Chapter 1: The abduction

As he entered the opulent structure of the "Ricci Gruppo di Società" in Florence, Italy, Lucca Ricci captured everyone's attention with his extraordinary presence and irresistible charisma. The women in his immediate vicinity were transfixed by his attractiveness and looked up at him with admiration. Their attention was focused on his face and body, so when he took off his sunglasses, they gasped in utter awe.

Lucca defied all notions of physical beauty, seeming to those who saw him like a Greek deity. Those who had the opportunity to view him were spellbound by his enticing atmosphere and attractive features, which made a lasting effect. He embodied the traits of the perfect man, a combination that many people can only hope to find.

Many ladies considered the possibility of being with Lucca to be a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Many others wanted the chance to have a brief experience while they slept with him. They craved the sensation of being in the presence of a guy who was the epitome of perfection, whose touch and proximity were regarded as the greatest pleasures.

The appeal of Lucca Ricci extended beyond his appearance. He had the ability to charm everybody who came into contact with him thanks to his charisma, self-assurance, and mystic aura. Women gravitated toward him and would take advantage of any chance to be in his company, even if it was just for a few times.

It was truly a rare occasion for Lucca Ricci to be at his workplace, as he stepped into the elevator with his best buddy Rocco. Lucca was renowned for spending a great deal of his time courting women, having casual encounters, and enjoying life's joys. He was a billionaire, so he could spend as much time and money as he wanted on his romantic interests without worrying too much about the cost.

Nevertheless, while leading a lavish lifestyle, Lucca recognized the value of overseeing his vast economic empire. Even though he might not be at his company as much, he made sure that everything was running properly. Lucca understood the importance of building a solid foundation for his commercial enterprises since he understood that his success and wealth were the outcomes of his entrepreneurial initiatives.

They entered Lucca's office and were seated on the sofa.

"che bevanda vuoi?" Rocco asked (translation: what do you want to drink?)

"il caffe americano sarebbe buono" answered Lucca (translation: Americano coffee would be good)

Rocco raised his index finger to signal Lucca's secretary, indicating his request for coffee. He spoke up, "Un caffè americano e latte cremoso, per favore" - one Americano coffee and a creamy latte, please.

Being used to an opulent lifestyle, Lucca didn't think twice about putting pricey objects in his workplace, like the $1,000 sofa. He had been blessed from a young age with material luxuries because he was born with a golden spoon.

Rocco is in charge of running the different companies held by Lucca's family in his capacity as Vice President of Ricci gruppo di società. A wide range of businesses is owned by the Ricci family, including hotels, eateries, well-known devices, food import and export, factories, beaches, islands, farms, TV networks, and more.

In front of Lucca and Rocco, the secretary arranged the tray with the required beverages with care. The air was thick with the scent of freshly prepared Americano coffee and a rich latte, contributing to the opulent atmosphere of Lucca's workplace.

"Grazie" (translation: thank you)

Her beaming eyes stared at Lucca. She wanted to seduce him.

Lucca stared back and bit his lower lip. "I'm sorry baby but I have work"

Rocco shook his head. Flirty as ever. The secretary went outside the office.

"anche il tuo segretario?" (translation: even your secretary?)

"non posso resistere, è così sexy" (translation: I can't resist it, she is so sexy)

Rocco shook his head again "I can't believe Lucca's charm."

" you should have flirt girls. enjoy life."

"No Grazie" (translation: no, thanks)

Before enjoying their selected beverages, Lucca and Rocco took time to enjoy the enticing scent. The drinks' superior flavor and caliber were in line with the high standards set by the Ricci family's enterprises.

Lucca and Rocco talked about significant issues connected to the many businesses they managed, making sure everything was operating effectively while they sipped their beverages. The opulent decor and meticulous attention to detail of Lucca's office were a reflection of the family Ricci's dedication to perfection in all facets of their company operations.

"Tornerò alle Filippine." ( I will go back to the Philippines)

"Perché?" (Why?)

"mi ha chiesto di visitarla perché le mancavo." (translation: she asked me to visit her because she missed me.)

Rocco nodded. "mi aspetto che non rimarrai più a lungo." (translation: I expect you will not stay longer in there.)

"è solo una settimana" (translation: It's just a week).

"Just call me if something's up with my companies, but I doubted you will call me on my vacation. I knew you can handle everything."

"hai tanta fiducia in me"( translation:you put so much trust on me)

"perchè no?" (translation: why not?)

Rocco laughed. "okay. I won't argue."

" Anyway, it is just a short visit. I know, Aunt Luciana will understand that I have so many businesses here."

"Including flirting with women?"

"si"(translation: yes)

"Va bene, allora ci sentiamo presto. Buon viaggio nelle Filippine!" (translation: "Alright, then we'll talk soon. Have a safe trip to the Philippines!")

**************

Laura's pov

I just finished my class. I decided to take a rest in the faculty before heading home.

" pagod?" Ethel asked. my best friend. (translation: really tired?)

" yeah, just finished my lesson. " I massage my nape.

The day had been quite demanding. I had a full schedule and was ready to return home. To be honest, I was too worn out to make the entire journey on foot. Could someone help me out?

"sweldo na natin bukas. saan tayo kakain?" (translation: our salaries will be tomorrow, where should we eat?)

"korean restaurant"

"nakakahiligan mo na ang mga foreigners ha. dati gustong gusto mo ang italian dish tapos ngayon korean na, ano na naman kaya ang susunod?" (translation: you already like foreigners huh? you used to like Italian dishes and now it's Korean, what's next?)

"para namang hindi mahilig sa foreigners. diba nga may boyfriend ka dati na foreigner din? "(translation: as if you don't like foreigners. didn't you have a boyfriend before who was also a foreigner?)

she grimaced. " pwede huwag mo na siyang banggitin, nakakasira ng araw" (translation: can you please dont mention him? it ruined my day)

"Okay okay, I won't mention him ever again. but, you need to pay for my dinner tomorrow."

"ano? pero pareho naman tayong may sweldo bukas?" (translation: What? but we both have a salary tomorrow.)

"you owe me one, remember when you didn't come to my birthday party?"

"Okay, okay. my treat tomorrow. Did I pay my debt to you?"

I smiled. " already paid."

After our brief exchange, I made the decision to return home. Perhaps a brief stroll won't harm me.

Even though it was almost 5:30 in the afternoon when I looked at my watch, my typical jeepney route was still not there. I questioned why the jeepney was arriving so slowly.

***************

Lucca's pov

After my private airplane landed in the Philippines, the driver sent by my Aunt Luciana arrived to pick me up. As I stepped out of the plane, the guard at the airport greeted me respectfully.

"Good afternoon, Sir Lucca," he said with a bow.

I returned his greeting with a smile and replied, "Good afternoon to you as well."

He opened the car door, and I gracefully entered the vehicle. As I settled in, my Aunt Luciana's phone call came through, and I promptly answered.

"Hello, Aunty?" I greeted.

"Did you see my bodyguard?" she inquired.

"Yes," I replied, confirming that I had indeed noticed her bodyguard.

"thank goodness you arrive safely."

I laughed "Do you expect me to die right after I ride the airplane?"

"It's not like that"

I grinned, "Thank you for your concern, Aunty. You don't need to worry as much, I made it here safely, so relax.

I giggled quietly, appreciating the unique relationship I had with Aunt Luciana. She had always supported me despite being my mother's half-sister, and our relationship extended beyond blood. Despite any technicalities, I treasured the fact that Aunt Luciana was my favorite and most valued aunt since family is not exclusively determined by DNA.

My attention was caught by a woman who was standing in a neighboring waiting shed while we were snarled in traffic. She had a certain familiarity with her, which aroused my interest.

I was lost in my own feelings and thoughts when I heard the driver's voice in the rearview mirror. I inhaled deeply and tried to calm down before speaking.

I managed a grin to reassure him, "I'm alright, thank you. " But I couldn't get rid of the bewilderment that had engulfed me from the inside out. Something about that woman caused me to experience an unfathomable range of feelings.

I couldn't help but be curious and intrigued by the woman I had seen in the waiting shed as the automobile continued to move.

But I still had a scowl on my face. or did I simply misidentify her?

I do, however, want to know who she is.

My thoughts were still on the familiar woman I had seen earlier as we made our way to Aunt Luciana's property in Davao City. My focus was elsewhere despite the stunning surroundings and the enjoyable sense of being back in my hometown.

"Lucca" Aunty Luciana welcomed me with a big hug. I hugged her back.

I greeted Aunt Luciana and remarked, "It's so good to see you, Aunt Luciana," with sincere warmth in my voice.

She smiled and asked, "How was your trip?"

"I noticed a slight change in this city, which is good."

"Yes, that merely indicates that you visited me in the distant past."

"Don't be upset, Aunty; I'm already here."

"How many days will you be staying here?"

" just 7 "

"A hard time will come again."

"Why won't you travel to Italy with me so that you may see me every day?"

"I can't leave this farm because I adore it."

The housemaids followed us inside as we arrived.

She turned to the maid and said, "Could you please give us some tea?"

The maid said, "Of course, ma'am," and immediately started brewing the tea.

We settled down on the living room sofa.

"How has your brother been? Doesn't he want to help with the family's businesses?"

"You know, he loves acting, and I can't force him into our business. Luckily, Rocco is there to help me."

"That was a tough one."

"Nah. I enjoyed managing businesses with Rocco"

"How about women?"

" of course, it's on my list"

She chuckled. Do you intend to find love once more?

I smirked back, "For what? I enjoy being with different women of different nationalities."

"You are aware of my position on it."

"I am aware, Aunty"

"I miss sunbathing", she added excitedly, "and the day after tomorrow, we're going to Samal Island.

I smiled and said, "Sure, whatever we do, I'd love to come along with you.

I grabbed my drink, took a sip, and it was on the table.

We talked for a while, till after midnight. We both took pleasure in each other's presence, thus it was a pleasure for both of us. I loved that Aunty Luciana had always been there for me. She was quite influential in my life, especially when my parents were busy running their companies. In fact, she loved me so much that I occasionally questioned whether she was really my mother. I will always be appreciative of her contribution to my life and the way her presence and unfailing support made me feel loved and valued.

Days became weeks, then months, then years, and I learned more and more about the dynamics of my family. I understood that, although being a steadfast source of love and care for me, Aunty Luciana was not my birth mother. I learned about the difficulties and duties that my parents encountered, especially those related to their enterprises. I learned to value the sacrifices my parents made to support our family and secure our future, despite the fact that at times our connection may have looked distant.

******************

Laura's pov

Because it's Sunday, we don't have to go to work. And it will be a thrilling day. We are traveling to Samal Island with Ethel's family. I've been craving a swim in the ocean. We haven't had the opportunity to visit the island, despite the fact that we live nearby. Ethel has nevertheless invited me today.

She said, "Excited na ako lumangoy." (I'm really eager to swim)

I chuckled. " me too."

I liked looking out at the ocean. To obtain a complete perspective of the ocean, we exited the automobile and walked up to the top of the barge.

I love what I am wearing today: a floral dress paired with a matching brown women's hat

"ang presko ng hangin" I said and take a deep breath ( translation: the air is so fresh)

"pst" Ethel whispered at me.

"What?"

" may nakatingin sayong hot guy" she said while giggling (translation: the hot guy is staring at you)

A man in a white polo shirt and matching brown shorts caught my attention as I turned to face the direction she was gazing. I was unable to fully see his eyes since he was wearing sunglasses. He appeared to be giving me a close look. I instantly glanced aside and made the decision not to give it any more thought.

" Laura, baka may gusto sayo. ang ganda ganda mo kasi lalo na ngayon" (translation: Laura, maybe the guy likes you, you are so beautiful right now.)

"Freak, stop dreaming, I know he is your type," I said.

" yes, I am a freak, but my goodness, Laura. who wouldn't resist him?"

"me," I said pretending to be angry.

" my,my. you have lost a chance."

I said, "Chance your face. Let's go back to the car before you devour him," and I took the lead in leaving. Ethel had no intention of averting the interesting man's attention.

************

Lucca's pov

On the top of the barge, I once again spotted the same woman. Actually, I wasn't going to get out of the car, but I felt compelled to. And it turns out I was right because she reappeared. I had a few minutes to stare at her. Her fair skin matched her attractiveness; she was stunning. She had black hair that was lustrous and had heavy brows. and a distinct figure.

I smiled at that thought. Maybe following her to see where she goes wouldn't be such a bad idea.

"Aunty, do you have more bodyguards?"

" for what?"

"I have a plan"

she looked at me, confused.

I just smiled at her.

" I know your smile."

" Just let me, Aunty"

" another woman?"

"She is not just a woman. she is different from others."

"and why do you say so?"

"Remember what I said yesterday."

her eyes got bigger. " you mean."

"Yes," I answered her question.

****************

Laura's pov

Ethel and I immediately went to the beach when we arrived at Cavanico Beach Resort. We skipped eating and setting up our belongings because we were so eager. Who wants to waste time, you could ask?

I said, "Ah, so refreshing," and I floated.

"let's take advantage of this time because tomorrow will be busy"

"Uh-huh."

Ethel casually stated, "I have a blind date tomorrow," which caught me off guard.

I tripped in shock as I tried to grasp what she had said.

saying "you, what?"

"I'm going on a date."

"kelan mo pa to plinano?" (translation: since when did you plan this?)

" hindi ko plano to. plano to ni ma'am jessica" ( translation: it is not my plan, its ma'am jessica's plan.)

"siguraduhin mo lang matino yan ha." i said (translation: make it sure he is sensible.)

"oo naman. at saka blind date palng yun nuh. hindi ko alam kung magkiclick kami. " (translation: Of course, it's just a blind date. Who knows if we'll click) Ethel added, shrugging nonchalantly.

I nodded while feigning neutrality. I secretly hoped that this blind date would result in more than simply a friendly introduction.

"wag na nga muna natin yan isipin , nandito tayo para magenjoy" (we shoudn't think about that. we're here to enjoy.)

We chose to return to our cabin after four hours in the sea. We intended to stay the night here and fully enjoy our beach vacation. As we made our way to our comfortable sanctuary, the air was filled with the sound of crashing waves and a light wind. The ideal setting for an unforgettable evening was created by the interplay of excitement and calm.

I sat down and used my bare hands to eat, saying, "I'm so hungry." The air was filled with the enticing smells of the meal, making my mouth wet in anticipation. I eagerly tucked into the dinner, relishing each delectable bite. I felt more real and connected to the meal and the experience of eating with my bare hands.

"Laura, wala ka pang boyfriend?" asked the mother of Ethel ( translation: Laura, don't you have a boyfriend?"

I just laughed. " tita, hindi pa naman ako nagmamadali." (translation: tita, I am not rushing)

" wag kang mag alala ma. baka meron na yan bukas." said Ethel and laugh at me. (translation: don't worry, mom. maybe she will have it tomorrow.)

"or maybe you" I looked at her meaningfully. At least I turned the game right away.

We returned to the beach to spend the remainder of the day after finishing our supper. We lounged on the sand, soaked up the sun, and went swimming in the crystal-clear water. With laughs, chats, and special time spent with my closest friend Ethel, it was the ideal way to conclude the day. We decided to return to our cottage and relax for the night as the sun started to set, sending a warm light over the horizon. We were looking forward to the experiences that were ahead of us in the following days.

I started to unpack and properly organize my items as soon as I entered the room. I arranged my personal stuff on the bedside table, set my amenities in the bathroom, and arranged my clothing in the closet. Having things in order made for a pleasant and stress-free start the next day. On the other side of the room, Ethel was also busy setting up her belongings, and we periodically chatted and laughed as we got ready for the evening.

"I want to drink beer," I said.

"Hello, remember we have class tomorrow?"

I grumbled, showing my anger at the memory, "Ugh, you said it.

"That's reality, folks," she retorted.

"Come on, just one beer."

She agreed to take a beer and said, "Okay, okay, you go first, I'll follow."

I moved near a huge rock that was positioned by the shore after giving a nod. Since I didn't know Ethel's drink preferences, I made the decision to wait there before placing my order.

I had on a pair of short shorts and a flowy top to match. Outside, it's really chilly. Perhaps having a beer might make it feel less chilly.

I looked back toward our room as I sat on the rock, trying to get Ethel's attention. She needed to see me and come hang out with me by the sea. I carefully waited, looking around and anxiously awaiting her entrance.

I wonder what she's doing since "she's too slow." She was someone I was really familiar with. She's been that way ever since we were youngsters.

When I suddenly felt someone placing a handkerchief on my nose from behind, I was just about to rise up. I was overcome by the powerful stench and passed out before I could react. Everything became dark, and I lost all control over my situation.

***************

I was lying on a bed in a large room that I didn't recognize as I began to slowly come to. The setting was opulent, with pricey decor and fine furnishings. As I attempted to put together what had occurred and where I was, confusion flooded my head. I scanned the area for any hints or recognizable faces, but nothing was there. It was obvious that I was in a foreign location, and I was unable to escape the uneasy feeling that had descended upon me.

"hmm" I still felt the pain in my head. What happened?

I couldn't help but admire the room's flawless design and attention to detail as I kept taking everything around me in. It was a dream room come true because of the calming and welcoming feeling the modern rustic theme provided. The furniture, accessories, and colors all appeared to have been meticulously chosen to create a calming and pleasant atmosphere. I was unable to shake the feeling that someone had gone to tremendous pains to build this area, and I was left wondering who it may have been. I was curious and excited as I took in the grandeur of the space, wondering what lay in store for me in this strange yet alluring location.

I had a surge of terror as I became aware of how serious the situation was. My initial shock quickly gave way to a sobering reality: I had been abducted, and this perfectly planned chamber was nothing more than a cover for the peril that awaited me. I hastily went to the door in search of a way out, but it was locked. Fear gripped me more tightly as I desperately tried to open the door but was unable. My thoughts and heart were racing as I tried to think of any way to get out of this situation.

I was aware that I needed to maintain my composure and use reason, but the feeling of captivity and uncertainty made it challenging. I made the decision at that moment to gather my courage, maintain my composure, and find a way out of this nightmare scenario.

" Anybody there? please let me out of here."

I anxiously cried out for assistance, hoping that someone would hear me and rush to my aid as my voice reverberated around the room. The eerie quiet that followed made me feel even more alone and defenseless. I kept shouting, getting more and more frantic with each passing second. But the silence simply increased my anxiety and made me more aware of how alone I really felt in this situation. Nevertheless, I resisted giving in to hopelessness. I was aware that I had to maintain my will and ingenuity while looking for any openings or hints that would enable me to flee. I mustered my bravery with each yell, forcing myself to remain steadfast and watchful in the hopes that someone, somewhere, would overhear my cries and rush to my rescue.

But no one responded.

" Please let me out. " I used all my strength to shout hoping they could hear me.

But still no response.

I turned away from the entrance, intent on getting to the window and finding a way out. My jaw dropped open, and my eyes widened in horror as I turned to the door. The man Ethel had earlier described, the same person I had seen on the barge, was now in front of me. My eyes were so unbelievable.

I said, "You!" in a shaky voice that combined shock and horror.

His eyes were flashing with malice as he grinned. "Hi," he mocked.

My blood pressure shot up as I came to the conclusion that this man was probably responsible for my kidnapping. I forced myself to remain composed and concentrated as panic began to creep in. I had to evaluate the circumstance and come up with a plan of defense.

The question "Who are you?"

"Lucca Ricci"

I don't want to know your name; I want to know why you abducted me.

"If you would take a seat, I will explain."

I told him to "stop that bullshit" while throwing a pillow at him.

, "That was close."

I wasn't able to hit him.

I grimaced.

I begged, my voice desperate, "Please, let me go back to where I was before; I want to go home."

The man said with a sly smirk, "Too bad, you can't do that," and his words resounded throughout the room.

"What?"

At his reply, my heart dropped even lower as I became aware of how serious my circumstance was. I needed to come up with a backup strategy because it became obvious that I wouldn't be able to escape quickly.

"I owned you now."

I answered, my voice tinged with wrath and defiance, "Fuck off, I don't know you, and you are claiming that I am your property?"

"I paid 10 million pesos for you, and now you are mine."

I briefly thought I was deaf and said, "You, what?"

"Your family approved my offer to buy you, so I did."

I felt a burst of anger replace my initial shock. "You can't treat me like something to be bought and sold. I am a human being with rights and autonomy."

He grabbed my wrist as I made an attempt to open the door.

I gave him a face slap. Say "Let me out!"

He tossed me violently into the bed, sending a rush of fear and adrenaline through my body. I fell to the ground with a thud, the force echoing throughout my body.

He leaned over me, his angry features contorted. He spat, his voice dripping with venom, "You will regret that.

"No one dared to slap me"

" no one dared to kidnap me" I fired back.

He was looking at me with wrath in his eyes, and I could see it blazing within him. The intensity of his emotions could be seen in his tightened jaw and stiff muscles. With only our labored breathing to break the eerie calm, the space became completely silent.

"I bought you from your family for 10 million pesos," I said.

I sprang from the bed and yelled, "How dare they sell me to you? I don't even know you! I have work today, and my best friend will be worried sick because I'm gone. Let me out!" I was irate and frustrated in my voice.

He said matter-of-factly, "I've already talked to your closest buddy, and as for your job, I've talked to the owner, and they will soon replace you."

My shocked eyes expanded. "What the heck did you just say?"

"You won't be returning home; you'll be coming with me."

Tears started to form in my eyes as the words hit me like a ton of bricks. I fervently prayed that what I was experiencing was simply a bad dream.

He calmly stated, "This is not a dream," and sat down on a neighboring chair. He pretended that he hadn't broken any laws.

My voice was shaking, but I managed to say, "You're a criminal, aren't you?"

He said with an arrogant tone, "If you define a criminal as a lovely man like me, then yes, I am."

I gazed at him while inside fuming with rage. What does it matter whether he was deemed attractive? Not even my type, he was.

I clenched my teeth and yelled, "LET ME OUT!" with a frustrated tone.

He merely grinned without displaying any mercy.

I yelled again, increasing my voice, "I said let me out!"

He added calmly, "You're a teacher, right? That means you should comprehend what I just stated.

I answered angrily, "I don't give a damn about you; if you're intending to murder me, it won't happen."

He said with his voice firm, "It truly won't happen since I have no intention of murdering you."

I said in a shaky voice, "Then why am I here?" I was both scared and furious.

He gently rose to his feet and walked up to me, saying, "You're here because you have a mission. His eyes had a fascinating appearance."

I gathered all my might and hit him hard when our faces were only inches apart, then sprinted for the door. Thankfully, it wasn't locked.

I had to decide in a split second and went to the right. In a last-ditch effort to find a way out and see the light at the end, I ran as quickly as I could.

The enormity of the deserted mansion only helped to intensify the eerie sense as I hurriedly looked around me and asked myself, "Where is the gate?"

After what seemed like an endless amount of running, I, at last, noticed a white fence that was only a few inches away. In my mind, freedom was within my grasp. He abruptly materialized in front of me and blocked my way.

I gasped and retreated a few steps out of reflex as terror coursed through me.

He hissed, "Clearly you have no idea who I am, you even had the arrogance to hit me after slapping me."

I screamed, my voice shaking with a mixture of indignation and despair, "I don't care who you are, I just want to go home."

He said quietly, moving closer to me, "Not until I allow you."

I snapped back, my voice rising with rage, "I don't need your permission because, in the first place, I don't even know you!"

He paid no attention to what I said and slowly drew closer to me as I continued to move backward.

I muttered a curse, "Stop this nonsense."

He smirked and said, "You're quite good at cursing."

I tried to hit a nerve by saying, "Let me out. If the police find out that I'm missing, you'll definitely end up in jail."

He sneered, "Why would I? Your family sold you, not me."

I responded, attempting to make it clear that I was independent of them.

He replied, "Not anymore," with a tinge of conceit in his voice.

The realization that there was a wall behind me and no way out finally hit me. I cried out, "Stop!" as he moved forward more.

I tried to get his attention, but he only drew closer to me. He focused on me when he was just a few inches away. We had uncomfortably near lips.

He whispered in my ear, "You can't do anything... If you want to survive, obey me. And if you obey me, I will give you all the comforts you want."

I stood there in disbelief as he walked away, a terrifying smile forming on his lips. I had to locate a chair to help me stand up since my legs felt numb.

******************

Lucca's pov

Aunty Luciana inquired, "How is she?"

She's all right, I said.

Aunty said, "I think we made the wrong choice; why not send her back to her family?"

"Her family sold her," was my reply.

"And you bought her," Aunty continued, her voice trembling with worry.

I declared, "I won't let her go back, no matter the cause."

Aunty begged, "Lucca, there are so many women out there. Why her?"

I firmly said, "Aunty, you understand the reason."

"But..."

"We will stay here for one more week, and then I will send Rocco to come and retrieve me."

Saying, "Lucca, my son..."

I comforted her, "Aunty, everything will be for the best.

"But..."

She hesitated a little, but I didn't really notice and started to phone my PA.

"Hello, Antonio," I said.

"Signore," he responded (translation: sir).

"Hai qualcosa da fare per me?" I asked (translation: Do you have something to do for me?).

"Va bene, signore," he confirmed (translation: Okay, sir).

I then instructed him on the steps that needed to be taken in order to get ready for our arrival in Italy.

I then phoned Rocco to give him a situational update and tell him all he needs to know.