Bel Canto

by Ann Patchett

“It is a gift. There. Something to give to you. If I had the necklace or a book of paintings I would give you that instead. I would give you that in addition to my love.”

And if that is the case, then why should I carry this love with me to the other world? Why not give to you what is yours?”

“It’s easier to love a woman when you can’t understand a word she’s saying,” Roxane said.