Chapter Fourteen

‘You attract too much attention!’

The seemingly fazed remark came from a mock-angry Alice, who smacked Shane’s arm so as to clarify the one that comment was truly aimed at. Shane was a fast, skilled fighter, and easily dodged the attack.

‘What can I do? It’s not my fault that Italian chicks get curious at me.’ The skinny womanshot back. She’d noticed the countless stares that followed her as she, Alice, Robin, Marina and Tonya sauntered through ancient, rocky streets of Florence.

Shane was used to being openly stared at. Unlike some people, she didn’t hide her gayness. It was stated in her sleek, lithe, muscled body; in the predatory gleam that never left her eyes; in the sure, precise way she walked; in her relaxed, unique stance.

Dana had often complained that Ms. Mccutcheon spelled "I’m a dyke" by nothing but her looks, but that had been while the tennins player had still been cowered inside a closet built by her strict family. Now Ms. Fairbanks she was out of it, no one ranted about Shane’s display of her sexuality.

And, man. Didn’t it make almost everyone in the streets gawk at her. And the city didn’t matter, apparently. Pairs of eyes from both genders, but mostly female, were forever on her trail.

‘Somebody will be the new source of romantic scandals in this city.’ Marina prophetized, light-hearted. ‘God only knows we don’t need any more of it. Last week a friend of mine was found cheating on her six-year-long boyfriend. With a girl she’d just met at a party. She was turned into the object of gossip among Manfredi’s cronies.’

‘Shane will be more famous than Dante Alighieri before a living soul can cry "Wolf!"’ Tonya exclaimed as a hideous dress caught her eye. ‘This would look great on Pookie!’

‘Nah, I don’t think so.’ Al frowned, vigorously shook her head. ‘It’s too long and frilly. Besides, Dana’s not a big fan of big flowers in a gown.’

‘So said the specialist.’ Shane countered as To’s eyes widened in surprise.

‘We’ve been best friends for too long.’ Ms. Pieszecky explained, blushed as she thought of the tennis player. ‘Don’t feel intimidated, Tonya. She’s your fianceé, after all. I’d love to help you if you ever need some tips on what to buy for her, though.’