The Lying Life of Adults

Giovanna returns home and learns from her mother and Mariano that her school promoted her. Ida, unfortunately, has been held back. Giovanna schedules a meet-up with Ida and learns from Andrea that he and Aunt Vittoria are on speaking terms: Aunt Vittoria works as a live-in nurse for Costanza’s friend. Andrea credits Giovanna with bridging his relationship with his sister.

Ida has taken on a similar role as Giovanna once did, ignoring school and her appearance and losing herself in books. Ida admits that she slept with a married man but found the experience vile. Giovanna asks Ida if she will accompany her to Venice to see Tonino. Ida initially says no because she’s still angry at Tonino for hurting Angela, but she promises to think the offer over. She then reads Giovanna one of her stories. The story is about how she used to pretend to fall asleep just to watch Angela and Giovanna make out, and how she always felt left out. Giovanna kisses Ida on the lips.

Giovanna tries returning the bracelet to Aunt Vittoria, but her aunt insists that she keep it. Aunt Vittoria also tells Giovanna that she should embrace her body instead of hiding it beneath frumpy clothes.