Ms. Rossi’s expression brightened, and she gestured for her sons to come forward. Enzo and Marco stepped onto the stage, their postures confident yet somehow tense. I looked first at Enzo, who smiled encouragingly, and then at Marco, whose gaze remained steady, watching me with an intensity that made my heart skip a beat.
I took a deep breath, letting my emotions settle before speaking again. Turning to Marco, I asked, "Marco… will you marry me?"
The hall held its breath, waiting for his response.
Elena’s POV
Marco walked over to me, while Enzo… he extended his hand, looking genuinely relieved. His smile was unrestrained, almost as if he’d finally relaxed when I didn’t choose him. Maybe I was the only one who noticed.
As Marco came closer, his face was serious, without a hint of a smile. Without a word, he took the microphone from me. And then, he dropped a bombshell that would change my life in ways I’d never expected.
"I’m sorry, Elena," he began, his tone unwavering. "I know this is your birthday party, a big day for you and the family, but… I need to say this. I don’t want to marry you."