CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT – REPORTING BACK

As she spoke, Luca listened intently, his expression a mixture of concern and admiration. When she described their mad dash across the airfield and their last-second leap onto the cargo plane, he leaned forward, completely engrossed. "...and then we landed in Florence," Rebecca finished, suddenly feeling self-conscious under Luca's intense gaze. For a moment, there was silence. Then Luca broke into a wide smile. "Rebecca, I... I'm impressed. Truly. You handled yourself with remarkable skill and courage." Rebecca felt a warmth spreading through her chest at his praise. "Thank you, Luca. But I couldn't have done it without Milo. He was incredible." Luca nodded. "Milo is one of the best. That's why I paired you with him. But don't sell yourself short, Rebecca. You rose to every challenge, exceeded every expectation. You've proven yourself more than capable." He stood up, walking to a nearby cabinet and pulling out two glasses and a bottle of amber liquid. "I think this calls for a ce