VINCENZO

This would be the third time I glanced at my parents since I became aware of a fact: it was blaringly silent here. Deader than a doornail. No matter that my parent's expression gave no clue, I kept stealing glances with the hope of getting a break in my investigation.

No such luck, however. Defeated, I returned to my food.

This should be one of those days when the atmosphere was gloomy for no reason. And I was talking about some nine, ten months ago, long before some girl had showed up and pulled my mind all to herself; away from the darkness that wrapped me round. Now she...