CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR - UNEXPECTED TIDES

"We're looking into the De Laurentis family's business dealings, personal relationships, any potential enemies," Rossi replied. "But so far, nothing concrete. These people are well-connected and well-protected. It's not going to be easy to get to the truth." As the meeting adjourned, Detective Rossi couldn't shake the feeling that they were missing something crucial. She stared at the photos on the board, willing them to reveal their secrets. Back at the De Laurentis mansion, Amelia sat in Leo's nursery, as she did most days. The room was exactly as they'd left it that fateful day – toys scattered on the floor, tiny clothes hanging in the closet, waiting for a child who would never wear them again. A soft knock at the door pulled her from her reverie. "Amelia?" It was Isabella. "May I come in?" Amelia didn't respond, but Isabella entered anyway, settling herself on the floor beside her friend. "Oh, Amelia," Isabella sighed, taking in the dark circles under Amelia's eyes, the hollo