“I can’t believe your family does this every Sunday.”
Biting my lip, I sighed.
“I know. It’s a lot, right.”
Liam looked a bit amazed.
“I think it’s wonderful. I mean, look around this room. There is so much love. It’s… heartwarming.”
Turning to him in surprise, I whispered, “You don’t feel overwhelmed?”
His eyes softening, he reached out for a moment and caressed my cheek gently.
“Nothing feels overwhelming when I’m with you.”
Liam
Dinner was probably the best one I had in a very long time. Even though I loved my quiet dinners with Isabella, this really was special. Family members flittered around the room, talking, laughing, and smiling during the whole evening. Nothing beat the love, though. It was impossible not to get caught up in it.
“So, Liam, are you taking Izzy to the Homecoming dance?”
Rosalina took a seat in front of me, Isabella’s brother in tow. He sighed but joined us as Enzo brought over freshly made zeppoles. Isabella blushed, embarrassed by her cousin. It didn’t really bother me, though.
“I didn’t realize it was coming up.”
“Yup. It’s just a few weeks away and Isabella will need time to save up and get a dress. You know, if you’re going to bring her.”
Isabella scolded her.
“Rosalina, hush your mouth.”
She shrugged.
“Giovanni asked Maria. Can you believe that?”
This seemed to pique my date’s interest, but Giovanni groaned.
“I knew I shouldn’t have told you.”
“Maria, as in… the girl you’ve never had the nerve to talk to and have loved for two years, Maria?”
Rosalina beamed.
“Yes, that Maria, and she said yes!”
Giovanni blushed.
“Can we change the subject, please? It’s not a big deal.”
Isabella actually squealed.
“It is definitely a big deal! Oh, Gio, I’m so excited for you.”
She rose out of her seat and ran to the other side of the table. Wrapping her arms around her brother, she placed a kiss on his cheek and squeezed him tightly. Watching the pair made me realize just how big of a failure I was. My heart ached for everything I had lost. So much so that tears were welling up. I forced myself to look away. I managed to push my dark thoughts away as Isabella sat back down next to me. Concern hit her face when she noticed my distress but I blinked the bad thoughts away. Taking her hand, I brought it to my lips and kissed it gently.
“I would love to take you to the dance if you will have me.”
A shy smile came to her lips.
