Chapter 6

Gabi's heels clicked on the marble floor as she stepped into the mayor's office. The mayor, a stately man with a nest of white hair, rose from his seat to greet her. His eyes crinkled at the corners as he took her hand in a firm handshake.

"Mayor Bass," Gabi said, her voice husky and confident. "I hope I didn't disturb you by forwarding the time of our meeting."

The mayor chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "No, no, no, Gabi. You didn't disturb me. I'm sure I instead disturbed the busy schedule of the wealthy businesswoman, the great and lovely Gabrielle Thompson."

As they chatted, a shy little girl peeked from behind the mayor's chair. Gabi's eyes widened in surprise as she took in the child's fragile beauty.

"Perhaps you've not seen the kid, Jane," the mayor said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Show up, Jane."

The little girl hesitated for a moment before emerging from her hiding spot. Gabi's eyes locked onto Jane's, and for a moment, they simply stared at each other.

The child's black hair was tied in two buns, adorned with colorful jewelry that emphasized her delicate features. A pink pony gown and a white teddy bear clutched in her arms completed her adorable ensemble.

Luca walked alone, his eyes fixed on the horizon. His curly brown hair and blue eyes seemed to gleam with a mischievous spark, and his black jeans and Spider-Man shirt gave him an air of quiet confidence.

The mansion stood majestically on a gentle hill, its creamy white walls and tall columns glowing warmly in the sunlight. Expansive windows sparkled like diamonds, and a sweeping driveway lined with manicured hedges and ornate lanterns led to the grand front door. The air was alive with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the soft chirping of birds, creating a serene oasis that seemed worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Luca felt a pang of loneliness. He was used to being alone, but it didn't make it any easier.

Fabian, a man of great height, waited for Luca in front of the door. "Little master, we prepared your favorite meal," he said, his voice low and gentle.

Luca glanced at Fabian and moved into the mansion. The flour was made up of smooth Italian tiles, and the walls were adorned with expensive paintings.

As Luca ran up to his room, he heard a soft knock on the door. "Fabian, I'm not hungry," he said, his voice muffled by the door.

But it wasn't Fabian who spoke next. "Luca, are you sure you won't like something for dinner?"

The door swung open, and Luca's eyes widened as he beheld a familiar figure clad in a mask. The man's piercing blue eyes sparkled with warmth as he gazed at his son. His tall, lean frame and chiseled features, even partially hidden by the mask, still exuded an undeniable air of handsomeness. The short, curly hair only added to his rugged charm.

As Luca launched himself into his father's arms, the man's eyes crinkled at the corners, and a wide smile spread across his face. "So, how have you been, little guy?" he asked, his voice low and husky, filled with emotion.

Luca's arms wrapped tightly around his father's neck, and he buried his face in the familiar scent of his dad's jacket. "Dad, I really missed you!" he exclaimed, his voice muffled by tears of joy.

His dad's voice was laced with a hint of teasing as he said, "Hey, I told you boys don't cry." Luca's face scrunched up in a pout, his eyes sparkling with defiance. "I'm not crying," he insisted, his voice trembling with emotion.

As they walked downstairs, Luca's dad couldn't help but notice how beautiful his son was. His delicate features and expressive eyes made him look like a cherub. His dad hoped that Luca would lose some of that girly appearance as he grew older, but for now, he was content to adore his little boy just the way he was.

As they reached the bottom of the stairs, Luca's dad asked, "So, tell me, what adventures have you been up to?" Luca's face lit up with excitement as he replied, "I'll tell you if you tell me yours too!" The pair walked into the warm, golden light of the living room, their voices filled with laughter and excitement.

Fabian, standing discreetly in the corner, watched the scene unfold with a sense of relief. It had been a long time since he'd seen Luca smile so much. His father, a man consumed by his work, was rarely home, and Fabian knew that Luca missed him dearly. But for now, at least, the little boy was happy, and that was all that mattered.