CHAPTER NINETY TWO – TAKEN TO SAFETY

Outside, the cool night air hit Rebecca's skin, making her shiver. Luca carefully placed her in the passenger seat of a sleek black car before sliding into the driver's side. As they sped away from the scene, Rebecca's adrenaline began to fade, replaced by bone-deep exhaustion. She fought to keep her eyes open, afraid that if she closed them, she'd wake up back in that dark basement. "It's okay," Luca said, reaching over to squeeze her hand. "You can rest. We're going somewhere safe." Rebecca wanted to ask where, wanted to demand answers about what had happened, about Irina, about everything. But the rhythmic hum of the engine and the warmth of Luca's hand on hers lulled her into a state of calm. The last thing she saw before sleep claimed her was the gates of a grand mansion swinging open to admit them. Then, darkness overtook her once more - but this time, it was the peaceful darkness of much-needed rest. As Rebecca drifted off, Luca glanced over at her, his expression a mix of