CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY TWO - THE TEMPTATION OF THE HEART

Luca reached out, taking her hand in his. "I don't want to," he said softly. "But I think we have to. It's the only way to keep him safe." Rebecca nodded, tears spilling down her cheeks. She knew Luca was right, but the thought of being separated from Xavi tore at her heart. The next few days passed in a blur of preparation. Arrangements were made, identities created, and a plan put in place to secretly transport Xavi to his new home. On the morning of Xavi's departure, Rebecca sat with him in his room, helping him pack a small bag of belongings. "Why do I have to go?" Xavi asked, his voice small and confused. Rebecca's heart broke at the fear and uncertainty in his eyes. She pulled him close, stroking his hair. "It's to keep you safe, piccolo," she explained gently. "There are some bad people who want to hurt us, and we need to make sure they can't find you." "But I want to stay with you and Papa Luca," Xavi protested, his lower lip trembling. Rebecca felt tears pricking at her