Lorenza decided that the Valentina design should embody modesty, sensuality, sweetness, and power all at once.
I couldn't imagine what would emerge from such a contradictory combination, but I was pleased to know it would be exactly what I am:
Many versions of one woman.
My mother-in-law talks nonstop until, finally, I see a woman dressed as a bride.
Wide-eyed.
Pale-skinned.
Delicate as a porcelain doll.
Her hair is swept into an elegant, structured style while the elderly seamstress, with her gentle smile, prepares to place the veil.
I shake my head, clearing the fog from my thoughts.
Then I loosen my hair, preventing Fiamma from continuing her mission of making me look soft as a summer breeze.
I straighten my posture.
I sharpen my gaze.
Absolutely nothing will go wrong.
Not
