They broke the kiss and stared at each other. I held my breath, afraid to move or shatter the spell.

Her door opened and they both stepped inside.

Then it shut.

Head spinning, I forgot about my water and retreated to my room. How hadn’t I seen it? How long had the affair been going on? Finally, Frannie was enjoying a passionate romance, but as much as I’d hoped she’d hook up with Enzo, the reality worried me. It was obvious they needed to hide the relationship—probably to protect his job. Would they be able to easily say goodbye in a few days? Was it serious or just a casual fling?

My daughter rarely broke her stringent rules and I was sure one of them forbade her from engaging in an illicit romance with her tour guide. Which meant she really liked him.

Or more.

I climbed into bed and lay for hours, staring up at the ceiling, thinking of the two women I loved with my heart and soul. Two men had suddenly come into their lives unexpectedly. I was a firm believer that God gave us what we needed, not necessarily what we wanted. It was too big to be a general coincidence that they were both on the same path. I just couldn’t see how it would end.

I prayed it would be good for both of them.

But I also knew God had a terrible sense of humor.

It took me a long time to sleep.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

Francesca

Once I knew Mom was settled in for the night and Allegra was out with Ian, I quickly texted Enzo.

I’m free to meet.

I kept it simple and to the point. Since the night of our stolen kiss, I couldn’t stop thinking about the next time we’d be together. My day with Allegra and Mom had been wonderful, but I was grateful I’d have a few hours to steal some alone time. I was finally glad Allegra wasn’t sharing my room, or a meet-up wouldn’t even be possible. My phone buzzed.

Group is at Harry’s for the night. Meet me at the corner across from hotel in five minutes. I know a place.

I didn’t hesitate. I’d already dressed in anticipation of his gaze, making me feel beautiful instead of passably pretty. It was rare that I glimpsed true appreciation in a man’s stare. I looked on my body as more of a machine than a feminine treasure, grateful to get up every morning and be able to accomplish my goals without pain or disability. But when I caught the hot gleam in his dark eyes, I shivered with pleasure. I wondered if I’d be able to settle for anything less from now on.