Chapter 8 - Unveiling the PastBack at the Moretti estate, Elena spent the afternoon walking through the sprawling rose gardens behind the mansion. The scent of blooming white roses filled the air, calming her nerves. She pushed the stroller gently, watching her son's tiny hands twitch in his sleep.
Luca walked beside her, his hands tucked casually into the pockets of his trousers.
"You've been quiet today," Luca noted gently, glancing down at her.
Elena stopped walking and turned to face him, the afternoon sun highlighting the determination in her eyes. "Luca, I need to know the truth. Why do you protect me with such ferocity? You mentioned before that some debts aren't measured in money. What debt could possibly make you risk everything against a monster like Arthur?"
Luca stopped as well, turning to face her fully. He let out a long, slow breath, looking away toward the horizon for a moment before meeting her gaze.
"Three years ago, there was a charity gala downtown," Luca began, his voice dropping into a quiet register. "A high-profile event for underprivileged children. Arthur Sterling was there, celebrating a multi-million-dollar merger, surrounded by sycophants."
Elena blinked, trying to recall. "I... I worked catering back then to pay for college."
"Exactly," Luca nodded. "During the speeches, a heavy structural light rig above the stage began to fracture. The bolts snapped. Everyone in the front rows panicked and ran for the exits—including Arthur, who literally shoved a pregnant woman out of his way to save his own skin."
Elena’s eyes widened. "I remember hearing about a near-miss accident..."
"You didn't just hear about it," Luca said softly, stepping closer. "You saw the rig falling toward me while I was distracted helping an elderly donor. Without a second thought, you lunged forward, tackled me out of the way, and took a glancing blow to your shoulder from the falling debris. You saved my life, Elena. And when I looked up to thank you, you smiled, brushed off the dust, and slipped away into the crowd before I could even get your name."
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Elena stared at him, stunned into absolute silence as the foggy memories of her past collided with the present reality.
"I spent three years searching for the brave catering worker who saved my life," Luca continued, his voice thick with emotion. "When I finally found you, you were trapped in an abusive marriage with the very coward who pushed you aside that night. I swore to myself then and there: no one will ever hurt you again."
