Chapter Seventy Eight – Counterattacks

The party continued late into the night. There was more food – including a stunning birthday cake that Alessandro had secretly ordered from their own bakery, decorated by their talented pastry chef – more drinks, and even some impromptu dancing when Uncle Marco brought out his old accordion. As the last guests were leaving, showering Amelia with hugs and final birthday wishes, she found herself alone for a moment on the balcony, looking out over the twinkling city lights. Alessandro joined her, wrapping a warm arm around her shoulders. "Happy?" he asked softly. Amelia leaned into him, feeling the steady beat of his heart. "More than I ever thought possible," she replied. They stood in comfortable silence for a while, the sounds of the city a gentle backdrop to their thoughts. "You know," Amelia said eventually, "a year ago, I never could have imagined being here, like this. There were moments when I thought I'd lost everything." Alessandro tightened his arm around her. "But you d