CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED – A WORD IN CONFIDENCE

As they sailed back to shore, the first stars twinkling to life above them, Amelia felt a sense of peace settle over her. Whatever the future held, she knew they were ready to face it – together. The next morning dawned bright and clear, a perfect day for their final adventures on the island. As Amelia began the bittersweet task of packing their suitcases, she couldn't help but marvel at the collection of souvenirs they'd amassed. "Honestly, cara mia," Alessandro chuckled, eyeing the growing pile of trinkets and mementos, "did you leave anything in the gift shops for the other tourists?" Amelia stuck out her tongue playfully. "Hey, each of these has a special memory attached to it. Like this shell – remember when we found it on our midnight beach walk?" Alessandro's eyes softened as he picked up the delicate shell. "How could I forget? You were so excited you nearly fell into the water trying to reach it." They continued packing, each item sparking a fond recollection of their tim