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As expected, Aunt Salia's Italian cuisine was so delicious that it completely won over both movie legends.
Audrey chatted happily with the proprietress in Italian, discussing not just the food but everything under the sun. Henry acted as the interpreter, relaying the conversation to Katharine, who didn't understand a word of Italian, while also helping her chime in at the right moments.
By the end of it, even without Henry translating, Katharine seemed to keep pace with their Italian chatter. She knew exactly when to laugh, when to react appropriately—almost like she understood the language herself.
Henry observed that, beyond the unspoken understanding between women, the real key was how much body language Italian uses in conversation. More than the words, it was the animated gestures that made it so expressive—and apparently teachable by immersion alone. Katharine had quickly picked up on the rhythm, almost like a natural.
After the meal, as per tradition, came the classic moment: the owner posing for Polaroids with the two stars.
This was still the era when Polaroid cameras were all the rage. Most celebrities didn't mind taking a photo with one, since it lacked negatives—meaning the chances of it being altered or misused were practically zero.
If the photo was damaged or lost, it was gone for good. That uniqueness made each Polaroid shot feel precious.
So, both Hepburn ladies took individual photos with the restaurant's owners, even leaving a few handwritten notes. That kind of Polaroid charm was something the younger generation—raised in the age of digital photography—could never fully appreciate.
Once their bellies were full, Henry drove the two ladies toward downtown Los Angeles.
The Ronnie Insurance Brokerage was located on one of the upper floors of a commercial office building. But not just anyone could walk into this building, press the elevator button, and ride up freely.
There was a front desk and security personnel in the lobby, who were very strict about screening visitors. If you weren't a building tenant, you'd better have an appointment.
Fortunately, the arrival of the two Hepburn ladies wasn't met with any pushback. That's because Mr. Wales Ronnie himself was waiting downstairs in the lobby to greet them personally.
He was a distinguished older gentleman, likely not even younger than Audrey. His broad frame and impeccably tailored suit made it clear—this was an old-school professional through and through.
He and Audrey were clearly longtime acquaintances. As soon as they met, they exchanged air kisses.
"Miss Hepburn," Mr. Ronnie said warmly, "it's an honor to serve you again."
"Little Wales, you won't turn me away unannounced, will you?" Katharine stepped forward a moment later, also exchanging a kiss on the cheek.
"Ah, another Miss Hepburn," Ronnie chuckled. "I couldn't welcome you two fast enough. There's no way I'd turn you away." Then, he noticed the young man standing just behind the two stars. "And this gentleman is...?"
"This is Henry," Audrey explained. "My newly hired assistant."
Henry took the cue perfectly. From the paper bag he carried, he pulled out a bottle of champagne tied with a red ribbon and offered it with both hands.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Ronnie. A small token from the two Miss Hepburns."
"How thoughtful!" Ronnie replied, taking the bottle and placing it carefully back in the bag. "Now, please, this way. The security team I wanted to introduce is already waiting in my office."
With Mr. Ronnie leading the way, the lobby security guards didn't dare stop them. Instead, they respectfully pressed the elevator button and held the door open until everyone stepped inside.
As was customary in high-end American businesses, no matter how messy their private lives might be, professionals always had a well-appointed reception space to meet clients.
That's where the Hepburn ladies were led—into a cozy and meticulously arranged meeting lounge. Inside were already four burly men standing at attention.
Though both Hepburns were long past their youthful prime, they hadn't faded entirely from the spotlight. Even if they weren't the radiant beauties of their heyday, they were still recognizable to many.
These men—well-built and professional—clearly knew who they were there to meet. As soon as Audrey walked into the room, they all rose from their seats in greeting.
Even if she hadn't been their employer, it was still proper gentlemanly etiquette to rise when a lady entered the room.
Ronnie made the introductions:
"Miss Hepburn, this is the security team I wanted you to meet. The team lead is Brian Mills. These gentlemen are Sam Gilroy, Mark Cassey, and Bernie Harris—"
Audrey shook hands with each of them.
"—They're all former U.S. Army Special Forces—Green Berets. Now, they run their own private security company specializing in VIP protection.
"Although their company is newly established, I personally contacted their commanding officers from their military service, and every reference spoke highly of them.
"All of them have been deployed overseas more than twice and were honorably discharged. Their only drawback is that they don't take on long-term assignments.
"But that actually suits your trip to Somalia, Audrey. They'll be responsible for your safety throughout your visit—until you return to the civilized world."
Audrey frowned slightly.
"But I'm only going as a UNICEF ambassador to inspect local child aid programs, conduct evaluations, and take some photos to help with fundraising. Is all this really necessary?"
Brian Mills stepped forward then. His years in the military had stripped away all signs of youth, leaving him with sharp, angular features and piercing eyes that exuded authority.
With a deep, resonant voice that seemed to echo, he said,
"Ma'am, we too wish this world were safe and peaceful. But it isn't. The insurance company's recommendation is simply an extra measure to ensure your safety."
An insurance company recommended this team?
Katharine raised a brow and asked,
"Wales, I thought you were the one who found these boys?"
"Katharine, I always put my clients' interests first. I inquired with several insurance companies and selected the provider that offered the most favorable terms.
"In this case, Pacific Mutual not only gave the best premium but also proactively offered a professional security team to ensure everything goes smoothly. That's why these fine gentlemen are here.
"But make no mistake—their credentials and reputations were all personally vetted by me. I don't just pass along whatever an insurance company says. These men are trustworthy. I guarantee it."
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