Chapter 197

ARIA'S POV

My heart was pounding so much, but I tried to keep my expression calm, even as I noticed Linda stepping forward. She was smiling, a look of smug confidence plastered across her face.

Linda reached for Dante’s arm and linked hers with his as if to solidify her claim. Her eyes darted towards me, a glint of satisfaction in them. “Dante and Aria are already a thing of the past,” she said loudly, her voice carrying over the murmurs of the crowd. “Their relationship ended long ago.” She turned her head slightly, her expression softening into something almost sweet. “I am going to marry Dante, and you are all welcome to attend the wedding.”

Her words hung in the air like a heavy curtain, causing a stir among the crowd. Cameras flashed continuously, capturing every angle of Linda’s victorious pose.

I saw Dante’s jaw tighten slightly as if he wasn’t entirely comfortable with her words. He avoided my gaze, his eyes instead fixed on the floor.