Chapter 12 : When Disaster Strikes

*Sophie’s POV*

“The beams are done,” the foreman told Luca and me, “They’re holding nicely, and we haven’t run into any problems with the replacements. This building is sturdier than it’s been since its construction.”

I smiled widely at Luca, "Oh, fantastic. We're making better time than we ever could've anticipated. We can finally go upstairs and begin replacing the broken window frames!"

"There are quite a few things that need to be done upstairs, Soph," Luca began, "I know we're moving quickly, but we still have a lot to get done."

"Quiet down, party pooper. You're always raining on my parade. We're killing it, and Mr. Rossi is going to be so happy when he stops to check our progress today," I teased as I walked toward the staircase.

I cautiously climbed the rickety staircase, my feet carefully navigating the gaps between the splintered boards. With each step, a weary groan emanated from the dilapidated structure. I envisioned the finished product—a majestic grand entrance with