Luca And Isabella. 2

Luca's plan was unfolding even better than he had expected. He had so much time with Isabella, and surprisingly, Mr. Schafer was in high spirits, laughing and joking with such unusual enthusiasm that it almost seemed like he was laughing his health away.

Building by building, Luca showed Isabella around, taking her through every space reserved for Trampos—and not Avidavis. It was the only thing he could do to ease the tension now that they had caught up on the more personal discussions they had saved for an in-person talk.

By the time full darkness settled over the sky, Mr. Schafer still hadn't given Isabella any sign of when they would be leaving. Not even a simple heads-up.

And just as Luca had begun to suspect, Mr. Schafer decided to stay the night—a decision that came right after Mr. Ruben made the suggestion.

For the men, this change of plans was easy. For Isabella, a young lady? Not so much.