Maurizia is not happy being married to Ezio and despite him showering her with gifts, she believes that the grass is greener on the other side as he desires a love with much more purporse. ... However, Allende ends the story characterising Maurizia as truly a strong person when she despite desperately wanting to see her son after 28 years, decides that it is in everyones best interest if she doesn't and she leaves her ex husband and her son to be happy, as they are better off without her. ...