Chapter 272

• "Ah, this gala... It’s very fancy, eh? So much sparkle—like the stars in Roma!" a man said, straightening his jacket, eyes dancing with pride. "You see the chandeliers? Mamma mia, even my nonna would be impressed. And she doesn’t impress easily."
• "Giovanni," came a sigh beside him. "Can you focus? We’re not here for the lights."
• Giovanni Castelli turned toward the voice—his cousin, Alessia, ever the serious one. She adjusted her gloves as they stood near the grand entrance, their family crest subtly pinned to her silk sash.