"But our roots are the most important. Family, security, and—" I stop myself because speaking those words only reminds me of what I don't have.
His first reaction is shaking his head. "That family doesn't exist anymore." His tone brings tears to my eyes.
Was their mother the glue that held them together? After her death, did not only the estate but also the family break apart?
"That's terrible," I find myself saying in a hoarse voice, and before I understand what's happening, I put my arm around him.
He swallows hard. "It is what it is. We look forward because we can't change what's behind us."
I scrutinize his face, but I don't see any indication that his own words hurt him. He truly believes it's best to put an end to everything.
"Why don't you take over the business?" That could save the family. They wouldn't have to sell if someone would invest time and love into the estate, restoring it to its former glory.
As I wait for his response, I realize what I'm doing.
I'm hugging a stranger. More than that, I'm caressing his arm and feeling closer to him than to anyone else before.
It's wrong, yet somehow it feels right.
Strange.
"Do you see that hut up there?" he asks out of nowhere, pointing at a small wooden structure with a white awning and a sales counter. "They rent picnic baskets filled with Italian specialties. That could be something for your guests."
He doesn't want to tell me. Perhaps we're not as close as I thought we were just a moment ago.
Disappointed, I release my arm from his back and try to collect my thoughts.
Is it even important why he doesn't want to stay here? The estate is being sold because his father can't manage it anymore, and apparently, none of the children can provide enough support. I have the information I need. I don't need details, so I should be content. Yet Vico's story tugs at my heart.
Are Florian and I doing the family a favor by buying the estate? Vico seems certain about it, and it suits me just fine. I should refocus on my mission. At the same time, I feel something that I can hardly deny.
Something has happened between us in the past few minutes. Vico is no longer just the seller of the estate. And I am no longer just the interested buyer.
We are… something else that I can't grasp.
"Alright, let's see the offer," I say, for his sake, and smile to let him know that he won't face any more questions from me.
He smiles back. And I think I even see gratitude in his eyes.
