The Beginning
*Florence, September 2002*
The morning air was still fresh, carrying the scent of coffee from a small café at the end of the street. In front of the grand gates of Liceo Classico "Galileo Galilei," dozens of teenagers gathered in casual clothes — jeans, simple T-shirts, and backpacks stuffed with brand-new books.
Luca Moretti stood with his hands tucked into the pockets of his hoodie. His Converse shoes were a little dusty from the street. Slung over his shoulder was a canvas bag filled with Latin and history books — two subjects he was already beginning to hate.
*"Non ci credo!"* shouted Matteo Bianchi from behind as he threw an arm around Luca’s shoulder. "We’re officially high school students now! We’re cool, *amico!*".
Luca just nodded with a small smile. His eyes scanned the crowd, looking for… something. Or maybe someone.
At that moment, the crowd parted.
Alessia Romano walked into the school courtyard, wearing low-rise jeans and a white T-shirt with *No Doubt* printed on it. Her brown hair was half-tied up, and she carried a red bag that stood out against her simple style.
She smiled at everyone — including Luca. A smile that made the world seem to stop for a moment.
*"Dio mio... that’s Alessia Romano,"* Matteo whispered, nudging Luca with his elbow.
*"Yeah, I’ve got eyes too,"* Luca replied, trying to sound indifferent.
Before Luca could take a step closer, the sound of a Vespa engine cut through the air. A slightly older guy got off the scooter — black leather jacket, mischievous grin on his face.
*"Riccardo De Luca,"* Matteo muttered. "A senior. Apparently the coolest guy in all of Florence."
Riccardo smiled at Alessia and held out a helmet to her. She just laughed softly and shook her head, then walked into the school building.
The old school bell rang. Students scattered toward the main hall.
The first day of school had begun — and without them knowing, so had the story that would change their lives forever.
