A long red skirt covered her legs, marked her slightly curvy body. A genuine Spanish shawl, a Mantón de Manila, as it was called, embraced her shoulders, hid her torso. 

‘It’s nice to finally see someone from Spain in here.’ Alba commented as they let go of each other’s hands after too many seconds of physical contact. ‘I miss my country so badly, I haven’t been there in a while.’ 

‘I know what you mean. We’ve been moving around for some months and I terribly miss my Granada.’    

Patricia and Tina watched in awe as the two young women spoke in rapid-fire Spanish, fearless under the hard scrutiny of disapproving, elderly gypsies. Though the Italian and the American couldn’t understand a word of what was said, they were able to see, by body language, that the two were fastly becoming intimate, related easily to one another. 

‘Who’s this kid, a friend of yours?’ Ms. Arpino asked, deeply curious. 

‘Yeah. Her name’s Alba Hernandez and she’s actually a Spaniard.’ Tina answered. 

‘Of course. Who in Firenze doesn’t know the Hernandezes’ family history?’ She shrugged. ‘They’re one of our greatest benefactors and have been contributing with monthly donations for as long as I remember. The Ferrers and the Countess’ family also gives us large sums. We almost own our existence as a group to their generosity.’ 

‘Really?’ The blonde exclaimed, amused. ‘I’m friends with the Countess’ daughter, who is married to a Ferrer. Have you met Marina and Manfredi Ferrer?’ 

‘I know Marina. She’s a very nice person. And has a marvelous singing voice.’ P. nodded, lost in memories. ‘She usually sings in our charity events and people love listening to her. Indeed, Marina will perform in our bazaar next week. You should come along. There’re some nice things for Christmas gifts.’ 

‘I’ll see what I can do, but I really want to go.’ Ms. Kennard announced earnestly. 

Their attention went back to the group of gypsies, who laughed wildly at something that Allba had said. The older women were no longer able to keep a grudge against the teen. In their eyes kindled an ember of warmth, small yet gradually growing and developing.  

A circle was made an now everyone spoke, Spanish and caló mingling, creating a beautiful, eerily enchanting melody.