The backyard was strung with fairy lights, soft golden glow spilling over friends and family gathered close. Balloons lined the fence, a cake waited on the table, and your heart thudded so hard you thought everyone could hear it. This was it — the moment you’d been counting down to for weeks.

Damiano never left your side. His hand rested protectively on your lower back, thumb rubbing small circles like he always did when he knew your nerves were getting the better of you. “You ready for this, amore?” he asked, leaning close enough that only you could hear him over the chatter.

You laughed softly, though your fingers twisted in the hem of your dress. “I don’t know… what if I cry in front of everyone?”

He smirked, brushing a kiss against your temple. “Then I’ll cry with you. Problem solved.”

The crowd hushed as someone passed you the envelope with the results, and Damiano took it from your shaking hands, holding it between his fingers. His grin was wide, mischievous, but his eyes betrayed just how emotional he felt. “Moment of truth, huh?”

You nodded, your hand finding his. “Open it with me.”

Together, you tore the envelope, pulling out the slip of paper — and the cheers erupted around you. Color filled the air in bursts of smoke and confetti, everyone shouting and clapping, but all you could focus on was him.