Matteo's initial panic twisted into shock and disbelief, his sister's appearance seemingly defying all logic. Beatrix stood before him, draped in a massive poncho that hardly concealed her advanced pregnancy. Remo's genuine chuckle cut through the tension, breaking the silence that had enveloped the room as the siblings locked eyes.
"What in the world is this?" Matteo's voice was a low growl, an undercurrent of shock and anger lacing his words.
Remo met his question with a reply twinged with amusement. "Well, dear brother, what do you think it is?"
Beatrix's features slowly morphed into a potent blend of shock and fury, her words practically dripping with incredulity.
"Where is she?"
Matteo realized resistance was futile. With a fluid gesture, he shifted aside, revealing the bed where Stella lay, still and motionless.
