CHAPTER HUNDRED AND EIGHTY - FOUR - THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY.

The night air was cool and crisp, a stark contrast to the warmth that filled the halls of the grand estate. Guests milled about the manor, sipping champagne and exchanging pleasantries, their voices a steady hum against the backdrop of the lavish decor. But beneath the surface, Isabella’s heart raced as she spotted Mateo across the room. She caught his gaze across the room and felt a flutter in her chest, both from the excitement of being engaged and from the secrets they shared. As Isabella approached Mateo, she felt the weight of their secrets pressing down on her like a heavy cloak. Yet, she couldn’t deny the butterflies that danced in her stomach at the sight of his mischievous grin. She offered him a smile. “I can’t believe we’re finally here,” she whispered, her gaze locked with his. Mateo’s smile turned into a smirk, his eyes twinkling in the flickering candlelight. His gaze softened as he took her hand in his, his eyes filled with understanding. “It’s just you and me, B