Chapter 26. Nonna Luisa’s Hot Choco

Calla sat alone in the dining room, digesting what had just happened, when the elderly housekeeper walked in with grocery bags in her hands.

The woman had a warm smile on her face. “Oh, tesoro,” she said. Calla quickly stood up to help her with the bags.

“You kind, thank you.”

She followed the elderly woman to the kitchen and placed the bags on the counter.

Calla pressed her lips together in a smile and nodded. “Good morning,” she said to the woman.

“Good-a morning, cara,” replied the woman as she took out the bag’s contents. “How was-a the night?” She turned to Calla and passed her a knowing smile, followed by a wink.

It took Calla by surprise and she tried not to laugh. This old woman knows too much.

Calla cleared her throat and leaned on the counter, trying to act casual. “Good,” she said.

“Good, si?” the woman asked and Calla nodded.

She emptied the bags and turned to Calla. “Eh, let-a me fix you a glass