CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY – NANCY’S BIRTHDAY

As she stepped inside, Rebecca's phone buzzed with a message. It was from Luca: "Missing you already. Stay safe, my love. I'll return to you as soon as I can." Rebecca smiled, her heart lightening despite the circumstances. Whatever happened next, she knew that her life had irrevocably changed. And as scary as that thought was, it was also thrilling. For the first time in a long while, Rebecca felt truly alive. The future was uncertain, potentially dangerous, but with Luca by her side - even if only in spirit for now - she felt ready to face whatever came her way. She settled onto her couch, Luca's message still open on her phone, and began to plan. If she was going to be part of Luca's world, she needed to be prepared. It was time for Rebecca Harrison to evolve once again. As the sun climbed higher in the sky, bathing Gilda's Bay in golden light, Rebecca felt a sense of anticipation building within her. This was not an ending, but a beginning. A new chapter in her life was unfoldi