CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY THREE – ALL IS WELL THAT ENDS WELL

They spent the next hour talking, laughing, and crying together. They shared their fears, their hopes, and their dreams for the future. By the time they said goodbye, with promises to talk again soon, Rebecca felt like her heart might burst with happiness. As promised, she immediately called Nancy to share the news. "Nancy, it's me," she said as soon as her sister picked up. "Luca and I talked. He... he loves me. We're going to try to make it work." Nancy's squeal of excitement was so loud Rebecca had to hold the phone away from her ear. "Oh my God, Becca! I'm so happy for you! Tell me everything!" Rebecca laughed, feeling lighter than she had in weeks. "I will, I promise. But right now, I think I need to sleep. It's been an emotional night." "Okay, okay," Nancy conceded. "But first thing tomorrow, we're having a sister powwow. And don't forget, we start baking for the competition!" The next morning, Rebecca arrived at Nancy's house bright and early, armed with baking supplies an