The Last Trilogy E-Book

Nando von Niederhaeusern

• Herausgeber: epubli
• Kategorie: Krimi
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 276

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

"In this gripping thriller, three unusual investigators from different parts of Europe team up to solve a series of gruesome murders that has already claimed 14 lives. Luca Rossi from Italy, Sofia Vargas from Spain and Eddie Hughes from the UK are called together by Interpol to form an international investigative unit. Together they uncover the dark secrets behind the business card murders, which turn out to be part of a disturbing game spun by a network of intrigue and secrets. As they pursue the perpetrators, the investigators are confronted not only with the dark secrets of the series of murders, but also with their own inner demons. The plot takes readers through various European locations, including Copenhagen and Croatia, and immerses them in a world where the boundaries between good and evil are blurred. In a narrative style that delves deep into the thoughts and feelings of the characters, "The Last Trilogy" offers a gripping journey where the truth is even more disturbing than the darkest nightmares. With a gripping narrative style that immerses readers deep into the thoughts and emotions of the characters, "The Last Trilogy" offers an unforgettable reading experience. A gripping thriller that impressively blurs the thin lines between good and evil, truth and deception, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page."

Leseprobe

Nando von Niederhäusern

The Last Trilogy

1st Edition 2024

The Last Trilogy

THRILLER

Nando von Niederhäusern

The Last Trilogy

Imprint:

1st Edition 2024

Author Name: © 2024 Copyright by Nando von Niederhäusern

Editor: © 2024 Copyright by Nando von Niederhäusern

Texts: © 2024 Copyright by Nando von Niederhäusern

Cover: © 2024 Copyright by Nando von Niederhäusern

Print: epubli – a service of Neopubli GmbH, Berlin

Responsible for the content: Nando von Niederhäusern

8180 Bülach Switzerland [email protected]

Website: www.nandovonniederhausern.com

Translated from German to English by the author himself

Copyright © 2024 by Nando von Niederhäusern

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the author.

Inhalt

Introduction

Chapter 1: The Writer

Chapter 2: Sofia Vargas

Chapter 3: Ominous Message

Chapter 4: Night in Fear

Chapter 5: Ghosts of the Past

Chapter 6: The Swede

Chapter 7: Lars Jensen

Chapter 8: A true friend

Chapter 9: Showdown in Croatia

Chapter 10: Consequences

Chapter 11: Shared Sorrow

Chapter 12: The Raven

Chapter 13: Off to Brussels

Chapter 14: Who is Victor Duvall?

Chapter 15: Against Time

Chapter 16: Internal Disputes

Chapter 17: Edward Hughes

Kapitel 18: Die schwarze Witwe

"In the heart of Europe, where the lines between good and evil blur, lie secrets darker than the deepest nightmares."

Introduction

In a world where crime knows no borders, where evil extends across countries and continents, there is a need for those willing to transcend these boundaries. Three investigators, each from a different part of Europe, have been assembled into an unusual investigative unit to end a nightmare that is chilling the hearts of people.

Luca Rossi from Italy, Sofia Vargas from Spain, and Eddie Hughes from Great Britain are not ordinary police officers. They are among the best in their respective agencies, and they are members of Interpol, the international police organization dedicated to combating transnational crime. It's the business card murders that have brought them together. A cruel serial killer, who has already claimed the lives of 14 people, not only kills his victims but also leaves behind a disturbing message in the form of a business card. It seems as though the killer creates a new pattern with each crime, as if there could be multiple perpetrators hiding behind a disturbing game. The identity of the murderer is a puzzle, and Luca, Sofia, and Eddie are not willing to give up.

They are determined to uncover the dark secrets behind the business card murders and bring the perpetrator to justice before they can strike again. Their joint investigation will push them to the limits of their abilities and beyond, and they will discover that the truth is sometimes even more disturbing than the darkest nightmares. Join Luca, Sofia, and Eddie on their nerve-wracking journey through a Europe gripped by crime. Immerse yourself in a world where the line between good and evil blurs, and the hunt for a killer becomes the ultimate test of survival.

Chapter 1: The Writer

Near Brussels, Belgium, 02.05.2023, 5:43 PM.

A warm spring breeze brushes against the faces of the two Interpol agents, Edward Hughes and Luca Rossi, as they ascend the cobblestone driveway to the secluded estate of Belgian writer Victor Duvall. Edward Hughes, a tall and lean British man with blond hair, pauses in the middle of the path to tie his shoes. His partner, the noticeably smaller Italian, Luca Rossi, initially doesn't notice and continues strolling towards the main entrance. The late afternoon sun reflects in his striking green eyes as he realizes his partner has stopped and he turns back towards him, squinting into the sunlight.

"Hey Eddie, what are you doing?" Rossi asks. "Just tying my shoes. Go ahead, I'll catch up. With your short legs, you need the head start," Eddie responds, smiling. "You better hurry up. With your fair skin, you might burst into flames otherwise," Rossi retorts, continuing his stride towards the main entrance.

Victor Duvall's paved estate stretches out before Edward Hughes and Luca Rossi like an oasis of splendor and mystery. High walls made of rough, gray stone enclose the property, which sprawls extensively. The sound of their footsteps on the cobblestone pathway is echoed by the high walls, as if the estate wants to swallow up the intruders.

The trees lining the property bear the marks of centuries-old history. Their branches rise majestically, creating a dense canopy of leaves that shields the sun and lends the estate a mysterious, almost fairy-tale-like ambiance. Birds chirp in the crowns, and the buzzing of insects fills the air.

The cobblestone pathway leads to an imposing entrance gate made of wrought-iron bars. The decorations and curls on the gate testify to craftsmanship from bygone eras. Behind the gate looms a majestic manor house, a stately estate in the style of a Belgian mansion. Its dark bricks and high roof give it an almost menacing aura.

The windows of the house are protected by elaborately crafted wrought-iron grilles. Their reflections only hint at what lies inside the building. Vines climb the walls, lending the estate a touch of dreamy romance.

The gardens surrounding the mansion are a symphony of colors and scents. Rose bushes in vibrant reds and pinks form the centerpiece of an expansive flower garden. Bees and butterflies dance among the blooms, and the scent of fresh flowers fills the air.

A mighty oak tree provides shade over a lawn perfect for social gatherings. A pond with sparkling water reflects the blue sky and the clouds drifting gently over the estate.

Just moments later, the two investigators stand before the entrance door of Victor Duvall's estate.

Rossi asks urgently, "What are we even supposed to ask this guy? Are you aware that this Duvall was proven to not even be near the body? We're about to question a writer who specializes in true crime stories based on one of his books about a murder!" Desperately, Rossi looks for a change in his partner's expression. With a calm voice, Eddie responds, "Just leave it to me. Besides, the suspicion is far from unfounded as you're making it out to be. Stick to the facts. No press release provided exact details that he could have depicted so accurately in his book."

Eddie raises his hand and rings the doorbell. However, for Rossi, the discussion is not over yet, and he whispers to Eddie, "It's been 6 months since the body was found. It wouldn't be surprising if someone had spilled the beans in the meantime."

"What do you think, how long does it take to publish a book? Just because..." Eddie is interrupted mid-sentence by the opening entrance door. An elderly gentleman with silver-gray hair and a slightly stooped posture appears.

"Goede avond," the older gentleman opens the conversation, and Eddie responds, "Good evening, sir. Do you also speak English?"

"Indeed, I do! May I ask who you are and what brings you to us this evening?" inquires the butler.

"Apologies, of course, my name is Edward Hughes, and this is my partner Luca Rossi. We're from Interpol and have an appointment with Mr. Duvall. Is he available?" Eddie politely asks. The older gentleman nods in agreement.

"Yes, Mr. Duvall is expecting you already. Please follow me." The butler ushers the two investigators inside. As they follow the house servant into the interior of the estate, Rossi notices a cold and almost eerie atmosphere.

They pass through the elaborately decorated entrance hall with a few steps and find themselves in the adjacent living room. Compared to the entrance hall, this room appears much more modest. An elongated solid wood table sits in front of a small bar at one end of the room. Meanwhile, a much smaller glass table surrounded by four cozy armchairs forms the centerpiece. Behind them, a fireplace adorns the wall of the living room. The entrance area where the two investigators stand is adorned with little more than a sideboard and various pictures on the wall. The room appears modest, just adequately furnished to feel cozy and not sterile.

The house servant who led them into the room turns to them, smiles kindly, and speaks, "Mr. Duvall will receive you shortly." Before Eddie or Rossi can respond, the older gentleman starts walking back towards the entrance hall and disappears from their sight.

"Weird," murmurs Rossi. Eddie furrows his brow. "What do you mean?"

Rossi looks around the room and replies, "The guy must be swimming in cash, right? So why is everything so modestly furnished? And besides, the house servant vehemently avoids making eye contact with me." Eddie shrugs and responds, "Not everyone needs to flaunt their wealth like you do! But you're right, I would have expected something else too, and I found the servant peculiar as well."

In the distance, the investigators hear approaching footsteps and turn towards the room entrance. The footsteps gradually grow louder until finally, a handsome man with a sporty stature, shoulder-length black hair, and brown eyes stands before them. A subtle nod signifies the greeting, while his lips remain sealed.

Eddie scrutinizes him attentively and politely says, "Good evening, sir, I assume you are Mr. Duvall?"

The elegant man, Victor Duvall, confirms Eddie's assumption with a nod, while still thoroughly examining Luca Rossi.

Rossi adds to the introduction, "You probably already know who we are. This is my partner Edward Hughes, and my name is Luca Rossi." He eagerly analyzes every tiny movement of Mr. Duvall. The mysterious writer is not intimidated by Rossi's penetrating gaze. Duvall, still calm and composed, responds with a firm voice, "Please, have a seat." He gestures towards the chairs behind the investigators.

As they make their way to the center of the room and take their seats, Duvall speaks again: "I hope you don't mind my butler not offering you a drink, but I prefer to take care of that myself with my guests. I would offer you a gin, but since I assume you're not allowed to drink on duty, perhaps a glass of water would be more suitable?"

While Duvall is already pouring a glass of gin and about to put the bottle away, Rossi replies, "Well, since we'll be off duty afterwards anyway, I suppose we can make an exception."

"I'm glad to hear that," Duvall responds and sets out two more glasses before joining Eddie and Rossi at the table. "So, if I understand correctly, you would like to question me about one of my books, is that correct?"

There is a brief moment of silence until Eddie reaches into his jacket pocket and pulls out a book.

"That's correct, we're specifically referring to this book." Eddie holds up the book with the cover facing Duvall and reads the title aloud: "The Last Hours of Alexandra Sinclair."

As he opens the book and flips through the final pages, he continues, "As you already know, it's about the murder of Alexandra Sinclair. But first, I'd like to ask you a general question about your books. I know your written stories have been highly successful. I've also heard that many relatives are very grateful to you for your work, as you capture the stories of their loved ones. However, I can't help but ask you this question. If I may quote the last lines of your book,"

Eddie places his finger on one of the final pages of the book and begins to read aloud:

"The intervals between my heartbeats are increasing, and the further apart they are, the more intensely I feel my blood being pressed through my veins. Accompanied by the fear that this might be the last beat of my heart. But now, the feeling of fear leaves me; I feel no cold or warmth, neither panic nor fear, everything is dark, yet it feels like I have arrived. One last time, the air fills my lungs and then escapes, with a gentle hum, from my body. I know that this was my last breath, and I am grateful that I was able to live this life." END.

For a moment, silence reigns. Victor Duvall sits comfortably in his chair, taking a brief sip of his gin before Eddie formulates his question: "I must admit that this is the first of your books that I have read, but I have been told that you always narrate your stories from the first-person perspective. I don't mean to intrude, but after all, your books depict real people who have suffered terrible deaths. So why do you use this narrative form? You weren't there, yet you speak in the voice of the deceased. Isn't that somewhat macabre?"

With a questioning look, Eddie raises his head, and Rossi's gaze fills with curiosity as they await Duvall's response. Before the writer addresses the question, he takes another sip of his gin. Leaning forward, he sets his drink on the glass table in front of him and responds with impressive calmness, "Because each of them deserves to tell their own story."

Still visibly unsettled by this response, Rossi speaks up: "Fair enough, but doesn't it leave a sour taste in your mouth that you make your living from the cruel deaths of other people?"

Without the slightest change in his tone, Duvall replies, "Don't you make your living in the same way?"

Once again, an eerie silence descends. A few seconds later, Rossi leans back, and Eddie continues with the questioning: "This certainly shouldn't be an attack on you, Mr. Duvall. We're simply here to ask you some questions that might help us. You mention in your book a black, elongated business card found with the victim. How did you know about it?"

Victor Duvall speaks thoughtfully, "Mr. Hughes, social media is perhaps the world's largest investigative unit. If a murder case has peculiar details, it doesn't take 24 hours for the entire planet to know about it."

Eddie nods understandingly, "I see. Well, in that case, you're surely aware of the rumors surrounding the Black Widow, I presume?"

Duvall confirms, "I have heard of it."

Eddie presses further, "What are your thoughts on it?"

Victor Duvall replies with a smile, "It provides excellent material for my books."

Eddie persists, "I can imagine, but aside from that, do you personally think there could be any truth to the myth?"

Victor Duvall responds, "An interesting question. There's a lot of speculation on the internet. If you believe the rumors, such a person exists, purportedly a Spaniard."

Eddie, curious, continues, "You seem to have delved into it quite a bit. Are there any other rumors you're aware of?"

Victor Duvall explains, "Unsolved mysteries and mysterious personalities have fascinated people since time immemorial, myself included. Especially when it comes to criminals. In my books, I've come across such cases several times. A mysterious murder, a business card left by the perpetrator, yet their identity remains secret. I believe you know more about this than I do. My intention is to gather further material for my books. I don't delve any further into it."

Eddie continues, "In your book about the death of Alexandra Sinclair, you also mention how the victim's throat is slit. How did you come up with that? The official report about it was only released recently. Was there also discussion about it on social media?"

Victor Duvall responds, "Please forgive me for interrupting at this point. However, considering that you have clearly implicated me as a suspect, I assume you have already informed yourselves about my activities. Therefore, you should be aware that I have been in contact with the families of the victims, including that of Madame Sinclair. A slit throat stands out when identifying a victim, even if such information is not openly disclosed.

"Victor Duvall, still the epitome of calm, takes another sip of his drink before continuing with his statement, "I don't mean to be rude, and if I can assist you in your investigations, I will gladly do so. However, I do not appreciate it when someone approaches me unprepared, and that is the impression you are currently giving me."

Rossi, visibly annoyed by now, seeks eye contact with his partner. However, Eddie is so focused on Victor Duvall that he doesn't even notice the efforts of his long-time investigative partner. Instead, he rises from his seat, reaches for the book on the table, and tucks it into his left jacket pocket. Then, he pulls out a business card, extends it to Victor Duvall, and says with a friendly smile, "My partner and I apologize for the inconvenience. You are absolutely right; we did not have the necessary time to adequately prepare for this conversation. Furthermore, there is no concrete suspicion against you. We appreciate your cooperation and would like to thank you for taking the time. If you remember anything else that could help us, we would be very grateful."

"Of course," Duvall replies, rising from his seat as well and leading the two investigators out of the living room. Upon reaching the main entrance door, the detectives bid farewell to Duvall and soon find themselves standing side by side on the paved driveway in front of the estate. Luca Rossi, hands hidden in his pockets, retrieves a metal container from his left pocket and opens it. From it, he takes out a cigarette, clasps it between his lips, and ignites it with a golden lighter.

The smoke from the first puff escapes his mouth and rises toward the twilight sky. As the last tendrils of smoke leave his mouth, he breaks the silence: "Why did you end the conversation so abruptly?"

Eddie observes, "This Duvall is different from what I imagined. It wasn't surprising that he would be articulate, considering we're dealing with a writer. However, I didn't expect such presence." Before Eddie continues, he signals Rossi to continue their way to their car. Rossi nods, and the two start moving, while Eddie continues speaking, "Duvall is clearly no fool; quite the opposite! It wouldn't have been advantageous for us to continue the interrogation. Also, we mustn't forget that he wasn't entirely wrong."

Rossi asks curiously, "What do you mean?"

Eddie replies, "We were indeed not adequately prepared for this conversation. Probably also because until recently, neither of us seriously considered him as a suspect."

Rossi nods thoughtfully, "Unfortunately, you're right. Honestly, I thought it was more of a routine questioning."

Eddie notes, "From your wording, it seems that has changed?"

Rossi responds, "For you it hasn't?"

Eddie admits, "Well, it has for me too. I'm not sure exactly what it is, but there's something about this Duvall that doesn't sit right with me."

Rossi reflects, "Hmm, his statements all sounded plausible and reasonable, but did you notice he wasn't even remotely nervous?"

Eddie inquires, "What are you getting at?"

The two open the doors of their new patrol car, a black Audi A5, and take their seats. Eddie, who has entered on the driver's side, starts the engine and begins to maneuver the car to exit Duvall's property. The conversation continues inside the car.

Rossi reflects, "He may be extremely clever and naturally composed, but shouldn't a regular writer at least show a hint of nervousness when suddenly confronted by two officers of the International Criminal Police!?"

Eddie agrees, "You're right. He showed no uncertainty, not even a trace. Also, his statement about the business cards at the crime scene caught my attention. He said he stumbled upon them several times. We should all take a closer look at his books."

Rossi nods in agreement, "I'm starting to see why you wanted to make a quick exit. We need to scrutinize him more closely. Maybe we finally have a lead. I just wonder, why haven't we caught onto him in five years and with 14 bodies?"

Eddie tries to reassure, "Easy, Rossi. We don't have anything concrete yet. Perhaps he's just one of many authors making money with such stories. Besides, we also know that Duvall certainly wasn't the one executing. Sinclair's death was clearly on the Black Widow's account."

Rossi sighs, "That's true, but it doesn't get us any further! Isabella Montenegro – we only have her name and don't even know if it's accurate. No photo, recording, or written piece, she's like a ghost. We also have no trace of the other perpetrators. Besides these business cards, we have nothing. It's driving me crazy!"

Eddie nods and adds, "That's not entirely true. Since they all use the same business cards, we know that the different perpetrators must be connected in some way. Usually, such organizations have a mastermind behind them. And even if the writer isn't the one we're looking for, we should keep questioning him."

Rossi relents, "You're right, but let's leave it for today. Let's discuss it tomorrow when Sofia is here."

Eddie asks, "Sounds good. By the way, is there still something going on with Sofia, or did you take my advice?"

Rossi looks down briefly before answering, "We talked about it and agreed that we shouldn't pursue it further."

Eddie nods approvingly, "Glad to hear that, believe me, it was the right decision. Working together, that never ends well."

The streetlights flicker, casting a dim light on Rossi's face. Rossi responds, "Yeah, maybe."

Eddie offers, "Want to grab a drink?"

Rossi yawns lightly and replies, "No, let's skip it. I'm dead tired. Just drop me off at the hotel."

After about 20 minutes, they reach the hotel. Eddie pulls up in front of the entrance and asks, "So, until tomorrow. What time should I pick you up?"

Rossi considers for a moment and says, "How about 7:00 AM here?"

Eddie nods, "Got it. Good night."

Rossi smiles faintly and responds, "Good night."

He waits for a moment until the elongated taillights of the A5 disappear into the distance. Then he crosses the street toward the hotel entrance.

Luca Rossi enters the stylish hotel near the city center of Brussels. It's already dark, and the warm light in the lobby bathes the room in a cozy atmosphere. The subdued lighting gives the place an air of intimacy.

An imposing flower vase on an elegant table in the corner emits a subtle scent that pleasantly fills the room. Comfortable armchairs and sofas invite guests to relax, while large artworks on the walls add an artistic touch to the space. A courteous concierge stands at the reception desk, assisting a newly checked-in couple. The guests take a seat in the lounge area to enjoy their drinks accompanied by soft piano music. The atmosphere in the lobby is calm and tranquil. Rossi feels immediately comfortable and welcomed as he approaches the reception desk. The receptionist greets him with a warm smile and hands him his room key. He receives some helpful information about the hotel amenities and recommended nearby attractions. With his luggage in hand, Rossi makes his way to his room. The hallway is tastefully decorated, with stylish carpets and artistic wall paintings. The subdued lighting creates a cozy ambiance.

Finally, he reaches his room and opens the door. He is pleasantly surprised by the modern furnishings and warm colors. The bed looks inviting, and the bathroom is spacious and well-equipped. A large desk provides him with a comfortable workspace. He sets down his luggage and sinks onto the comfortable bed. Rossi enjoys a moment of peace and thanks his lucky stars for ending up in this charming hotel. In the pleasant silence, he begins to contemplate the upcoming investigations before fatigue eventually overwhelms him and lulls him to sleep. Just before 11:00 PM, he is awakened by a knock on his room door. Still visibly confused, he sits up and scans the dark hotel room. The knocking echoes through the room again. As he brings his right hand to his face, rubbing his eyes with his thumb and forefinger, he ambles towards the room door. Not fully alert yet, he doesn't even glance through the peephole but instinctively begins to slowly open the door. The sight of the person standing in the corridor immediately brings Rossi's sleepy senses back to life. His gaze moves from the chestnut-brown eyes to the gentle lips and the hair that falls just past the shoulders. "Sofia!?" Rossi stammers in surprise.

Sofia responds with a smile, "Long time no see, Luca. What's with the shocked look?" Rossi, slightly embarrassed, replies, "Uh, nothing, just surprised to see you." "Should I come back later? Am I interrupting?" Sofia asks. Rossi hastens to reply, "No, no, of course not. Come in." Still with a slight grin on her face, Sofia follows Rossi into the room. Without looking back once, she gently pushes the light wooden door into the frame until a soft click confirms the door's lock. "You really surprised me; it's the middle of the night after all. Weren't you just arriving?" Rossi asks, trying to conceal his confusion. Sofia lets her gaze wander from Rossi down the corridor and into the rest of the room before answering him, "Hmm, that's right. Technically, I landed about an hour and a half ago." Her gaze returns to the room, then back to the corridor, finally resting on Rossi's eyes.

"I can barely see you with it being so dark. Is there a reason you're keeping the lights off?" Sofia asks, tilting her head slightly. Before he can respond, Sofia leans forward, supporting herself with her hands just above Rossi's hips, and continues, "You know it's dangerous for us to be alone together in a dark room, right?" Rossi's heart quickens. "You might have a point there." Hardly finishing the sentence, Rossi reciprocates the hip grip with his left hand, while using his right hand to push Sofia back against the wall by her left shoulder. Slightly overwhelmed by the reaction, Sofia lets out a soft moan. The two lock eyes for a brief moment before they begin to kiss.

Rossi interrupts the already passionate silence, "Shouldn't we stop this?" Sofia smiles seductively and whispers softly, "Yes! We should." Immediately, she spins Rossi around to his right, presses him against the wall, and begins to kiss his neck, while the scent of his light but sweet cologne fills her nostrils. Now he too emits a slightly muted groan. The two know that they are done for, and nothing in the world could stop them from spending this night together.

Chapter 2: Sofia Vargas

Brussels, Belgium, 03.05.2023, 06:30 AM.

Luca Rossi wakes up the next morning with a warm feeling of contentment. He turns slowly and notices Sofia peacefully sleeping next to him. A smile spreads across his face as he remembers what happened between them.

Quietly, so as not to wake her, he gets up and heads to the bathroom. The water from the shower cascades down on him as his thoughts drift back to the night before. It's impossible to resist the desire, and although they both wanted to be sensible, he knows it won't be the last time.

Stepping out of the shower, he ponders how to start the conversation with Sofia. He knows they both have the same impulsive nature and that they can't resist each other.

He returns to the bedroom and lies back down next to Sofia. The first gentle rays of the sun filter through the curtains, bathing the room in a warm, golden light. Sofia begins to wake up slowly, and when she sees Rossi lying next to her, she starts to smile and snuggles up to him, her skin feeling warm and familiar. Rossi returns her smile, and their eyes meet in a moment of affection.

For a moment, they lie quietly next to each other, enveloped in the calm of the morning and lost in thought. The world outside this bedroom seems far away, and they savor the intimacy of the moment as the sun gradually fills the room with warmth and brightness.

Finally, Sofia breaks the silence, her voice gentle and thoughtful: "Luca, I think it's important for us to talk about us and what's going on between us."

Rossi turns his head to her, a faint smile playing on his lips: "Yes, I think so too."

Sofia places her hand on his chest, feeling his heartbeat.

Sofia and Rossi exchange glances, and for a moment, the world around them seems to stand still.

Rossi emphasizes: "The case and solving the murders are our top priority. We must not let ourselves be distracted from that."

Sofia nods in agreement, relieved that Rossi thinks the same way.

Sofia suggests, "I think we should set clear boundaries. During our work, we're partners and investigators. But in our free time..."

Rossi gently interrupts her, saying, "In our free time, we can be whoever we want, as long as we don't jeopardize our work."

They smile at each other, knowing that this agreement is necessary to keep their professional relationship intact.

Sofia inquires, "And what if we find ourselves in a situation where our feelings for each other become relevant?"

Rossi considers for a moment and humorously winks at her as he responds, "Then we'll handle it with charm and elegance. Maybe we can incorporate our secret signals into the investigations. A wink here, a mischievous smile there – we'll be the best investigators ever faced with such a delicate situation."

Sofia laughs softly, and the tension between them eases slightly. Their eyes meet in a silent understanding. "That sounds like a plan. But seriously, Luca, I want us to be able to have shared moments in the future without work getting in the way."

Rossi gazes deeply into her eyes and responds, "Believe me, Sofia, I want that too. We'll find a way to make it work."

They nestle back together, enjoying each other's closeness.

After a while, Sofia addresses the inevitable, "I hate to say it, but we should probably start getting ready to leave."

Rossi, his gaze thoughtful as it drifts to the ceiling, tears his eyes away from the bare ceiling and responds with a laugh, "Normally, I admire your sharpness, but right now, I wish you didn't have it."

Sofia can't help but laugh as well.

Sofia: "Luca, I did some research on the plane last night, and I think I've uncovered some new insights about Victor Duvall and his possible connections to the murders."

Luca furrows his brow, pulls her closer, and starts laughing, "Haha! There's the dutiful investigator emerging again. Tell me more. I know Duvall is a clever writer, but are there any signs that he might be more involved than meets the eye?"

Sofia nods thoughtfully and continues, "As you know, there are some passages in his books that simply match the actual murders too closely. It's as if he has insider information. Additionally, I've found out that we can do much more with the business cards than we initially thought."

Rossi sighs deeply and remarks, "That sounds worrying. If he's actually involved in any way in these murders, we might finally have a lead."

Sofia agrees, "Exactly! It seems like he's connected to the business card killers. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Let's look into this together with Eddie later. Speaking of Eddie, I think we should keep this between us, what do you think?"

Rossi agrees, "Let's not tell Eddie about our personal matter for now. It could make things complicated, and we need to ensure that our team stays focused." Sofia agrees, and they decide not to tell Eddie about their relationship.

After getting dressed and leaving the hotel room, Sofia goes to her own room and gathers her documents. Meanwhile, Luca waits outside for Eddie. Sofia is alone in her room, reflecting on the events of the previous night.

She remembers how she and Luca had grown closer before, how they had tested the boundaries of their professional relationship. But back then, they had decided it was better to set aside their personal feelings to not jeopardize their professional collaboration. It had been a sensible decision, but it hadn't stopped them both from feeling drawn to each other.

However, last night was different. The moment they had become closer had something magical about it. Sofia had been intoxicated by Luca's touches and kisses, and all her worries had vanished. It was as if they were in a dream where there was only the two of them, without the weight of the world on their shoulders.

As she goes through her documents, she notices a smile on her face. Despite the complexity of her relationship with Luca, she feels refreshed and alive. The passion they had shared was like balm for her soul. Although she didn't know where they would go from here, she was grateful for last night, and no one could take that away from her.

Sofia enters the hotel lobby, allowing the impressions of the previous night to continue washing over her. The passion and desire that had ignited between them had awakened her senses and thrown her emotions into turmoil.