“Well, I was a little more focused on my run-in with Nico at that point.”

“I can’t believe Mom did that, but she probably had no clue what she was doing. I’m sure she thought she was helping.” Alessia had heard through the rumor mill at school about my breakup with Nico, but I’d never given her the ugly details. It had been too painful to discuss with anyone.

“Whatever she was thinking, it didn’t end there. They had him over for dinner the next night. He seems to think there’s still something between us, but I don’t see how it could work.” I plopped down on my bed, feeling deflated.

Alessia sat next to me, her face a mix of emotions. “I had the same thoughts when I first met Luca, but sometimes things have a way of working out. No matter what, I’m Team Sofia, so whatever you decide, I’ll support it.”

“Thanks, Lessi. He’s supposed to be here tonight, and I’m nervous about seeing him. We fought last night and said some ugly stuff.”

“If he makes you uncomfortable, you give me a sign, like a safe word, and I’ll have Luca kick his ass out of the party.”

“You haven’t seen Nico recently; he’s huge.”

A mischievous glint lit her eyes. “You haven’t seen Luca fight; he’s incredible.”

“Why exactly have you seen Luca fighting?” I asked with a curious grin.

“Some guys tried to mug me. It’s a long story. The point is, I have no doubt he could escort Nico out of here in a heartbeat.”

“A kidnapping and a mugging? What the hell is going on with you lately?”

“Don’t remind me. It’s been one hell of a month.” She rolled her eyes, then grabbed my hand and pulled us up. “Come on, let’s get this show started. And remember, you need assistance, you come find me.”

I squeezed her hand. “Thanks, Lessi.”

We made our way downstairs to find the formal living area had been transformed into a sophisticated arrangement of glittering white lights, crisp ivory table linens, and decadent Madonna Lilies. The party would be indoor/outdoor, so the décor spilled out onto the patio where glowing heaters stood at regular intervals to keep the spring air from feeling too chilly.

My mother had done a beautiful job. The look was formal but not austere or gaudy—she had achieved an elegant atmosphere for the evening, and I would have to thank her for all her efforts. Just because I preferred not having a party didn’t mean I couldn’t appreciate what she had done on my behalf.

Family and friends began to arrive in droves as the sun set over the bay. I stayed inside, greeting each of the new guests as they entered. That was how I knew Nico hadn’t come. After an hour of receiving, I moved toward the main gathering and snagged the first cocktail I could find. It had been ages since I’d had to do so much small talk at once—probably Mom’s Christmas party if I had to guess. It always amazed me how mentally exhausting it was to plaster people with social niceties and exchange meaningless banter.