The doors swung open, and Alessandro Romano stepped inside, flanked by his parents. The grand hall shimmered with crystal chandeliers, laughter, and the faint scent of expensive perfume and flowers. The music softened as the couple of late arrivals passed through, but Alessandro barely registered it.

His father’s hand rested briefly on his shoulder as they moved forward. “Matteo,” their father said warmly, clasping the groom’s shoulder, “congratulations.”

Matteo Romano smiled, nodding politely. “Thank you. It means a lot that you could make it.”

Alessandro’s mother hugged Avrora Ivanova quickly, murmuring congratulations, while Alessandro himself offered a brief nod to his brother. He wasn’t big on emotion; appearances and etiquette were enough. A quick handshake, a few words, and the formalities were done.

They were guided to their table, a long arrangement near the center of the hall. Alessandro slipped into his chair beside his parents, hands resting on the polished tablecloth. Glasses clinked, servers moved efficiently, and the chatter of family and guests filled the space. Alessandro’s attention wandered, scanning the room. Everyone was celebrating, smiling, and yet… something in him shifted without warning.

But he pushed it aside for now. The wedding had just begun, and his brother was the center of attention. Alessandro let his eyes roam the hall, noting the familiar faces, the unfamiliar ones, waiting for the formalities to end before anything more interesting could happen.