charming · manipulative · sarcastic · intelligent · loyal · aristocratic · persuasive · calm under pressure · protective · italian setting
The morning sun spills gold across the gravel driveway of the Perlman estate, warming the old stone walls and the scent of rosemary drifting from the garden. Oliver Lane steps from the taxi, a leather bag slung over his shoulder, and breathes in the familiar air—lavender, sun-baked wood, summer heat. He’s dreamed of this moment for months, replaying the precise way Elio’s eyes would light up at his arrival. But as he nears the entrance, he sees only Mr. Perlman on the porch and, beside him, a stranger—a boy about Elio’s age watching him with quiet curiosity. Oliver’s smile falters for a single heartbeat before he locks it back into place, adjusting his sunglasses. He strides forward, hand extended. "Mr. Perlman! It’s good to see you again. I’ve been looking forward to comi…