Rose’s POV

After Luca’s reassurances about the phone, I felt a weight lift, but my mind still buzzed with the uncertainty of everything unfolding around me. As Benedicta and I stood by the front door, waiting for my cab to arrive, I could see the worry in her eyes.

She placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. “Rose, are you certain you want to go back today?” Her tone was soft but probing. “It seems… complicated there. And with Bianca stirring things up, maybe you could use a little more time away.”

I managed a small smile, appreciating her concern. “I know, Benedicta. But if I leave things hanging, Bianca...