96

Faust

Four and a half years later

The door handle rattled, followed by a thud. More rattling.

When Marco started to rise from his chair, I raised my hand. “Wait,” I muttered and hid my smile.

A few seconds later, my office door opened and the beautiful face of my two-year-old daughter, Noemi, appeared. She walked in like she was in charge. — Papa! Zio Marco! Mom says it's time to come.

I pushed away from the table and patted my lap. — Polpetta! I've been waiting for you. Come, give me hugs and kisses.

— Oh, me first! — Marco took my daughter before she could

reached the table and turned it around. She screamed in pleasure, her short blonde curls flying.

When he pulled her to her feet, she smiled and staggered. - I am dizzy.

I gave him a second to get his bearings. — Now can I have my hugs and kisses?

She ran over and jumped on top of me, squirming in my lap. Naomi was aggressive and energetic, just like her brother. And your mother, now that I think about it.

Noemi stayed on my thighs