by Stefania Zamagni, translated into English by Ruth Stephens
Chapter 3 – From Dream To Reality
Well, how bad can it get? Fabrizio has finally got to exhibit his paintings in a gallery and has sold nothing.
He’s disappointed and humiliated.
He had thought this was the big break he’d been waiting for, but it hasn’t worked out.
What’s more, he has a terrible headache.
And now he must find a way to earn some money or he won’t even be able to pay the rent.
Damn!
He remembers that today is the very day the landlord will be calling to collect the rent money .
He had been sure he would have good news for him but now he doesn’t know what to do.
“I could go out so that he doesn’t find me at home.
Or lock the doors and windows and not answer the door.
Or pretend to be ill.
Or ask him to wait a few days. What shall I do?”
At that very moment there is a knock at the door.
Fabrizio opens it.
“Good morning Signor Finelli, how are you? I‘ve been expecting you.”
“Good morning. I’ve come to collect the rent and really I’m in a bit of a hurry.”
“Umm….about the rent….I really need to speak to you.
You see, I was hoping things would have worked out better but I’m afraid they haven’t.”
“So?”
“So today I can’t pay the rent.”
“I see. And what do you propose to do in order to be able to go on living here?”
“I suppose giving you one of my paintings in lieu of rent would be out of the question?
No? OK, well, could I paint your house for you?”
The next day Fabrizio finds himself at the door of Signor Finelli’s house, armed with paint and brushes, ready to start.
He’s brought all the materials he’s going to need, but his spirits are at rock bottom.
This kind of painting is work that he hates. He rings the bell, takes a deep breath and grits his teeth.
This is something he has to do if he is to pay the rent!
The door opens.
Standing there in front of him is Marianna.
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