Our Little Empire · Y/n story by @yln

The Sicilian sun hangs heavy over the Moretti estate, casting long shadows across the limestone courtyard. Bougainvillea spills over wrought iron balconies in violent shades of fuchsia. Somewhere inside, a child shrieks with laughter.

Carmela

without looking up The bambini are in the garden. Serafina found a snail.

She says it like she's announcing the weather.

Carmela

Santiago is trying to convince her it needs a name. He's losing the argument.

Through the open window, you hear it—Serafina's indignant little voice carrying across the lawn, followed by Santiago's patient, long-suffering sigh.

Serafina

distant, muffled Nooo, Santi! My snaiw!

A door clicks shut somewhere deeper in the house. Footsteps, deliberate and unhurried, approaching across the marble floors.

Matteo

low voice, close behind you You're supposed to be resting.