Short Story

Benvenuto!

The Sicilian Storyteller

It’s time for The Unicorn Challenge!
Jenne has provided the photo below
and asks that we respond with a story
not to exceed 250 words.
Here is my 250-word response.

© Ayr/Gray

Russell was tired of my excuses, my insecurities, my hang-ups and what he called “That Sicilian thing that’s 2000 years old”, which would have had more gravitas if I didn’t know it came straight from “Godfather 2″. He was breaking up with me and I was laughing in his face.

He was right, of course. I was a lousy girlfriend and I certainly wouldn’t make him a good wife. I didn’t like sex with him; some of the things he tried to do went on forever and brought me no satisfaction. I was disgusted by what he wanted me to do.

Russell stormed out. Good riddance. That’s when I decided to follow my dream and move to Sicily. Travel arrangements went smoothly and, having spoken previously with the people where I’d be staying, I knew getting accommodations would not be a problem.

My plans came together quickly. I packed a carry-on; more than that I wouldn’t need. In the morning I called for a taxi. Four hours later I was flying across the Atlantic on my way to the town of Erice. The place where I was staying was ancient, located on the top of Mount Erice, far from the useless worries of life. No cares, no distractions.

The bus dropped me off at Sorelle Povere*. My knock on the door was answered by a smiling older woman.  

“May I help you?” she asked.

I told her my name.

“Ah, our newest novitiate!” she declared. “I’m Sister Rosella. Benvenuto! Welcome!”

NAR©2024
250 Words
*Sorelle Povere translates into Poor Sisters. The entire name is Sorelle Povere di Santa Chiara Monastero Sacro Cuore which means Poor Sisters of Saint Clara Sacred Heart Monastery, an order of nuns in the town of Erice.

The Unicorn Challenge-09/02/24

This is “Only The Good Die Young” by Billy Joel

This portfolio (including text, graphics and videos) is copyright for The Sicilian Storyteller, The Elephant’s Trunk and The Rhythm Section and is not for use by anyone without permission. NAR © 2017-present.

33 thoughts on “Benvenuto!”

  3. Well, Nancy, I’m a great believer in stretching the imagination of the reader, but you as a nun?

    C’mon, suspension of disbelief failure!

    But nicely written and cleverly worked tale.

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  5. I love that Billy Joel song! And the whole album, actually, Nancy!

    Also, I love how you’ve captured your protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and liberation from a suffocating relationship, culminating in a bold decision to pursue her dreams in Sicily! Well done!

    ~David

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    1. Thanks so much, David; it is a great song/album by Billy Joel.

      I’m glad to know you enjoyed my story and that my protagonist’s personal struggle was clear. It certainly was a bold decision …. not just to run off to Sicily but to join a convent!

      Always appreciative of your insightful comments!

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  10. Well, I wasn’t expecting that ending!
    Although the clues were all there.
    I’ve heard stories from friends about catholic school days and idealistc girls going off to convents.
    Some of them didn’t end well – like many idealistic views of the world.
    Mind you, none of them went to Sicily.
    Good take on the light in the picture, Nancy.

    Liked by 1 person

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    2. Thanks much, Jenne, and I’m glad I can still surprise you with the Sicilian Curveball!

      Becoming a nun was never one of my dreams. I’d be more inclined to enter a convent now just for a little peace and quiet but I’m sure my knees wouldn’t tolerate it very well.

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