ONE HUNDRED AND SEVEN.

All that can be heard between us is the quiet buzzing of Alessandros’ engine as he drives down the highway, attempting to get me to the hospital in time to identify Aunt Mae's body.

Numbly, staring down at my wringing fingers on my lap, I attempt to make sense of what just transpired.

I've only been with Alessandro for a minimum of two hours.

Which means someone would have waited until we left to set the house ablaze.

But none of this makes sense.

I mean, who would want to hurt her?

She was dearly loved in our neighbourhood, as she was an active member of the community. She had the sweetest demeanour with an honourable heart to match.

“Ivy,” Alessandro says my name with trepidation as he leans over the gear transmission and rests a hand on my thigh. “Tell me what's on your mind.”

I slowly raise my head, drawing in a razor-sharp breath as I gradually exhale while I stare straight ahead.

“How many more of my loved ones are going to die?” My voice quivers. “I mean, shit. I can count