CHAPTER 76

Carly's POV

I beamed as I watched Emma blow out her candles, surrounded by loved ones and warm smiles. The soft glow of the candles danced across her face, illuminating the joy and gratitude in her eyes.

Finally, she was celebrating her birthday in style.

And for me, tonight was perfect timing.

Luca would be here soon.

We'd been texting for weeks, our conversations electric, sparking a connection that went beyond words. Every message, every joke, every shared secret had woven a web of anticipation around me.

I knew he had a mate, Aurora.

He'd told me about her possessiveness, his growing resentment, the suffocating grip she held on him. His words painted a vivid picture of a toxic bond, one that left him feeling trapped and desperate for escape.

But despite the complications, I couldn't help myself.

I needed to meet him.

To see if our connection was real.

To gauge the intensity of his feelings.

As I scanned the crowd, my excitement faltered.

Luca stood by the bar, his piercing blue ey