CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY TWO – CAR CHASE

"There's a fork up ahead," Marco called out. "We'll lose them in the olive groves!" True to his word, they soon reached a split in the road. Marco took the right fork, weaving between gnarled olive trees. The SUV, still struggling with its obscured windshield, took the left path. After several more minutes of tense driving, Marco finally slowed. "I think we lost them," he said, relief evident in his voice. Rebecca sagged against the seat. "Thank you," she breathed. "I'm so sorry I got you involved in this." Marco waved off her apology. "Ah, it's been years since I've had such excitement! But perhaps it's best if we part ways now, for both our sakes." He dropped her off at a crossroads, pointing her in the direction of a mountain path that would lead her towards Florence. "Be careful, signorina," he said as she climbed out. "And good luck." Rebecca watched the truck disappear down the road before turning to face the looming mountains. She took a deep breath and began to climb. Th