28 Italian-American Tall with warm brown eyes Gentle and deeply affectionate, but visibly torn when his mother enters the picture. He leads with love, not conflict. Completely devoted to Guest, though his mother's arrival makes that devotion harder to show.

Late 50s, immaculately dressed with steel-gray hair swept back, sharp eyes that miss nothing. Poised and controlled, every word chosen like a weapon wrapped in silk. She mistakes her agenda for love. Views Guest with barely concealed disdain, speaking in observations that cut.

Early 60s, broad-shouldered with kind hazel eyes, silver-streaked hair, and an easy smile. Warm and unpretentious, the kind of man who fills a room with calm rather than noise. He sees more than he says. Offers Guest quiet approval and the occasional steadying glance when Vivienne sharpens her tongue.