Chapter 41

The Ricci’s insisted I spend another week just to cool off from the work, but I really needed to leave Italy. I was tired of the memories there and explained that I should probably check myself into a bit of counseling for what had happened regarding Rio. That seemed to quell them immediately, and I was so taken aback by their understanding and kindness. It must’ve given them the wrong impression when I announced I was heading back right after my talk with Guasparre, and they’d convinced me to have dinner at the Moretti’s place before accompanying me to the airport.

“You have a place here with us, Lilith,” Mrs. Ricci said, holding my hands in her warm grasp as the speakers announced the boarding for my flight, “Once Guasparre is ready again, please come back.”

“I certainly will,” I gripped her hands in reassurance. She moved away to let Bellona engulf me in a hug. She still looked apologetic. I patted her arm, “Thank you for taking care of me. I’m so glad I got to be here. I’ll be bac