Her date with Dylan. The photographer who wants to take things slow. How she's not sure if she likes that or if it's driving her crazy.
I nod at the right moments.
Make sounds of agreement when she pauses for breath.
But I'm not really listening.
Something feels wrong.
Not wrong exactly.
Off.
Like the air pressure changed and my body noticed before my brain could catch up. Like standing on the edge of a cliff and feeling the pull of gravity even though you're not falling yet.
My hands rest in my lap.
The hot pink dress Mamma insisted I buy spreads across my thighs. I should feel beautiful.
Confident.
Ready to walk into Nexus on Dmitri's arm and announce our engagement.
Instead, my stomach twists.
My pulse hammers against my throat.
"Vittoria?"
Mamma's voice cuts through Amanda's monologue.
I turn my head.
"Sì, Mamma?"
"You're quiet."
"Amanda's talking." I gesture at my friend. "Someone has to listen."
"Hey." Amanda swats my arm. "I'm sharing important life updates. This is quality best friend content."
But Mamma doesn't smile.
Her gaze stays locked on my face.
Searching.
"Are you nervous about tonight?"
"No."
The lie comes too fast.
Too sharp.
Mamma's expression shifts. Softens. She reaches over and takes my hand. Her skin is warm. Soft. She smells like the Chanel perfume she's worn since before I was born.
"It's natural to be nervous," she says. "This is a big announcement. Both families will be there. Other families too. Everyone will be watching."
