Chapter 67
Tessy’s POV
I acted like I was invincible but my ears were active, I am going to do this. She finally ended the call, she turned to face me, I greeted her with a warm and genuine smile that I hoped conveyed my excitement and love.
“Good morning, Mom!” I called out, my voice bright with cheer.
Her face lit up with joy as she returned my greeting. The light in her eyes illuminated the weary lines that marked the night of celebration, reminding me of just how special her 50th birthday had been. “Good morning, dear! Thank you so much for last night. You made my 50th birthday truly unforgettable,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.
A rush of warmth spread through me, accompanied by a light blush on my cheeks. “It was my pleasure, Mom. You deserved an amazing celebration,” I replied, my heart swelling at her praise.
She gestured toward the dining area, her excitement was uncontrollabe. “Let’s have breakfast together, shall we? I’m absolutely starving!”
Nodding enthusiastically, I followed her into the dining room, the aroma of warm pastries wafting in the air.
Sophia entered, balancing a tray laden with freshly baked cookies that were still golden from the oven, and a steaming pot of coffee, its rich scent mingling with the sweet aroma of the cookies. “Good morning, Mrs. Wilson! Good morning, Tessy,” she chirped, setting the tray down on the table with a soft clatter.
Mom’s eyes twinkled as she looked at Sophia. “Thank you, dear. This is just what we needed to start the day!”
As Sophia poured the coffee into delicate china cups and arranged the cookies on a colorful platter, I watched her animated expressions, feeling a sense of warmth envelop us.
With a gentle sigh of contentment, Mom turned to me, her expression shifting to one of curiosity. “So, Tessy, what’s on your agenda today?” The question hung in the air, a simple inquiry loaded with my personal uncertainty.
I hesitated for a brief moment, my mind racing to find a way to steer the conversation towards Anthony Italy’s address without drawing suspicion. It was a delicate balance-I wanted to share my day with her, yet I didn’t want to unravel the careful threads of my thoughts that revolved around him.
I took a sip of my coffee, trying to sound casual. “Work as usual, but I was wondering, is Uncle Anthony around? I haven’t seen him since last night.”
Eddy’s mom’s expression changed a hint of nostalgia in her eyes. “Oh, Anthony returned to Italy. That’s his base normally. He’s handling my late dad’s business very well.”
I leaned in, interested. “That’s great. He seems really capable.”
Her gaze drifted off, her voice tinged with wistfulness. “Too bad I didn’t find out about him earlier…”
Her words trailed off, leaving me curious.
“I don’t quite follow, Mom,” I said.
Her eyes refocused on me, a deep breath preceding her revelation. “I mean I had no idea I had a brother, I thought it was just me but I always wished for a brother, but you know what’s shocking? My father had him with another woman and he had no idea of the existence of his own son and she abandoned him at the orphanage.”
My eyes widened, surprised.
Shecontinued, her voice filled with emotion. “That’s where Anthony met your father, and they became inseparable friends.”
I sat stunned, processing this new information, my mind racing with questions.
I had no idea my father was an orphan, why didn’t anyone tell me? Why do I have to get all the information from Eddy’s mom? Gosh?
Eddy’s mom’s eyes seemed to gaze into the past, her voice barely above a whisper. “We only learned of Anthony’s existence when he was already an adult… Father was overjoyed, thrilled to have a son to carry on the family legacy.”
I watched, fascinated, as her expression shifted from nostalgia to wistfulness.
“Father creates his will, leaving everything to Anthony,” she continued. “He assumed, since I’m a woman, I’d marry and take my husband’s name… Leaving Anthony as the sole heir.”
Her gaze drifted off, her thoughts consumed by the past.
“Anthony’s love life was tragic, though. His partner passed away… such a sad story.” Her voice trailed off, lost in thought.
“I wonder when he’ll love again,” She murmured, more to herself.
Her words hung in the air, echoing my unspoken questions about Anthony’s life.
I sat quietly, observing her state, unsure how to respond.
Eddy’s mom’s gaze refocused on me, a hint of apology in her eyes. “Tessy, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to ruin your mood with all these family topics.”
I smiled reassuringly. “Not at all, Mom. I’m happy you shared this with me.”
Her expression softened. “Thank you, dear. It’s just… Anthony’s story is complex. His home in Italy is beautiful, though. Villa Alberto, Via dei Cipressi, 12, Tuscany.”
I committed the address to memory, my heart racing with excitement.
She smiled wistfully. “Maybe one day we will visit him there.”
I beamed, hope sparkling within me. “That will be great..”
The conversation flowed easily after that, our earlier seriousness replaced by warmth and laughter.
As we finished breakfast, I felt grateful for this newfound connection with Eddy’s mother and the unexpected gift of Anthony’s address.
My mind whirled with possibilities, but for now, I savored the joy of sharing this moment with her.
Eddy walked into the room, a bright smile on his face. “There you are, my loved ones!”
She smiled, standing up. “I’ll leave you two lovebirds alone. How was your night, love?”
Eddy wrapped his arms around me, pulling me close. “It was perfect, thanks to you, Mom. And thanks to this beautiful lady here.”
Mom’s eyes sparkled with delight. “I’m glad you had a wonderful time. I’ll let you two catch up.”
With a warm smile, Mom left the room, leaving Eddy and me alone.
Eddy’s eyes locked onto mine, filled with affection. “Last night was magical all because of your hard work Tessy for my mom’s birthday. And this morning, even better.”
I grinned, my heart fluttering. “Mine too and we all made your mom’s birthday great, not just me..”
“True.”
I thought about leaving for Italy to see Anthony, I am going to do it by all means, thank the Lord I got a lot of money I haven’t used yet so yes, I would be able to sponsor a trip out of New York
*
*
I sat in my room, determination coursing through my veins. I was going to Italy, no matter what. I pulled out my laptop and began searching for flights. “Italy, here I come,” I whispered, excitement building. I navigated to my favorite travel website and started booking a flight from New York to Florence, Italy. My fingers flew across the keyboard as I entered my travel dates, passenger information, and payment details. Flight booked.
Next, I researched transportation from Florence Airport to Tuscany. I opted for a private car service, ensuring a seamless journey to Villa Alberto. Car service booked.
Now, accommodation. I chose a cozy bed and breakfast in Tuscany, close to Anthony’s villa. Room booked.
I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of accomplishment. My trip was coming together. But this was a secret. No one, not even Eddy or Mom, could know. I wasn’t sure how they’d react.
I created a new email account, solely for Italy-related communications. I contacted the car service and B&B, requesting discretion.
Everything was set. Departure: 3 days. Destination: Tuscany, Italy. Mission: Find Anthony.
My heart raced with anticipation. What would Anthony say when he saw me? Would he be happy? Would he understand?
Questions swirled, but I pushed them aside. I was going to Italy, and nothing would stop me.
I took a deep breath, my resolve firm. It’s time to uncover the truth. And maybe, just maybe, find love.
*
I confided in Elizabeth during our lunch break at work, my voice barely above a whisper.
“Eliza, I’ve booked a flight to Italy. I’m going to find Anthony.”
Elizabeth’s eyes widened, her face pale. “What are you doing, Tessy? Stop this madness!”
I held her gaze, firm. “I have to do this,. I need answers.”
Elizabeth shook her head. “But think of the risks! You’re going alone, to a foreign country, to confront a man!!!”
I took a deep breath. “I’ve thought it through. I have to take this chance.”
Elizabeth grasped my arm, concern etched on her face. “Tessy, please reconsider. What if Anthony rejects you? Or worse?”
I pulled my arm free, my voice steady. “I’m going, Eliza. And you better keep this secret.”
Elizabeth’s expression softened, but her voice remained urgent. “Fine, I won’t tell anyone. But promise me you’ll be careful.”
I nodded. “I promise.”
Elizabeth sighed. “You’re stubborn, Tessy. But I’ll support you. Just keep me updated.”
I smiled. “I will.”
As we parted ways, I felt a mix of emotions, excitement, fear, and determination.
I was really doing this. Italy, here I come.
TBC.