The Flower that never bloomed

New Beginnings

Relaxing on the balcony of her Palazzo, her emerald eyes absent-mindedly glancing at the guests coming into her hall, Lady Violetta Caravellini was immersed in a deep thought on her struggle with tuberculosis since the past year. The new disease that was wreaking havoc all over the city tried to consume her life before Violetta 's will power and the treatment of great doctors like Signor Enzo had lifted her away from the brink of death.  

Maybe we should add that Lord Alfredo Rossi's true love must have played its role morally as he admired Violetta more dearly than anyone. They have not met anywhere except in one instance at the funeral of Alfredo's mother Duchess Francesca. But that did not stop them from exchanging letters which if lined up would cover the entire Italian coastline. Violetta's maid Sophia knew all about it but maintained silence on the ongoing bonding she waited for the right time to take things further. Sophia  was more like Violetta's sister than a mere maid after the tragic loss of Signor and Signorina Caravellini during the ill-fated sinking of the ship Aurora. 

Violetta was gently drifted back to the present from her thoughts when Sophia arrived

"Signorina Caravellini the guests are eagerly awaiting your presence," said Sophia

"Yes, Sophia. I share the same excitement to greet them," replied Violetta with a warm smile.

"Signorina, are you feeling better now?" 

"Better! I feel more healthy and spirited than ever now Sophia! I am indebted to you forever for nursing me back to better health"

"Oh Signorina it is my duty to care for you as a maid, do not thank me"

"Sophia"...... "you are more like a sister to me than a maid"

Moved to tears of joy, Sophia embraced Violetta tightly, reciprocating the affection before they descended downstairs together, ready to greet their guests.