Summary

Chapter 12 began with Delia leaving the Vossi sisters’ shop and meeting Uncle Filippo at the corner of the street. The dress Delia wore offended Uncle Filippo because he thought it was too soon for her to be wearing such a revealing dress when she should still be in mourning. Delia made an excuse, saying she bought the dress because was feeling depressed and wanted to get herself a present. Uncle Filippo retorted that women get depressed too easily, but immediately felt bad for saying it because Delia had every right to be upset so soon after her mother died.

However, Delia reflected that she was not feeling depressed at all. Instead, she felt worn out. She brought Uncle Filippo with her to a nearby bar. He told her about Amalia’s determination, mentioning an incident when Amalia was little: she had been sewing...