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“Buongiorno,” I greet “I’m not late Am I?”

“Not today,” he grunts, turning his attention back to the screen I turn to leave, but he tells ruff, and I can’t help but roll my eyes at his serious demeanor

At times, he can be really friendly, but then there are those ht where he drives me insane with his crankiness

“Of course,” I respond, fakingup et used to, up before eight in the a workout before et the coffees before spending my day surrounded by art

Rich in history, it’s been a journey I would never have thought possible, yet here I aallery and make a beeline for the storeroom where the new collection awaits me“Ms Kinley, I was impressed with your resume and would like to see you when you return stateside,” theapprenticeship in Italy, studying art, learning about the greats Now, as I get ready to head back home, I have to find work

I’ve spent the better part of twofor soained fro time in Italy

“Of course I arrive back in two days” The excitement in my tone is palpable, and I wonder if he can hear it Even though I’, I’m responsible, mature, and I can certainly complete the tasks he listed in the ad

“Let’s ive you a few days to settle in” The thick accent is syrupy sweet, and I wonder what he looks like

“Thank you, Mr Elliot I’allery,” I tell hi that’s happened since I toldstraight to New Orleans, she just about squealed

“Till then” His voice is gruff, and then I’ up He didn’t even say goodbye I wonder if working with hie as that short conversation

I know I’ll workfocused and dedicated, I hope to ensure e doesn’t factor into his decision to hire ret because they felt I was too young Then again, ood art was if it hit them in the face

A knock on hts When I open it, I’m met with my best friend, who pretty much followed me all around the world We’ve known each other since ere in high school I’d been the nerdy girl who always had her nose buried between the pages of a book

Phoebe is the coto parties and force me to have fun Even with our differences, we spent every day of our school years together When I went off to Yale, she followed along, getting a full scholarship Those were our wilder years I’d decided, since I lost , I wanted to live each day to its fullest I never knew h it didn’t bother me too much, I still wondered what my life would be like if I had him around

Needless to say, I’d found a love of going out Perhaps too ht and narroith Phoebe’s help

“How are you, darling?” She pullssweet When Phoebe steps back, she pulls out a small packet of candy and hands it to me It’s my favorite There’s a small boutique store down the way, and the old lady who runs it ary treats

“This is so good, thank you I just spoke to who one of the strawberry-flavored balls into my mouth “He wants to meet me on Friday I’ll have three days to explore my new home”

“Nea, I’ a chance on this You’ll love New Orleans,” my friend informs me happily as she flops on my sofa

“Wine?” I ask her, picking up the bottle I took out earlier