The De Luca mansion was glowing. Golden chandeliers cast soft light across the elegant hall as music pulsed gently beneath the buzz of laughter and conversation. The entire lower floor had been transformed for the occasion , white silk drapes flowed from the high ceilings, clusters of roses and crystal centerpieces lined the tables, and a massive cake sat on a pedestal near the grand staircase.
Lyla’s birthday party was in full swing.
Aria stood at the top of the stairs, taking a slow breath. Her fitted emerald gown hugged her curves, the neckline just modest enough to remain tasteful. Her hair was pinned up with a few soft tendrils framing her face, and her heels clicked softly against the marble as she descended.
All eyes turned toward her as she walked into the hall , a few polite no
