CHAPTER 27
UNEXPECTED SURPRISE
Francesco had served his last customer of the evening, and the bell over the door had rung for the last time that evening. He displayed the closed sign, walked into the staff area, and sank onto the couch.
He couldn’t believe he’d made it through the evening. His throat felt dry, and sweat ran down his cheeks. His mind scattered with disturbing and distressing thoughts. Elena! Where was she, and why hadn’t she turned up to work? She’d always notified him when she couldn’t come in. Although she’d only been absent twice. Today was a different story.
Loredana had recently left the shop, explaining what had happened at the fashion show. Maybe Elena had decided to return to her village; but why wouldn’t she say goodbye? Surely, she wouldn’t leave without telli
