Sabina

by C. De Melo

  He held her close. “I wonder if your lips are as sweet as they appear.”

  Her mouth curved into a smile. “Why not discover for yourself?”

  Cosimo’s eyes lit up with humor. “What a bold thing for well-bred girl to say. How many other boys have you kissed?”

  “You are about to become the first.”

  “Are you so sure that I’ll kiss you?”

  She giggled softly. “I am.”

  “You’re very pretty, you know.”

  She blushed. “Thank you. My grandmother tells me that, too.”

  “Your grandmother is right,” he said softly before lowering his head and gently kissing her lips.

  Stefania was timid at first and her lack of experience was evident, but she was a fast learner. She greedily accepted his tongue into her mouth and pulled him closer. They stopped kissing and stepped away from each other when they heard approaching footsteps.

  Vittorio entered the stable a moment later and took in their guilty expressions. “Why have you not saddled Nero yet?”

  When Stefania did not answer, Cosimo interjected, “We were trying to decide which horse I will ride.”

  Vittorio frowned. “Did you not ride here on your own horse?”

  “Ha! Of course, I did. How silly of me!” Cosimo exclaimed, making Stefania laugh before tossing her a conspiratorial look.

  Vittorio knew something had transpired between the two of them and, as usual, he felt left out. He suddenly wished that Cosimo and his mother would move to Florence where they belonged!

  “Are we going for a ride or not?” Vittorio demanded impatiently.

  Stefania summoned the groom to saddle Nero while Cosimo sought his horse.

  Vittorio stood beside Stefania. “What were you two doing before I came in?”

  “Nothing.”

  Her expression was innocent, yet he didn’t believe her. “You like him.”

  It was not a question. Stefania shrugged. “We all like him.”

  “You know what I mean.”

  She smiled slyly. “Are you jealous, Vito?”

  Stefania was the only person allowed to still call him by his childhood nickname. He crossed his arms and turned away from her gaze. “Jealous of a sixteen-year-old boy? Stop being silly.”

  The sly smile turned into a knowing grin. “You are jealous!”

  “You’re being ridiculous.”

  “We were kissing.”

  Vittorio swung his head toward her. “What?”

  “That’s what we were doing before you walked in.”

  “You allowed him to kiss you?”

  “Yes,” she admitted without the slightest hint of shame or regret.

  “But…”

  “But what?”

  You’re mine! Instead, he shook his head in disgust. “Nothing.”

  Cosimo was handsome, charming, and possessed an enviable level of sophistication. While Vittorio was also good looking and charming—when he wanted to be—he lacked the experience with women that Cosimo obviously possessed. He was furious with Stefania for engaging in a kiss behind his back.

  “Are you angry with me?” she asked as if reading his mind.

  He touched her cheek gently then quickly lowered his hand. “No, Stefania. I could never be angry with you.”

  Cosimo whistled to them from outside the stable entrance. The three of them mounted their horses and trotted in the snow.

  “Should we take the falcons?” Stefania asked.

  Vittorio peered up at the sky. “It may rain soon. I think a quick ride is all that this day will allow.”

  “I believe he’s right,” Cosimo agreed, looking at Stefania.

  She pouted and spurred Nero forward in order to keep up with her two companions. She studied each one carefully. Cosimo was lighter in skin tone and fairer in hair color than Vittorio, who had inherited his mother’s olive skin, black hair, and blue eyes. She loved his blue eyes. Cosimo’s eyes were brown and he was more than a palm’s width shorter than Vittorio.

  In an act of spontaneity, she kicked her horse and took off at a gallop. She shouted over her shoulder, “A kiss for the one who catches me!”

  Cosimo and Vittorio looked at one another then kicked their horses, urging them forward with shouts. Stefania crouched so low in the saddle that Nero’s mane tickled her face. Her heart pounded in rhythm to the horse’s fast pace, the sound filling her ears.

  As they emerged into an open field, she laughed from exhilaration. Peeking over her shoulder, she saw her companions approaching. She laughed again, reveling in her youth and the joy of being alive. Nero began to tire and slow down. The young men were on either side of her, both trying to overtake her horse. It was Vittorio who finally succeeded.

  “Whoa,” she cried, making Nero come to a halt.

  Vittorio glowed with pleasure as he leaned in his saddle. “I want to claim my prize.”

  Stefania noticed Cosimo watching her expectantly, but, as usual, his expression gave nothing away. As she leaned toward Vittorio, she saw something in his eyes—something that made her feel strange but in a good way. Unsure of what to do, she kissed his cheek. She noticed the flicker of disappointment on his face. Vittorio glanced at his opponent; it seemed as if Cosimo was the true victor.

  Later that night, after the family had supped, Stefania read aloud to her grandmother. Sabina’s eyes were still good, but they grew tired quickly. Besides, she liked the sound of Stefania’s voice. She noticed that Vittorio seemed agitated throughout evening and had said little during the meal. She was also well aware that he was completely enamored of Stefania.

  “That will do, my dear. Thank you,” Sabina said.

  “Are you sure you don’t want me to read until the end of the chapter, Grandmother?”

  “I’m sure.”

  Stefania marked the page then set the book down. They were alone, facing the warm fire burning within the hearth.

  Steeling a sidelong glance toward her granddaughter, Sabina asked, “Vittorio was unusually quiet this evening. Why is he upset?”

  Stefania knew it was jealousy, yet said, “I have no idea.”

  The girl would undoubtedly break many hearts, including poor Vittorio’s. “He is fond of you.”

  “I’m fond of him, too.”

  “You could do far worse for a husband.”

  “You would have me marry so soon, Grandmother?”

  Sabina was suddenly reminded of a dry, hot day long ago in her father’s courtyard. She had once thought of marriage as repugnant, too. “Most girls your age are eager to marry and start a family.”

  “Not I!” Sabina laughed and Stefania frowned. “What’s so funny?”

  “I was the same way at your age. I loved my books and cared little about marriage or babies. Don’t worry, child. I won’t force you to marry anyone.”

  Stefania’s relief was evident. “I didn’t say that I don’t wish to marry ever…just not now.”

  Sabina nodded slowly, amused. “Understood, my dear.”

  After a brief pause, Stefania said, “Cosimo would also make a good husband.”

  “Oh, so it’s Cosimo you fancy?” Sabina asked, knowing full well that it was. She had already noticed how her granddaughter’s eyes followed the young Medici whenever he came to the house.

  Stefania blushed. “I’m simply stating that both Vittorio and Cosimo are fine young men who will someday make good husbands for two fortunate ladies.”

  Sabina tried hard not to smile. “I see.”

  “Besides, at my age, I shouldn’t even be thinking of such things.”

  Sabina coughed to cover up her laughter. “I think you’re right. Concentrate on your studies, practice your Latin, perfect your mathematics, and leave the boys to their silly games.”

  “It’s not as if I don’t like boys…” the girl trailed off and shrugged.

  “I know, sweetheart,” Sabina assured. “No need to say another word. You’re growing up so quickly. I’ll wager there are many thoughts
and feelings inside of you that seem strange.” Stefania nodded, her eyes a bit sad. “I experienced the same thing at your age. Keep in mind that what you feel is normal and it will pass.”

  “Cosimo kissed me today,” Stefania blurted out.

  Sabina peered at her granddaughter. “Is that all he did?”

  “Yes.”

  “You’re aiming high, child.”

  Stefania was hurt. “Am I not good enough?”

  “That’s not what I meant, Stefania. You’re good enough for a king as far as I’m concerned.” Sabina lowered her voice. “The problem is that Cosimo is being groomed for a political future. He has a destiny to fulfill and his mother has dedicated her life to make sure he assumes that role.”

  “I thought we were never to talk of this.”

  “You’re right, it’s a secret. Never speak of this outside of our family circle. The point I’m trying to convey is that you should be careful. Don’t allow your heart to love someone you cannot have.” Sabina paused, her expression serious. “Cosimo will need to make difficult decisions soon.”

  “Such as?”

  “Making political alliances that will enable him to take over Florence.”

  “Like marrying someone he doesn’t love?”

  “More often than not, those kinds of marriage arrangements occur with political leaders.” Stefania looked down at her hands, compelling Sabina to add, “I’m only telling you this because I want to protect you. I’ve never lied to you and I never will. I love you and want nothing but your happiness. If you set your heart on Cosimo, you must be aware of the risks involved. Do you understand what I’m telling you?”

  “Yes.”

  “Good. It’s time you get to bed, young lady. Goodnight.”

  Stefania ascended the stairs while pondered her grandmother’s wise counsel. Turning the corner, she ran into Vittorio.

  “I heard you coming up the stairs,” he said, grabbing her shoulders.

  She smelled wine on his breath and tried to push past him. “I’m on my way to bed. Goodnight, Vito.”

  He refused to let her go. “I want my prize.”

  Before she could protest, his mouth came down on hers and he pressed her roughly against him. Stefania struggled and finally managed to pull away. He staggered back and put a hand on the wall to steady himself.

  Stefania’s eyes flashed. “How dare you!”

  “You promised a kiss to the winner…I won.”

  “You claimed your prize this afternoon.”

  “A mere kiss on the cheek? No, I want you to kiss me the way you kissed Cosimo in the stable.”

  “I kissed him because I wanted to, not because I had to.”

  Vittorio winced at the sting of her words. “Stefania…”

  “Goodnight, Vittorio,” she said coolly.

  ***

  Sabina didn’t know what transpired between Vittorio and Stefania, but their comportment toward each other had changed. Drastically. There was no more carefree laughter, tickling, or jokes. They were always polite and cool when they addressed each other, but their close friendship had evaporated. Cosimo frequented the house often and since both he and Maria were invited to stay for Christmas, he enjoyed most of the festivities at Stefania’s side. Their admiration for one another was obvious to everyone.

  Cosimo shared his secrets with Stefania. Since she knew about his political strategies, he trusted her with information that he normally wouldn’t reveal to another soul. He also confessed personal things, which she guarded within the locked confines of her heart.

  Stefania lost her virginity to Cosimo shortly after the New Year. He had come to the house while everyone was attending mass. Stefania and Cosimo had previously conspired to stay behind on pretenses of ailments while their families went to church. There, in Stefania’s bed, Cosimo gently made love to her. She had disliked the pain of that first encounter. The second time, she experienced pleasure and her body responded naturally and without inhibition.

  After he had come twice, Cosimo stretched out beside her, panting. “You are a wonderful lover, Stefania. Had I not taken your maidenhead myself, I would think you quite experienced.”

  She blushed. “I please you then?”

  “More than you know.”

  “I know I’m not the only girl...”

  “I won’t lie to you. There are others, but I neither confide in them nor care for them. They are merely used for brief pleasure.”

  “I see,” she said, her expression one of disappointment.

  “I’m very fond of you, Stefania.”

  She would have preferred to hear the word “love” but remained silent.

  “From this day forward, you have possession of my heart and some other parts as well.” He rubbed against her playfully to emphasize his point and they both fell into peals of laughter. “I should go before your family arrives.”

  “Everyone knows you and I are dear to each other.”

  “I know, but…”

  He sat up in bed and reached for his shirt.

  “Just like that? Without so much as a goodbye kiss?” she said, her pout irresistible.

  He slid over and pinned her under his weight as he kissed her. As her tongue found his, she moved her hips slowly and soon felt his manhood grow yet again.

  After Cosimo had gone, Stefania busily prepared an emmenagogue to prevent pregnancy. Like her grandmother, she had a knack for flower lore.

  Chapter 26

  Throughout the years of Cosimo’s childhood, Florence witnessed the Sack of Rome in 1527 and the siege that followed in 1529. At the time, Alessandro the Moor was vying for power in Florence. His parentage was obscure, however. Many believed he was the bastard son of the Medici pope, Clement VII, and a Negress, thus giving him the look of a mulatto and his nickname.

  Alessandro was unpopular with the people and viewed as the puppet of the pope’s delegate, Baccio Valori. In 1532, Alessandro took firm control of the city and began his tyrannous rule. He was detested for his lack of refinement and coarse behavior. In addition to prohibiting the Florentines to carry arms, he employed the service of foreign guards and imposed heavy taxes.

  There was much talk in the Salviati household regarding the events taking place in Florence. Maria was always careful not to say anything in front of her servants that could later be repeated and used against her or her son. The same held true in Castagno household.

  Meanwhile, news of a tremendous scandal in England reached the ears of everyone in Europe. King Henry VIII asked the pope to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon in order to place his mistress, Anne Boleyn, on the throne. When his request was refused, he went against the pope and married Anne, crowning her Queen of England in 1534.

  “The world is changing,” Carlo said one Sunday while they were seated together having their midday meal. “I have received news that the English whore was crowned queen. No one respects God’s laws anymore.”

  “We are living in troubled times, indeed,” Caterina agreed. “I fear for the future of our children. What kind of world will it be for them and for their children?”

  “One without morals or God’s law,” he replied grimly.

  Sabina quietly listened as she ate another spoonful of soup. She glanced at Stefania, who was looking down at her plate and wondered what the future held for her as well. It was now common knowledge in the Mugello that Stefania was Cosimo’s lover, but no one commented on that fact. Sabina knew her granddaughter fostered secret hopes of becoming Cosimo’s wife one day. Sooner or later, she would have to accept the harsh reality that he would never—could never—marry her.

  Stefania finished her meal and excused herself from the table. Cosimo was expected soon to take her hunting. Sabina knew the young couple spent many of their afternoons in the hunting lodge belonging to the Castello del Trebbio rather than chasing game, but she never said anything. Her granddaughter, like herself at that age, was far too rebellious and sensuous to retain her virginity. Because of this, she offe
red practical advice rather than moral ideals. Stefania knew everything she needed to know about the act of love and how to protect herself from becoming pregnant.

  When Cosimo arrived, Stefania wasted no time fetching her cloak and leaving the house. It was a clear, spring day and she and Cosimo laughed as they steered their horses through the trees. The lush greenery and fresh scent of vegetation was intoxicating. Stefania wanted to speak with him about a certain matter for quite some time and resolved to do so that afternoon when the moment was right.

  They dismounted and entered the cozy hunting lodge. They undressed while kissing and teasing each other. Passion soon gave way and their young bodies became united as one. Their lovemaking was simultaneously intense and tender.

  How can he not love me? Stefania thought as he rested against her bare breast, panting softly. After a long moment, she said, “Cosimo, there is something I wish to ask you.”

  “What is it, my love?” he asked without moving.

  “Am I?”

  “Are you what?”

  “Your ‘love?’ ”

  He leaned on his elbow to look at her face. “You know I care deeply for you, Stefania. I bare my soul to you.”

  “Do you love me?”

  “Yes, but…You know there can never be a marriage between us. We’ve discussed this before.”

  She looked away. “You would rather marry for a political alliance instead of love?”

  “Love and marriage have nothing to do with each other. People in my position do not have that luxury.”

  “Exactly what is your position? Alessandro the Moor does not appear to be going anywhere anytime soon.”

  “That damned tyrant won’t be in power forever. When the time comes, I’ll claim my right to rule. I’m the next legitimate Medici in line of succession.” He sighed. “Why are we discussing this again?”

  “Because I love you, Cosimo!”

  His expression softened and he caressed her cheek. “Dear sweet Stefania. Do not think my refusal to marry you has anything to do with how I feel. I adore you. You are my confidant, my lover; I want the best for you.”

  Tears streamed down her cheeks as he spoke. “But we’ll never marry or have a family,” she whimpered. It was the first time she exhibited her true feelings.