The venue was even more breathtaking than I’d imagined. Chandeliers sparkled overhead, and the sound of soft music filled the grand hall. Waiters moved gracefully through the crowd, offering champagne and hors d’oeuvres to the guests.
Alessio appeared at my side, his hand resting on the small of my back. “You’re late,” he said, his tone teasing.
I raised a brow. “You’re the one who left me to fend off reporters on my own.”
He smirked. “You handled it beautifully.”
Dante made a mock bow. “I’ll leave you two lovebirds to it. Try not to start any international incidents while I’m gone.”
As he disappeared into the crowd, Alessio turned to me, his gaze sweeping over my dress.
“You look…” he trailed off, his hand tightening slightly on my back.
“Like someone who belongs here?” I teased, t
