16. THE POCKET WATCH

The walk back home for Niccolo was not that of a pleasant one. Thoughts of his conversation with the man in the flower field kept replaying in his head, bringing in a new wave of emotions every now and then.

So entranced in his thoughts, it took Niccolo a while to realize that he was already home, light escaping from the windows as he heard the low chatter of his friends inside. Night had already taken over and Niccolo was exhausted, but the thoughts of his encounter remained a constant companion to him.

With a heavy sigh, Niccolo walked forward and pulled the door open, the chatter inside the house coming to an abrupt halt as the young men inside noticed Niccolo’s presence.

“And now, he finally decides to grace us with his holy presence! Welcome, Sir Niccolo!” Vittorio announced sarcastically, standing up from his sitting position and bowing mockingly, grinning like a fool only to earn a smack on the back by Jecopo.

Yovanni grunted in response, shaking his head disapprovingly