Chapter 6
I came downstairs wearing my apron and with paint on my hands. In the hallway Fabrizio was talking to a man. I paused and was about to climb the stairs again hoping that I hadn't been seen. But it was too late.
“Come here, my dear. I should like to introduce Captain Orazio Lomellini. Captain, this is my wife Sofonisba.”
I gave him a black look but it was now impossible to sneak away. I hurriedly took off my work apron and hid it behind my back.
The guest was tall and wore an olive green doublet, slightly open at the neck, tight breeches and boots which came above his knees. His hair was longer than was the fashion, its chestnut shade warmed with honey coloured highlights. On his suntanned face he had neither beard nor moustache and this made him look even younger than he actu
