The Heiress

Chapter 16 : Where There's Smoke, There's Fire

Michelle stood outside her sleek black Maserati, her gaze fixed on the charming house that stood behind a familiar old wooden gate. With her short hair perfectly curled, she checked her reflection in the rearview mirror one last time. Satisfied with her appearance, she grabbed the basket of Prosecco and a bouquets of warm pink hydrangeas from the backseat before slamming shut her car's door.  marching forward the gate.

A warm and inviting atmosphere enveloped Michelle as soon as she stepped beyond the gate of the old house. Her curious nature didn't even bother to make her knock at the door — she simply walked inside the tall yet study frame that was opened widely for guests.

Michelle decided to explore the house a little bit. The walls, adorned with family photos and vintage Italian decor, spoke volumes about the rich history the house held. The living room, though not as vast as the villa, exuded a cozy charm, with rustic wooden furniture and vibrant linens adding a touch of elegance. The scent of home-cooked Italian dishes filled the air, enhancing the homely ambiance. The Asian heiress couldn't help but smile at the smell of roasted tomatoes and olives that was filling the entire house with its enticing aroma, Her stomach suddenly grumbled.

"Ciao!"

The Asian heiress swiftly turned to see who greeted her.

"Oh...", she grinned.

"Hai già mangiato?" She titled her head and remained grinning causing the woman to chuckle.

"Have you eaten?"

"Oh!!" Michelle shook her head. "I — yeah. I mean not yet...sorry. Uh... this is Celeste's nonna's birthday party, right?"

"Ah! Chele. My sister didn't tell me she invited a friend. I'm Monica, Chele's sister".

"Michelle—". The investment heiress was surprised when Monica reached for her and gave her two kisses on the cheek.

"Uhm...these are for nonna". The Asian heiress gave the bottle of wine and one bouquet of flowers to Monica".

"Aw..you didn't have to, but Nonna would be glad. You'll meet her later. Come on, eat!" Monica pulled Michelle towards another door that leads to the back of the house with the other guests. "Chele will be joining us in a while. She's just busy in the kitchen, but please feel at home. There's plenty of aperitivo e antipasti". The woman smiled.

"Grazie".

Venturing toward the back and exploring the house a little further, Michelle saw a hidden gem – a lush garden with a mini vineyard and a thriving tomato farm. The vibrant colors of blooming flowers contrasted with the deep green of the vines made the Asian heiress' smile wide. Michelle couldn't help but marvel at the simplicity and beauty of Nonna's garden.

As Michelle continued her exploration, a fragrant scent of basil and something that was roasting caught her attention. Then, she walked towards the side of the house and stumbled upon what seemed like a quaint outdoor kitchen tucked in the side of the house — away from where the guests could see. Her stomach grumbled louder at the aroma of what was cooking — Michelle proceeded forward.

"Puoi darmi un'altra padella?"

Michelle stopped in her tracks — her lips cracking into the widest grin she has had for the past few months. What she saw was like an answered prayer.

"Moni? La padella, per favore? Perché sei così lenta?" The woman yelled and hastly turned around — shocked.

"Hi", Michelle waved. The huge idiotic grin was still on her face.

"Oh my God! Hi!" Celeste replied and immediately removed the black apron that was wrapped around her waist before coming towards the investment heiress.