I didn’t want anything used as an excuse not to go, including my health. I waited to see if he’d yell or scold me, but the air seemed to let loose a breath like a shrinking balloon, and I knew he was gone.

I’d never planned a big trip before, but maybe I’d go to an old-fashioned travel agent instead of surfing sites on the computer and ending up confused. I’d talk to a real person and explain I wanted it to be a surprise. There had to be a way to convince them what an opportunity this would be.

Sunday. At dinner. I’d make sure they both came—I’d been wanting to cook that turkey in the freezer for a while—and I’d break the news. Maybe I could even get some of those pretty brochures. A tour would be perfect. We’d be safe with a guide and get to see multiple cities. Though I would love to stay in Tuscany for a while and soak in the local flavor. Maybe I could combine a tour with a short stay.

Suddenly, I didn’t want to garden anymore. An adrenaline rush skated through my blood, giving me extra energy I hadn’t experienced in a while, even when I was on those super-energy organic vitamins Francesca swore by. I quickly packed up my tools, jumping up from the ground instead of slowly unfolding my old body, enjoying the bounce in my step. I had a new purpose, bigger than the threat of illness or worry about convincing my girls to accompany me overseas.

This could be the most important trip of a lifetime.

I walked inside and began making a list of all the things I needed to accomplish.

CHAPTER FOUR

Allegra