Page 9 of His Cursed Heart

“Why?”

“I didn’t ask him why, Keaton. He demanded and I delivered.”

“When?”

“The night of your bachelor party. He’s letting you meet your fiancée first at the engagement party.”

“My what?” I ask, confused.

Batchelor party? Engagement party?

Am I the only one who didn’t know that I’m getting married to Althea? When did they discuss it when Keres dies just three days ago?

“Oh, you didn’t know? This Friday you have your engagement party with Althea.”

Four years ago

I am looking at the black canvas, trying to gather my thoughts. I’ve been sitting here for a couple of hours but it feels like seconds.

‘Your mother is gone, girls.’

That’s what my father told me couple of years ago. Like he couldn’t care more.

‘She was sick, she’s better now.’

My mother wasn’t sick. The world that didn’t understood her made her like that.

“Uccellino?” My sister’s trembled voice makes my eyes move away the canvas. “I’ve been calling you for some time, where did your mind go this time?”

“To mama.” When was the last time I saw her?

Last week?

Last month?

She left me in the place that is worse than hell. I wish I could be mad at her, but if I was in her place, I would’ve left long time ago.

“You can talk with me about anything, you know that right?” Keres whispers and walks slowly towards me.

“I know.” But I won’t. She’s not strong enough.

Because my sister is like un piccolo cervo. Scared of the world, but too proud not to explore it.

Her ocean eyes fill with tears as she bents to hug me.

“We’ll be okay, uccellino.” I pat her hand softly.

You’ll be fine, I wanted to say.

Keres was always meant to shine. To grow beautifully while I just watch.

Because someone cursed me before I had time to breathe.

Present – a week later

The hall is too crowded. Too noisy.

For the first time since mama died, the Italian empire opened the doors for the wedding of the year.