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“Not at all.”
“That’s a shame,” she murmurs.
Mrs. Accardi comes into the sitting room and sits down near Mrs. Falco. With both women facing me, I start to feel nervous again.
“What are we talking about?” she asks Mrs. Falco.
“We’re getting to know Gabriella,” Mrs. Falco answers. Turning her attention back to me, she asks, “Did you find everything to your liking in your suite?”
“Yes. Thank you. The room is beautiful.”
“If you need anything, just let Martha know.”
“Thank you,” I murmur.
Mrs. Accardi gives me a curious look, then leans forward and whispers, “Do you know why Damiano brought you to the mansion? I asked Carlo, but he wouldn’t tell me.”
I shake my head. “Unfortunately, I don’t.”
Mrs. Falco’s expression also becomes curious. “What happened at the meeting?”
“Not much,” I answer. “Mr. Falco wasn’t at my parents' house for more than an hour when he ordered his guards to pack my belongings. It all happened really fast. He didn’t offer any explanation for why he didn’t give his blessing.”
“You said you’re twenty-three?” Mrs. Falco asks.
“Yes, ma’am.”
She scrunches her nose as if she’s disgusted. “Stefano’s almost fifty. That’s twice your age!”
I swallow hard before agreeing, “Yes.”
“Damiano did the right thing,” his mother mutters as she leans back in her armchair. “What does Stefano want with such a young bride?”
“You know what,” Mrs. Accardi grumbles.
Mrs. Falco shakes her head. “Stefano should marry someone his own age.” She glances in my direction again. “Whatever Damiano has planned for you, it will be much better than marrying my nephew.”
The words actually make me feel relieved and a little overwhelmed. I stare at the women as a weird sensation trickles into my chest.
“I really hope so,” I whisper.
“Tell us, what do you like to do in your spare time?” Mrs. Accardi asks.
“I make skincare and makeup tutorials for social media.”
“Oh, did you study to become a beautician?” Mrs. Falco asks.
I relax completely and actually start to enjoy the conversation.
“No. I learned everything from watching videos on YouTube.”
Before they can ask me another question, Martha comes into the sitting room. “Can I unpack your belongings, Miss di Bella?”
“Oh, let me help,” I say as I rise from the armchair. Looking at Mrs. Falco and Mrs. Accardi, I ask, “May I be excused?”
“Of course,” Mrs. Falco replies. “Once you’re settled, come join us again.”
“Okay.”
