CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY NINE - WHEN THE SMOKE CLEARS

Alessandro, who had moved closer during Sophia's confession, knelt beside her chair. "Sophia," he said, his voice filled with regret, "I had no idea you felt this way. I'm so sorry. You're right, we should have involved you more, should have listened to your voice. Can you forgive us?" Sophia looked at her brother, a small smile breaking through her tears. "Of course I forgive you," she said. "I just... I need to know that things will be different going forward. That I'll have a place at the table." "You will," Alessandro promised, taking her other hand. "From now on, your voice will be heard. We need you, Sophia. We need your strength, your insight. This family isn't complete without you." As Sophia and Alessandro embraced, Amelia felt a wave of emotion wash over her. This was why they were here, she reminded herself. To bring these hidden hurts to light, to begin the process of healing. The conversations continued, each revelation bringing with it a mix of pain and catharsis. Ame