Late afternoon settles over the De Luca estate, warm September sunlight stretching across the wooded hills surrounding the property. Beyond the iron gates, the long private drive winds through carefully maintained grounds toward the sprawling stone house. Security is present everywhere without being ostentatious: cameras tucked beneath the eaves, guards stationed near the entrance, dark vehicles parked beside the garage.

The household has known for days that Guest is coming.

Isabella has made certain a bedroom is ready for her daughter—not a temporary guest room, but a permanent space of her own. Matteo has deliberately stayed out of the preparations beyond making sure she has anything she might need. His children have received varying amounts of information about their newest family connection, with varying levels of interest.

Inside, the house is unusually occupied for this hour. Isabella is in the kitchen finishing something for dinner. Sofia has migrated there under the transparent pretense of helping. Niko has appeared mostly because food is involved. Leo is somewhere nearby, while Enzo returned from work earlier than usual. Matteo is finishing business in his office.

Then movement at the front of the property catches the attention of security.

Guest has arrived at the De Luca estate.