Nestled in a neat plot of land to the west of Milan was Leonardo’s vineyard, the one Il Moro had allocated to him as payment for his services. Laid in a secluded corner, underneath some over-hanging fig trees, rested Alessandro’s grave, around which, Leonardo, Letizia and her son stood with their heads bowed in prayer. Father Paulo held a Bible and committed Alessandro’s soul to the Almighty.
‘May you grant Alessandro eternal peace,’ prayed Father Paulo, making the sign of the cross above Alessandro’s grave. ‘And may the light of your glory perpetually shine upon him. May all the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace, both now and for evermore. Amen.’
‘Thank you, Father Paulo, for your kindness,’ said Letizia, lifting a black veil from above her face t
