I blinked. “A priest? No, sweetheart, I didn’t know that.”

“Yeah, he’s heading into the seminary after the summer, but he’s going to Assisi after the tour, and when I told him we would be in Tuscany, he asked if maybe he can drive over and stay for a day. Do you think Mom would be okay with that?”

My mind whirled, but I nodded. “I’m sure it will. We can both talk to her.”

“Good. Oh, and we found this bakery and I got a coconut gelato with a biscotti and it was sick good.”

She chattered on for a while, and I savored every second. A priest? My granddaughter’s first big crush and he was off-limits. Of course, he was in Ireland anyway, so nothing could be pursued. It was a sweet summer romance that would change her, even if there was hurt afterward. And though I’d do anything to save her from heartbreak, I knew love and loss needed to be experienced in order to grow. Hopefully, she understood there was only one ending for them both, and it would be bittersweet rather than true heartbreak.

Then again, no one could help whom they loved.

“Honey, text your mom and let her know you’re home safe.”

She rolled her eyes but didn’t give me guff. Her thumbs flew over the tiny screen and I shook my head with amazement at her dexterity. “Done. I’m going to hop in the shower,” she said, heading into the bathroom.

I decided to grab my own phone and text Frannie myself, but it took me a much longer time than it did Allegra. Immediately, I saw the three dots.

Did she have a good time?

I decided to wait to tell her about Ian’s future occupation until we were face-to-face. Yes, great time. She’ll give you all the details tomorrow.

So happy. I’ll be home later—let me know if you need me.

We’re good, heading to bed. Have fun.

Allegra and I talked for a bit longer after her shower, and then she fell asleep with her phone next to her pillow and a smile on her face. I read for a while but then finally got up to get a glass of water. Of course, the water was tepid and I craved it cold. Tamping down a sigh, I pulled on my robe and slippers and grabbed the bucket to get ice. At least it was just down the hallway.

I opened the door quietly and stepped out.

Then froze.

Frannie and Enzo stood a few feet down the hallway, locked in a passionate kiss. Her back was pressed against the door, arms wrapped around his neck, their mouths fused together like lovers who couldn’t bear to be parted from each other. I eased slowly back, terrified they’d spot me, and peeked around the corner.