"What about your sister, Lisa? I know about Matteo's fame in the art industry. He has become a big name now in France. You must be proud of him."
"Yes, I am. It's all I could ever ask for. Lisa is also studying in France."
"So, you now live alone?"
"Technically, no. I have chefs, workers, drivers, and other house staff."
"Woah, you must be very accomplished; they're all in plurals. I'm proud of you, Alessia. I always knew you had it in you. You're the most driven person I've ever met."
"Thank you," she said with a shy smile. That seemed to make Johnny's face lighten up as he continued the conversation with vigor as they began their meal.
She smiled as she listened and replied, but her mind was starting to drift away. She remembered how she tried to keep the conversation going with Giovanni after she saw him on the rooftop. She never got to pay him back with a meal like she had planned, nor did she get him any roses. She chuckled bitterly.