"Welcome James." Maria opened the door and greeted James.

"Hey, Maria. Been a while." He placed a kiss on her cheeks before entering the house while she closed the door after him.

"Where is Alessandro?" He asked her as soon as her hands let go of the doorknob.

"He's upstairs but will be down as soon as he hears that you have arrived." Maria said and led him through the illuminated hallway into the living area.

"Have your seat. What would you like to have? Tea? Coffee? Fruit juice?" She quizzed him.

"Oh Maria, I don't want any but you won't let me leave if I don't have any right?"...