One of Alessandro’s guards immediately stepped forward.
Without taking his eyes off the girl, Alessandro lifted a single hand.
« Stay back. »
The guard froze.
Slowly, Alessandro lowered himself until he was kneeling on the sidewalk in front of her. Rain soaked through the knee of his tailored trousers, but he paid no attention.
« What is your name? »
« Emma. »
« Emma… »
His voice, capable of silencing rooms filled with armed men, became unexpectedly gentle.
« Can you tell me about the little boy? »
She nodded.
« He likes to draw. »
« What does he draw? »
« Horses. »
She thought for a moment.
« And boats. »
Another pause.
« And a big house. »
Alessandro’s heartbeat quickened.
« What kind of house? »
She raised both hands, tracing an invisible roof in the air.
« It has two little windows at the top… »
« …and a big door in the middle. »
His throat tightened.
The Moretti estate had two dormer windows overlooking the front lawn. Mateo had loved standing there, waving to the gardeners every morning.
