Chapter 53. Back to Italy

Evelyn

“Welcome back.” Jacob scooped me up the moment I stepped inside the apartment, spinning us around before I even had a chance to take a step on my own. I laughed, holding on tighter as he twirled us, our laughter filling the familiar space.

“Silly,” I whispered as he settled us on the couch, cradling me in his lap like a baby. Jacob always treated me like one, and honestly, I didn’t mind being spoiled. After the long flight, I should’ve felt tired, but the moment we breathed in the air of Italy, any exhaustion disappeared. And being back in this apartment, where we’d built so many memories—the good, the hard, the unforgettable—felt as sweet as it was bittersweet.

“You have no idea how empty this place felt after you left,” Jacob murmured, his eyes scanning my face as if memorizing every detail. “It was like I was dying a little every day. The silence, missing your warmth, your scent, the soft sound of your footsteps… it all just killed me, baby. I love