Page 47 of Finding Love in the Clouds

“About that, Javier did kindergarten at home this year through a virtual school program. I want him to attend school and learn all the social skills he needs, but I’m terrified. This is going to sound terrible, but I am trying my best to protect him. They won’t do facial reconstruction on him until his facial bones stop growing in late adolescence. I can’t keep him locked away in the house until he is a teenager! I enrolled him in martial arts camp this summer, and he had a panic attack every day he went until I came on this trip. What should I do?”

“The first thing we will do is consult with my brothers. They will have the latest information on the Reyes Cartel and their current level of danger. Then, we will evaluate the best private schools in the area and conduct a deep analysis of every child enrolled and their family histories. We will select a school with the safest children and the most successful parents. The security will be high, and there will be little chance of anyone sneaking past security because it will be overly tight for all the children. Javi will have friends. They will have to come hang out at our home, but we will make sure that our home is way better than all of theirs. We will have play equipment like they have never experienced because most of them are little drones who sit inside all day, but Javier is going to be an athletic and very tanned outdoorsman with skills any boy would envy. We will go on vacations and expose him to new places and cultures, and we will wear disguises and stay out of the eye of the paparazzi, or we will wear specialized sunscreen that has special isotopes that will prevent a camera lens from being able to see our faces. We will figure it out as a family. Javier and your safety will be all of our priority. Don’t worry, Sophie. I’ve got you. Nothing and no one will endanger my family.”

Sophie turned and stood, then sat on Fernando’s lap and tucked her head under his chin, her arms around hisneck. “Thank you.”

“Always and forever. Finders, keepers. You’re mine now. Never forget that,” Fernando’s voice left no question that it was a promise he intended to keep.

Chapter Forty-Six

As they neared Stresa, the shimmering waters of Lake Maggiore came into view, framed by the lush greenery of the surrounding hills. Alicia pointed out the Borromean Islands in the distance. “If you signed up for the end-of-tour excursion, we will be visiting those islands and experiencing the hidden gems of the Lake District.”

By the time they arrived in Stresa, the sky was painted with the deep blues and purples of dusk. The town’s lights reflected off the tranquil waters of Lake Maggiore, creating a mesmerizing scene. The group was welcomed at the hotel, a charming lakeside establishment with stunning views of the lake and mountains beyond.

After everyone had time to settle into their rooms and freshen up after the long day of traveling, the group gathered in the hotel’s elegant dining room for their last dinner together. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie as they reminisced about their journey through Italy. The elderly women in the group, always curious and full of energy, turned their attention to Sophie and Fernando.

“So, what did you two get up to today? We noticed you lovebirds abandoned us to go off on your own,” Sybil asked with a twinkle in her eye.

Sophie blushed and shared their adventure at the fashion house. The women listened intently, their eyes widening with excitement and joy.

“Isn’t that just the most romantic thing, Arron!” one of the ladies exclaimed, slapping her husband on the arm. “You never did anything that nice for me.”

“Well, I never had a billion dollars in the bank to help arrange it either, Ceal,” the old man grumbled.

Fernando realized that his identity might have been revealed to their fellow travelers at some point and was grateful that no one felt the need to sell that information and ruin the trip.

“Oh,you,never mind. Here’s to a happy marriage and a wonderful future together!” They raised their glasses in a heartfelt toast, and the room echoed with cheers and well wishes.

***

The following morning, a small group, including Sophie and Fernando, joined Alicia for one last excursion. The tour officially ended the night before, and many were leaving to head back home, with only two couples of the original group going on to the Switzerland extension, but Alicia had planned a special visit to some of the hidden gems of the Lake Maggiore region.

Their first stop was the Borromean Islands, a trio of picturesque islands known for their palatial estates and lush gardens. The group boarded a private boat that took them across the serene waters ofLake Maggiore. Alicia pointed out the various landmarks as they approached the first island, Isola Bella.

“Isola Bella, which translates to ‘Beautiful Island,’ is home to the Borromeo family’s Baroque palace and terraced gardens. The palace was begun in the 17th century by Carlo III Borromeo and named after his wife, Isabella. The Borromeo family has played a significant role in the history of the region for centuries, not just for their wealth and power but also for their contributions to the arts and culture. Their patronage helped shape the Renaissance and Baroque periods in Italy, and their legacy continues to impact the region today. Legend has it that the island was transformed from a rocky outcrop into a blossoming garden in just a few decades, a feat that seems almost magical.”

As they disembarked and walked through the meticulously maintained gardens, they marveled at the array of exotic plants, fountains, and statues. “The gardens here are laid out in a classic Italian style, with geometric flower beds, manicured lawns, and ten terraced levels connected by grand staircases,” Alicia explained. “You’ll find a variety of sitting areas, paths, and even mazes that invite exploration.”

The gardens were a riot of color and fragrance, with flowers blooming in every hue imaginable. They passed through shaded groves with benches perfectly positioned to enjoy the views of the lake. Sculpted hedges and topiaries added an element of whimsy, while the sound of trickling fountains created a serene ambiance.

“The garden’s centerpiece is the Teatro Massimo, an amphitheater-like structure with terraced levels that rise to a magnificent unicorn statue, symbolizing purity and power,” Alicia continued. “This area was designed for outdoor performances and gatherings, offering both beauty and functionality.”

Inside the palace, the group was awestruck by the opulent rooms. “Here, you can see intricate frescoes on the ceilings, walls adorned with gilded mirrors and tapestries, and chandeliers that sparkle like constellations. The furniture is ornately carved and upholstered in the finest fabrics, often with gold leaf detailing. The rooms are adorned in rich reds, deep blues, and vibrant golds, creating an atmosphere of regality and luxury.”

“The palace boasts over 100 rooms, though only 20 are open to the public as the Borromeo family still uses the others. The rooms open to visitors are filled with historical artifacts and stunning decor.” They passed through the Hall of Mirrors, reminiscent of Versailles, where the reflections seemed to extend the grandeur infinitely. The ballroom, with its high, frescoed ceiling and crystal chandeliers, was a highlight. “Napoleon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine once stayed here,” Alicia noted. “And it’s said that the family entertained many other dignitaries and royalty over the centuries.”

The group marveled at the intricate details of the palace, from the gilded ceilings to the ornate tapestries. They even visited the grotto, a series of rooms with walls and ceilings encrusted with shells and stones, designed to offer a cool retreat from the summer heat.

With their visit to Isola Bella complete, the group eagerly boarded the private boat again, setting their course for Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands. The afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the serene waters of Lake Maggiore, enhancing the picturesque beauty of the surroundings.

As the boat approached Isola Madre, Alicia began her narration. “Isola Madre, or ‘Mother Island,’ is known for its English-style botanical gardens and the stunning Palazzo Madre. This island has a more tranquil and natural atmosphere compared to the more formalgardens of Isola Bella. The palace here offers a glimpse into the Borromeo family’s private life.”

Disembarking on Isola Madre, the group was immediately enveloped by the lush greenery and the sweet fragrance of flowers. The gardens, spread over an area of around eight hectares, were a vibrant tapestry of colors. Rare and exotic plants, some of which were brought from far-off lands, bloomed in profusion. The air was filled with the heady scents of magnolia, camellia, and azalea.

“The gardens here are laid out in an informal, English style,” Alicia explained, leading the group along winding paths that meandered through the verdant landscape. “You’ll find a mix of towering trees, colorful flower beds, and peaceful ponds. Look out for the ancient Kashmir cypress, which is believed to be one of the oldest in Europe.”

The sound of rustling leaves and chirping birds created a serene ambiance, occasionally interrupted by the distant hum of a boat engine. The group passed through a shaded grove where peacocks and pheasants roamed freely, adding an interesting touch to the idyllic setting.

Reaching the Palazzo Madre, Alicia continued, “This palace, like its counterpart on Isola Bella, is filled with art and history. It has been the private residence of the Borromeo family since the 16th century. Unlike the Baroque extravagance of Isola Bella, the interiors here reflect a more lived-in and intimate style, with a mix of Renaissance and Baroque elements.”

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