Читать книгу Firefighter's Doorstep Baby / The Soldier's Untamed Heart онлайн | страница 60

“He was a first responder to the bombing in Rome last May,” Isabella said slowly.

“I knew that. That’s where he was injured.”

“A burn, a broken ankle. Yet it’s taking a long time to heal. Does he walk okay?”

“Fine.”

Isabella stared at Mariella for a long moment.

Growing uncomfortable, Mariella smiled again. “I had some of your marinara sauce at Cristiano’s and so when I had to come to Monta Correnti and saw the restaurant, I thought I’d eat it again. It’s delicious.”

“Thank you. So you ate at Cristiano’s home?”

“The cottage near the lake,” Mariella clarified.

“I know where he’s staying. Did he bring you here?” Isabella glanced around quickly.

“No, I drove,” Mariella said.

Isabella looked at Dante. “What a blessing he is safe. Cristiano rescued him?”

“We’re staying at the cottages rented by the Bertatalis. The unit we rented burned. Faulty wire in the heating device. I was asleep, so was the baby. We both would have been killed if Cristiano hadn’t discovered the fire and come in to rescue us.”

Isabella smiled. “So like my brother. You are going back to Lake Clarissa today?”

“Yes, for a few more days. I’m on a short holiday.” She reached for her bag and pulled out Ariana’s picture. “Have you ever seen her?” she asked.

Isabella looked at the photo and handed it back. “No. A friend?”

Mariella nodded. Another story too much to go into with everyone she saw.

“I have something for Cristiano. Would you take it to him for me? Things are hectic right now or I’d go myself. Not that he’d be happy to see me,” Isabella said.

“Why ever not?”

“He’s been avoiding me. Granted, I’ve had a few other things on my mind, but I wanted to make sure he was all right. He doesn’t answer his phone most of the time. He was conveniently gone from the cottage the two times I went to visit. He’s turning into a hermit.”

Mariella laughed. “I don’t think so. But he can be a bit moody.”

“Cristiano? Doesn’t sound like him. He has a very even disposition.”

“Men hate to be sick. I know my father was grouchy when he was ill. My mother said not to worry, once he was better he’d be back to normal. Maybe Cristiano is frustrated with how long it’s taking him to heal and is taking it out on family.”