He looked up and our gazes locked. “Sophia, I understand it sounds crazy. We’ve just met. My kids couldn’t believe I did this tour on my own—they were worried and tried to talk me out of it. I love my children, and I loved my wife. But I don’t know what lies before me, or how long I get to be here. It’s time to see the sights I’ve only dreamed about. Make the most of every precious moment. You deserve to go to Paris, or any other place you want. Don’t you agree?”

I hesitated, fascinated by the intensity of his words and the truth that struck me full force. He was right. I never imagined doing anything outside of my safe circle anymore. My days were filled with routine and revolved around Allegra and Frannie. Maybe it was time I began branching out and experiencing more. “I don’t know.”

He nodded with understanding. “Of course—it’s damn scary taking off on your own across the world. But already, I feel like I’m hooked.”

He was right. I’d figured I’d live on my memories of this trip for the rest of my life. But what if there was more out there for me? I’d cautioned Frannie over and over to step away from work to enjoy the world. Yet my focus was on home and family. Was it really quite different after all? It was just what we both chose as our safe shelter to avoid dealing with the unknown.

“I’ll think about it, Milton.”

“Good.” He pressed the paper into my palm and closed my fingers around it. The touch of his hand brought a solid, comforting warmth my soul recognized and remembered. “Email me. I’d love to know about the rest of your trip and your time in Tuscany.”

“Thank you. Enjoy the rest of your tour.” He insisted on paying the check, and he stood while I left. For a few seconds, we stared at each other and smiled, acknowledging the incredible evening we’d shared.

When I got back, it was almost eleven. I changed into my pajamas and washed up, and soon Allegra arrived home.

“Hi, Nonni! We had the best time! We walked by the bridge and got dinner at this adorable little place with the best pasta in the world, and guess what! We went on a gondola ride!”

I adored her flushed cheeks and sparkling eyes and the first signs of love sketched on her beautiful face. I sat on the edge of the bed beside her and felt my own heart soar with excitement. “Oh, it sounds amazing! How was it at night?”

“So beautiful.” She sighed. “The canal was lit up and people were singing and I felt like I was in a movie. Ian’s so nice. We talked and talked nonstop. Do you know he wants to be a priest?”