Hi there loves, sorry this episode came late. I kind of hit a writer's block, was finally able to get out of it. Anyways I hope you enjoy tonights episode and I promise to write soon.

Don't forget to show your love ❤  take care.

XO, Ama

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In the week that followed the eve of Pete's death, everything more or less happened in the way of a routine. Cassy would wake up in the middle of the night, cold and trembling.

Sometimes she would be drenched in sweat, screaming. Sometimes she would be found crying in her sleep. And sometimes she would never sleep the night.

On many nights, Sofia would sleep near Cassy, in case she needed somebody to hold her. It pained her to see her baby sister suffer. Yet, Sofia realised that some tears were meant to be shed and perhaps it was best to let Cassy cry her heart out for some solace.

Sofia had also spoken to both her parents and Nonnina about Cassy's situation. She had requested them to not speak about the sensitive topic with Cassy.

Sofia had promised them that she would handle the situation, and she did. She, together with Luca, often stayed with Cassy from sunny mornings to dusky evenings, keeping her company. They would make sure to prevent Cassy from isolating herself. Cassy was both grateful and happy for their efforts.

Autumn was when the vineyards came alive with rich harvest. The De Angelis estate situated at the base of the Tuscan hills, was a vivid display of brilliant colours. The vineyards with long neat rows of thick grape vines weighed heavily with plump clusters of sweet ripe fruit. In the golden hues of the season, they bedazzled like crystals that adorned the orderly rows in the vineyard.

Cassy accompanied her Papa on the days of the harvest. The cool mornings filled with their chatter and laughter as they carefully plucked the ripest grapes, their fingers stained purple from the sweet juices. Cassy watched in awe as her Papa expertly selected the best grapes, plucking them for the fine wines they produced. Between the neat rows of lush vines, they shared memories of the past harvests and plans for the future. Through their rhythmic work in the vineyards and the serene beauty of the picturesque landscape, Cassy found an escape from her overweighing grief that burdened her.

In the evenings after the vineyard labour, the family would gather together. Amidst reminiscing about the joyous past, taking guesses of Antonio's whereabouts, Cassy would often lay her head on her Mama's lap feeling the gentle stroke of her mother's hand through her hair, a soothing comfort through stormy times.

One lazy morning, when Cassy had drifted off on the divan while trying to read a book that had been a favourite, she was gently roused by a soft knock on her bedroom door. Sofia was standing by the door smiling angelically.

Cassy gasped, sitting up straight upon seeing her sister. The waist-length black hair that Sofia once had, had been replaced with short, blond waves that barely reached her shoulders. She was dressed in a very chic white romper, paired with leather sandals. Her Ray Bans perched stylishly on her nose, giving her eyes a sense of mystery. The vibrant scarf draped around her neck added a touch of sophistication.

"What..." Cassy was too stunned to finish her sentence.

It was satisfying to see Cassy stunned, making Sofia chuckle softly. Cassy slipped off the divan and hurried upto her.

Sofia gestured at the pale grey tote bag on her arm that Cassy had failed to notice before.

"Come on, we're going to the Lamben Oak Tree Meadow. We have wine – lots of it, and dress nice. Luca's coming."

Sofia winked with a knowing smile, which confused Cassy.

She turned on her heel, proceeding to head down the corridor outside Cassy's room, "And don't forget the sunscreen" and she disappeared from view.

Cassy smiled to herself, knowing that she couldnt win against her sister especially when she decides to pair up with Cassy's childhood buddy. So Cassy began to dress.

She picked a pair of pale mandarin-coloured shorts to go with a flowy white button-down shirt tying it loosely around her waist. Opting for sandals on the exceptionally beautiful, warm day, she dusted her face with some powder and applied pale orange lipstick over her lips. Cassy marvelled at the rosy-flushed face of the girl in the mirror.

It was refreshing to see her smiling again. Sofia's new outlook had sparked an ounce of hope within Cassy, a hope of solace and joy amidst the chaos and turmoil.

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Cassy and Sofia rode the bus to Lamben Oak Tree Meadow, enjoying the serene beauty of Tuscany's countryside. The sweet scent of the grape harvest tingled their senses.

Being back in Tuscany among her family, Cassy realised how much she had missed the company of them and all of Tuscany. When they got off the bus in front of the meadow, many nostalgic memories flooded Cassy's mind. The picnics, the kite races, swimming in the nearby creek made Cassy sigh happily.

The Lamben Oak Tree meadow that day was a sight for sore eyes. Bathed in its glory rejoicing in the embrace of autumn.

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, tucked away from the busy streets, Lamben Oak Tree meadow had been their spot when they were growing up. Everybody knew that the meadow was home to the ancient Lamben Oak which stood tall and proud. To them, it had been their haven, Cassy recalled as she and Sofia made their way through to the massive Lamben Oak tree.

As they got closer, Cassy noticed thick ivy vines wrapped around its trunk that had gnarled with age. It supported a canopy of lush foliage that spread out like an upturned umbrella, each branch arching gracefully from the trunk, up and skyward.

Cassy marvelled at the wide landscape stretching far out under the open sky. It was adorned with patches of soft green grass dotted with pretty wildflowers in shades of lavender and splendid yellow. The tranquility enveloped the De Angelis sisters warmly, engulfing them both in fond memories of their childhood.

They were both mesmerised by the splendor of the Lamben Oak that they hardly heard Luca approaching them.

"Hello sisters!" He greeted them warmly as he walked towards Sofia and Cassy who were absorbed in the sight of the sky that was peeking through golden leaves of the Lamben Oak.

He couldn't help but notice Cassy's glow. How her cheeks were flushed from in the morning sun. How her eyes sparkled with excitement as she looked around the familiar place. How her hair cascading down her shoulders. Coming back home to peaceful and serene Tuscany had really worked its magic on her. Luca found himself admiring her from afar mesmerised by her.

Sofia who noticed Luca's glances acknowledged his unspoken affections with a quiet smile.

They spent the morning under the cool shade of the Lamben Oak, sharing wine and food and memories. Luca even started sketching things he noticed on a napkin.

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Upon returning from the picnic at Lamben Oak Tree Meadow; Cassy was inspired by the fresh flavours of the Tuscan Countryside and she decided to prepare lunch.

First she prepared a classic Tuscan dish, Ribollita. Simmering the beans, kale and vegetables in a rich vegetable broth, Cassy added chunks of stale bread, allowing them to soak up the flavours in the pot. Cassy knew that, this would thicken up the soup.

Meanwhile she let the chicken thighs for Pollo alla Cacciatora, brown in some Olive oil until they were a rich golden color.

Once the Ribollita had finished being cooked, she topped it off with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with a drizzle of some extra virgin Olive oil. The Ribollita's rich aroma filled the kitchen and soon the rest of the villa.

She then simmered the chicken thighs with tomatoes, garlic, rosemary, and a splash of red wine, letting the stew cook slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together, which resulted in tender chicken infused with the essence of the Mediterranean herbs.

For the side dish, Cassy decided to prepare Insalata di Rucola e Pomodorini, a refreshing arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

Deciding to end the meal on a sweet note, Cassy prepared a Torta della Nonna, a traditional Tuscan dessert with a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a velvety custard made from eggs, milk, and a hint of lemon zest. She dusted the top with powdered sugar, garnishing each slice with toasted almonds.

Finally, Cassy paired the dishes with Chianti Classico — a local red wine known for its bold flavors and ability to complement hearty Tuscan dishes.

During lunch, Luca found himself stealing glances at Cassy when he thought she was not looking. He admired her graceful, poised movements and easy attitude. Whenever Cassy smiled at something, he smiled too, warmth filling his heart and spreading through his body.

He even made sure to sit next to her at lunch, engaging in subtle conversations. His stomach tingled everytime she brushed against him. It was something he had felt before but what he felt now about Cassy was different and much stronger. Once when she caught him staring at her, he quickly looked away, blushing slightly.

Everybody devoured Cassy's lunch showering her with compliments. Sofia, knowing cooking was her sister's passion, was thrilled by Cassy's efforts for lunch. Mama expressed her pride im Cassy and Papa smiled approvingly and thanked her for the lovely meal. Luca himself was quite pleased to join the De Angelis for a meal, specially to one prepared by Cassy herself.

Nonnina was the most impressed despite being the family's own food critique. She clinked a glass to gather the attention of the room, and proceeded to praise Cassy, while suggesting Cassy would learn wonders from Giovanni, the renowned chef.

This unexpected praise by Nonnina  surprised everyone, confirming Cassy's culinary skills were exceptional.

Cassy was overjoyed that she could hardly speak, nodding fiercely. She knew that it was hard to impress Nonnina, and that it was even harder to get such a compliment from her. Finally she managed to say,

"Thank you so much Nonnina, I would love that."

Cheers and clinking glasses filled the De Angelis Villa with joyous chatter and noises. Amidst the festive atmosphere; a familiar, unexpected voice of a male boomed loudly, jolting everybody present.

"Ciao famiglia! Mi sono mancati!"

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Hi again,

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Love you all my sweets ♥️