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5e2e0ae.jpg)
"Good luck with that," said Judith waspishly. "The real estate company that's buying everything up refuses to sell!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5e2e0a3.jpg)
Angela warned us to keep our doors and windows locked. "My house was broken into this morning. I haven't found anything that's been stolen, but I think we should all be more careful."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_b5e2e0be.jpg)
"My husband is about to publish a journal article," said Capricia proudly. "In one of the American science journals."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%207/snapshot_d5cbc708_95e2e0b2.jpg)
"My husband," I said, my voice strong and cold, "is sleeping with his chief of staff, and I don't know what to do about that."

That did it; the table fell quiet for a moment before the condolences came rushing in. I hadn't meant to tell them, hadn't meant to add to my humiliation. It had just come out of its own accord. But when all was said and done, it was nice to have friends to help me cope with my broken heart.

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part XI
September 1964

The next week...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed35a4.jpg)
Lara, Andre and I gathered on the driveway to wait for Dante's arrival. He was coming the day before the fundraiser to make sure everything was ready. I wasn't sure how I felt about him being here, knowing as I did what he had done.

I felt sick to my stomach, but I couldn't let on that I was troubled. So we waited there, the children anxious to see their father and I nervous to face the man who had betrayed me.

Finally, his car pulled up.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed35c1.jpg)
He climbed out of the back seat and smiled at us. I folded my arms and tried to put on a happy face; a stab of pain went through my chest. Was it my heart breaking, or something more pedestrian?

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5ed35f9.jpg)
Lara broke away, running to hug Dante...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5ed3605.jpg)
...followed by Andre.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_95ed3627.jpg)
He approached, looking somewhat bewildered as to why I didn't come running. He put his hand on my shoulder and I leaned forward to peck his lips. "Welcome home," I said, my voice somewhat dull.

"Thank you."

"Come in, I'm making dinner."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/thumbnail_d5cbc708_75ed3734.jpg)
I was wiping down the stove, waiting for the pot roast to finish baking, when Dante came in to see if he could help. "I've got everything under control," I told him.

"All right. Listen, where's Chiara?"

"What do you mean?"

"I thought she'd be here."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5ed3721.jpg)
"Here?" I echoed. "Why here? And besides, we don't have any room."

"We could've made room--" Dante said quietly.

I cut him off. "Where? Did you want me to put her in--" I faltered, unable to bring myself to say 'our'. "--my bedroom? She's at the local bed and breakfast."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/thumbnail_d5cbc708_75ed3734.jpg)
"I told her she could stay here, it's just easier," said Dante.

I didn't look up from my work. "Yes, well, I feel badly about that."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_15ed389a.jpg)
We sat down to dinner. I was happy to let the conversation revolve around Dante and the children. It was nice to see he was taking an interest in them. He got reports on how school was going and seemed satisfied with my answers about Josephine and Marco.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_35ed38e1.jpg)
After the children cleared the table and went off to finish their homework, I sat back in my chair, deep in thought. The idea of divorcing Dante had occurred to be, of course, but as a Catholic I couldn't follow that course of action. And I didn't want to put the children through what would undoubtedly become a scandal and ruin the image of their father.

Dante finished his wine and walked over to the sink, stopping near my chair. "Are you all right?"

"Why?" I asked, more shortly than I had intended.

"Normally you do dishes right after dinner."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_95ed38ee.jpg)
"I'm going to finish my wine first, if that's all right with you," I said, not looking up from my glass. Dante sighed and nodded.

"Okay. I'm heading out, sweetheart. I need to meet with the staff on my speech."

"'Bye," I said, finally looking up. Our eyes met and I offered a smile. "My best to Miss Castelli."

He returned my gaze for a beat, his eyes inscrutable, but then smiled back. "Of course."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_b5ed3979.jpg)
He left the house and walked out to his car. I finished my wine and stood, going to the window to watch him.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_35ed39b5.jpg)
He never looked back.

The next morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed4a3d.jpg)
Dante didn't come to bed that night. I woke up early to help the children get ready for school, first waking up Andre...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_75ed4a5b.jpg)
...then Lara...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_35ed4a93.jpg)
...and finally, Dante. He went up to brush his teeth while I helped get the children off to school.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5ed4c07.jpg)
I was watching them get on the school bus when Dante came back down the stairs. He leaned against the door frame and smiled at me. "Good morning."

"Good morning." I turned to look at him. "Is that the same shirt you were wearing yesterday?"

"Oh, yeah. I didn't want to wake you up, so I just slept on the couch."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_35ed4bf2.jpg)
"Do you want me to make you something for breakfast?" I asked.

"In a minute," Dante responded. "I wanted to ask...is everything all right? You seem upset."

"I don't feel well," I said. "But don't worry. I'll be ready for the fundraiser tonight. The ladies are all coming by to help out."

"You're sure?" He hesitated. "You're not angry with me?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5ed4c27.jpg)
"No," I lied. "I'm just not feeling well. Now, what do you want for breakfast?"

That afternoon...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_75ed5353.jpg)
"Capricia," I said as she finished arranging the bouquet in the hall. "I can't thank you enough for all your help with the flowers."

"It was my pleasure, dear," said Capricia with her typical predatory smile. "This is all too much work to do on your own, I'm happy to help."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5ed548e.jpg)
Paolo came over to set up the tables, which Lady Somerset helped to dress and set...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed5396.jpg)
...while Adela and Silvio decorated a cake for the dessert table and Angela and Eleanor put the finishing touches on the canapes I'd spent all day making.

Finally, they all went home to change for the party.

Later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed5652.jpg)
As dusk settled over the hills of the Italian countryside, the guests started to arrive. When everyone had gathered, I stood to welcome them. "Thank you all for coming out to support my husband. The official toasts will come later, but I wanted to say welcome, enjoy yourselves, and again, thank you."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_15ed5847.jpg)
"Angela," said Paolo as he approached and sat in the adjacent chair. "How nice to see you again. How have you been?"

"Not well," said Angela. "My house was broken into and, today, I found out that my husband is missing."

"Wasn't he in the hospital?" asked Paolo. "How could he be missing?"

"That's what I asked!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed5839.jpg)
Dinner went off without a hitch. It was a little awkward for some of my friends to behave as if nothing was wrong between myself and my husband, but they knew that I wanted this night to be perfect, so they managed to keep a lid on their disapproval, even for his mistress.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_75ed582d.jpg)
After dinner, I excused myself. I was feeling sick again, and I wanted to have some seltzer to see if I would feel better.

While I was rummaging through my medicine cabinet, my husband was rising to give his speech.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed5aac.jpg)
"First I'd like to invite up two very special women, without whom I wouldn't be where I am. One is Chiara Castelli, my chief of staff. The other is my lovely wife, Elizabeth." Chiara stood, but I was nowhere to be found. Adela gave Dante a sign, and he continued on with his speech.

"In my short time in the Senate, I have worked hard for you, my neighbors and my friends, and all the other residents of this district. I have been faithful to your needs and I hope to continue to serve you in the Senate..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/target.jpg)
"...and for that I need your support. The election is coming up and I need your support and your vote..."

As my laid out his plan of attack, little did anyone know that outside, far out of sight, someone else was planning an attack of an entirely different nature.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5ed5ac1.jpg)
The first sound I heard was breaking glass, then gasps of surprise and shrieks of terror. Thinking that someone was ill, I climbed to my feet and hurried into the hall and down the stairs...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed5cbb.jpg)
I stopped dead on the stairs, my heart faltering. "Dante!" I cried, my knees buckling. I managed to make it to the landing before I collapsed onto my knees at his side.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5ed5e34.jpg)
The room was in chaos, but I could think of nothing but Dante as his blood soaked into my skirt. I felt around for his neck, checking for a pulse. "Dante, Dante, please!" The pulse was weak against my fingers and I suddenly couldn't breathe. "Somebody help me!"

Someone rushed past me after somebody else shouted for an ambulance to be called. I couldn't move; I couldn't breathe; I couldn't think. All I could do was will my husband to live. But even as I hoped and prayed, forgetting his betrayal, his pulse weakened under my fingers.

I had always been taught that God answers answered prayers.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%203/Part%20the%20Last/snapshot_d5cbc708_55ed5e5b.jpg)
But what nobody had ever told me was that sometimes the answer is "No."

End of Chapter Three!

Quote from: CuriousSimmer;1371975

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part I
March 1964

DUM DUM DUM

I love the meetings though, so Desperate Housewives:worship:

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part 1
September 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_15efcf2f.jpg)
Donovan O'Reilly walked under a leaky canopy along the train tracks at the train station. It was almost midnight, and a late storm was blustering over the French town that spread around the train tracks.

Donovan passed a community notice board that advertised lost pets, odd-job opportunities, and bicycles for sale.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_f5efcf4b.jpg)
He walked by the large gray statue that made up the war memorial for a battalion of nurses that had come from the nursing school in the college nearby and had perished in the Second World War.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_15efcf60.jpg)
But he stopped short at a bench where a young woman was sitting. He knew that face; he knew that girl. His heart gave a leap when she looked up. "Donovan? Donovan O'Reilly?"

"Josephine," he said with a grin. "I don't believe it. Can I sit?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_75efcfae.jpg)
"What are you doing here?" he asked.

"I'm going home. Um, Mrs. de Luca called, apparently there was some..." Josephine's voice trailed off. "My dad has been hurt."

"Oh, no. Is he okay?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_95efcfb6.jpg)
"It's serious," Josephine said. "But they don't know anything yet. Or she didn't when she called me. She just wanted to tell me, I guess."

"Was anyone else hurt?"

"Your mom is fine," said Josephine, squeezing Donovan's arm gently. "There was another lady, but nobody we know." Josephine looked up as a train whistle sounded in the distance. "That's my train. But it was so nice to see you."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_15efd01b.jpg)
Josephine stood and embraced Donovan. He picked up her bag as the train eased into the station and offered it to the porter. As she stepped onto the train, he smiled and waved. "When are you coming back?" he called. "I'll be here."

"I'll call you!" Josephine shouted above the roar of the engine.

And despite the tragedy of the circumstances, Josephine allowed herself an indulgent smile.

Back in Italy...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_15f54a24.jpg)
The gurney, escorted by the medical team, burst through the doors. "Hold the elevator!" one of the orderlies shouted.

I followed in a daze, trying to keep up with my husband. I was jostled by nurses and technicians and doctors each trying to tend to my husband's injuries.

"Signora Moretti, please! You have to step off the elevator," Dr. Mediate said as the doors started to close. "There's nothing you can do. Please, stand back. I'll find you after we've stabilized him."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_35f54b2f.jpg)
I stood back, a lump rising in my throat. I didn't want Dante to leave my sight. But I had to trust the doctors to do what was best; as the elevator doors closed, the last thing I saw was my husband's battered face.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_55f54b25.jpg)
An hour later, Dr. Mediate came to find me and said, "Signora Moretti? You can see him now."

As we walked the hospital's hall, he said, "Your husband suffered a gunshot wound to the chest. The woman that came in with him was shot through the neck before the bullet entered your husband's chest."

"Will he...is he going to be all right?" I asked, afraid of the answer.

"We don't know. He's stable, but he's lost a lot of blood. We'll need to operate before we can take him off bypass, and then we'll see whether his heart is strong enough to beat on its own."

"What about... Chiara?"

"She's in surgery now. The damage was quite extensive."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_f5f54b3d.jpg)
"We'll keep you informed, Signora. If you want to go home you can leave a number, or...there's a waiting room down the hall."

"I'll stay," I said.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_f5f54bcc.jpg)
I didn't know how long had passed as I sat in the waiting room. I tried flipping through the magazines there, but nothing held my attention. The noise of the hospital continued around me until the door opened.

I looked up to see Adela standing there in her party clothes with a small tote bag. "Adela...what are you doing here?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_95f54bec.jpg)
"I thought you could use some company," she said, giving me a compassionate smile. "And some fresh clothes. I just grabbed some stuff out of your closet, I hope it fits."

"Thank you," I said.

"The nurse said you can use the staff room to shower and change. How's Dante?"

"They don't know yet."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_95f54e13.jpg)
We both changed our clothes and sat down. "What's happening at home?" I asked wearily.

"The police have sealed it off. They questioned us about what we saw, but nobody really knew anything. What was there to tell?"

"I didn't see it," I said quietly. "I was upstairs looking for some seltzer."

Adela touched my hand. "There was nothing to see," Adela said. "One minute they were standing there; the next they were both on the ground."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_d5f54e30.jpg)
We talked for hours, about everything and about nothing. I knew she was trying to distract me, but there was nothing that could distract me from the situation that was unfolding.

At least, there was nothing until I heard clicking footsteps in the hall. A moment later, the door opened.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_b5f54f9d.jpg)
Josephine stepped in and I finally realized how long it had been. Dawn was breaking outside; it had been almost eight hours since we arrived at the hospital.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_55f54fd8.jpg)
"How's daddy?" she demanded, embracing me immediately. "I came as soon as I heard."

"But...how?" I stammered.

"Aunt Adela," she said by way of explanation.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_b5f55025.jpg)
We sat down on the sofa near the window, and Adela stood up. "I'm going to go home for a few hours, darling." She kissed us both on the cheek and headed for the door.

"Capricia and Judith said they'd come by later," she said.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_d5f55061.jpg)
I knew they would come. But for now, I was content to be with my daughter. Josephine was with me and the dawn was coming.

Meanwhile, at the Villa...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_55f00d5a.jpg)
As the sun was coming up, the pair of detectives that were investigating the shooting were hoping that they too could shed a little lite on the crime that had shattered our community.

What would they find? Would it matter? They were questions that I didn't have the answers to. And I certainly didn't know that their attempted murder investigation...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15f5147c_75f54b31.jpg)
...was about to turn into a murder case.

Quote from: CuriousSimmer;1400173

The Inheritance
Chapter 3 - Part VII
August 1964

I knew her and Pablo were going to hook up lol

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part II
September 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_b5efca7f.jpg)
My son was typically an early riser at the monastery, but today he had an especially long and difficult journey to make, so he rose at dawn, packed a few changes of clothes, and set off.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20I/snapshot_15efca7d_35efca85.jpg)
While Marco was driving home, another pair of early risers were setting to work at the villa...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_d5cbc708_f5f661eb.jpg)
In the daylight, the detectives had a much easier time finding evidence. The younger of the detectives, Roberto Dimetti, called to his partner, "The bullet must've come in here. Maybe from one of those trees over there?"

"Go outside and see if you can see the trajectory," said the other detective, Benito Lodario. "I'll stand on the step where Moretti was."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_d5cbc708_b5f6621c.jpg)
"Looks like a match," shouted Dimetti. "But we'll get the forensics team to run a line through, see if it's feasible. Get one of the uniforms to put a line around those trees."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_d5cbc708_d5f66266.jpg)
They regrouped inside. "I don't see why we shouldn't let the cleanup crew in," said Lodario. "We've got all the evidence we're going to get here."

"Everything's been photographed, right?"

"Right. Still, they'll need to stay out of the house until the investigation is over."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_15f66625.jpg)
At about ten o'clock that morning, the door to the waiting room opened and I turned to see Dr. Mediate standing there. "Is it Dante?" I demanded.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_35f66618.jpg)
"Your husband's surgery is ongoing, Signora," said the doctor. "I have no information about that yet. But I wonder if you might come and answer some questions for our records."

"All right."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_35f6666f.jpg)
He led me through the hall, but past Dante's room. Thinking perhaps we were going to his office, I followed him but we ended up in a larger hospital room. We stood near Chiara's bedside and I watched as her chest rose and fell; she was breathing on her own.

"Is she going to be all right?" I asked.

"She's in a coma," the doctor said. "I wanted to ask--do you know anything about her? Her name, her address, family?"

"No," I said. "Other than her name, Chiara Castelli, the only thing I know is that she was sleeping with my husband. I imagine he'd know more," I muttered. "At least I'd hope so."

"Oh, I'm...ah...sorry." At that moment the door opened and we turned to look.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_f5f66758.jpg)
Capricia came in with a bouquet of flowers and set them down on the table before coming to my side. "How's Dante?" she asked.

"There's no change," I said. "This is his doctor, Dr. Mediate."

"Hello," said Dr. Mediate before turning back to me. "That's all I needed to know. Thank you, Signora."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_75f66835.jpg)
Capricia and I walked down the hall towards the waiting room. "We came as soon as we could. The police were questioning us--oh, Elizabeth, it's just awful. I'm so sorry."

I tried for a brave smile that felt more like a grimace. "I think God will provide," I said. "He's been good to us in the past."

"Well, in the mean time, Judith promised to pick up some takeout on the way. I bet she's here already; I can smell lo mein."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_f5f66896.jpg)
We sat down for the meal; I didn't realize until then how ravenous I was. "What's going on at the villa?" I asked.

"They've sealed it up," said Capricia. "Adela took Andre and Lara to her house to look after them until you and D-- until things calm down."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_15f66886.jpg)
"Adela's going to have to move by the end of the month," said Judith, her face clouding. "Her forclosure, remember? But listen--you and the children can stay with me. I've got Donovan's bedroom empty and the living room."

"Oh, thank you," I said, grateful for my friends' hospitality. "But Mama Moretti can take us in, I'm sure. She's coming back from her visit with her sister, I imagine?"

"Of course," said Judith. "Adela called her just after she called Josephine and Marco."

The ladies stayed for a few hours, until their lives pulled them back. Josephine and I remained, talking about her studies and how things were going back at school.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_55f66b20.jpg)
Hour melted into hour until I finally decided that Josephine should go join her brother and sister. "They need someone. Tell them..." I gave a sigh, then shook my head. "I don't know what to tell them."

"They don't need to know yet," Josephine said. "I'll just tell them that dad is sick and you're taking care of him."

I nodded and hugged her. "You're a very smart young lady," I said as I kissed her cheek. "Let me give you some money for a cab."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_35f66b90.jpg)
No sooner had she left that Dr. Mediate stepped in. "Signora?"

I looked up. "Yes?"

"I have some news. Would you come with me, please?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_f5f66c9a.jpg)
We walked to Dante's room. "Your husband came out of surgery just fine. He's still out from the anesthesia, but his heart is beating on its own. We'll know more when he wakes up."

I smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Doctor."

"There was one thing more," said Dr. Mediate, hesitantly. "It's Miss Castelli?"

"I'm afraid there's nothing else I can tell you about her."

"No, it's not that." Dr. Mediate sighed. "She passed away a few minutes ago."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_95f66cf1.jpg)
I sank into the chair at Dante's bedside, feeling overwhelmed. The tears that gathered in my eyes weren't of delight at Chiara's fate. As much as her actions had hurt me, had threatened my family, there was something unjust about her death.

I took Dante's hand and was grateful for the warmth that I felt there. By all accounts, Dante should be fine. What a strange thing fate was; Dante was the politician, and must have been the target. And he had made the decision to stray from our marriage. And yet it was Chiara who had died.

Yes, fate was a strange thing. And nobody knew that better...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20II/snapshot_15f5147c_b5f66fff.jpg)
...than the victims.

Sorry for the delay, y'all. Had some personal business to take care of. But without further ado I give you...

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part III
September-October 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_15f5147c_1604e07d.jpg)
Marco arrived the day they took Dante off the pump. He wasn't able to speak much, and he spent much of his time sleeping, but the children were delighted to see their father alive and recovering. The truth be told, so was I.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_15f5147c_f604e06d.jpg)
"Was anyone else hurt?" he asked after Josephine and Marco gently embraced him. He reached for my hand and, not knowing what else to do, I let him take it.

"Marco, Josephine?" I said. "Can you give us a few minutes?" I waited for them to leave before moving my chair closer. He looked at me nervously and I squeezed his hand, forcing myself to remain calm. "Your assistant. Chiara. She...she died."

I felt his hand tense and he looked away. I released his hand. "I'm sorry," I told him. He shook his head and tried to smile, but he couldn't speak. I stood and went to the window. "The doctors wanted to know about her family, so, when you feel better..."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_15f5147c_7604e1d8.jpg)
A few moments later, the doctor came in. I returned to my seat as he consulted the chart. "Signor Moretti. How are you feeling?"

"Fine," lied Dante.

"That's good. Your test results are encouraging, and if things continue to progress, you can go home in a few weeks."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_d5cbc708_9604eed9.jpg)
I ended up having to rent one of the empty houses on the road to town, as the villa was still sealed for the investigation, and I needed somewhere for Andre and Lara, somewhere to put Dante when he got out of the hospital.

It was a lovely little house--smaller than I would have liked, but it would do. I split my time between the house and the hospital, getting the house ready and visiting with Dante. Marco, Josephine, Andre and Lara spent most of their free time at the hospital, so I didn't feel guilty about not spending more time there.

Two weeks later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_d5cbc708_56051066.jpg)
It was the first week of October and Josephine and Marco were preparing to return to their respective schools, she to Paris and he to the monastery. We had just finished eating dinner when I received a phone call saying that Dante would be coming home the following day.

"Who was on the phone, mom?" Josephine asked as I began to wash the dishes.

"The hospital. Dante is coming home tomorrow," I said tonelessly.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_d5cbc708_d6051070.jpg)
"But that's good news, isn't it?" she asked.

I forced a smile. "Yes, of course. It will be wonderful to have him home again." To be honest, I wasn't all that excited about sharing a bed with Dante. I was relieved that he didn't die; my warm feelings towards him extended only that far.

"Mom," said Josephine. "What's wrong? I know something is up."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_d5cbc708_160510ae.jpg)
I sighed and dried my hands on my apron. "All right, fine. Come over here," I said and moved over to the dining table. Lara's room was nearby and I wanted to be as far away from the wall as possible.

"What is it?" asked Josephine, settling into the chair near me.

I took a deep breath. "Are you sure you want to know?"

"Yes, mother. You're hurt, I can tell. But why?"

"Your fath--Dante," I corrected quickly, "was having an affair with his assistant, the one who died."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_d5cbc708_560510c0.jpg)
"No!" breathed Josephine. "Oh, mom. What are you going to do?"

"Nothing," I said quickly. "Nothing yet. I'm not going to...not with Lara and Andre still in the house. I'm just going to...pretend I don't know anything."

"Is that really the best attitude to have?"

I frowned. "It's the best thing for you kids," I said simply.

Josephine looked at me, and I could see how shaken her faith in Dante was. The man who had raised her like a father, indeed the only father she had ever known, wasn't perfect. It was a moment that came in everyone's life, but it was coming sooner than I would have liked for my daughter.

But what I didn't know was...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20III/snapshot_d5cbc708_f60510ce.jpg)
...that moment was coming sooner for Marco, as well.

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part IV
October 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_55c36390_f60fb9d0.jpg)
Detective Lodario was summoned by a uniformed officer to a forest not far from my home on reports that there was a break in the case.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_55c36390_560fba08.jpg)
He tracked into the forest and found the scene where the officers had roped off a section of a glade. "What have we got, officer?" he asked the uniformed officer that had called him in.

"Single-shot rifle with scope."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_55c36390_760fb9e2.jpg)
When Lodario knelt down to examine the sniper rifle, the officer stood behind him and asked, "Do you think that's the weapon that did Senator Moretti and his lady assistant?"

"No," said Lodario. "I think it's some other sniper rifle that someone just happened to leave half-buried in a forest for no apparent reason."

"Really?" asked the officer.

"Of course not," Lodario snapped. "Get this to the lab for testing."

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_560fbe76.jpg)
Dante arrived home from the hospital. He seemed perfectly capable of walking on his own, but did require frequent rests. He was less than impressed by the house I had secured for us to live in.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_960fbe84.jpg)
"It's small," he said as we approached. "There's enough room for the children?"

"Yes," I said. "It was the best we could afford with what I'm sure will be some hospital bills. It's fine, Dante, really. Come inside."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_160fbff3.jpg)
I heard him sigh audibly as we walked into the house. "I'll make lunch. Your doctor said you should have something light. Would you like a salad?" I asked.

He shrugged. "Whatever you like. I'm not hungry."

I paused, feeling somewhat disoriented. Of course he would be unhappy, what with his mistress dead. But he was home with his family; why was he being this way?

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_760fc0e2.jpg)
As I prepared the salad, I noticed him sitting on the sofa, looking depressed. My heart ached for him even as my rage boiled. I hated to see him in pain, but the very fact that he was mourning his mistress made me see red.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_160fc0d2.jpg)
I set the bar, still watching him from the kitchen, my mind wandering.

Was Chiara more than just a fling? Is that why he was taking this so hard? My hands trembled on the silverware as I set the utensils out. Had he loved her?

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_360fc87a.jpg)
I called everyone in for dinner. "Aren't you going to have something, mom?" asked Lara as she began to eat her lunch.

"No, dear," I said, looking down. The idea that my husband was so effected by the death of his mistress had struck me like a punch in the stomach. "I'm not hungry right now."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_b60fc867.jpg)
"You should eat something," Dante said tonelessly. "Keep your strength up."

"I'll eat later," I said with a forced smile. "Just...um, leave the dishes in the sink. I'll wash up when you're finished. I'm going to go hang up the washing."

That day...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_b1e67953_9610dd5e.jpg)
The detectives investigating the shooting spent the day questioning my friends who had been at the party.

"Mrs. O'Reilly, did you see anyone at the party who was not present at the time of the shooting?"

Judith considered. "I can't think of anyone...I mean, it all happened so quickly. Well, Elizabeth was upstairs getting some seltzer--she wasn't feeling well. But other than that, nobody I can think of."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_b1e67953_b610dd6f.jpg)
"Can you think of any reason why someone would want Dante Moretti dead?"

"I just...well...he's a politician, isn't he? All kinds of crazy people try to kill politicians. Get their name in the paper," she said uncomfortably.

"Were the Morettis facing any kind of personal problem? From a neighbor, or between them?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_b1e67953_3610dd82.jpg)
Judith stared across the table at the detective for a few moments before blowing out a sigh. "Elizabeth told us...a few days before the shooting...that Dante was having an affair. But I'm sure she wasn't involved--she was in the bedroom the whole time."

"Thank you, Mrs. O'Reilly. We'll be in touch."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_55c70ebc_f610c721.jpg)
"And did Signora Moretti mention what action, if any, she intended to take against her husband?" asked Detective Dimetti.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_55c70ebc_3610c736.jpg)
"Not to me," said Eleanor.

"Nor to me," concurred Grant. "But she did seem to be rather obsessed with infidelity. She told my fiance--Lady Somerset, you know--that Signora Volante was trying to, er, seduce me." Grant blushed. "Bullocks, really."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_b5c72586_361056ef.jpg)
"Your husband, Signora Giorelli, he fought in the Resistance, did he not? A sniper?" asked Detective Lodario.

"Yes, he did. But he couldn't possibly be behind this--he's in a coma," Angela said.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_b5c72586_561056e6.jpg)
"But he's missing from the hospital, isn't that right?" asked the detective. "You filed a police report just before the shooting that he went missing and that your home was broken into. You said his rifle was stolen?"

"That's right. Come with me."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_b5c72586_f610579d.jpg)
"This is where it was," Angela said. "I came home one day to find the door broken open and the rifle was gone. I knew I should get the police involved, it's a dangerous weapon."

"Yes, quite. And did you see anyone around the house?"

"No, no." Angela shook her head.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_b5c72586_b6105790.jpg)
"Do you know anyone else who would know how to handle a firearm of that caliber?" aske the detective.

"Many of the men in the area fought in the Resistance," said Angela. "Or in the Italian army."

That night...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_f610dfe8.jpg)
I had changed into my pajamas and let my hair down and was getting ready for bed when I found Dante sitting on the patio outside the master bedroom. Frowning, I opened the door and went outside.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_d610e032.jpg)
"Are you all right?" I asked timidly, sitting in the other chair and folding my hands in my lap. "You've been quiet all day."

"I'm fine," Dante said automatically, not looking at me.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_f610e029.jpg)
"Is there anything you want to talk about?" I asked, feeling my stomach fill with lead at the chance that he might say yes. But he simply shook his head, and my jaw unclenched. "If there ever is..."

"Betty, please. Can't you just leave me alone for awhile?"

I was surprised that he snapped at me, but I quickly recovered and stood up. "Good night," I said stiffly.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IV/snapshot_d5cbc708_1610e053.jpg)
As I settled into bed, I imagined myself twenty years from now, settling into bed beside a husband that seemed to detest me. A husband that was longing for someone else, younger and more beautiful.

It wouldn't be the last night that I would fall asleep crying.

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part V
October-November 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_36120b30.jpg)
The following Sunday, after church, Dante and I made a stop to the cemetery where we paid our respects to Chiara Castelli. He was unable to attend the funeral, being in the hospital, and I was unwilling. But it seemed like the least I could do to accompany him there on the way home from church.

After a moment, Dante said, "Can you give me a moment alone?"

Without a word I turned and walked to a stone bench along the path and waited for him.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_56120bcc.jpg)
Watching him kneel down in the grass, I was struck by a painful thought: would he ever mourn this way for me? I was his wife, the mother of his children, but here he was, mourning over the body of a woman half my age that he had known for less than three years.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_56120bda.jpg)
He knelt there for some time before finally standing and leading me out of the cemetery. Could this be closure? Could it mean that Dante was ready to move on with his life and turn his back on his betrayal? I couldn't be sure.

Later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_f6120c87.jpg)
We found Detective Lodario waiting at the house when we returned, and my stomach clenched. Perhaps they had found out who had killed Chiara and tried to kill Dante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_f6120ca3.jpg)
"Signor Moretti, Signora," he said. "May I come in and ask you a few questions?"

"Of course," said Dante, leading us inside.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_b6120ce5.jpg)
"My questions are for Signora Moretti," said the Detective, eying my husband nervously. I suddenly understood; he was going to ask about Dante's affair. "Perhaps you would be more comfortable...waiting?" he said, looking at Dante.

Dante seemed to realize then what the Detective wanted to discuss and looked at me for a moment before saying, "If my wife doesn't mind, I'd like to stay."

I shrugged.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_d6120d5a.jpg)
"Signora," he began nervously, not quite sure how to proceed. "I'm sorry to be blunt, but you are aware that your husband was having an affair with his Chief of Staff, Signorina Castelli?"

I nodded once, not trusting myself to speak, and Dante's jaw dropped.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_96120cec.jpg)
"You knew?" he demanded incredulously, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. I'm ashamed to admit that seeing him squirm gave me immense pleasure.

"Of course I knew, Durante," I said coldly. "Everyone knew. You didn't exactly keep it quiet, did you?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_96120cf3.jpg)
"Betty, I'm--" said Dante, but I turned away, cutting him off.

"I'm sure you had more questions, Detective. What else would you like to know?"

"You were upstairs in your bedroom when you heard the shot?"

"Yes. I was looking for some seltzer. I wasn't feeling well," I said. I didn't have to add that being forced to interact with my husband's mistress made me nauseous. "I came as soon as I heard."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_16120d02.jpg)
"Did you tell anyone else of your husband's...um...infidelity?"

I nodded. "My friends, the ladies I spend time with. But of course I trust their discretion. You don't think one of them...no, certainly not."

"Do you know a Signor Giorelli?"

"Yes," I said shortly.

"Can you think of any reason why he might like to hurt you or your husband?"

"Our family has had a long-standing feud, but I believe he is indisposed at the moment."

"We can't find him. He's missing. He is our prime suspect, of course, but if it turns out he's still been in a coma all this time, we'll move on to our next suspect."

"And who is that?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_76120d12.jpg)
He studied me for a few moments before looking back down to his notepad to finish what he was writing. "We'd rather not say until we're sure. Thank you, Signor, Signora, for your help. We'll be in touch."

Later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_36120eb7.jpg)
It was two hours before Dante dared to venture into the bedroom. He found me on the patio, staring off into the countryside at nothing, my mind adrift. He cleared his throat and said, "Betty?"

I didn't turn. "Yes?"

"Can we...talk about this?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_96120f44.jpg)
Taking my silence for assent, he moved towards the wall and looked sheepishly at me. "I'm so sorry," he whispered. "I was so foolish. I can't believe...even now...meant nothing..."

"Don't lie to me, Dante," I said, trying to sound cold even as the tears shook my voice. "I saw the way you grieved for her. You grieved for her like you could never grieve for me."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_b6120f4f.jpg)
"Don't say that, Betty," he said, rubbing the back of his neck. "You mean the world to me. I made a mistake, a terrible mistake, but I love you. I never stopped."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_b6120f33.jpg)
I finally turned my head towards him. "Of all the lies you've told me since you started this...this...betrayal of yours--" I gave an involuntary sob. "--that was the worst."

He seemed to want to argue, but bit back. Finally he asked, "What do you want to do?"

"Do?" I echoed incredulously. "Do?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_96120f44.jpg)
"A divorce?" he asked timidly.

"If that's what you want," I said coldly. "I have no desire to dissolve our marriage, if only for the sake of the children. But you certainly have found a way to put their needs, so if that's what you really want, I won't protest."

"No," he said quietly. "I love you, Elizabeth. I want...I want to prove it."

I turned and walked back into the house.

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_16121047.jpg)
Lodario and Dimetti met up in their car, where Dimetti reported his findings. "I found Giorelli. A woman dropped him off at a hospital in the next town. He was never out of his coma."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_16121062.jpg)
"So it couldn't have been him?" said Lodario thoughtfully. "Then our best suspect is...the Signora."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_16121055.jpg)
Dimetti nodded thoughtfully. "The district attorney has already provided a warrant."

Back inside...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_761210ee.jpg)
Dante followed me out into the living room, urging me to stay and talk with him, but I caught sight of something out the door window and stopped dead.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_36121105.jpg)
The detectives were strolling up the walk towards the house. I frowned thoughtfully and glanced sidelong at Dante before opening the door for them.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_761211a7.jpg)
"Signora Moretti," said Lodario. "I'm going to have to ask you to come with us. You're under arrest."

"What?" I demanded, my eyes widening in shock. "No, on what charges?"

"Murder," said Dimetti as he reached for my arms.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_96121178.jpg)
Dante intervened. "No, this is a mistake," he said, but I could tell he was as confused as I was.

"Detectives, please," I whimpered, alarmed at the desperation in my voice. "Please, can we do this outside? My children might see..."

"As you wish."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_76121220.jpg)
They put me in the car, locked in the back seat like a criminal. I looked towards my husband, who was silently watching the ordeal from the sidewalk. I expected to see him looking upset, but he had no discernible emotion on his face.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_d5cbc708_76121247.jpg)
He stood there and watched as the car drove off.

Two hours later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_5610cb13_161216a3.jpg)
The police questioned me for two hours before I went in for processing.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_5610cb13_56121695.jpg)
I was fingerprinted, photographed, and subjected to a full search by a female matron.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_5610cb13_f612168a.jpg)
They took my clothing, my hair ties, my belt, and my shoes, and issued me a prison uniform before taking me up to the cell block.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_5610cb13_f6121a53.jpg)
I couldn't help but to think that the route was deliberate. My cell was right next to the prison's electric chair, and we paused there for a few moments as the detective fumbled with the key.

"Your husband will come by with your attorney tomorrow," said Lodario absentmindedly. Finally, they managed to get the door open. but I couldn't force myself to move.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_5610cb13_b6121a58.jpg)
Was this my fate? To pay for the sins of another in the electric chair? A chill ran up my spine as the detectives pushed me into the cell. The door clanged shut with an air of finality.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20V/snapshot_5610cb13_b6121ae7.jpg)
No matter my fate, I would have much time to contemplate it as I sat in the cold, dark cell that I could now call home.

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part VI
November 1964

The following morning...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_5610cb13_16121c19.jpg)
After spending a long and sleepless night in my cell, I woke for breakfast with the half-dozen other inmates. Afterward, we exercised and then showered, and I was told that I had a visitor.

I walked into the room and saw my husband and a stranger standing there. I walked towards the glass, and Dante looked up at me with cold, distant eyes.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_5610cb13_56121d71.jpg)
"How are you?" he asked stiffly.

"Fine," I lied, my eyes steeling in response to his coolness. "The children...?"

"They're with my mother. I'm trying to...isolate them," said Dante evasively. "They don't know anything."

"Thank God. Who is..." I turned my eyes towards the man behind Dante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_5610cb13_d6121d67.jpg)
"Horatio Vespuci," the man said, introducing himself. "I'm your lawyer."

"Oh," was all I could say. So this was really happening.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_5610cb13_f6121cb2.jpg)
Dante cleared his throat and made to stand up. "I'll let you two strategize," he said.

"Dante, please," I said, my voice trembling. "Please stay."

"Elizabeth, I have work to do," he said stonily. "Hiring a new Chief of Staff not least of all."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_5610cb13_d6121cc0.jpg)
I caught my breath. I couldn't say anything as I watched him stand and offer his chair to Horatio. He turned and watched me for a moment while pulling his coat on.

No matter the outcome of this ordeal, I knew that I was already tried and convicted in the eyes of my husband.

"Now," said Horatio. "Let's talk strategy."

Meanwhile...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_15efca7d_561269bf.jpg)
When Josephine returned to school, she was delighted to find that Donovan was a student there also. He was studying business management, so their coursework never overlapped. Through the ensuing weeks, they caught up on the comings-and-goings of their lives...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_15efca7d_761269e0.jpg)
...and rekindled the romance that they had shared years before.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_15efca7d_d61269fc.jpg)
For Josephine, she was entering the happiest time in her life, thankfully unburdened by my marital problems. And at least for my daughter...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_15efca7d_56126a34.jpg)
...life would only get better in the foreseeable future.

The following week...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_75f0023c_561513ca.jpg)
Every criminal trial has the makings of a fairy tale. And though the people in the roles changed, there were certain archetypes in these stories.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_75f0023c_361513f4.jpg)
There is a prosecutor, charged with building a case against the accused...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_75f0023c_36151415.jpg)
...and a defender who acted as a shield for the accused.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_75f0023c_3615144c.jpg)
There are victims who survive and victims that are no longer with us...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_75f0023c_161513eb.jpg)
...and a judge whose job it is to rule justly.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VI/snapshot_75f0023c_76151473.jpg)
For Judge Vicenzi, who was familiar with the archetypes, it was not clear in this case just who was the villain, and who was the hero. He hoped that, before all was said and done, he knew just who was which.

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part VII
November 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_f6189f65.jpg)
The trial progressed. Judge Vicenzi said, "The prosecution may call its first witness."

The prosecutor rose. "Thank you, your honor. The prosecution calls Signora Adela de Luca."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_b6189f20.jpg)
When Adela had been sworn in, they began their questioning. "Signora de Luca, you are a friend of Signora Moretti, are you not?"

"Yes."

"And you and she share personal things?"

"Yes."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_56189bbc.jpg)
"How would you describe Signora Moretti's marriage?"

Adela looked at me, and then looked past me. By the way her eyebrows furrowed, I could tell she was looking at Dante. "It was happy, as far as I could tell. I've known Elizabeth and Dante for almost twenty years and not until about a year ago did I think that Elizabeth was unhappy."

"And why do you suppose she was?"

"Her husband was spending much time away from home in his job."

"And when did you first find out about Signor Moretti's infidelity?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_36189c1d.jpg)
"I don't remember the day. A few days before the fundraiser. We had our usual meeting and we were talking about the things that were going on in our lives. And she told us she found out that Dante was having an affair with his chief aide, Chiara Castelli."

"Was she angry?"

"I don't know."

"Let me rephrase: did she seem angry?"

"No," said Adela. "She seemed sad, and hurt, but she didn't seem angry."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_16189c03.jpg)
"Thank you, Signora de Luca. No further questions."

"I have no questions, your honor," said my attorney, and before she stepped down, Adela gave me a sad, apologetic smile. I felt the corners of my mouth turn up, as if to tell her that she had nothing to worry about.

"The prosecution calls Signora Capricia Volante."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_b6189c74.jpg)
"Signora Volante," said the prosecutor after she had been put under oath. "You are friends with Signora Moretti as well, are you not?"

"I am. I also have an apartment next door to Signor Moretti's apartment in the city."

"I see. You were there when Signora Moretti revealed her knowledge of her husband's infidelity?"

"Yes," said Capricia. "It was precisely as Adela de Luca described. Except..." she hesitated.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_96189c7e.jpg)
"Except what, Signora?" asked the prosecutor, leaning towards her over the podium. "Please be reminded that you are under oath."

She sighed. "She did seem angry to me. She looked like she might hurt someone."

"Thank you. No further questions."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_56189e7b.jpg)
"Signora, what makes you say that my client looked like she might hurt someone?"

"I can't say," said Capricia. "It was a feeling."

"I see," said my attorney, clearly discounting her. "Did she say anything to that effect?"

"No."

"Did she do anything to suggest that she intended to hurt her husband?"

"No."

"No more questions."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_56189f12.jpg)
The questions went on and on. They called Angela next and badgered her until she confessed that my family had been at odds with hers for years, and that her husband had been attacked under mysterious circumstances.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_96189eb0.jpg)
My attorney seemed unable to walk that back, even with sworn affidavits that I had been home the entire day. The prosecution suggested that I may have paid a hitman, both to attack Giorelli and my husband, but there was no evidence that I had withdrawn any money beyond the usual expenses.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VII/snapshot_75f0023c_76189b40.jpg)
Yes, the trial seemed to go on forever, until we were nearing the end of November. Every intimate detail of my life, from my marriage to Dante to the humiliating affair was aired before the court. But they still had nothing to link me to the crime.

Their biggest support came from the fact that I had no alibi for the night Giovanni Giorelli went missing and Angela's house was ransacked. Try as I might, even I couldn't remember where I had been. But I knew that I hadn't stolen Angela's husband's rifle and used it to kill Chiara Castelli.

I knew it, but would anyone else believe it?

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part VIII
November 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_5618a2c9.jpg)
You can learn a lot from the conversations that people have in a courtroom. As I made my way to the defendant's table, I overheard snippets of a conversation by my friends who had gathered, whether for support or because they would testify.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_f618a2bf.jpg)
Paolo came to sit in the back of the courtroom. I hadn't seen him since the night of the shooting. It had been too confusing to seek his presence after the shooting, and he seemed content to keep his distance. He was talking to Judith.

"I'm sure she'll be acquitted," I heard Paolo tell Judith, who was wringing her hands. "I'm sure of it."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_f618a319.jpg)
I opened the gate and stepped up to the table; the prosecutor was standing near the table talking to my attorney. They didn't look up as I approached. I heard the prosecutor say, "There's still time to make a deal. Ten years for third degree murder."

"We'll take our chances," said my lawyer. I had already told him that I did not want a plea agreement: I was innocent.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_3618a309.jpg)
I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned to see Dante standing there, looking downcast. He tried to offer me a smile, but it came off more as a grimace.

"Feeling all right?" he asked me awkwardly.

I nodded, swallowing hard. "I think so."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_9618a2f9.jpg)
"I'm right behind you," he said and patted my forearm.

"Thank you," I said. Judge Vicenzi came across to his desk and gaveled the court into session.

"Order! Order in my courtroom. The prosecution may begin."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_1618a398.jpg)
The prosecution called Judith to the stand and proceeded to harass her about my role in the departure of her husband. "She helped me," said Judith hotly. "She didn't hurt anyone, she didn't hurt my husband. He just left."

And then finally...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_1618a461.jpg)
...it was my turn.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_5618a3df.jpg)
"Signora Moretti, when did you first find out about your husband's affair with Singorina Castelli?" asked the prosecutor.

"Capricia Volante hinted about it in...I believe it was the first weekend in August. I heard conclusively later that month."

"You found out about it the same day that Giovanni Giorelli went missing? The day that Signora Giorelli's house was robbed?" demanded the prosecutor.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_5618a459.jpg)
"That's what I understand, yes."

"And where were you that evening?"

I hesitated. "I don't know. I...I spent the evening with a friend and I...well, I'm afraid I had too much to drink and I blacked out." I blushed profusely at this, flames rising in my cheeks.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_7618a4d7.jpg)
This continued until the prosecutor ended his questioning. My attorney began his cross-examination. "Signora, you fell asleep and woke up at the same place that night, didn't you?"

"Yes."

"And you have no reason to believe that you left that location under the influence of alcohol?"

"No."

"The prosecution has no evidence to suggest that you did, either. And the night of the shooting, you were upstairs."

"Yes."

"Signora, at any point have you conspired with, paid, asked, requested, or been otherwise party to knowledge about a plot to assassinate, or attempt to assassinate, your husband and his assistant?"

I raised my chin defiantly and said firmly, "No."

"No further questions."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_1618a439.jpg)
The prosecutor stood to re-direct. "Signora, if you were at a friend's house, why have you not named them? Why have they not come forward? Are we expected to take your word on this matter? You could have been organizing your husband's assassination and stealing the rifle to use in the shooting."

"I ... I can't," I said, flushing profusely. What would they say if they knew the truth? What would my husband and friends think if I'd spent the night, drunk, in the house of a single man? "It's...I wasn't doing any of that. I was..." I was interrupted when someone else shouted in the courtroom.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_1618a603.jpg)
"She was with me," Paolo said loudly. "I was the one who told her that Signor Moretti was having an affair. She had too much to drink so she slept on my couch."

The courtroom went into a roar, and the judge banged the gavel, shouting angrily, "Order! Order! I will have order!" He pointed his gavel at Paolo. "You sir, come forward."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_3618a691.jpg)
Paolo came forward; I covered my mouth in embarrassment. The judge said, "State your name and business."

"Paolo Esposito, your honor."

"And would you take an oath on the truthfulness of your...outburst?"

"I would, your honor."

He waved the bailiff forward and Paolo was sworn in. "It was all true, your honor. The Signora was there the whole night."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_9618a659.jpg)
"Your honor," said my attorney, drawing the prosecutor's attention. "Sir, with all due respect, I ask you for a mistrial. The prosecution's entire case was that my client could have broken into the Giorelli house and could have kidnapped Giovanni Giorelli, framing him for the assassination. Since she has a sworn alibi, the prosecution has no case."

The judge frowned. "I want both of you in chambers. We will recess for ten minutes."

Ten minutes later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_b618a723.jpg)
"The defendant will please rise," said the judge.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20VIII/snapshot_75f0023c_3618a732.jpg)
"Ladies and gentlemen; Signora Moretti," began the judge. "I am hereby declaring a mistrial. To be honest, I had misgivings about issuing a warrant for your arrest, Signora, on the slim evidence that the prosecution had, but it was sufficient."

He turned to the prosecutor. "Signor Bemelli, bear in mind that should the state wish to re-issue charges against the Signora, you will need a far stronger case. Frankly, you haven't got it."

"Signora," he said, turning back to me. He offered a sad smile. "You are free to go with the court's apologies."

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part IX
November-December 1964

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_9618a80a.jpg)
I gathered with Judith, Angela, and Adela in the hallway outside the courtroom. We all embraced to celebrate my victory. "Well," said Adela, dabbing her eyes with her sleeve, "Now that you're free, you can get back to hosting our gatherings."

"We've been fasting," Judith explained. "No gatherings without you!"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_3618a813.jpg)
"It'll be so good to be home. They're unsealing the villa so we can move back in," I said with a relieved sigh. I could hardly believe that the trial had ended so abruptly. "I..."

My voice trailed off as I looked across the hall.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_3618a81d.jpg)
"Could you ladies excuse me?" I asked. "I'll be in touch...we can plan a get together after the holidays."

"Sure," said Adela, and I moved over to Paolo.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_5618a82d.jpg)
"Thank you," I said, embracing him. "You saved my life."

"It was the truth," said Paolo, smiling. "It was the very least I could do to prevent a serious miscarriage of justice."

"Elizabeth?" a voice said from behind me. I turned to see Dante waiting.

"I have to go," I said. "Thank you, Paolo. Goodbye."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_5618a885.jpg)
It was dark when we stepped out of the courthouse and began the drive home. I was elated and couldn't help but to gush, "Oh, what a relief. I'm so glad to be able to be back with the children. They must've been so worried."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_b618a89c.jpg)
"They were," said Dante dully.

"What's wrong?" I asked. "Is anything the matter?"

"Nothing, except the whole town knows our personal business," said Dante. "And Chi--Signorina Castelli's killer walks free." He glanced covertly at me.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_f618a8a7.jpg)
"You can't possibly think--" I began, then fell silent. "I was cleared, Dante!"

"You weren't found not guilty. The charges were dropped."

I gaped at him. Could he honestly believe that I would hurt him? That I would hire someone to shoot at a house that had my friends in it? My children?

"You do, don't you? You think I was behind all this."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_f618a8c3.jpg)
His silence spoke volumes. We continued on in silence for several long minutes.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_75f0023c_5618a8cc.jpg)
"Dante," I said coldly, without looking over at him. Struggling to keep my voice in control, I said simply, "I want a divorce."

Two weeks later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_d5cbc708_161c1ebd.jpg)
Christmas was in the air, and Dante and I had decided that we would try to make this a pleasant Christmas for the children before we officially filed for divorce.

Josephine and Marco came home a week before Christmas, and that Saturday, Josephine and I went out shopping for gifts.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_d5cbc708_761c1dc8.jpg)
When she came out of the store she had left me outside of, we began walking up the street to another shop. "So how are you holding up, mom? Are you and dad working things out?"

I shrugged nonchalantly. "Do you think Marco could use a new desk set? He's always saying how much he writes."

"I got him a diary," said Josephine. "But really mom, I mean it. How are you?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_d5cbc708_761c1e9f.jpg)
We stopped to look into a shop window and I hesitated. "Do you feel like some coffee?" I asked. "I know a nice little place nearby, and it's so chilly."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_d5cbc708_561c1e5d.jpg)
We settled in for coffee. "Oh!" said Josephine before I could bring myself to tell her. "Mom, do you think we could have Mrs. O'Reilly and Donovan over for Christmas dinner? He's going to be in town."

I smiled at her. "Of course, dear. The more the merrier." I reached out and stroked her hair lightly. "Just promise not to wear that ridiculous hat."

"Deal," she said. "So tell me about you and dad."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_d5cbc708_561c1e5d.jpg)
I hesitated. "I wasn't going to say anything because it's Christmas, and I wanted it to be pleasant for you kids," I said. "But I know you're relentless and won't give up until I come clean."

"And?" asked Josephine.

"I asked him for a divorce."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20IX/snapshot_d5cbc708_961c1e66.jpg)
The look on my daughter's face, of resigned sadness and mingled shock, sent guilt rolling in my gut. I took her hands between mine and offered a smile, tinged with my own sadness.

"Marriage takes a lot of sacrifice," I told her, tears welling in my eyes. "But I don't think I can live with a man who believes I tried to kill him."

"Don't worry, mother," said Josephine, squeezing my hands. "I completely understand."

But I don't think she did. I hoped that she did not and never would understand what it felt like to be betrayed by the man you loved on a level even deeper than infidelity.

She deserved better.

The Inheritance
Chapter 4 - Part X
December 1964

Christmas Day

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_f61e028c.jpg)
Some things that pile up in nearly twenty years of marriage are easy to quantify.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_361e1150.jpg)
There are the things that a couple accumulates, like furniture, household goods, and trinkets such as the serving platter we received for our tenth anniversary.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_d61e1146.jpg)
But what about the photographs and the memories that were attached to them? How did one determine who got what?

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_161e113a.jpg)
And what of the time spent on a marriage, the nearly two decades of time that one invested in a relationship? I could never get it back.

The doorbell rang, stirring me from my reverie. I went into the hall to see my daughter opening the door.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_161e11fa.jpg)
Josephine and Donovan kissed hello while Judith and I exchanged slightly abashed looks. Josephine said, "Merry Christmas, Donovan. Merry Christmas, Mrs. O'Reilly."

"Thank you. And thank you for having us," said Judith.

"Donovan, Dante is in the kitchen if you'd like a cocktail," I said.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_961e128c.jpg)
Fifteen minutes later we all sat down to dinner. "How's school coming, Josephine?" asked Judith as she cut her turkey. "I hope my son isn't distracting you too much from your studies," she said wryly.

"Not at all," said Josephine with a grin. "I should graduate next year."

"Any plans after that?" she asked.

"We'll see."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_761e131f.jpg)
"So, dad," said Marco, leaning in to peer down the table at his father. "Have you decided whether you'll run for re-election? They're coming up, aren't they?"

"I've got time," Dante said simply, then looked back down to his plate.

Andre leaned forward too. "Are you all right, dad? You don't sound so good?"

"I'm fine," replied Dante without looking up.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_f61e133c.jpg)
After dinner, but before dessert, Donovan cleared his throat and said, "Signor Moretti, Signora Moretti, if you don't mind. I'd like to give Josephine one last Christmas gift."

I looked across the table and saw Dante finally take interest. A secret smile passed between him and Donovan and then Donovan placed a small felt case on the table between himself and Josephine.

"What's this?" she asked, her voice shaking.

"Open it."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_961e133f.jpg)
There was a ring with a small diamond inset. Josephine pulled it from the box, finally managing to tear her eyes from it up to Donovan.

"Will you marry me?" he asked.

Josphine laughed and slipped the ring onto her finger. "Of course I will, yes."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_f61e1377.jpg)
There was much cheering. It was the perfect ending to a beautiful family meal. Too bad, then, that it came when another marriage was dissolving. But at least for now, we were together; a family united by blood and love.

And though a part of me was sad, shocked to find that my daughter was no longer the little girl she should have been, I knew that I wasn't losing a daughter, but gaining a son.

One week later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_761e1494.jpg)
The school holiday was over, and Dante volunteered to drive Josephine to the train depot while I got Andre and Lara ready to resume school the next morning.

"I'm sorry about the divorce," said Josephine to Dante as they drove through the darkness. "I don't know what to say."

"Sometimes there's just nothing to say," Dante replied, smiling at Josephine sadly. What a fine girl she had been, and grown into a fine young woman. He couldn't have been prouder if she was his own flesh and blood.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_b61e14a0.jpg)
"Do you really think mom...tried to kill you?" Josephine asked incredulously. "I realize you're hurt, but I can't imagine she would do anything to hurt anyone, regardless of how..." her voice trailed off.

"How I hurt her," Dante said, his voice catching a little. Josephine nodded and Dante continued. "No, I don't think she did anything of the sort. But...it's complicated."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_b61e14ba.jpg)
"Daddy, I'm not a little girl anymore. I'm going to get married myself, soon," she said, twisting her engagement ring. "Don't think I won't understand. Try me."

Dante sighed. "I know you're not. It's just so hard for me to accept that you're not a little girl anymore. It seems like yesterday you were small enough to fit in the crook of my arm."

"Dad," she said. "Do you love mom?"

"Yes."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_761e14cf.jpg)
"Then how can you let her think you suspect her?" Josephine demanded.

Dante was silent for awhile, thoughtfully looking out the windshield. Finally, he confessed, "It's easier for me to pretend to be angry with her than to admit to myself that I hurt her. It's easier for me to be silent than to do what I know I should: beg for her forgiveness and throw myself at her mercy."

Josephine reached out and touched her father's hand on the steering wheel. "You have to tell her."

"I'm afraid," Dante whispered, his voice cracking. "She could refuse to forgive me."

"That's the price you pay for what you've done," said Josephine sadly.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_361e14c5.jpg)
Dante nodded his head, and they were silent for a few more minutes until he parked at the train station. "Let me help with your bag," he said.

"I'm fine. Donovan's waiting for me," said Josephine. She kissed Dante's cheek and said, "Tell her, daddy. She loves you."

Dante watched Josephine walk into the station with her bag and then stared at the train as it pulled out of the station. He was still watching a long time later when it disappeared from his view, deep in thought.

An hour later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_f61e1566.jpg)
We had agreed to tell Andre and Lara about our plans to divorce that night when he returned. I was nervously waiting on the couch, watching the news with them when Dante finally returned. As he came over, I switched off the set and sat back down. "Andre, Lara, there is something that your father and I need to tell you."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_f61e1580.jpg)
"What's going on?" Andre demanded suspiciously.

I hesitated, twiddling my thumbs. "Your father and I have decided that it would be better for both of us if we get a divorce," I finally said. "He's going to move out of the house."

"What?" Andre said incredulously.

"How come?" Lara demanded.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_d61e15b1.jpg)
"Sometimes, two people just...can't live together anymore," I said, my heart breaking at the look of sadness in my daughter's eyes. "But we'll both still be here for you, and we both love you very much. You and your brothers and sisters," I added, looking warmly at Andre.

"Liar!" said Lara.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_161e15a3.jpg)
"This is your fault," she said, pointing at me. "You left for all that time and then when you came back it was different. You did it!"

I felt the couch shift and looked to see Dante sitting next to me. For a moment I longed for him to put an arm around me and pull me close...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_d61e15bb.jpg)
...but he didn't. He simply said, "Lara, don't speak to your mother that way. If I ever hear that you did, you're going to be in serious trouble."

He paused, then blew out a sigh. "This is hard, for both of us and it will be hard for you. But it's my fault, Lara. My fault, Andre. I did something wrong, not your mother. She's only been kind and gracious and loving for you. So you will respect her, do you understand?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%204/Part%20X/snapshot_d5cbc708_f61e15c9.jpg)
"Yes sir," chorused Lara and Andre, but the former still looked angry.

I glanced at Dante as if to say thank you, and he smiled. It was the first genuine smile he had given me in months. And then tears welled in his eyes and the wall of coldness fell over him again, leaving me on the outside.

"Bedtime, my darlings," I said, clearing my throat. "We can talk about this more tomorrow if you have questions. But everything is going to be fine, I promise."

But was that a promise I could keep?

End of Chapter 4

The Inheritance
Chapter 5 - Part I
January 1965

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_1624bb0d.jpg)
It was storming outside, a heavy and cold winter rain that wouldn't seem to let up. I finished my cleaning the house and the fish for dinner was broiling under Lara's careful eye downstairs, so I decided to take a bath to unwind from what had been a stressful few months.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_3624bb29.jpg)
But even with nothing but the sound of rain slapping the window, a sound I usually found relaxing, I felt tight and stressed. There was something bothering me, something I hadn't had time to think about until recently.

The water grew tepid, so I stepped out and dried off, still pondering the matter.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_3624ba0d.jpg)
Was it boredom that caused Dante to stray? Or was he dissatisfied with me? I put my hair into a towel and studied my reflection in the floor-length mirror. I had never had any reason to be ashamed of my appearance before, but now my eyes were sharp and critical.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_5624ba16.jpg)
I wasn't overweight, but I certainly wasn't as slim and shapely as I had once been. I was forty six and I had had four children. Chiara Castelli was just over half my age at 28.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_1624ba21.jpg)
My hair had begun to sprout gray, a fact I covered with regular trips to Judith's hair salon. And my face had the wrinkles that one accumulated over a lifetime--nothing major, or so I thought until I looked in the mirror. My creased forehead, the laugh lines around my mouth, the crow's feet at my eyes--were these why Dante had strayed?

Had he sought youth and beauty? Would he continue to do so?

I didn't have time to dwell now, I realized as I looked at the clock. My dinner guests would be here soon enough.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_3624be82.jpg)
When I walked out of the bedroom, I found Dante facing his own storm. He turned in his chair when he heard me come out and I went over to where he was sitting. "Nice bath?" he asked, trying to sound genial.

"Yes," I said dully. "How's the search for new lodging coming?"

"Not well," said Dante with a sigh. "We have problems."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_b624beb7.jpg)
He showed me the bills that were piling up; hospital bills from his stay after the shooting, legal fees for my attorney, and rent payments for the house we had stayed in while our house was sealed off.

"I don't have the funds for a new apartment or house," said Dante. "I thought I'd stay with mother."

"Don't be ridiculous," I told him. He looked at me hopefully. "Stay here, with your children, until you can find a convenient place to stay."

"Thank you, B--er, Elizabeth," he said, catching himself before he called me his endearing pet name. "That's very kind."

I shifted uncomfortably. "I need to go and check on the fish."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_7624c0bb.jpg)
It was Friday, so I had invited Paolo and Giorgia over for dinner. The truth was, I didn't want another awkward dinner with just me, Dante, and the children. Lara was taking the divorce hard and proved to be upset with both of us.

Speaking of Lara...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_7624c06b.jpg)
She would be sixteen next month; I could scarcely believe it. My little girl, it felt like I had held her in my arms as an infant just weeks ago. Where had the time gone? As she got older, her hair trended darker so that she looked just like her father, from her hair to her eyes.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_9624c0cc.jpg)
Paolo seemed to be happy--happier than I had ever seen him. Of course, we met shortly after his wife's death, so perhaps he was coming out of his shell of mourning. Whatever the case, he was witty and engaging and charming, even to Dante.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_b624c099.jpg)
It was nice to have a dinner that wasn't punctuated by painful silences, reproachful stares, and bitter anger. I was glad that our tradition of Friday night dinners gave me the opportunity to have Paolo and Giorgia over.

And were my eyes playing tricks on me...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_b624c07f.jpg)
...or was another member of my family glad that they came, too?

After dinner...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_9624c2ec.jpg)
I waved Giorgia and Paolo off as they began their walk home. "Don't forget next week," I called after them with a smile and a wave.

It was a nice way to end a nice evening.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_1624c306.jpg)
But never could I guess that soon my smile would falter as I came to suspect the unspeakable truth about one of my dinner guests.

That evening...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_36238cd5.jpg)
I was bundled into my pajamas and sitting on my bed when Dante came in. "Do you mind if I sleep up here? I haven't had the chance to fix that drafty window, so the living room is frigid."

"Suit yourself," I said. "You can take one of the sofas."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_16238b93.jpg)
"A sofa?" he asked, clearly disappointed. I couldn't believe it!

"What?" I asked incredulously.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_56238bc1.jpg)
"You think you're going to climb into this bed after what you've done? After what you've as much as accused me of doing?" I gave a humorless laugh. "Take the couch or sleep in the rain for all I care."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/Part%20I/snapshot_d5cbc708_36239002.jpg)
He settled onto one of the benches by the door, and as I watched him I couldn't help but feel a savage pleasure at his seeming degradation.

But immediately there was a pang of guilt; in my heart of hearts I loved Dante, but we were at an impasse. He betrayed me, and thought I killed his lover and tried to kill him.

I could forgive a lot of things, but thinking that I could commit cold-blooded murder was not one of those things.

The Inheritance
Chapter 5 - Part II
February 1965

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_b627537c.jpg)
The lawyers came for a meeting at the villa the second week of February to discuss the division of assets. "Of course, Mrs. Moretti should be entitled to remain in the house, given that it is owned by her aunt. Mr. Moretti will need to seek alternative housing," my lawyer said.

"Agreed," said Dante's lawyer. "As for property...my client is willing to stipulate that the Signora can keep any and all jewelry, clothing, furs, and other gifts given to her by him."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_b62753a0.jpg)
"That's well and good, by my client would like to return any jewelry that was an heirloom of Durante's family," said my attorney. "As a show of good will."

I tried for a smile; Dante looked miserable. "I want you to keep your wedding ring," he told me.

"It was your mother's, Dante. I can't. You'll want it to g--" I caught myself before I said that he would want to give the ring to his next wife. "You'll want it for safekeeping."

"No," said Dante. "It's yours."

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_96275395.jpg)
"As for the debt you owe?" asked Dante's attorney. "Shall we say that Elizabeth shall be responsible for her legal fees, and Dante will be responsible for his hospital bills upon the dissolution of their marriage? Until then, payments can be made out of their joint checking account."

"Sounds fair," said the other attorney. "And as Signor Moretti has already stipulated to a large and generous package of alimony and child-support, I don't think we'll need to go into that, unless of course you want to reconsider, Signora?"

"No," I said dully.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_b627543e.jpg)
"Well that about sums it up," said my attorney. "We can talk about custody and visitation next time," he said as Lara walked into the room.

"There's the birthday girl," I said cheerily as the lawyers began to collect their papers. "I'm sorry, darling, this meeting ran longer than I expected. I've still got a cake to ice for you."

"It's okay, mom," said Lara. "You don't have to."

Twenty minutes later...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_362754a3.jpg)
I pulled the cake out of the oven where I had left it for safekeeping, iced it, and brought it to the table. We all sang 'Happy Birthday' to Lara, who seemed anything but pleased. I served the cake and we all sat down.

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_56275511.jpg)
Was it a coincidence, the way they all sat down, grouped to one end? Looking down the length of the table at a daughter who wasn't smiling, even on her birthday, a son that seemed distant, and a husband who would soon be leaving...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_16275536.jpg)
...I couldn't help but feel far away from all of them, and the thought of being apart from my children sent a dull ache to my stomach.

Later that evening...

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_f627707a.jpg)
I was getting ready for bed when Dante came in. I stopped in my tracks as I crossed the bedroom. "What is it, Dante?" I asked quietly, studying him for a moment.

"You look..." Dante said, his voice quiet. "Beautiful."

"Nothing you haven't seen before," I said dismissively. "What's on your mind?"

(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee291/Curious101_bucket/Chapter%205/snapshot_d5cbc708_7627709b.jpg)
"I'm concerned about Lara. Andre seems fine, but Lara seems to be taking this hard," said Dante. "Do you think we should sit down with her?"

"It can't hurt," I said. "If she wants to, that is. I think treating her like a child, making her sit down and talk to us, would be a mistake."

"You're probably right," said Dante. "Well, I'll go ahead and take a shower. Good night, Elizabeth."

"Good night, Dante."

Insimenator.org

Simmers' Paradise => Sims Stories => Topic started by: CuriousSimmer on June 23, 2008, 01:25:25 am