Epilogue I

MONTHS LATER

The Sicilian sun bathes the garden in golden light, warming my skin as a gentle Mediterranean breeze carries the sweet scent of blooming jasmine and citrus trees. Pink and blue balloons dance between the ancient olive trees, adding a touch of whimsy to the elegant outdoor celebration. I watch my sister and her husband sharing secret smiles across the decorated patio, their hands intertwined over her growing belly. The sight of them, so in love and excited about their baby girl, seems almost surreal. If anyone had told Melina a year ago that she'd be here today, hosting her own baby shower in this beautiful garden, she would have called them crazy. Yet here we are, and my heart could burst with happiness for her.

My thoughts drift to this morning – to Rafael's muscular arms wrapped around me, his voice husky with sleep as he made a fuss about me attending Melina’s baby shower today. My devil might have let go of his revenge against Thomas, but the h