The Altomare Family was powerful. The wedding caused a great stir in society. But his parents were kind and gentle toward me. I actually felt more at ease in their home than I ever had in the Altomare Family’s house.
Since I loved reading, I was overjoyed when I saw their large study full of books. At first, Fabio ignored me. But he then eventually started talking to me more. He would push his wheelchair into the study to recommend books and stopped refusing my help so often.
Later, the Altomare Family found a master of Romani folk medicine who had lived in seclusion for many years. The master said there was still hope for Fabio’s recovery. That day, everyone was filled with joy.
The master gave Fabio some herbs and said it had to be done once a week, along with massages and herbal medicine. I learned the massage techniques from the folk doctor and personally made herbal remedies for Fabio. Even though I missed my college exam, I didn’t give up on studying.
From then on, my days were spent between my books and helping Fabio recover.
On the first day, Fabio felt very uncomfortable and even told me to leave. However, I refused to give up. I kept massaging him. After all, I wanted him to recover soon. Besides, I was afraid the servants wouldn’t be as careful or strong enough to help him properly.
I learned fast. Within a week, I had memorized every acupuncture point on the human body, earning praise from the old folk medicine master. Slowly, Fabio got used to my massages, moving from resistance to acceptance.
A year later, he finally regained feeling in his legs and could even stand up. That day, I cried for a long time, truly happy for him. The Altomare Family celebrated with fireworks.
I pushed Fabio’s wheelchair around the yard and he gently held my hand and thanked me. At that moment, I saw light in Fabio’s eyes again. It was real, warm and full of life.
The next year, the master said Fabio’s recovery was going very well and that he would soon be able to walk on his own. He even praised my massage for helping his progress. We both started to believe in hope again.
One evening, I went to the bathroom to bring Fabio his pajamas. Unexpectedly, he stood up. His bronze skin glowed under the light, so my face turned red at once. I quickly turned around, stammering apologies at the door.