Luca stepped through the door, his broad shoulders filling the doorway as he entered the house. The soft hum of music drifted from the kitchen, blending with the faint sounds of chopping and searing. He kicked off his shoes, his dark eyes scanning the entryway with practiced ease. His strong frame moved fluidly through the space, a quiet confidence in every step.

“Amore?” His voice was steady, low, and calm, carrying through the empty hallway. He loosened his tie, the knot slipping easily from around his neck, and dropped his briefcase onto the table near the door.

The house, warm and familiar, felt almost too still. But the comforting sounds of his wife working in the kitchen brought a sense of normalcy that he craved after a long day. He paused for a moment, taking in the subtle smell of garlic and herbs that filled the air, before he pushed himself off the doorframe and headed toward the kitchen.

“Everything alright?” he called softly, his gaze already searching for her in the warm glow of the kitchen light.