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“She’s American. Black American. She doesn’t belong here, Gio.”

“But she is here.” Giovanni said flatly. “And I say she belongs.”

“Does she know who you are?”

“She knows enough.”

“And?”

Giovanni didn’t answer.

Flavio nodded. “We will talk more on this later.”

“No, we won’t.” Giovanni stood. “I won’t discuss her with you or anyone, and you won’t interfere with our… friendship. It’s non-negotiable. Are we clear?”

Flavio nodded. “Of course.”

Catalina sat on the stool next to Mira, watching as she ran the fabric through her sewing machine, reattaching the seams. She taught Catalina different ways to work with silks and satins. The young woman was a quick study. In return, Mira got some of the Italian lessons she’d been wanting.

“Who taught you how to sew?” Catalina asked.

“My grandmother.” Mira answered.

“Really, I never knew my grandmother.” Catalina returned the smile.

“What about your mother?”

“Oh, Mama sewed too. She made me dresses, but I never took the time to learn. I wish I had.” She said in a sad voice.

Mira looked over at her, “You miss her?”

“She was supposed to be here for this… I’m getting married and neither of my parents will be here to see it.”

“They’re here, just not in the way you would want.”

Catalina smiled. “You think so?”

“I do.”

Fabiana rose from her perch on a stool. “It’s getting late. I’m going to go find Lorenzo.” She smiled.

Catalina stood to stop her. “Tomorrow is my serenade. Make sure you are up for it.”

The girls looked at Catalina confused. Fabiana voiced the question first. “What serenade sweetie?”

Catalina beamed. “Franco and his family are coming. It’s a tradition that we will do. A surprise for Giovanni. Franco serenades me as his new bride. It will be right outside my window on the west side of the villa, around 7 in the morning. I’d like you to be there.”

“He comes here and sings to you?” Mira asked.

“Yes, part of the tradition is that we do not speak before the wedding. This is his way of communicating his love for me.”

“Damn, that’s hot!” Fabiana laughed, “I like it!”

Catalina nodded in agreement. “It’s really sexy. He comes here with his brothers and relatives, serenading me with either a violinist or someone on guitar outside my window. After the serenade my brother, as my guardian, is supposed to offer a ceremonial dinner to Franco’s family, thanking and welcoming them. Signora Clara has arranged the breakfast feast, but I wanted you two to be in the room with me when he comes, if that’s okay,” she grinned at Mira.

“I’m honored.” Mira looked to Fabiana, and both women blinked their surprise.

Catalina touched Fabiana’s arm. “You too, you have to be there.”