Marco arrived at Vee and Luca's home straight from the airport the next morning, still carrying the weariness of travel.
Vee stood by the counter, dressed in a simple robe, her hair loosely tied back. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the room as she poured a cup and handed it to Marco. "How was your trip?"
"Long flight."
"Luca will be down in a moment." She gave him a reassuring nod before heading upstairs to fetch him.
Marco took a slow sip, stepping out of the kitchen to the living room area. The domestic calm felt surreal compared to the storm he had just left behind in Italy.
Moments later, hurried footsteps echoed from the staircase. Luca appeared, hastily pulling on a shirt, the top buttons still undone.
"Marco…" Luca began, striding forward to envelop him in a firm, brotherly hug. "I'm sorry I pulled you out, but I need you here. I have to be in Italy. Julian needs a reminder of his place."
