CHAPTER SEVENTEEN – LIGHTNING IN A BOTTLE

Vito was already there when she arrived, sitting at a small table near the window. He stood up when he saw her, a warm smile lighting up his face. "Joan," he said, "it's good to see you." As they sat down and ordered their drinks, Joan took a moment to really look at Vito. In the daylight, away from the adrenaline of the previous night, she could appreciate his features more clearly. He had kind eyes, she noticed, and an easy smile that made her feel instantly at ease. Their conversation flowed naturally, picking up where they had left off the night before. Joan found herself opening up about her studies, her dreams for the future, and even some of the challenges she'd been facing. "It sounds like you've had quite a week," Vito said, his tone sympathetic. Joan nodded. "It's been... intense. But I feel like I'm starting to get a handle on things." "That's great," Vito said encouragingly. "And hey, if you ever need a study break or just want to talk, I'm here." As their coffee dat