“I had a little, yes,” I whispered.
“I imagine the Di Vaios don’t cook for you often?”
I lowered my gaze and twisted the ring on my finger.
“You don’t have to answer me.”
“I get by.” I shifted uncomfortably, more embarrassed than anything else.
“I see.” She kept her voice low as she parked outside the front door in the middle of the horseshoe shaped driveway. I had never seen the house from this angle before, and it was utterly stunning. It looked like a painting, everything so perfect.
Francesco appeared out of nowhere to open her door. He stood and waited for her to get out.
“Sienna, one last thing.”
I turned to look at her as she spoke.
“Can you tell me exactly who hit you?”
“Which time?” I shrugged. “I am used to it. Please don’t worry about it.”
Her frown turned up into a sad smile, and she let it go.
I felt uncomfortable once again returning to the Capri home in my less-than-clean work clothes, shorts, a tank top, and flats. I wore many hats at my job, and this week I was filing paperwork in the back, only now I wished I had worked in the front office today, as I would have at least been in a dress. I was short and loved nice clothes and high heels, but all that would have done was bring on more attention from the men. I tried only to wear clothing that didn’t draw attention. My head hurt from where I bumped it on the mirror, but the cool air and fresh smelling house helped calm my nerves.
“What can I get for you, dear?”
“A drink of water would be nice, thank you.”
“Will you eat something?”
“Yes, just something small, though, thank you. Would you mind if I used your washroom to clean up?”
“Of course. Here, take this to clean that cut, and then I’ll start on something for us to eat.”
“Thank you.” I turned to follow Francesco up the massive stairs. The place was like a dream, winding staircases, massive flowerpots with every flower you could imagine, floor to ceiling windows, open walkways, and an incredible view of the ocean. I was awed that people lived in such places.
“How long have you worked with the Capri family?” I asked Francesco as we walked down a long hall. I felt a little uncomfortable not speaking to him.
“Since Mr. Capri was twenty-two, and we’ve been very close since.”
“That’s a long time. Do you have any family? Children?”
“I have kids, but my wife and I divorced when they were very young.” He shrugged as though he was fine with it. “But I was blessed with two handsome sons.” He beamed and stopped to open his wallet. He held it out, indicating a family photo. “I don’t get to see them as often as I’d like, but we are close, and that’s what matters.”
“I bet.” I forced a smile. The warmth of a real family was not something I could relate to. I knew enough to understand it existed; it just never had for me.
Francesco opened a door to a guest room and stood to the side to let me enter.
Wow.
Canopy bed, open glass door to a massive balcony, and the bathroom was bigger than the De Vaio house. The walk-in shower could fit at least five people.
On instinct, I crossed my arms and felt unworthy to be there.
“Anything you need should be in here. Please feel free to take your time.” He hesitated for a moment and seemed about to say something then changed his mind.
“I’m sure I will only need a few minutes. Thank you so much, Francesco.” I placed a hand on his arm, then on sudden impulse reached up and kissed his cheek.