Chapter 3 --- Shadows in Smiles

Ariana couldn't sleep.

Carmello's voice kept echoing in her head-just that one moment: *"Hope I see you here again."* Simple. Casual. But something about it tugged at her chest like a memory she never lived.

Her phone buzzed.

*Austin*: *Still thinking about me? I know you are.*

She rolled her eyes and turned the screen face down. Why couldn't he just disappear like the good memories did?

The next day, Mya dragged her to a rooftop mixer downtown. "You need fresh air, a cocktail, and a distraction," she insisted.

Ariana wasn't in the mood. Until she saw *him* again.

Carmello. Standing across the terrace, navy shirt rolled up at the sleeves, quietly talking to a man in a suit. Same calm energy. Same intense eyes-now locked on her.

Their gazes met. He excused himself and walked over.

"Twice in one week," he said. "Coincidence?"

"More like Mya's trap," Ariana replied, her voice lighter than she felt.

He smiled. "Well, I'm glad it worked."

They talked for almost an hour. About everything and nothing-books, food, even grief. Carmello was grounded. No ego. No charm overload. Just... presence.

But when he offered to walk her to her car, Mya shot her a subtle look. A warning.

Later that night, Mya texted:

*Mya*: *Be careful with him. I heard his name before. I just can't remember where.*

Ariana stared at her screen.

For the first time in a long time, she was interested.

And maybe... in danger.

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