CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY - SIX - THE CODED MESSAGE

As Rebecca ended the call, she felt a familiar pang of helplessness. She was torn between the urge to do something, anything, to protect her family, and the knowledge that the safest thing she could do right now was to stay hidden. Meanwhile, Luca had been monitoring the situation from a distance, growing increasingly agitated with each update from Matteo. The thought of Rebecca and Helena in danger, even as part of a calculated risk, was almost more than he could bear. After what felt like an eternity, Matteo called again. The stalker had retreated, unable to breach the house's security. While this was a relief, it also meant that their quarry was still at large. "He'll be back," Matteo said confidently. "Now that he's made an attempt, he'll be even more determined. We'll be ready next time." Luca, no longer able to stay away, arrived at Rebecca's new location shortly after. The tension between them was palpable as they embraced. "I don't like this, Rebecca," Luca murmured into h