Page 381 of DATE
Damn it, he’d been played!
As news of Milan and Naples surrendering and being conquered spread, Florence had just wrapped up another wild Halloween celebration.
This year, thanks to the significant easing of taxes and trade pressures, nearly every commoner had work to do and food to eat, making the holiday spirit particularly strong.
On the eve of Halloween, many adults and children alike donned costumes representing various animals, wearing masks as they wandered the streets. They celebrated together, driving away the ghosts and spirits that arose with the departure of summer.
In the parade, several floats featured actors holding candles, and joyous songs of celebration spread with the crowd. The entire city was immersed in the glow of lights and merriment.
When the battle report arrived, members of the Upper and Lower Houses tossed their hats into the air, cheering.
Italy had gained two more territories! The empire would grow even more prosperous!
When Leonardo walked in, Hedy was leaning over the map of the Apennine Peninsula, studying it closely.
Now... if they could capture the Republic of Venice, the empire would be whole again.
She raised an eyebrow and noticed her lover’s arrival. "Leonardo?"
The man moved closer to her, his hand gently brushing her earlobe.
The slightly cool earring was softly placed on her, and as he did so, it hung delicately from her ear.
She froze for a moment, reaching up to touch the pure silver earring.
The earring's design was shaped like a cross, but beneath the cross... was the Star of David.
The Star of David... the symbol of the Jews.
"Happy birthday," he whispered softly. "I hope you like it."
Hedy took his hand, supporting her belly as she walked slowly to the full-length mirror. She finally saw the earrings clearly—she hadn't seen the Star of David in so long.
Even when facing Raphael’s confusion about faith, she had remained calm and tolerant. But this man... he had once again adorned her ear with the Star of David.
"Protestantism is now defined by you," Leonardo gently placed his hand on her shoulder, gazing at the beauty in the mirror whose eyes were slightly red, and said softly, "You can have them back."
Even in the future, if anyone questioned her, she could explain it from various angles.
Out of caution, he had placed the cross above the Star of David.
Over the years, she had grown accustomed to the coexistence of both faiths, just as she had with her dual nationality and identity.
The ruby glimmered in the candlelight, enhancing the alabaster white of her face.
"I really like them..." Hedy said softly, her voice hoarse. "Thank you."
Only Leonardo would go this far for her.
Only he would understand her so transparently.
She turned to him and hugged him tightly, struggling to hold back tears.
"I love you... Leonardo."
"You are the best lover."
CHAPTER 29
