ALICE POV
Tonight had been a whirlwind. The party was in full swing, laughter and music filling the air. I had made a couple of toasts with Ilaria, and both of us were feeling a bit tipsy. I glanced at the glass in my hand and back at her, giggling uncontrollably.
“The prosecco they serve in the pack is stronger than usual,” Ilaria explained, her eyes twinkling with mirth.
“That explains why I’m already feeling a little woozy,” I responded, our laughter bubbling over once again.
We leaned on each other for support, clutching our sides as we laughed. Just then, Max made one of his grand entrances, full of charm and irony. He grabbed Ilaria by the wrist and, with a flourish, spun her onto the dance floor. I watched them with a smile, my heart warming at the sight. Ilaria’s calm, reflecti
