It Began In Italy | ✔️

Chapter Fifteen

The next morning, I was berated with questions at the breakfast table. "Was it romantic?" Vienna asks and my mother sends her a glare. "I mean like... was it cute?" she tries but my mother doesn't let up. "I'm just going to stop talking."

It was probably best.

"Nico showed me Doria Castle and we had dinner... there was nothing else to it," I added afterwards, when even my father was looking at me expectantly. "The festival is happening today. Is anyone planning on going?" I attempt on changing the direction of the conversation and much to my surprise, it works.

Everyone jumps into conversation about the festival. You could already hear the muffled, overly loud music blasting in the heart of Vernazza and my excitement only doubled. I was more than ready to let loose and experience Italian culture entirely.

It's when a knock sounds at the door that I get up and race towards it. A bright smile on my face, I open the door... only for my smile to drop completely and my heart to stop in my chest.

Ambrose.

I stare at him in complete and utter confusion. "What - what are you doing here?" My words are barely audible, everything I planned to say the next time I saw him dissipates on my tongue. I can't help the bitter taste that fills my mouth and the fury I feel at the sight of him.

Ambrose stands staring back at me, a smile rising on his lips. "Your mum... she said you missed me and - and I got on the first flight here," he explains, rushed and breathless.

So many questions swirl in my head. What right does he have? What right does my mother have? Why were they even talking in the first place? Why would she do this behind my back?

"Well, she lied," I shrug and close the door in his face.

Turning on my heel, I make a b-line for the stairs. My mother will not hear the end of this. My feet stamp against the steps with loud bangs, signifying my utter dismay.

Pushing open her door, I find her lying in bed as if she hasn't a care in the world. Like she hasn't just ruined my life!

"Why is Ambrose standing at the front door?" I ask, my voice the epitome of calm.

A bright smile finds its way onto her lips. "Well, I thought I could surprise you with someone who you can actually have a future with. This nonsense you've been doing with this boy won't last. You need to think of your future, Heidi."

"You had no right," I say but my voice breaks. Of course, my body decides it wants to cry instead of being angry. It's always the way. To shield myself from the pure embarrassment of crying in front of my mother, I go back to my room and rifle out some clothing.

I'm going to enjoy my day and act as though this never happened. The guy at the front door? Who is he? I haven't a clue. Most likely some random. And the woman I call my mother? Who's that? Mothers don't get involved with their kids' lives like this.

Grabbing a small white dress and some underwear, I quickly get changed. The sooner I leave this house, the better.

As soon as I fix my hair and make sure I look somewhat presentable, I storm back down the stairs and straight to the front door. Not even announcing my exit, I leave the house and ignore the random sitting down on the porch chair.

"Heidi, c'mon, just wait," the person says as they follow me, hot on my heels. I believe I remember the way to Nico's house but I'm not entirely sure.

Why does the universe hate me so much?

"Please, leave me alone. I don't want you here, my mother lied to you and for what reason? I haven't any bloody idea," I breathe, my anger getting the better of me again.