The Warning

"We can't stay here," Luca's voice was low and urgent as he guided Sofia out of the café, his hand warm on the small of her back. "It's not safe."

Sofia's mind was reeling, trying to process everything that had happened in the last few hours. Her father, the mob boss. Luca, her unlikely ally. And now, apparently, they were both in danger.

"Where are we going?" she asked, struggling to keep up with Luca's long strides.

"Somewhere safe," he replied cryptically, his eyes scanning the street as they walked. "Somewhere your father's men won't think to look."

They turned down a narrow alley, and Luca suddenly pulled Sofia close, pressing her against the brick wall. For a moment, Sofia thought he was going to kiss her, and her heart raced at the prospect. But then she heard the sound of footsteps approaching, and she realized he was shielding her from view.

A group of men passed by the alley entrance, their voices low and menacing. Sofia held her breath, acutely aware of Luca's body pressed