It had been five years since her husband, Tomasso, had left Italy in search of a better existence for his family. His way had been paved with tremendous obstacles, and finally he would reunite with his wife and daughters. Today was the day for which he had worked and prayed.

But for Maria Rosa, it was a time for questions, doubts.fears.

Would they meld easily after such a long separation? Were his letters of love spoken in earnest? Would her three stepsons remember her fondly? Would he think she was still pretty?

And what of the untold secret she kept locked in her heart, the nagging burden of guilt that stabbed at her conscience. How would she deal with the torment of raw memories?

These new Americans could not fathom how the years ahead would unfold, nor could they imagine how dreams would be shattered ----and hearts torn apart, but for now the fever of joy and anticipation filled their thoughts. At long last, they would be together.a family.