Chapter 50

Alissa’s nose was firmly in a book after going to see Richard, it had been a wasted journey. He didn’t beat about the bush, he said no. Even when she told him she’d found out about the human mothers. She sighed but then a noise made Alissa look up from her book, the front door had quietly opened and closed, like someone did not want to be heard. Alissa laid her book on the sofa and went to the door. Luca was carrying a bag and rolls of something white under his arm.

“Where have you been?” Alissa asked, Luca jumped and tried to hide what was in his arms. He swiftly put the bag and what had been under his arm behind his back. “Oh, Alissa… Hello, I've just been to town, wanted to get out of the house.” He edged towards the stairs as he spoke.

“What did you pick up?” Alissa approached him, he looked nervous and she was curious to see what he was hiding.

“Not much, just-” he paused and looked around, “Something to cheer me up.” He looked embarrassed to admit.

Alissa took another step clos