temptation in florence 04 - expected in death Read Online Free PDF Page A

again?”
    “Well, on the ground floor, we have Uncle Teo's apartment and Leo's. Though Leo is just now moving into Benedetta's apartment.” Carlina smiled. “It's really sweet to see their romance.”
    Francesca grimaced. “Don't talk to me about romance.”
    “Sorry. Well, on the floor above Uncle Teo there's Benedetta with Annalisa and Ernesto on one side and Emma and Lucio on the other side. Benedetta and all her kids on one floor, you could say. One floor above that, we have Mama.”
    “She's got the whole floor to herself?”
    “Not really. The apartment on the other side is sealed off from our staircase. It opens into the house next door. It's a long-standing agreement with the owner of the house next door and the tenant. Uncle Teo once explained it to me, but I forgot what it was all about. And on the top floor, there's just me with my little place.”
    “That makes seven apartments in total.” Francesca made a face. “I would be surprised if the Finanza didn't find fault with it. They usually do.”
    Carlina felt sick. They had almost lost the family home a short time ago due to some investments gone wrong and ever since, she had cherished it more than before. She loved to hear the bells of the beautiful Santa Croce cathedral just around the corner, loved the smooth feeling of the banister beneath her hands whenever she used the staircase to go up to her apartment on the top floor, loved the scent of beeswax that welcomed her whenever she opened the heavy wooden door. It was home, her home. It had been the place to run to and curl up in ever since she had come from the States after the sudden death of her father when she was thirteen.
    True, she now was ready to move out and create a new home for herself and Stefano – at the thought, her heartbeat accelerated – but she didn't want to lose it altogether.
    Francesca broke into her thoughts. “If I were in your place, I'd try to kick her out as soon as possible. However, it won't be easy. She's like a bulldog, never gives up, and they say that she carries her grudges for decades.”
    Carlina swallowed. “Well, in that case we're all done for because it seems that she had a major run-in with Mama when they were in their last year at school. They can't even stand to be in the same room together. Yesterday, Mama walked out on dinner when she discovered that Olga was joining us. Can you imagine that?”
    “Wow.” Francesca stared into space for a moment, digesting the news, then she grabbed Carlina's hand and shook it fervently. “Thank you. I came here to be comforted, and it actually helped to hear that there is worse trouble than being without a significant other in your life.”
    Carlina laughed. “Nicely put. Glad I could help.”
    Francesca grinned. “I've got to go, but I'll call you to fix our date as soon as I have time. Maybe a hunky glass blower will be at the training. You know that I like 'em big and impressive, but if he's a glass blower, it's a given that he'll have gentle hands.” She winked at Carlina. “And you, make sure you get rid of Olga before something dreadful happens.” She blew a kiss at Carlina and flew out of the door with a wave. “Ciao!”
    I have to speak to Uncle Teo. The thought troubled Carlina. She remembered Uncle Teo's happy smile as he had danced with Olga, the way he had hovered over her during breakfast the next day. He deserves better. But maybe it was all a big misunderstanding? Maybe she should first talk to Olga, find out for herself what was going on? She had barely exchanged a word with her so far. Carlina straightened and pulled back her shoulders. Yes, that's what she would do. She would go and confront Olga at the next convenient moment.
    “There you are, Carlina!” Fabbiola breezed through the open door. “I have to talk to you.”
    “Hi Mama.” Carlina took in her mother's flowing skirt and colorful jacket. “I see you're dressed for summer already.”
    “Yes. It's only the beginning of May,