Summary

During Chapter 17, Lila’s hysterectomy catches up with her. She becomes very difficult and often spends the entire day out in Naples, alone. Rino is the cause of many problems, because of the time he spends with Dede and Elsa. Further strife arrives when the neighborhood hears that Nadia Galiani turned herself in. Carmen in frantic about what will happen to Pasquale. Lila theorizes that Nadia will not be treated as harshly as Pasquale would.

In Chapter 18, Lila is gone more and more often. She leaves behind a business that cannot run itself and a son that cannot raise himself. She urges Elena to leave Naples regularly.

During Chapter 19, Elena goes through a time of indecision. She feels her daughters need more stability. Nino was elected to public office and has moved to Rome, while Pietro is talking of leaving Italy. In...