"I get that a lot," Isabella replied, forcing a small smile she didn't feel.
"No, I mean it," Laura said, leaning in slightly. "You look like someone I used to know. Years ago."
Isabella's pulse skipped. "Who?"
"A woman named Antonia. She used to come here. Beautiful. Smart. Strong," Laura said softly, almost to herself.
"I don't know anyone named Antonia," Isabella answered quickly, but the tremor in her voice betrayed her.
Laura's eyes lingered, scanning every feature her nose, her lips, her eyes. "The resemblance is remarkable. Especially the eyes."
"Laura." Matteo's voice was sharper this time. "Was there something else?"
"No, sir. Just wanted to say hello." Laura stepped back, but as she turned, her hand brushed the table. A napkin slid down like it had been dropped by accident.
"Nice meeting you," she told Isabella before disappearing into the crowd.
