Quote image editor
“Go home and stay away from my grandson." "No." I surprise myself with my refusal. She stares at me for a long moment. "What did you say?" She looks genuinely shocked. I'm not sure anyone ever says no to Violetta Fiore. I cross my arms, darting a quick look at Nicolo. He is watching me with a raised eyebrow and a look of respect. Even the dog is staring at me, tail wagging uncertainly. "I won't go. Not without the recipe. I know you have it. It belongs to my family. Give it back." She rears back as though I've struck her. "Do you even know what you are asking for?" she hisses. For a moment I waver. She's right. I don't really know what I'm asking for, not entirely. I know it's half of a torn recipe, but I don't understand the history of the recipe between Violetta and Nonna Bruna. "I know enough to know that it has value to my Nonna Bruna and that you took it," I say, lifting my chin. "It's valuable enough that she says losing it ruined her life." I'm surprising myself with my own tenacity. I can't back down now.” — Rachel Linden