Page 108 of Angelo

"The not knowing," Malina countered, "is what makes your day-to-day efforts so important. The outcome can change at any given moment. Depending on what you did yesterday, what you do today, and what you do tomorrow."

"You think so?"

"I have seen what you are capable of, and even the blind can see thatSignor Vitalehas never wanted any woman more than he wants you. He would crawl through hell for you. Do not underestimate what you two can achieve together."

Still feeling doubtful, Elyse wrinkled her nose. "You have too much faith in us."

"No," chided the housekeeper, "I have just the right amount. For good reason, too.Signor Vitalehas always known how to take advantage of those who underestimate him, and he has only grown sharper and wiser since you came into his life."

"I don't doubt Alessio at all," she whispered, "I think I may be the weakest link at times."

"I disagree. You arrived here, knowing so little about our world. Resisting your fate every step of the way.But look at you now. Look at how far you have come. You took your worst nightmare and turned it into a dream that is within reach. Do not give up mere steps before the finish line."

Elyse gave a pause. Her reservations subsided for the time being. "Thank you, Malina."

"Of course."

"You always seem to have the right words."

"Then may I say one more thing? Even if it is something you do not want to hear?"

Elyse eyed the older woman warily. "Go ahead."

"Your grandfather has been reaching out to me again."

"About what?"

"You, of course."

"What does he want?"

"A chance to make things right."

Around the middle of July, Malina managed to nag Elyse to the point of surrender. She agreed to start meeting Benedetto on weekends for chess. Their renewed bond was fragile. The relationship was still tainted by tragedy and resentment, but, at least, it was no longer broken. When Elyse visited her grandfather's villa on Saturdays, she noticed that traces of Gianna, her photographs, her possessions, her clothes, had begun to disappear around his house.

Only the baby grand remained untouched in the parlor room.

One Saturday, during one of their chess matches, Benedetto announced quite suddenly, "You do not need to keep the music box anymore."

Elyse glanced up with a frown. "But it belonged to my mother."

His face grew weary. "After years of missing her, I am finally realizing that there is nothing to be gained by holding on to the past. Life is too short. We should not dwell on things that cannot be changed."

"I thought she forgave you?"

"Forgiveness does not fix what was broken. It simply helps us find peace in the aftermath."

A pang hit her chest. Because she knew he was right. Some stories were destined for tragedy. No matter how much they all wished for a different ending.

"Toss it," said her grandfather, "if you wish."

Her frown deepened. "What about loyalty?"

"What about it?"

"I thought the box was meant to keep an eye on me?" Elyse remarked as she eyed him in an uncertain way, not knowing whether or not he was being sincere. "Why the sudden change of heart?"

"I have seen enough."

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