CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND NINETY ONE - IN THE WAKE OF CHAOS

As Vittoria made her way to the table, Amelia could see the range of reactions from the family members. Some looked curious, others wary. Claudia's face was a storm of emotions, her hands clenched tightly in her lap. Vittoria took the empty seat at the end of the table, her gaze sweeping over the assembled family members. "I apologize for arriving unannounced," she said, her voice carrying a hint of her old authority. "But I felt it was time to come home." The tension at the table was palpable. Alessandro cleared his throat, attempting to break the uncomfortable silence. "We're glad you're here, Vittoria," he said, though his voice betrayed his uncertainty. "It's been too long." Vittoria nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "Indeed it has, Alessandro. And I see much has changed in my absence." Her gaze lingered on Amelia for a moment before moving on to the other family members. "I must say, I'm surprised to see so many of you gathered here. Last I heard, the f