Chapter 62. End This Way

As we settled back into our lives, free from the fear of our enemies, Riccardo and I began to build a new chapter in our story-one filled with love, growth, and joy.

We discussed our dreams for the future-the places we wanted to travel, the home we wanted to build together, and the family we hoped to raise. It was like, no matter what obstacles came our way, we were determined to create a life that was rooted in happiness.

And as Riccardo took me on long walks along the beach, holding my hand as we watched the sun rise over the horizon, or cooked me homemade meals while laughing and joking around in the kitchen, I felt like nothing could tear us apart.

But just when things seemed perfect, there was a new challenge on the horizon-Riccardo’s family business was struggling, and he needed to find a way to keep it afloat. At first, he tried to keep it all hidden from me, not wanting to burden me with his troubles.

But as I noticed him growing more distant and stre