"Why?"
"Because they deserve better than being forgotten." I'm honest now. "Because when my grandmother died, I realized how many old people don't have anyone. And because I genuinely enjoy their company."
Nonna nods slowly. "You were close to your grandmother."
"Very close. She lived with us. She taught me to cook, to play cards, to be strong." I smile at the memory. "She was the one who taught me that being underestimated is sometimes an advantage."
The old woman's eyes gleam. "A wise woman."
"The wisest. I miss her."
We talk for a while. About her life, her family. She tells me about watching her family grow.
She's sharp. Funny. Opinionated.
I genuinely like her. Which makes what I'm about to do feel slightly worse. But only slightly. This is war, after all.
"Nonna," I say quietly. "Do you live alone?"
"I have the guest house. A caretaker comes during the day."
"But at night? You're by yourself?"
"Yes." She says it simply. Factually. "I'm old, child. I'm used to being alone."
"You shouldn't have to be." I set down my coffee cup. "When Santino and I are married, you should come live with us."
The old woman goes very still. "What?"
"You should live with us. In our home." I'm warming to this now. "You shouldn't be alone. You're family. Family should be together."
"Child—"
"I insist." I reach over and take her hand. It's small, wrinkled, strong. "I would love to take care of you. To spend time with you. To make sure you're not alone."
Nonna is staring at me like I've grown a second head.
Across the room, Santino has stopped mid-conversation. He's looking at us. He can't hear what we're saying, but he can see us holding hands.
He looks concerned.
"You barely know me," Nonna says slowly. "Why would you offer such a thing?"
"Because you're his grandmother. Because you deserve to be surrounded by family. Because it's the right thing to do." I squeeze her hand gently. "Please say yes. I would be honored to have you with us."
The old woman studies my face for a long moment. "You're serious."
"Completely."
"Santino knows about this?"
"Not yet. But I'm sure he'll be thrilled." I stand, still holding her hand. "Let's tell him now!"
"Child, wait—"
But I'm already walking over to Santino, pulling a confused and slightly alarmed Nonna with me. The room goes quiet as everyone notices us approaching Santino.
"Santo!" I make up a nickname on the spur of the moment. "I have wonderful news!"
