In my panic, I thrust the travel guide into Hanna's hands. "I have to go now. Explore the rest on your own. Inside, you'll find everything you need to know about excursions and activities," I say, gasping for air. But the air I strain to inhale feels like poisonin my lungs. "Come to the red-brick bungalow for dinner at eight tonight."
That's it. I can't do more. She has everything she needs, and I've delivered Camilla's invitation as promised.
Now I just want to get away from here.
Without waiting for her reaction, I turn around and walk down the corridor, heading toward the bright light of the exit. I wish I could escape to my camper, but Pietro took it to the workshop for some necessary repairs. I'll get it back tomorrow, and then I'll be free again.
With trembling fingers, I pull out my phone.I'll be back tomorrow afternoon, I type in a message to Matteo and immediately feel relieved.
Tomorrow, I'll set off and leave this crushing piece of land behind.
As terrible as it feels to disappoint my family and as much as I wish I were as strong as they believe, I simply can't do this.
