ROSES AND BLOOD SERIES 1: A LEGACY OF ROSES AND BLOOD

“Content Warning: This story contains depictions of violence. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner.”

The Return to Verona

Evanleigh’s POV

The streets of Verona were just as she remembered — narrow alleys lined with centuries-old stone buildings, their ivy-covered facades standing proudly against the test of time. Yet beneath the city’s picturesque beauty, shadows lingered. Every step she took was a reminder of what had been lost.

Back in Verona, she murmured to herself, her voice barely above a whisper. The city hasn’t changed, but I have.

She paused, inhaling the familiar scent of rain-soaked cobblestones. Despite the weight pressing on her chest, she held her head high. She had returned with a purpose. No longer the frightened girl who fled, Evanleigh was ready to face the ghosts of her past.

“Is that really you, Evanleigh Mon?”

The voice struck her like a jolt, breaking through the quiet hum of the city. Her shoulders tensed, and she slowly turned. Dave. His salt-and-pepper hair was neatly combed, and deep-set brown eyes are framed by fine lines. His slightly hunched posture and weathered hands is still evident, and his tailored vests and polished shoes show his enduring pride. He had aged, but the mischievous spark in his dark eyes remained unchanged.

“Dave,” she greeted, her voice guarded yet cordial.

“After all these years, I thought you’d never come back,” Dave said, stepping closer. His grin was laced with curiosity. “But here you are. The whispers are true.”

“I didn’t think anyone would recognize me,” she replied, forcing a polite smile.

Dave chuckled, though his amusement didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Not many forget the daughter of Emilio Mon. Word spreads fast. You must know the Riccis will hear of your return soon enough.”

At the mention of the Ricci family, Evanleigh’s jaw tightened. The weight of her father’s name hung heavily in the air, as did the bitter memories of betrayal.

“I can handle myself,” she said, her voice unwavering.

Dave’s POV

Dave studied her, noting the subtle shift in her expression — the defiance in her eyes. Her short blonde hair now became long dark brown that cascades in soft waves that was tucked beneath a sleek coat. Her olive-toned skin is complemented by her striking hazel eyes. Her voluptuous body is now slender but athletic figure. Dave noticed a small scar along her jawline, and it made him think. She had changed, no longer the fragile girl he remembered. But even so, there was something unsettling about her presence. The past had a way of pulling people back, and Verona was no exception.

“Handle yourself?” Dave arched a brow, his voice dropping to a low murmur. “The Riccis rule these streets now, Evanleigh. Their eyes are everywhere. If you’re here for revenge—”

“I’m here for the truth,” Evanleigh interrupted, her voice sharp. “Nothing more.”

Dave hesitated, sensing the determination in her words. “And what if the truth is something you don’t want to hear?”

“Then I’ll face it.” She met his gaze head-on. “I owe that much to my father.”

The name Emilio Mon still carried weight, even in hushed tones. Dave could see the flicker of pain in Evanleigh's eyes, but it was drowned by something far stronger — resolve.

“You’re braver than I remember,” Dave said at last, though concern lingered in his voice. “But be careful, Evanleigh. The city may look the same, but the shadows are darker now.”

Evanleigh’s lips curled into a faint, bittersweet smile. “Then I’ll walk through them.”

Without another word, she turned and continued down the narrow street, her silhouette disappearing into the fog. Dave watched her go, a sense of unease settling in his chest.

“Welcome back, Evanleigh.” he thought. “But some ghosts should remain buried.”

They separated from each other and wished not to cross paths again. This should be the last time they'll be seeing each other to not ruin whatever plans they are planning.