CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY FIVE – GROWING LOVE

As the day of the meeting approached, tension began to build. Marco visited more frequently, bringing updates and seeking Luca's guidance on various matters. Rebecca found herself feeling increasingly out of place during these discussions. The world of mafia politics and power struggles was so far removed from anything she had known before. One afternoon, as Marco left after another strategy session, Rebecca turned to Luca. "Maybe I should go," she said hesitantly. "I'm just getting in the way here." Luca's eyes widened in alarm. "No," he said quickly, reaching for her hand. "Please, don't go." Rebecca was taken aback by the intensity in his voice. "Luca..." He pulled her closer, his eyes searching hers. "Rebecca, you're not in the way. You're... you're the reason I'm fighting so hard to change things. To be better." Rebecca's heart raced at his words. "What do you mean?" Luca took a deep breath. "Before you, I was just going through the motions. Maintaining power, keeping the