Nineteen

 

I followed Luca through the central hall with its large marble staircase. A glance down the extra-wide hall, and I was reminded of the sheer size of the estate.

I’d forgotten that, though my grandfather was second, he’d raised his family here alongside my great-uncle. Both were great men who’d lost their wives and daughters early, and I could see the toll in his eyes.

“You know, you could have at least told me who you worked for,” I said to Luca as we ascended the steps.

“Would you have believed me?” he asked as we reached the top and continued down the hall.

“Maybe.”

We stopped at the third door down. There was no special marking—it looked just like the other doors, but when he opened it, a wave of nostalgia hit me.

“Relax here. There will be a maid up soon to help you.” He closed the door behind him, and I was alone in silence.

The room was familiar. One I’d been in long ago, one that hadn’t changed. There was a large four-poster bed against one wall, and a floral duve