Part 1: Chapters 7-10 Summary

In chapter 7, Plautilla is married in a large and extravagant ceremony. Afterward, Alessandra finds herself missing her sister even though they were never close. Within a few months, the family learns that Plautilla is pregnant. Tomaso and Luca, Alessandra's brothers, tease her that she will be next. They also tell Alessandra that they saw the painter on the streets one night, fresh from a prostitute's bed. The conversation turns to Savonarola, with Tomaso and Alessandra siding against Luca and his fascination with Savonarola. Their mother breaks up the conversation and announces she must go to Plautilla to help with a problem that has arisen with the baby.

In chapter 8, Alessandra stays up late eating and thinking about her desire to paint. Alessandra sees a light in the chapel and she sneaks inside. Alessandra takes the painter by surprise and...