Chapter 16

"Rise and shine, sleeping beauty!" Giulia's cheerful voice cut through Sofia's peaceful slumber, accompanied by the sudden flood of sunlight as curtains were thrown open.

Sofia groaned, burying her face deeper into the plush pillows. "What time is it?" she mumbled, her voice thick with sleep.

"Time to get to work," Giulia replied, perching on the edge of the bed. "Come on, I've got coffee and croissants waiting downstairs."

Reluctantly, Sofia dragged herself into a sitting position, wincing as the movement pulled at her injured shoulder. The events of the past few days came rushing back, and with them, a renewed sense of urgency.

"Alright, alright," she conceded, running a hand through her tangled hair. "Give me fifteen minutes to shower and I'll be down."

Giulia nodded, her expression softening slightly. "How are you feeling? Really?"

Sofia considered the question as she gingerly rotated her shoulder. "Better," she said honestly. "Still sore, but nothing I can't handle."

"Good," Giul