Allegra

by C. De Melo

  Surprised, Stefania asked, “Do you think that wise, husband?”

  “Our daughter is old enough to make this decision.” He shook his head and added, “Ah, the foolishness of youthful love. Do you see how it can lead you into an abyss of misery if you’re not careful, Allegra?”

  “Rest assured, Papa, I have no intention of eloping with anyone.”

  “What your father is trying to say is that someday you’ll fall in love,” Stefania explained. “Don’t break our hearts in such a hurtful manner.”

  Allegra took a sip of watered wine. “I never want to fall in love.”

  Stefania laughed softly. “I’m afraid you have no control over your heart.”

  “I despise men, Mother. They’re cruel and dishonest. They mislead, humiliate and even poison women.” Seeing the look on her father’s face, Allegra amended, “I don’t think that of you, Papa.”

  “I’m relieved to hear it,” Vittorio said wryly.

  Dismayed at her daughter’s negative view of the opposite sex, Stefania said, “Not all men are like Pietro.”

  “I realize that, but it still doesn’t change my opinion.”

  “Perhaps in the future, you should keep your opinion to yourself,” Vittorio said. “I won’t have my daughter spewing forth such radical ideas.”

  “As you wish, Papa.” Changing the subject, Allegra said, “I gave Bianca my word that I would visit her again.”

  Vittorio set down his fork. “Allegra—”

  “Bianca is lonely and sad. She’s paying dearly for putting faith in the false sanctity of love and the lies of a dishonorable lout. I don’t wish to punish her further by withholding my friendship. Besides, are we not under Christian obligation to forgive the sins of others and offer comfort to those in need?”

  Stefania reached for her daughter’s hand. “Your father doesn’t wish for you to ruin your own reputation.”

  Allegra looked at her parents in turn. “I gave my word that I would see her again. Please don’t make me break my promise.”

  Vittorio sighed tiredly. “You may visit Bianca, but your visits must be infrequent and preferably brief.”

  “Thank you,” Allegra said. “There’s one more thing I must confess to you. I gave her some money—a few coins—and my pearl earrings.”

  “You gave Bianca jewelry?”

  “As a wedding gift,” Allegra said.

  “How very generous of you,” Stefania interjected before her husband could disapprove of the gesture. “It seems we’ve raised a compassionate and kind-hearted daughter, Vittorio.”

  “May she never be a fool,” he shot back, raising the chalice to his lips.

  Chapter 12

  Shortly after Allegra’s sixteenth birthday, Francesco de’ Medici was betrothed to Joanna of Austria, daughter of the Holy Roman Emperor. Cosimo had managed to secure a powerful bride for his son, and a banquet was thrown at Palazzo Pitti to celebrate the brilliant match.

  The event would serve as Allegra’s official introduction to Florentine society. On the day of the party, Gianna helped her young mistress prepare by applying a facial treatment and styling her hair.

  Stefania opened the door of Allegra’s bedchamber and smiled from the doorway. “You look wonderful, daughter.”

  “Perhaps you’ll find a husband tonight,” Gianna teased, tucking an errant strand of hair into the neat braided coil at the base of her neck.

  Allegra shook her head vehemently, causing the older women to laugh. Suddenly, Stefania stopped laughing and placed a hand to her brow, frowning as if in pain.

  “Mother, are you all right?”

  Stefania shook her head dismissively. “I’m fine, only a bit tired.”

  Gianna was instantly at her mistress’s side. “You do too much, Signora,” she murmured. “You should rest a bit before you go out this evening.”

  “You’re wearing yourself out at the orphanage,” Allegra added, urging her mother to sit down on the bed.

  “I’ll be right back with something to make you feel better,” Gianna said to Stefania before slipping out of the room.

  “The little ones are so helpless,” Stefania explained. “The babies are sick and require a lot of time and attention. There aren’t enough nuns to care for the older children.”

  “We don’t have to go to the party, Mother.”

  “Nonsense,” Stefania countered. “You’ve been looking forward to this for so long. I’ll feel better after one of Gianna’s elixirs.”

  “There will be other parties.”

  “Listen to me. Men will wish to dance with you tonight, and you’ll be expected to oblige them in order to not cause offense. If any gentleman takes liberties with you, come tell me or your father immediately. Also, don’t wander off alone with anyone. Always remain within sight of others, do you understand?”

  “Yes, Mother.”

  “It’s easy for a young, inexperienced girl to lose her reputation if she isn’t mindful at all times.”

  “Don’t worry, Mother. I won’t dishonor myself or our family.”

  Stefania smiled. “I know you won’t. You’re an intelligent girl.”

  Vittorio appeared in the doorway a moment later. “Stefania, we should stay home if you’re unwell.”

  “I’m fine, husband. This party is Allegra’s debut into society. Doesn’t she look lovely?”

  He glanced at his daughter, nodded, then walked away mumbling something about stubborn wives.

  Stefania drank the tonic and felt better afterward. With Gianna’s help, she donned her best gown and reddened her pale cheeks with rouge.

  Vittorio frowned as Stefania descended the stairs. “We should stay home, Stefania. You’re obviously sick.”

  “How I wish you would stop coddling me, Vittorio,” she snapped. “Let’s hurry lest we be late.”

  Without another word, the three of them set off for the Palazzo Pitti escorted by two armed guards.

  The aquamarines set in silver at Allegra’s throat contrasted with her rose gold gown—ice and fire. The unusual necklace drew many looks from noble ladies when she entered the main hall of the Palazzo Pitti. Music and gay chatter filled the air as servants passed around trays of food and drink.

  Isabella de’ Medici greeted the Castagno family warmly before embracing Allegra. “It’s been too long since I’ve seen your pretty face.”

  Allegra smiled. “Hello Isabella, it’s good to see you again.”

  Stefania inquired, “I take it your husband is well, my lady.”

  “Yes, he’s in Rome as we speak.” Isabella took a step closer to Stefania and added, “I know my father went to see you a while ago. Thank you for your discretion.”

  “His Grace is always in my prayers.”

  Isabella smiled gratefully before noticing Allegra’s stunning necklace. “What an extraordinary piece.” Turning one of the stones over, she smiled at the sight of the tiny chestnut stamped into the silver. “La Castagna. I should have known.”

  “You’ve heard of him?” Vittorio inquired, surprised.

  “A number of ladies in Florence praise his talent, myself included. Given that you work closely with Domenico Spinelli, have you discovered the identity of this goldsmith?” Vittorio shook his head and she continued, “He shrouds himself in mystery, which only piques everyone’s curiosity. A most clever strategy.”

  More guests arrived, and Vittorio and Stefania were soon pulled into conversations. Isabella wound her arm through Allegra’s and said, “Seeing you reminds me of old times.”

  “I miss those days.”

  “Me too. I sometimes long for my youth and the company of my late siblings. They’re all in Heaven with my mother.” She smiled sadly, then added, “We should go riding together one day.”

  “I’d like that very much.”

  “Look at my brother,” Isabella said, changing the subject.

  Allegra spotted Francesco with Bernardo and several other noblemen. The future groom seemed somewhat dazed rather than enthu
siastic at the prospect of marriage.

  Isabella continued, “He’s always been so sensitive.”

  Awkward would have been a better description in Allegra’s opinion, but she refrained from saying so. “I’ve always thought of Francesco as kind.”

  “Yes, he’s a kind man, I’ll give him that. He’s also like a little boy in many ways, and I’m worried that marriage might be hard for him.” She sighed. “Come, let’s get something to drink, shall we? I’m parched after greeting so many guests.”

  Allegra hesitated. “I’d like to speak with my godfather first, if you don’t mind. It’s rather important.”

  Isabella scanned the large space. “My father was here a moment ago…Ah, there he is. Go and talk with him, then come find me afterward.”

  Allegra nodded. “I shall return shortly.”

  Cosimo smiled as his godchild approached him. “I see a lovely rose before me. Hello Allegra.”

  Allegra blushed as she curtsied. “Your Grace flatters me.”

  “Padrino when we are in private,” he corrected.

  “I hope you’re well and in good health, my lord.”

  “Well enough, thank you,” Cosimo replied, offering her his arm. “It gladdens my heart to see you here today.”

  “As it does mine to see you.” She paused, noticing many eyes following them. “I need to ask a favor of you.”

  “Already the courtier, I see,” he teased.

  “It’s not for me, it’s for another girl. Bianca Cappello.”

  “The Venetian who ran off with the Florentine.”

  “You’re aware that her father has a warrant out for her arrest.”

  “Of course, I am.”

  “He intends to force Bianca into a convent.”

  “As he should. I would do the same if one of my daughters had behaved so unscrupulously.”

  Allegra hung her head in defeat. “Oh.”

  Cosimo grasped her chin and forced her to look at him. “With that said, I know the circumstances surrounding the elopement, and I’m aware of Pietro Bonaventuri’s absurd ambition. That reckless young man deserves a sound beating.” He searched her face and added, “You need not worry, for I’ve already granted Bianca Cappello sanctuary in Florence.”

  Allegra took hold of his hand and kissed it. “Thank you.”

  “How do you know Bianca?”

  “I’ve accompanied my father to Venice twice. Bianca’s stepmother, Signora Lucrezia, is one of his best clients.”

  “I see.”

  One of the city’s magistrates came to stand beside Cosimo and whispered, “Your Grace, a word, please?”

  Cosimo nodded to the man. “We’ll talk later, Allegra.”

  Having been dismissed, Allegra sought Isabella’s company.

  “The conversation with my father seemed to flow in your favor,” Isabella commented.

  Allegra said, “I asked him to protect my friend, Bianca Cappello.”

  “Ah, that poor girl. I convinced my father to prevent her arrest. Besides, she’s already paying the price for her rebellious act; Bonaventuri is a known rake and an adulterer.”

  Adulterer? Allegra was about to press Isabella for more information when a young man with curly brown hair appeared before them.

  “Who is an adulterer?” he demanded, grinning mischievously.

  Isabella quirked an eyebrow at him. “Signorina Allegra Castagno, allow me to present Troilo Orsini, my husband’s cousin. He’s charged with looking after me in Florence while Paolo tends to his many duties elsewhere.”

  Allegra inclined her head. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Signore Troilo.”

  Troilo bowed with flourish before bending over Allegra’s hand and kissing her knuckles. “The pleasure is all mine.”

  Allegra retracted her hand and blushed when she caught her father watching the scene from across the room.

  Isabella followed Allegra’s gaze. “I’m certain your father is well aware that every eligible male in this room is aching to be introduced to you.”

  Troilo said, “Take my cousin, for example. He comes from a noble family in Rome. He’s witty, possesses political savvy—good-looking, too.”

  “He wishes to meet Allegra?” Isabella inquired.

  “From the moment she arrived,” he replied. “I’ll go and fetch him.”

  “Breathe deeply, Allegra,” Isabella said. “Here comes your father.”

  Vittorio came to stand beside his daughter. “Are you enjoying yourself?”

  “Yes, Papa.”

  Bernardo joined them and complimented Allegra lavishly. “Signore Vittorio, your little girl has blossomed into a lovely flower.” Vittorio inclined his head and he continued, “Given that this is your first time at court, Signorina Allegra, would you do me the honor of a dance?”

  Allegra smiled. “With pleasure, Signore Bernardo.”

  Bernardo waited for Vittorio to nod his head before escorting her toward a group of dancers.

  “I remember my first time at court. The clothes, the jewels, the intrigue…I’m practically an old man in comparison to you, but that day is still fresh in my memory.” He paused. “You must be excited.”

  “I am.”

  He stood very straight and his movements were precise. Allegra did her best to follow his steps.

  Bernardo smiled warmly. “You seem to have grown up overnight. Look at you, such a pretty girl.”

  “You are too kind.”

  “You know me better than that,” he chided.

  It was true. Bernardo was not one to flatter falsely.

  He continued, “There are many young lords here tonight who will no doubt try to sink their claws into you. As someone who respects your family and has your best interests at heart, may I offer you some advice?”

  “Any wisdom you wish to impart will be most appreciated.”

  “You already know this court is full of ambitious men who seek your godfather’s favor.” He waited for her to nod, then said, “Never reveal anything of importance, especially to these upstarts who believe themselves to be great men before they even grow hair on their chins.”

  At this, Allegra giggled. “I won’t.”

  “There are no secrets at court. People talk. Mind what you say.”

  “Thank you, Signore Bernardo, I’ll be sure to follow your good counsel.”

  “I know you miss Lucrezia as much as I do. Being the practical person she was, she would have offered you the same advice.”

  Allegra grew teary-eyed at the mention of her late friend’s name. “She already did, years ago. Lucrezia told me to guard my heart, keep it safe, and not trust men.”

  Bernardo nodded. “You’ll fare well in this city if you take her advice.”

  When the dance ended, Bernardo escorted her back to where Vittorio and Isabella stood, then excused himself. Troilo approached a moment later with an attractive young man in tow.

  Troilo said, “Signore Vittorio, Signorina Allegra, I present my cousin, Cesare Orsini. He’s visiting from Rome.”

  Cesare bowed over Allegra’s hand, holding it only as long as necessary beneath Vittorio’s watchful gaze. She couldn’t help but admire his hair, which was a thick mane of gold.

  Vittorio cleared his throat. “How long have you been in Florence?”

  “Only a few weeks,” Cesare replied. “It’s a remarkable city.”

  “Cesare finds the art in Florence quite impressionable,” Troilo added with a smile that implied a private joke.

  “That’s a common reaction when people visit our city,” Vittorio said.

  Cesare turned his attention to Allegra. “Do you have a favorite artist?”

  “I admire all of them.”

  “Equally?”

  “Yes.”

  Cesare grinned. “A most diplomatic reply.”

  Not wishing to appear dull, Allegra said, “Each artist has unique talents, but I do have some works that I favor more than others.”

  “Such as?”

  “Perseus
, for example, is one of the most ambitious and brilliantly executed sculptures in the city. The sculptor is also a master goldsmith.”

  “Benvenuto Cellini’s work is impressive,” Vittorio conceded. “But let’s not forget Michelangelo’s David.”

  “Or Donatello, for that matter,” Isabella said.

  “Judith and Holofernes is my favorite,” Allegra agreed.

  “Because it represents God’s divine justice?” Cesare inquired.

  No, because a powerful woman is giving an evil man exactly what he deserves. Allegra smiled sweetly and replied, “Yes.”

  “A bit too savage for my taste,” Troilo countered. “I still think Botticelli’s Primavera is the finest painting in Florence.”

  “Wait,” Isabella said. “I thought we were discussing sculpture.”

  They talked of Florentine art while the musicians struck a new tune.

  Cesare looked at Vittorio. “Signore, would you grant me permission to dance with your daughter?” At Vittorio’s wary nod, he bowed to Allegra. “Shall we, Signorina?”

  Allegra allowed him to take her hand and they joined the other dancers. She could not help but admire the length and agility of the young man’s body as it stepped gracefully to the music.

  Cesare studied her face with an expression of approval. “You are Cosimo de’ Medici’s godchild, yet this is the first time I’ve seen you at court.”

  “I’ve been to the Palazzo Pitti several times, but this is my first public social event.”

  They spun around then came together, and he held her in his arms for a brief instant. “You should be punished, you know.”

  “Whatever for?”

  “For depriving us of your beauty.”

  So this is the game of young lords at court. Allegra laughed derisively, which he found disconcerting.

  Undeterred, his heavy-lidded green eyes dropped to her mouth. “Such rosy lips. Have you ever been kissed, Allegra?”

  For some strange reason, the way he looked at her made her feel giddy and angry at the same time. Don’t trust men…

  “No, sir, I have not.”

  Santo Cristo! Virgin lips! “If your father wasn’t watching me like a ravenous hawk, I would steal a kiss from you right now.”

  Allegra was reminded of the shadowy terrace in Venice where Pietro stole furtive kisses from Bianca—kisses that eventually led to her current, miserable plight.