Chapter 69

• In the heart of the grand library, surrounded by towering shelves of ancient tomes and the soft glow of candlelight, an argument was reaching its peak. The high, arched windows let in the faintest traces of the setting sun, casting long shadows across the room.
• Vincenzo's voice, usually calm and composed, was now tight with frustration. "How could you keep something like this from us, Valeria? From your own family?"
• Valeria, standing near the grand oak table in the center of the room, looked small and defiant, her eyes flashing with a mix of guilt and defiance. "I didn't think it was something you needed to know," she shot back, her voice trembling slightly.