Chapter Thirty
“Welcome to Assisi, everyone! This town is a medieval gem, famous as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of the most revered saints in Catholicism. He founded the Franciscan Order here in the early 13th century. St. Francis is known for his vow of poverty and deep love for nature; his teachings of simplicity, compassion, and reverence for nature continue to inspire visitors from around the world.”
Pointing out the window, Alicia continued, “We’ll start with the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site is unique as it has two churches: the Upper Basilica with Gothic architecture, known for its stunning frescoes by Giotto, and the Lower Basilica with its Romanesque style and the tomb of St. Francis. Look out for the ribbed vaults and the large rose window in the Upper Basilica. After exploring the town’s historic center, we’ll ascend to the Rocca Maggiore, a medieval fortress perched atop the hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, providing a glimpse into the timeless beauty of the Umbrian landscape. Also, take note of the many monasteries around here. The monks and nuns often support themselves through farming, creating handmade goods, and offering retreats. Before we depart, I encourage you to look around Assisi, where you’ll find charming cafes, artisanal shops, and hidden courtyards waiting to be discovered. Don’t forget to pick up a handmade pottery souvenir.”
After exploring the basilica, Sophie and Fernando took some time to wander hand in hand through Assisi’s enchanting streets. Its medieval character enveloped them as they meandered down narrow, winding alleys paved with cobblestones worn smooth by centuries of foot traffic. The architecture spoke volumes of the town’s storied past, with stone buildings rising proudly on either side. The structures bore the marks of centuries, their rustic, weathered facades decorated with intricate carvings, ornate detailing, and wood-shuttered windows adorned with vibrant flower boxes that added bursts of color against the earth-toned walls hinting at a bygone era. Medieval archways spanned overhead, connecting buildings and casting dappled shadows on the streets below. As they strolled, they passed by artisan workshops where skilled craftsmen practiced age-old trades, their hands deftly shaping metal, wood, and clay. The scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the earthy aroma of leather, creating an intoxicating sensory experience. Moss-covered walls and ivy-clad facades added to the town’s timeless allure while the distant sound of church bells echoed through the narrow alleys. Sophie couldn’t help but marvel at the authenticity of it all, feeling as though she had stepped back in time.
She paused before a shop showcasing an exquisite collection of ceramics; the pottery’s vibrant hues and intricate designs were captivating. “Buongiorno,” the shopkeeper greeted them warmly as they entered. “Buongiorno! These hand-painted ceramics are beautiful,” she remarked. Admiring a display of colorful pieces, she decided to purchase a Deruta bud vase hand-painted in bright reds, yellows, and blues she knew her mother would love.
Fernando nodded in agreement, his eyes catching on a beautiful vase with a scalloped edge that he knew Hannah would appreciate. He picked it up, admiring the craftsmanship. Then, holding up a colorful, wide-bellied water pitcher for Sophie’s inspection, he smiled and said, “This will be a perfect memento for the trip and practical for my summer pool parties. The lemon design reminds me of Sorrento and Capri, the teal and blue accents of the Mediterranean waters, and the leaves of all the olive trees, even if they’re not the right kind.”
“Yes, it’s like all our destinations rolled into one souvenir that will do more than just collect dust,” Sophie agreed.
Climbing back on the bus a short time later, Fernando and Sophie settled in for the two-hour drive to Florence.
“Speaking about family earlier, I have a question,” Sophie said as she finished retrieving their afternoon meal from a paper bag and placing it on the flip-down trays on the back of the seats in front of them. As Fernando adjusted his seat, he looked over with curiosity. Sophie continued, “I was wondering if you have ever tried to locate your mother? You have the resources now to hire a private investigator. Why wait for her to come to you when you could possibly go to her.” She handed him a freshly made panino, the aroma of warm focaccia and savory fillings permeated the air, along with a chilled bottle of Limonata.
Fernando unwrapped his panino, admiring the layers of prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, and roasted peppers nestled between the golden slices of bread. “No, I haven’t. Well, that isn’t exactly true. When I first had a little pocket change, I tried. It was a dead end. Could I hire someone better now and try again? I could, but part of me is also a bit wary. She rejected me once already. I don’t know if I’m willing to give her a second chance to abandon me. I also have family that I love, and part of my logical side says I don’t need her in my life,” he stated before taking a sip of the Limonata, the tangy sweetness quenching his thirst.
“Yeah, but you said part of your obsession with M.C. is that she’s knocking you off the top of the best-seller lists, and if your fame isn’t big enough, your mom won’t find you or want you enough to be in your life. What if you just looked her up and found out for yourself once and for all if you want each other around?”
She took a bite of her panino, savoring the combination of flavors. “Mmm, this is so good! Have you noticed how everything in Italy is so fresh? I swear this basil was picked right off the bush before they put it in our sandwich. I can almost taste the green.”
Nodding in agreement, Fernando added, “That is one of my favorite things about this country; they don’t rush the food preparation.”
“Back to your mom, what are your thoughts on finding her? It seems like that is a massive unresolved part of your past that could be holding you back, whether it is specifically a fear or not,” Sophie pushed, not wanting to give up on the topic.
“You’re right; there’s a great deal of childhood trauma, for lack of a better word, revolving around my abandonment. Between my mom dropping me off on the doorstep of a firehouse within hours of giving birth, to the McKenzies and a handful of other families not adopting me, it can be a real struggle to remind myself as a grown man that I am worthy of love and my place in this world.” Sophie noticed Fernando didn’t make eye contact as he continued eating his lunch.
“Have you ever spoken with Colin or Annabel about that? Asked why they didn’t adopt you? It seems important to you. I have seen firsthand how much they love you. I think they would gladly explain their reasons, and I honestly feel they had to have some pretty good ones, or they would have made their relationship with you legal. Colin totally treats you like a son, and the McKenzie kids are your siblings, just like your BBC brothers. Never doubt the sincerity and depth of those relationships, whether they are recognized by the courts or not. Anyone with eyes can see the genuine connection between all of you.”
“I know. I love them as if they were my blood. It’s all in my head. No matter how many times I tell myself to get over it, sometimes it creeps back in when I’m down or struggling with life. As for my mother, I’d be interested to know what happened to her, to ask why she abandoned me. And despite everything, I’d like to thank her for giving me life. She could have aborted me, but she chose to drop me off at a Safe Place instead. I respect her for that, whatever the reason.”
Gently placing a hand on his thigh, Sophie added, “And, in giving you life, you were able to bring the BBC together and save your brothers as well. No matter how painful, God has a plan for you. I’m grateful for the part you played in my story.”
Taking her hand in his, he turned slightly to make direct eye contact with her. “I’m not sure where either of our paths will lead, but I’m thankful you were placed in my life. You came along when I was coming unraveled, detached from the family that grounded me, with more responsibility than I could handle. In your calm and simple way, you slowly started stitching the chaos of my life back together. I never would have made it this far in this industry without you, Sophie. You are more than my right hand and friend. You are a gift that I treasure. Thank you for taking this journey with me, both the business one and this BBC pact. You make everything more enjoyable.”
“You’re welcome. The feeling is mutual. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. That day, you and your brothers rolled into my store and purchased close to a million dollars in watches… let’s just say that commission check saved my family’s bacon. Eviction wasn’t just a threat. It was happening. The job offer was a Godsend. There has never been more perfect timing,” Sophie murmured as she collected their trash and stowed it in the paper bag to toss in the trash later, then lifted her tray table out of the way.
“Mind sharing more of that story with me? I have always been curious about it,” Fernando admitted.
“Sure, if you’re willing to share the pact that brought the BBC in to see me,” Sophie rebutted.
“Of course, that seems only fair. I’ll start,” Fernando said, leaning back in his seat and getting comfortable.