9
Lago di Como, 2010
When Ariana stepped inside Villa Fiori, she was amazed at the transformation that had taken place over just a few days. As she walked through the house, she saw that the cobwebs and dust were gone, banished by the industrious Livia and her husband, Emilio.
She made her way into the kitchen. The musty smell that made Ariana feel so nauseated had been scrubbed away with a lemony scent, which was fresh and appealing. Ruby was arranging colorful, handmade ceramics decorated with fanciful swirls, lemons, and grapevines.
Since they’d arrived, Ruby seemed revived, as if she’d discovered an untapped reservoir of energy. Even the well-earned lines on her face seemed to have softened,
“Good morning,” Ariana said. “What beautiful pottery. Did you find that here?”
“Livia did
