Because I’ve put you back in the box.
Because some dreams are just not meant to be.
Once yours,
Sienna Giovanna
Formally known as
Alessia Coppola
Once I was done, I packed what belongings I had left at the Hill House and placed the envelope on the kitchen island and reached for the jar on the counter. I dumped out some flour on the counter and drew my finger through the fine powder.
I grabbed the handle of my suitcase and brushed a tear away as I headed outside.
“Ready?” Ugo opened the door to the town car.
“Yes.” I lowered my head and took one last glance at the Hill House, and the oh-so-familiar feeling of being let go drained from my body.
“Where to?” He started to drive. “Your mother’s hotel?”
“No.” I stared out the window, mentally filing away every little aspect of this place. “I booked myself a room by the water just outside of town.” I handed him the address, and he glanced at me in the mirror.
“That’s near the train station. Sienna, are you thinking of leaving? Because despite what happened, you’re still at a huge risk.”
“I’m thinking I need some time alone, and that’s the perfect place.” I tugged at my thin sweater, feeling a cold touch brush over my sensitive skin. “I promise I won’t leave without a word.”
I wouldn’t do that, not when I knew the risks.
“Very well.”
I settled into the seat and let my tears fall, not caring that I wasn’t alone. I hurt, and I was tired of hiding it. I plucked the tiny velvet bag from the corner pocket of my purse, and with two fingers wiggled out the ring and glared at my own birth date that was imprinted there next to my father’s. I let it drop onto my lap as if it burned. How could such a tiny thing change my entire life?