CHAPTER THREE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT – MANDATORY TRAINING

As the door closed behind him, Sofia looked around her small apartment. With Luca's gifts, it already felt a little more like home. She walked to the window again, this time seeing the town with new eyes. Maybe, just maybe, she could make a life here after all. The next few days passed in a whirlwind of activity. Sofia threw herself into learning every aspect of the gallery business. Luca was a patient teacher, guiding her through the intricacies of art valuation, framing techniques, and customer relations. One afternoon, as they were closing up the gallery, Luca turned to her with a twinkle in his eye. "So, Sofia, how about we put your skills to the test? There's an estate sale this weekend. Interested in joining me to see if we can find some hidden treasures for the gallery?" Sofia felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. "Are you sure I'm ready for that?" Luca laughed. "My dear, you have a natural eye for art. Trust your instincts. Besides, it'll be good practice for you." As