CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY SEVEN – A LIFE OF DANGER

Luca noticed her distress and quickly wrapped up the conversation with Marco. "Keep monitoring the situation," he instructed. "I'll be in touch tomorrow." After Marco left, Luca sat beside Rebecca on the bed. "Are you okay?" he asked gently. Rebecca nodded, then shook her head, then laughed shakily. "I don't know," she admitted. "That was... intense." Luca took her hand in his. "You were incredible," he said softly. "Quick-thinking, brave. You would have made a great getaway driver if we'd needed one." His attempt at humor brought a small smile to Rebecca's face. "I think I prefer baking to high-speed chases," she said. Luca's expression turned serious. "Rebecca, I'm so sorry you're caught up in all of this. You deserve better than a life of constant danger and fear." Rebecca squeezed his hand. "Hey," she said firmly, "I'm exactly where I want to be. With you." Luca's eyes searched hers, filled with a mixture of love and uncertainty. "How can you be so sure? This world... it's n