Chapter 47

It was 9:45 pm, and the ravioli shop was still open. As long as there were customers, the owner would keep it open late. It was a familiar stop for many coming off late shifts. Valeria quietly ate her ravioli as she was genuinely hungry. The shock she had just experienced, combined with the chill of a late autumn night, made the steaming ravioli all the more comforting. With each bite, the warmth slowly soothed her frayed nerves. Valeria asked for extra vinegar and extra spice, even though she couldn't really handle spicy food. A bit of warmth had started to form on her back. Surrounded by that cozy little shop, with familiar neighbors nearby and the cheerful shop owner smiling, she felt safe. Meanwhile, across from her sat that tall, aloof, yet familiar figure. Valeria lowered her head and took a few more bites. She'd never liked ricotta cheese and egg filling before, but that night, it tasted just right. Sebastian held his fork, frowning as he picked out the tiny shrimp. "Dr.