Dominic, an EMT from Michigan, travels to Italy to discover his heritage. But after visiting the small town where his great grandparents lived, he finds so much more. The historical treasures of Rome. The priceless artwork of Florence. And then on to Venice to explore the city billed as “Disneyland for Adults.”<br><br>But the city is battling a historic flood, altering his plans and setting him on a course he never could have imagined, a path that intersects with the lives of three others. Sandro, a handsome Italian actor, appears to be the man of his dreams. As they walk the flooded city, they meet the charming Maria and her energetic young son Massimo. A near tragedy soon binds their lives together forever as Venice tries to defend itself against encroaching waters.<br><br>Dominic vows to return to his lover in a few months. But February of 2020 proves to be a bad time for a reunion. Can these two men overcome a flood, a tragedy, and the perils of a pandemic to have a life together? Will their love survive until life someday returns to normal?

High Water Mark

Now Luigi turned the gondola away from St. Mark’s Square, rowing out into open water toward an island on the other side. When they reached it, he docked the boat and secured it with a rope.


“We’re getting out here,” Sandro said, motioning Dominic to step out of the vessel with him. “This island is called San Giorgio Maggiore, and this church bears the same name. The top of the tower offers one of the best views of the city. Let’s go up.”


They made their way up the steps, and at the top, Dominic was treated to what was indeed a marvelous view. He looked across the water at the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Square. Then he looked back at the Grand Canal, seeing in the distance the church and the palaces they had just passed.


Chapter 33