Part 2: Chapters 26-34 Summary

In chapter 26, a blizzard encompasses the city. Alessandra goes to visit her sister despite the weather and finds her happily planning a second pregnancy now that her daughter has arrived. When Alessandra returns home, she finds Cristoforo happily returned with Tomaso at his side. Alessandra is inexplicably jealous and she picks a fight with Tomaso over his involvement in her arranged marriage.

In chapter 27, Alessandra retires to her room, but cannot sleep. Alessandra prepares to draw, but she cuts herself while sharpening her chalk. Erila finds Alessandra painting herself with her own blood.

In chapter 28, Alessandra becomes ill from both a mild infection in her wound and emotional depression. Erila caters to her, allowing Alessandra to remain in her bed. Erila lies to Cristoforo and tells him that Alessandra has had a miscarriage. When Alessandra recovers from her illness...