**Elena’s POV**
There was something about Carmela Santino that made it impossible not to like her, even before she spoke a word. Her brown curls were wild, framing her face in a way that made her look both untamed and beautiful, and her eyes held a warmth that made me want to trust her.
She slipped her hand into mine as we moved through the crowd. Her laugh was soft and a little musical, and I felt the tension in my shoulders ease just a little.
“I’m so sorry we couldn’t attend your wedding, Elena,” she said, her tone sincere. “Marco and I were in Paris for business. But now that I see you,” she paused, her eyes running over my face with admiration, “I must say, you must have made a stunning bride. Stefano is a very lucky man.”
I smiled, feeling a flutter in my chest. ‘'You are very ki
