CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND ONE – HOME SWEET HOME

Rebecca cradled Helena close to her chest as Luca fumbled with the keys to their mansion. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the manicured lawn of the Castelli estate. "Welcome home, little one," Luca whispered, his voice uncharacteristically soft as he pushed open the heavy oak door. The moment they stepped inside, they were assaulted by an explosion of color. Balloons in pastel pinks and purples bobbed against the ceiling, streamers cascaded from the chandelier, and a giant banner proclaimed "WELCOME HOME BABY HELENA!" in glittering letters. Rebecca's jaw dropped. "Luca, did you-" He shook his head, looking equally stunned. "No, this must be the work of-" "Surprise!" A chorus of voices erupted as Luca's men emerged from various hiding spots. Marco, Luca's right-hand man, stepped forward with a grin. "We wanted to give the little principessa a proper welcome." Rebecca felt tears prick her eyes. "This is... overwhelming." Luca cleared his throat, clearly moved but t