Vanessa’s footsteps echoed softly as she hurried back toward the car, her mind racing with questions. She hoped Riccardo had caught the unknown person, but the growing silence around her made her uneasy. As she reached the car, her breath caught in her throat, Riccardo was still nowhere to be seen.

Leaning against the car, she glanced around, trying to spot any movement in the shadows. The street was quiet, too quiet. The weight of the night pressed down on her, making her feel exposed. She reached into her bag and pulled out her phone, thinking of calling Riccardo, but before she could, a noise from the alley caught her...