CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND NINETY SIX - THE UNEXPECTED GUEST

As they neared their villa, Alessandro scooped Amelia up in his arms, eliciting a surprised squeal. "What are you doing?" she laughed, wrapping her arms around his neck. He grinned mischievously. "Carrying you over the threshold, of course. It's tradition." "We're already married, you goof," Amelia pointed out, but she made no move to get down. Alessandro's eyes softened as he gazed at her. "Every day with you feels like a new beginning, Amelia. A chance to fall in love all over again." The sun had barely peeked over the horizon when Alessandro gently shook Amelia awake. She groaned, burying her face deeper into the pillow. "Rise and shine, sleeping beauty," Alessandro chuckled, planting a soft kiss on her cheek. "I've got a surprise for you today." Amelia cracked open one eye, regarding him suspiciously. "If it involves more parasailing or underwater caves, I might need another cup of coffee first." Alessandro's eyes twinkled with mischief. "No adrenaline rushes today, I promi