CHAPTER EIGHTY EIGHT – PARANOIA

As Rebecca continued alone, the feeling of being watched intensified. She quickened her pace, her heart racing. A car drove by slowly, and she tensed, ready to run. But it passed without incident. Finally reaching her apartment building, Rebecca fumbled with her keys, glancing around nervously. Once inside, she locked the door and leaned against it, letting out a shaky breath. Her phone buzzed, making her jump. It was an unknown number. Rebecca hesitated before answering. "Hello?" Silence greeted her, then a click as the call ended. Rebecca stared at her phone, her hands trembling. This was the third call like this in as many days. Unable to shake her unease, she decided to try reaching out to Luca again. She dialed the number he had given her for emergencies. "Castelli residence," a gruff voice answered. "Hi, this is Rebecca Harrison. I really need to speak with Luca. It's urgent." "I'm sorry, Miss Harrison, but Mr. Castelli has given strict instructions not to be disturbed."