Azzurra felt as though she were floating. The last two days had been a blur of excitement and preparation for Cesario’s birthday, and finally, everything was ready. Agnese, Leone, and Alarico had rotated shifts to watch over the boy, while Benedetto had stayed by her side, lending his steady hands.

Now, with everything set, Azzurra slipped into her dress. She struggled to pull the zipper up, her fingers straining, but it was no use. Leaving it half-open, she sat down to do her makeup. ...