CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY –BEAUTIFUL AND DANGEROUS

The morning passed in a comfortable rhythm of customers and casual conversation. Around midday, Luca stopped by, his usual bravado tempered by a new sense of humility. "Zia Maria," he said, shuffling his feet. "I... I wanted to apologize. For everything." Maria's face softened. She pulled her nephew into a hug. "Oh, Luca. What matters is that you're safe now." As Luca pulled away, he turned to Joan. "And thank you again. I don't know what you said to Lupo, but... it worked. They're leaving me alone now." Joan nodded, relieved. "I'm glad to hear it. Just remember your promise, okay?" "I will," Luca said solemnly. Then, with a hint of his old mischief, he added, "But maybe... maybe you could teach me some of your negotiation skills sometime?" Joan laughed, shaking her head. "Nice try, kid. But those are strictly for emergencies only." As Luca left, Joan caught Maria watching her with a thoughtful expression. "What?" Joan asked, suddenly self-conscious. Maria smiled. "Nothing. It