Her next day with Forrest was very different. Elegant Amalfi seemed to spur conversations about life, love, accomplishments and failures. For the first time Lacie discussed comfortably her childhood. She was abandoned by her father and was left to grow up near Portofino with family. She was accepted but never felt loved, admitting she enjoyed her job because she sought approval even from strangers. Something or someone had always been missing in her life and she felt she had the best chance of finding it here…on the cruise ship.
Forrest in turn spoke of his wife, Leona. He reminisced about their love and life here in Italy. His gentle face pinched when he spoke of her suicide. Tears trickled down his cheeks as he spoke of her loneliness and despondence when he was away for long periods of time. His strong hands shook as he confessed he’d been careless with her, taken her for granted; their life and ultimately love. When she was gone, he lived elsewhere but Leona never left his heart. Where ever he went he always spoke to her, telling her “You’d have loved it”. He missed his best friend and had never stopped loving or wishing for her.
Lacie’s heart was heavy and when she held him, they both cried. Somehow Forrest was filling a void for Lacie while she held him together. The bond was strong and immediate. They laughed, wiped away their tears and continued their day arm-in-arm; determined not to be weighed down by past burdens. It was easy and natural, feeling like old friends catching up.
Their day turned into dinner and dancing. Their laughter was infectious. Troy seethed with jealousy when Forrest swept Lacie to the dance floor and their conversations became soft. Although Forrest graciously allowed Troy to cut in, when it became too suggestive and clinging, Forrest stepped up, whisking her away creating a tension even Lacie could taste. A dejected Troy faded into the evening with another woman who was not so quick to rebuff his advances. Forrest smiled knowing Lacie was safe for one more night.
