Chapter 0512

Nina

My heart pounded as I finally stepped out of my bedroom, dressed and ready for the ball.

I looked down at the gown, its midnight black fabric shimmering under the soft glow of the hallway lights. For the first time in forever, I felt like I almost belonged in this extravagant setting. But even as I started descending the grand staircase, the awkwardness seeped back in, making me hyper-aware of my every step, of every eye that turned toward me.

"Dazzling, aren't you?" My dad's voice was tinged with pride as I reached the bottom step I chuckled nervously. "Just trying my best to blend in."

My mom stood next to him, her eyes misty. "You look absolutely beautiful, Nina."

I took a deep breath and turned to the crowd. Enzo was talking to a group of people across the room, but when our eyes met, he offered me a reassuring smile that made my heart swell, and made his way over to me.

"Well, hello, there," he said, taking my hand and kissing it as if this was the first time we had met. "You're stunning. Are you single?"

blushed, chuckling. "No, actually. I

What he doesn't know won't kill

replaced by a strange sensation of being in a surreal dream. There was music, laughter, and endless chatter, and then it was time

my dad began as he led me around the dance floor. His eyes were searching, as though he were trying to read my thoughts. "Have you given any thought to what your mom and I talked about earlier? About staying here

across the room. He was still mingling. but there was a certain seriousness to his demeanor

"but I can't leave our home. Enzo

I

little surprised but also understanding. "I thought you might

I questioned,

until a few months ago, but I can tell how fiercely independent you are. I just worry about you, that's all. I'd like to make sure you're safe and taken care

I said as I leaned my head on his chest. "But I

eyes filled with a strange mixture of pride and melancholy. "But promise me you'll think

offer

a sort of quiet yearning. "A new perspective, huh?" I echoed, more to myself than

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